The state's income tax rate is 4.99% in 2022, but the state updated its income tax schedule for the next seven years. According to the Kiplinger State-by-State Guide to Taxes on Retirees, Virginia ranks as a tax-friendly state for retirees. Hurricanes in North Carolina are accompanied by intense winds and unpredictable weather patterns that can cause flooding and severely damage your home. If youre a history enthusiast, you can explore the many museums at Beaufort or Cape Fear and get lost in the centuries of history. North Carolina Retirement. Overall, North Carolinas health care is not bad by any means, but its also not close to the states in the top tier. The Pros and Cons of Retiring to Alabama Have you been thinking of retiring to Alabama? Although the cost of senior living may seem daunting at first, a second glance may reveal something different. Retrieved from. Unfortunately, North Carolina is located in an area susceptible to hurricanes. (n.d.). Cost of Living Data Series. Most pay between 6.75% to 7%, although there are a handful of counties where the rate is 7.5%. Thank you! Simmons, C. (2023, February 20). However, although higher than the national average, the murder rate in North Carolina is much lower than in South Carolina.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'retirefearless_com-leader-3','ezslot_12',146,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-retirefearless_com-leader-3-0'); The fact is that not everything is rainbows and butterflies in the Old North State. They also have higher than average property tax rates. North Carolina's property tax rates are relatively low in comparison to those of other states. One of the most important aspects to consider when buying a house is the quality of schools your Read More, North Carolina vs. Virginia: Which is the Better State? Besides housing, the state also offers comparatively cheaper food options than other states like New York State or Washington State. Besides the beautiful scenery, North Carolina offers a mild climate and plenty of amenities that make it attractive to retirees. North Carolina has become a popular retirement destination as the state has grown, providing an alternative to extreme-heat states like Florida and Arizona. But there are still notable drawbacks to retiring in North Carolina. The answer really depends on what youre looking for in retirement since each state offers different benefits. Likewise, rain is not uncommon during the summer months. North Carolina is generally an affordable state. However, with your retirement nearing, you dont have to look past this wonderful state. North Carolina is the third most popular retirement destination. Javascript must be enabled for the correct page display. Its a major area and feels like it as its the most populous city in the state. However, that doesnt mean that crime in the state is non-existent. If youre moving to North Carolina with the hopes of escaping the grind and bustle of daily living, youll find reprieve. There are plenty of opportunities for retirees to pursue academic study at the many universities located around the State. First off, accommodation is the biggest expense that any states residents have to incur. Durham. Let's look at some pros and cons of retiring in North Carolina to see if it could be the right state for you. Pros & Cons of Living in Asheville North Carolina. And the state has the added benefit of generally affordable housing and a low cost of living, even within the cities. Best North Carolina Beaches. In fact, Virginia was colonized almost sixty years before South Carolina was. North Carolina is certainly an interesting state. Residents could spend years exploring the state's caverns, gorges, and state parks, but retirees will need to plan their excursions for the summer months before the . It offers a small-town vibe nestled within the North Carolina mountains. The only downside to the easy going vibe is the lack of ambition you may come across from time to time. A coworker joked that North Carolinians are the best neighborhoods and acquaintances a person could have because respect is a second language. . Even popular tourist spots like Myrtle Beach can offer affordable living. Since they live in a gorgeous state, youll find most people casually walking around looking happy and enjoying life. Usually, there are two options to steer clear of hurricane damage. North Carolina doesnt tax Social Security retirement benefits. A recent study by MIT found that a single adult (without kids) needs to make a minimum of $31,660 per year to live in North Carolina. How To Apply For Medicare: A Step-by-Step Guide, Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. As you think about it, the state does have a lot to love for retirement. The states property tax rate stands at 0.77%, which means that a homeowner has to pay around $770 every year for every $100,000 in home value. 2023 Retire Fearless. The Rainbow Falls Trail in Gorges State Park and the Looking Glass Rock Trail are a few other beautiful trails worth exploring. I lived in the Old North State for 12 years and have definitely learned a few things about daily life in North Carolina. North Carolina Pros And Cons; North Carolina Pros And Cons. Retrieved from, United Health Foundation. More so, to celebrate their states rich and abundant history, North Carolina actively funds and looks after the many museums and historical sites in the state. The lack of proper public buses, trains, and other modes of transportation make it challenging to travel and explore different parts of the state. The hurricane season hits North Carolina from June to November. Raleigh and Durham. The board was formed to repeal a 1929 law that had been put in place to provide sterilization for persons that were feeble minded and mentally . Otherwise, it will be impossible to see the lovely beaches and mountainsides. Well, if youre moving to North Carolina with kids in tow then you will want to budget