Should I Retire To North Carolina?

If you’re asking yourself should I Retire to North Carolina? Retirement is a crucial stage in life that all of us should prepare for. However, setting it up can be a daunting task. We realized that not all retirees would want to move into exotic countries far away from the States. North Carolina or the Tar Heel State as many refer it to, offers a haven for retirees who want to stay close to their roots while still enjoying outdoor activities, art, culture, and natural beauty.

North Carolina is ranked fifth on the Smart Asset survey of best states to retire to. Among the top five also are the states of Florida, Arizona, Nevada, and South Carolina. The review is based on an official U.S. Census Bureau to exactly determine the number of people who are 60 years old and above. Last 2016, the data showed that there were 15,600 more retirees that moved into the state. The data also showed that the city of Raleigh in North Carolina received 2,015 senior settlers in the same year.

The survey showed that the common factors that tied up these states together are the lower cost of living and year-round warm weather.

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Basic Information Of The State

If you want a place to retire that is within the US soil, you can look up North Carolina. It is a state that in the southeastern part of the United States and is ranked 9th most populous out of the 50 states in the US. The north region is bordered by Virginia, east of the country is the Atlantic Ocean, the west region is bordered by Tennessee, and to the south are Georgia and South Carolina.

It is ranked as the 28th largest state according to the land area that totals to 139,390 square kilometers. It is also in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where the Kit Devil Hills are located. This is where the Wright brothers (Orville and Wilbur) were able to pilot the first ever aircraft back on December 17, 1903. This is the origin of the slogan “First in Flight”, seen on the license plates that the government issues, came from. It is a way for the state to commemorate a momentous event that happened within their territory.

Population

A total population number of 10,383,620 people placed North Carolina at the 9th place of the most populated state in the US. The largest metropolitan area, the Metrolina, which includes the cities of Charlotte, Concord, and Gastonia houses a whopping 2,569,213 people and is considered as the most populous area of the state. It is also the largest banking center right after New York, which contributes to a large number of population of the metropolis. 

The second largest metropolitan area is the Research Triangle, which includes the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. It houses the largest research park in the United States, which also drives in a huge number of people in the area. It has a total population number of 2,199,459 residents. 

The third metropolitan area is called the Piedmont Triad, and it is home to many well-known manufacturing companies. This Triad includes Greensboro, Winston-Salem and High Point, with a total population of 1,663,532 settlers.

Major Cities

The largest city in this state is Charlotte and has a population of 859,035. However, Raleigh, which is the second largest city and the capital of North Carolina, has the highest population density in the state, with a total population of 464,758. It is also becoming a popular retirement destination for many because of the lower cost of living in this city and many tourist spots to enjoy.

The third largest city is Greensboro and is a city that is included in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina. It is the largest city of the Triad and has a total population of 290,222 inhabitants. There are numerous attractions in this city for retirees to enjoy.

Climate/Weather

North Carolina is mostly characterized as a humid subtropical climate, and this is what attracts many retirees here. Higher elevations experience a cooler temperature. Areas near and around the Appalachian Mountains range are the ones that are affected by this climate. The mountain area temperatures range from -20℉ to -15 °F and between 15 °F to 20 °F along the coast while most of the areas would have a temperature of about 90 °F during daytime in July and colder temperature of 50 °F in January.

Expect to experience snowfall during the winter months if you live near the mountains. An average of five inches of snow a year falls in this state. If you prefer to be in a less snowy area, then you can live near the coast or inland. These areas do experience cold weather with less than 2 inches of snowfall per year, but there are winter months when there is no snowfall at all.

The Atlantic Coast in this state is very well acquainted with tropical cyclones. Hurricanes that form in the Caribbean Sea will pass by North Carolina before moving to other states. With tropical cyclones in the picture, expect some heavy rainfall during this time. It is also worth mentioning that North Carolina suffers from severe weather issues, especially during the summer months, when strong thunderstorms enter the area. 

An average of 31 thunderstorms per year is recorded with May being the month that sees the most, around 4-5. The months of June, July, and August experience an average of 3 tornadoes each and September usually has 4. Tornadoes touchdown the state of North Carolina all year round with March to May being the peak months.

