North Carolina Senior Living
The old south is actively emerging as the place for new retirees. For decades, Florida has been the big star of the 55 and over crowd and who can blame them? Pristine beaches, endless sunny days, and an avalanche of senior living properties all make the Sunshine State a prime destination.
However, more and more people are realizing that they don’t have to trek it all the way down to Miami beach for a little fun in the sun. Southern states like North Carolina are seeing a boom in the retirement crowds. In a 2010 poll, North and South Carolina became the most popular places to retire among baby boomers, beating out the traditional leaders, Arizona and Florida. Also thanks to its incredible coastline and moderate climate, senior living in North Carolina is considered by many to be the next up and coming retirement hot spot.
North Carolina Assisted Living Costs
The average monthly cost for an Independent Living property is $2, 332, with a minimum cost of $1,720 and the maximum close to $4,901.*From the SeniorHomes.com 2012 Independent Living Cost Survey. (http://www.seniorhomes.com/p/independent-living-costs/)
North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services and Adult Care Licensure Section are responsible for regulation of the Assisted Living sector.
Retirement in North Carolina
One of the many advantages of North Carolina senior living is its lost cost of living, which is lower than the national average. In fact, there are a number of advantages to retire in North Carolina. Kiplinger describes North Carolina as a "mixed bag" for seniors though, so be sure to check out all the small print while researching this great state!
Did you know that…?
- The Zillow Home Value Index in the North Carolina in early 2012 was $129,200.
- Social security benefits are not taxed.
- There are some income tax exemptions for pensions, particularly for those with careers in the public sector and/or military pensions.
- There is a property tax homestead exemption for people over 65 who meet certain income criteria. There is also a program for eligible people over 65 which limits your property taxes to 4 or 5% of your income. *North Carolina Department of Revenue
Best Cities for Retirement in North Carolina
North Carolina’s population is growing rapidly thanks to its numerous outdoor activities, diverse economy, and pleasant climate. And all of these aspects have not escaped the eye of the up and coming retirees. In fact, according to US News, Raleigh-Cary increased its population of 65 and older by 60 percent, the largest increase in any metro area in the US.
North Carolina offers a wide range of senior living options for any type of budget. For those looking for more reasonable options try quaint towns like Charlotte or Henderson near the Blue Ridge Mountains. Although not all of North Carolina’s cities are considered budget friendly. While Forbes magazine lists Asheville as one of the top destinations for retirement in 2012, it’s also one of the most expensive cities for retirees, with average home costs of just under $200,000 *CNN Money
Health Care in North Carolina
There are 114 hospitals and medical centers in North Carolina. Four of these are nationally; Duke University Medical Center in Durham is ranked the number one hospital followed by the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. *US Health News
Seniors living in North Carolina will also see benefits from the recently approved Affordable Health Care Act. This new law will be able to reduce health care and prescription medicine costs for seniors, as well as allowing for a substantial amount of preventative care options. *Healthcare.gov
Quick Medical Guide for North Carolina:
Activities for Seniors in North Carolina
North Carolina has an abundance of towns that are perfect for any nature lover. In fact, senior living in North Carolina means an abundance of various activities will be at your disposal. Thanks to its diverse geography, North Carolina retirees can take advantage of a wide range of recreational activities, including sailing, skiing, hiking, and many more. Whether you’re a regular beach comber, an antique shopper, or a Blue Ridge mountain hiker, the Tar Heel State has tons of options for outdoor senior activities.
And we certainly can’t forget about the golf courses. North Carolina has nearly 700 golf courses to choose from. And for those of you looking for a little culture to pass your time cities like Raleigh and Ashville have quite a few small galleries as well as famous museums like the North Carolina Museum of Art or the Museum of History, both located in Raleigh. North Carolina boasts many beautiful resorts, shopping outlets, and historical attractions.
Local Weather
Like most of its neighbors, North Carolina offeres extremely hot and humid summer, but, thanks to the mountainous surroundings, the state sees mildler temperatures in the winter. Of course, temperatures will vary depending on location. Check out current temperatures in North Carolina!
Sharp Seniors has 31 Senior Living Facilities in North Carolina
- 31 of them offer Senior Living
- 13 of them offer Assisted Living
- 9 of them offer Alzheimer's Care
- 8 of them offer Respite
- 2 of them offer Continuing Care (CCRC)
Cities with Senior Living Centers in North Carolina
