When it’s time to retire, an important part of your retirement decision is whether you want to stay in your current home or move somewhere new. There are a variety of terrific locations to consider so you have a lot of options. That can be great, but it can also be a pain — sometimes it’s hard to narrow it down! If you’re searching for a great retirement place, North Carolina might make your list. Here are seven reasons why you should retire in North Carolina.
1. North Carolina Is Moderately Friendly for Retirees
North Carolina is a great place to retire due to its low cost of living and generous tax breaks. The state has a low overall tax rate, and it does not tax Social Security income or the income from most pensions. Additionally, the cost of living in North Carolina is below the national average.
However, North Carolina taxes will be higher if you’re earning money from a source other than Social Security. While Social Security is not taxable in North Carolina, regular income is taxed — that includes some pensions. The income tax is a flat rate of 5.25%. If you’re retiring with Social Security, your taxes will likely be fairly low, but if you’re using another source, especially if you’re already worried about your finances, be aware that it could be taxed.
2. You Can Find College Towns, Beach Homes, and Much More in North Carolina
North Carolina is often thought of as a place for barbeque and rodeos, but it’s much more than that. The eastern coast is full of beaches, while Chapel Hill, where the University of North Carolina is located, is full of the college town buzz. If you want even more, Charlotte is a fast-growing city that promises to be just as exciting as other bright technological centers.
3. When You Retire in North Carolina, You Will Enjoy Incredibly Unique and Delicious Food
The South is serious about their barbeque, and North Carolina is no exception. Dedicated North Carolina barbeque eaters will gladly let you know in no uncertain terms when you’re off base with a recipe and can point you to a place where you can get certified, authentic North Carolina barbeque.
4. The North Carolina Scenery Is Truly Beautiful
Don’t let its moniker as the “Tar Heel State” confuse you. North Carolina, with its rolling hills and dazzling lakes, has some of the most beautiful sights in the nation. Better yet, they’re scattered all over the state, making them easy to access no matter where you are. For the road trippers, try some beautiful scenic drives on your way across the state.
5. There Are Plenty of North Carolina Sports Teams for Any Sports Fan
Sports fans love their teams and are known to get extremely territorial over the ones they claim as their own. That’s why anyone who wants to get into sports or already has an attachment to North Carolina teams will love this state — it has quite the list of recognized professional and minor league teams over several sports, and that’s not even counting local teams!
6. The Historical Value of North Carolina Is an Exciting Part of Its Culture
North Carolina has a stunning amount of history that’s sure to get any history buff excited. The history of how North Carolina became a state is interesting enough, but there are also historic sites all over the state that showcase amazing things about United States history. Lots of these sites are great for learning about history you don’t see much of in textbooks, like the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where you can learn about the history of flight!
7. There's a Variety of Retirement Options for All Levels of Income
Obviously, the cost of living index is different all over North Carolina. But you don’t have to move to the most expensive area to get everything you can out of your retirement. North Carolina has several beautiful cities that are well below the national average for cost of living, and they’re extremely friendly to retirees. If you’re looking for a retirement center in North Carolina, whether you just want a place to meet other retirees or you’re trying to find a senior care community to move into,
After55.com can provide you with listings that cover all different areas, income levels, and care needs, no matter what those may be.