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Cost Of Living

On average, housing costs in North Carolina can range between $170,000 in rural areas and up to anywhere around $300,000 or more for a medium sized property. Most residents of North Carolina own homes that typically are three bedrooms, single-family household. As of the last survey by NeighborhoodScout, a 7.5% appreciation value has been recorded from 2017 to 2018. This means that the prices of properties in this state are in an upward trend.

Renting can be another option for you if you want a trial period in this state. A 2019 apartment listing data showed that a typical two-bedroom apartment would cost a little over $900 per month. This is $200 less than the average $1,100 per month rate in big states in the US. Your rental fee will vary from city to city, for example, the median cost of a two bedroom unit in Charlotte costs $1,130 per month while in Fayetteville a similar two bedroom unit for only $769 per month.

A website made a calculated study of the transportation cost of living in North Carolina, and it showed that gas costs about $2.71 per gallon which is a little less than what the national average of $2.90 is. Major cities have bus systems that will cost you $88 per one month pass for the usual routes. You can upgrade your bus pass to a monthly express one for a fee of $121 per month and also into an express plus one for a monthly fee of $176.

Cost of living on average in Charlotte for a family of four without rent is around $3,530 per month, and a single person would be around $980 per month without rent. While in Greensboro, a family of four would spend approximately $2,000 per month without rent, and a single person would spend around $525 per month without rent.

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Infrastructure and Internet 

The infrastructure of North Carolina is undergoing continued development to serve the people of the state better and to encourage outside investors to set eyes on them. Major cities have a very well developed infrastructure system that includes reliable internet access for all. The development focuses on rural areas and critical highways that will improve the everyday lives of its citizens.

The governor of the state together with the state’s Department of Transportation has successfully passed an act named “Build NC Bond Act”, that both the Republicans and Democrats support for the expedition of the development of important roadways all over the state. The good governor also acknowledges the need for internet access in rural areas to ensure the economic success of each community all over the state.

The country has more than 530 public water system that currently serves more or less 7.3 million residents of the state (75% of the total population). An estimated $10 billion of funds are needed to help replace old facilities, to keep within the standards of the Safe Drinking water Act mandated by the government and to contribute in the economic development of the state.

The primary fuel source of this country are coal, petroleum, natural gas and nuclear, have facilities that remain intact to this date. But since the dawn of renewable energy source for a more sustainable lifestyle emerged, more and more cities are exploring alternative energy sources. One thing is for sure, North Carolina has a reliable, affordable, and diverse energy source they can tap into. 

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Possible Places To Live

North Carolina has been many retirees settle in their territory and for a good reason. There are many activities that you can explore in this state. From mountain hiking, biking strolls in the woods, brewery tours, museum hopping trip, to a more laid back long walks on the beach, North Carolina has it all. You pick your activity according to what you want to do with your time.

Charlotte

Many retirees crowd to this city because of the many suburban neighborhoods that it offers. There is an excellent assisted living program this city provides to elderly people where fitness centers and medical services can be enjoyed. Retirees, more than 55 years of age can choose from over twenty elderly assisted communities in this city.

Another significant aspect of Charlotte is that during winter months, the temperatures are more tolerable. Spring in this city is the perfect time to enjoy simple outdoor activities, such as walking and city tours, because of the warm weather and clear blue skies. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a more adventurous type of activity. Hiking, mountain climbing, and water sports are just some of the many activities you can participate in.

Raleigh

Known as “The City of Oaks”, is the capital of North Carolina and this is a place where you can find anything that you need. This is more of a city living lifestyle which is perfect for people who cannot live without the bustle of a city. Don’t get me wrong, this is still a great place for retirement. There are outdoor attractions that you can enjoy, and you will get a fill of all your entertainment wants.

In addition to entertainment choices, Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle cities so you can expect to find some of the most highly recognized universities in the country. So if you are planning on retiring early and relocating with your family, you may want to check Raleigh out. You’ll be able to find three or four-bedroom home properties that are generally priced around $200,000 up to $250,000 depending on the area you are looking at.

Winston-Salem

This town is the fourth biggest city in North Carolina and is home to 236,642 residents. Found in Forsyth County, this is a town for retirees who loves to enjoy historical scenes. The rich history of Winston-Salem dates all the way back to the 1750s. Tobacco and furniture are the main industries that this town has.

Most retirees in this city enjoy the numerous wineries that are housed within the town. A total number of 35 wineries from within the city limits and surrounding areas attracts wine lovers from all over America to this place. But the main reason why retirees consider this town is because of the low cost of living it boasts. You’ll probably spend around $150,000 for a three-bedroom single-family house property in this town. The 12 golf courses and 75 parks offer retirees more than enough outdoor activities to enjoy.

Apex

According to Niche, this town is a consistent contender for the top spot in the best places to live in North Carolina. It is actually deemed as the absolute and most highly recommended place to live in America by TIMES Money Magazine back in 2015. Apex is a suburb of Raleigh, and this town has an outstanding school system with a very welcoming community vibe.

Most retirees of age 55 years and above may find this place not quite to their standards when it comes to the cost of living. It is rated slightly higher compared to what the state average is. A typical three- or four-bedroom home can set you back an average of $265,000. However, those who are planning for early retirement and still have kids that go to school may find this town perfect for relocation.

Average household income in this town is more or less in the $90,000 range, which means that this town offers high paying jobs under the tech industry that you can take advantage of if you are still capable and considering working during your retirement.

Chapel Hill

Located in the Orange Country near Raleigh, Chapel Hill is a town of 58,800 residents and is also a member of the Research Triangle cities. This is the reason why many small families relocating in North Carolina consider this town as one of the top places to settle in. Both private and public education in this town has a stellar rating of A+ according to Niche. It is also the town where the oldest university is located.

Retirees that settle in Chapel Hill have multiple outdoor activities to enjoy. From beaches and the popular Blue Ridge Mountains to the great music and art events, Chapel Hill has it all for you. However, the median cost of an average home in this area is priced at around $385,000, which translates to a higher cost of living. You can get a lower cost of living in other towns like Morrisville and Cary, which are both nice towns just like Church Hill is.

Safety

North Carolina has reported a total of 372.2 violent crimes and a total of 2,737.5 property crimes per 100,000 settlers in 2016 according to MuniNet Guide. According to more recent data, North Carolina scored a 54% rating for violent crimes, which is 2% lower than the national median of 56% according to SafeWise. The same research showed that property crime scored a 59% percent rating, which is the national median rate too.

But the biggest concern that most North Carolinians are dealing with is the property crimes in the state. The national yearly average property crime rate is 16%, and North Carolina experienced 19% already in the past year. To give you more perspective to this concern, 63% of the population rated break-in when at home as the number one safety concern they have, following in second place at 54% is both break-ins during sleeping and theft of valuables. The third is theft of electronics at 47% followed closely by car break-in at 46%

However, there are towns within this state that gained the seal of Safest Cities in North Carolina from the SafeWise too. Last 2018, Holly Springs, Elon, and Pinehurst are the cities that were considered as the safest cities in this state. Overall, North Carolina is a safe state to retire to, and you will enjoy historical towns and outdoor activities here. 

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Homes and Real Estate

Because the cost of living varies from town to town, let’s choose three cities that we can compare prices and available properties.

Charlotte

Is the biggest city of North Carolina and is the 25th safest city in the state. Cost of properties in this city is much higher compared to others. High-end properties in this area can cost as much as $7,000,000 but there those that cost less than $100,000. However, the median cost of a typical home in this city is about $150,000, and this can get you a three-bedroom, one bath, 975 square foot property.

Renting in Charlotte can set you back a monthly rent of about $1,433.13 for a one bedroom apartment according to Numbeo if you live within the city center and a cheaper rent of $1,000.33 for a similar one bedroom unit outside the city center. A three-bedroom apartment within the city center can be rented for $2,207.59 per month and a cheaper $1,659.70 outside the city. Numbeo also estimated a rate of $2,549.66 per square meter cost if you are looking to buy an apartment within the city center and $1,319.58 per square meter outside the city center.

Raleigh

As part of the famous Research Triangle and the state’s capital, Raleigh also has a higher cost of living. High-end properties can reach a whopping $6,000,000 in price, but other house properties can be had for $105,000. The median cost of a three-bedroom, two bath house property is about $180,000 for this city. It is higher than in Charlotte due to the fact that more families prefer to live in this city mainly to take advantage of the exceptional educational institutions in it.

As for rent in this city, Numbeo showed an estimation of around $1,246.99 per month for a one bedroom apartment in the city center and $969.57 outside the city center. Apartments with three bedrooms are given an estimated rent of $1,850.25 per month within the city and $1,445.08 outside the city center. The rates are surprisingly cheaper when compared to Charlotte, but the price per square meter has a different story. Apartment properties for sale within the city are estimated to cost about 2,815.36 per square meter and $1,387.65 outside the city center.

Cary

Ranked seventh largest city in North Carolina and is a city that has many undeveloped lands covered in woods. You’ll find a much cheaper cost of living in this city compared to both Charlotte and Raleigh. A high-end property in this area costs around $3,000,000, which is half the price in Raleigh and more than in Charlotte. There aren’t as many house properties for sale in this city when you compare it to the previous two we discussed. This is one of the reasons why the cheapest property from this is listed for $215,000, according to Realtor.com. The median cost for a four-bedroom, three baths, 1,994 square foot house property is $299,000 in this city.

Cary has a cheaper rental rate compared to the other two cities. Numbeo estimated a rental cost of $1,013.33 per month for a one bedroom apartment within the city center and $845 outside the center. For a three bedroom apartment, an estimated monthly rental cost of 1,530 within the city center and $1,240 outside the center. Even the price per square meter is cheaper here. In the city center, the rate is $2,281.95 per square meter, and outside the center, it is at $968.75 per square meter.

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Healthcare 

Hands down one of the many reasons why expats consider North Carolina as a possible retirement haven is for their healthcare system. Anyone who is retiring at the age of 55 years or more will probably be aiming for the city of Charlotte if they are considering North Carolina. It has elderly care facilities that offer an assisted living setting. Another attraction for the retirees that Charlotte has is its numerous gyms that offer personalized training to elderly. There are also specialized gyms for the younger (and young at heart) generation.

On a per person basis, North Carolina has cheaper healthcare expenditure compared to the national rate. An estimated $7,264 per person is stated by the North Carolina Medical Journal, which is $781 less than the national expenditure rate. Medicare and private health insurance also have a lower rate as per person spending. Medicare spending in this country is around $10,260 per person, and private health insurance is about 3,859. Compare that to the national rate of $10,986 and $4,551 respectively, it is clear to see that people in North Carolina enjoy cheaper prices for insurance and Medicare.

There are magnet hospitals scattered all over North Carolina that elderly retirees can take advantage of. Here is a list of them, including the cities where they are located

• Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory
• Duke Regional Hospital in Durham
• University of North Carolina Hospitals in Chapel Hill
• WakeMed Raleigh Campus in Raleigh
• UNC REX Hospital in Raleigh
• Atrium Health’s Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte
• Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem
• Carolinas HealthCare System NorthEast in Concord
• Vidant Medical Center Emergency Department
• The Moses H Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro
• WakeMed Cary Hospital in Cary
• Watauga Medical Center in Boone
• Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem
• Duke University Hospital in Durham

Should I Retire to North Carolina? People, Culture and Entertainment 

People who live or come from North Carolina are called “North Carolinians”. People here have embraced the fact that their state has become a haven for retirees and settlers from other states and countries. They were once very wary when it comes to outsiders, but the recent influx of tourists and settlers have opened their hearts to be more welcoming and accepting of other people’s differences, beliefs, and lifestyle.

More than half of the population (68.5%) are non-Hispanic or white Hispanic, followed by the African American (21.5%), then the Latin and Hispanic American (8.4%). The multiracial Americans comprise 2.2% of the population, Asian American 2.2%, while the Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander is only 1% of the total population. There’s also other race that is 4.3% of the total population.

Because of the diversity of the population in this state, it has become a multi-language state also. Of course English is the primary language but 6.93% of the population speaks Spanish, 0.32% French, 0.27% German, 0.27% Chinese (Mandarin too), 0.24% Vietnamese, 0.17% Arabic, 0.16 Korean, 0.13 Tagalog, 0.12 Hindi, 0.11% Gujarati, Russian and Hmong, 0.08% Italian and Japanese and only 0.01% Cherokee.

Most true North Carolinians are Protestants. In fact, 76% of the population practice this religion and from that 76%, Evangelical Protestants are 35%, 19% are Mainline Protestants and 12% are Historically Black. You will also find Catholics here (9%), Mormon (1%), Eastern Orthodox (1%), Jehovah’s Witness (1%), Jewish (1%), and other religion or faith (1%). About 10% of the population belongs to the group of people who do not practice a religion.

As for the education system, the North Carolina Department of Public Institution oversees both the elementary and secondary public schools. However, it is the North Carolina State Board of Education that hold the authority in making legal and public school education policies. There are 115 public school systems in this state with Wake County Public School System, Guilford County Schools, Cumberland County Schools, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools as being the largest school system. Numerous universities are also found in this state, especially within the Research Triangle metropolitan area.

North Carolinian culture is a subculture of the States. You’ll find that the culture in this state is greatly influenced by early settlers from England and the southeastern culture of the U.S. This state also has rather rich cultural roots in colonial and Confederate times. It is also evident that the agricultural lifestyle this state has influenced the local traditions and beliefs the citizen’s practice until this day. Expect to find rural areas with traditions that are very similar to Southern Culture like horseback riding, target shooting, and hunting. This is also where you will see kids swimming in lakes and rivers for fun, ATV and modified trucks on riding trails (off-roading), and small scale farming.

If you are thinking of relocating or even visiting this state, you gotta love pork! North Carolina is famous for its pork barbecue and you will find restaurants and joints that sell pork barbecue in every town and city. All of them are claiming to have the best pork barbecue recipe in the state. They have a barbecue festival that they celebrate every year in October and this brings in more than 100,000 visitors every time. Bacon is also a staple in this state, so I will once again repeat this “you gotta love pork!”, if you plan on relocating to this state.

Expect to find basketball fans in this state. The Charlotte Hornets previously named Charlotte Bobcats has been a consistent team in the National Basketball Association (NBA). There is also the Carolina Panthers from Charlotte that participates in the National Football League (NFL) and the Carolina Hurricanes from Raleigh that participates in the National Hockey League (NHL).

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Attractions and Tourist Destinations

Several recreational activities can be enjoyed in this state.  You can swim at the beach, go skiing in the mountains or enjoy agritourism sites. Here is a quick list of what other activities you can enjoy.

• Freshwater and saltwater fishing
• Birdwatching 
• Hunting
• ATV trails
• Rock climbing
• Biking
• Hiking
• Boating and sailing
• Camping
• Caving (spelunking)
• Canoeing

Visit the Appalachian National Scenic Trail to scratch that hiking itch or tour the Blue Ridge Parkway for a scenic road trip. Try the Outer Banks of North Carolina and visit the Cape Hatteras National Seashore where you can walk the seashore and enjoy the view from the lighthouse or go to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site to see how the state preserved the location of the Roanoke Colony, for a more historical experience.

Should I Retire to North Carolina? Overall Thoughts

North Carolina is a state where you can get more forgiving weather if ever you decide to settle here. It is also ranked as one of the best states to retire in because of the low cost of living and stellar healthcare system it has. You’ll be able to stay connected to the world through the ever-developing infrastructure of the state. From big cities that cater to the people who cannot live without the bustle of city life to small towns that offer a break from the daily grind, there is a place for everyone in this state. The people here are welcoming more and more settlers from outside each year, which turned the whole community into a very welcoming one. Enjoy country style music, the famous North Carolinian pork barbecue, historical tours, and extreme outdoor activities all without leaving the American soil.

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