private education into your cost of living in North Carolina. Heck, take a road trip to Great Smokey Mountains National Park (the most visited national park in the country!) Proximity to Everything You Need; Cons of Moving to Asheville, NC #1. North Carolina has a growing variety of retirement communities, with some as small as a couple hundred homes grouped together and others large enough to qualify as sprawling self-sufficient towns. North Carolina offers mild weather and beautiful seasons while also keeping older adults closer to the communities they came from, offering a more pleasing retirement life. If it sounds appealing, start looking at these 16 top cities in NC. Our communities are located across the United States and offer a range of senior living services including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. With an abundance of hiking trails and hundreds of miles of coastline, theres no seeming end to the amount of outdoor expeditions you can enjoy in the state. (n.d.). Now to answer the big question: Is North Carolina a good place to live? Raleigh, the state capital, could also be a suitable retirement destination that includes many big city offerings without quite as much activity as Charlotte. Required fields are marked *. All this to say, both the outdoor recreation and road trip possibilities are endless while living in North Carolina. The state also offers other generous exemptions on other types of retirement income. North Carolina ranks 19thamongst states with the highest per capita tax. District of Columbia costs $2,324 to rent. North Carolina's rich history influences much of the cultural scene. One of our content team members will be in touch with you soon. North Carolina doesnt tax Social Security retirement benefits. If you prefer the sea to mountaintops, the state has you covered in that department as well. According to the states residents, North Carolina only happens to experience two seasons summer and fall. The state also has major league lacrosse games and all of that is before getting into college sports where there is a fierce following for several college teams. cost 9.8% of ones yearly income. Mission was ranked #6 in U.S. News and World Report's North Carolina hospital rankings. However, some of my friends have shared stories of woe, especially when searching for white collar jobs they could advance in. Chicago Pros and Cons of Retiring in South Carolina The advantages of retiring in South Carolina include an affordable lifestyle where your money can go much farther than in many other parts of the country. Pinehurst. The sales tax rate is 6.98%, which falls into about the middle tier nationally. Property tax rates are moderately high in North Carolina, but there is a senior discount that is quite significant. One of the largest is Brunswick Forest, which is located outside of Wilmington. Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in North Carolina responded: "People who live in North Carolina enjoy the mild climate, the beautiful beaches, and the friendly people. Identifying a state with a low cost of living and still offers a vibrant post-retirement lifestyle can be difficult, but North Carolina checks both boxes. Recall how I mentioned southern hospitality as one of the best things about living in North Carolina? Roxboro. With that being said, the low cost of living may be less relevant, depending on how much money you have for your retirement. The Appalachian Mountains form most of North Carolinas territory, providing the state withmiles of hiking trails. Your email address will not be published. YOUR DREAM RETIREMENT ON YOUR BUDGET From traveling the world to exploring your own backyard, Leisure Care living is fun and easy. Partner the intense heat with the constant humidity and youll be begging for a shower before pulling out of the driveway. So, if you plan on starting a business during your retirement years, youll be paying around only 2.5% corporate tax. Find a job before moving to North Carolina is vital (especially if you plan to live in the rural parts of the state). In any case, having daily access to mouthwatering BBQ is one of my favorite things about living in North Carolina. Aging in America Rankings. In North Carolina, the public transportation network is limited in scope and under-served. I was fortunate enough to keep my teleworking job while living in North Carolina, so I didnt experience the challenges of find a job firsthand. You will also want to think through what is included at the community you are considering. Pros of retiring in North Carolina All four seasons. The summers are good for the beach, while winters are good for skiing in the mountains. It's anywhere from 10 to 30 percent cheaper to buy a home here than the national average. Christian Simmons is a writer for RetireGuide and a member of the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education (AFCPE). We'd love to hear your thoughts. North Carolina may not be a state traditionally thought of when it comes to retirement, but its popularity is on the rise. Unlike most other states, North Carolina taxes groceries. In North Carolina, there is no tax on Social Security Income, income taxes have been lowered a flat rate (and that rate has been decreasing), there is no State Estate Tax, and a low corporate income tax. The job market in Raleigh is thriving right now. Not to mention the plethora of problems that arise when humidity becomes a part of your daily life. Weigh the pros and cons to see if retiring in North Carolina is right for you. Summers in North Carolina are the worst. However, European countries had beforehand . The state has coastlines, mountains, and distinct regions that offer a variety of activities for retirees. North Carolina has become one of the best retirement states in recent years. There are several prominent health care systems throughout the state that have been nationally ranked for different specialties, including cardiac surgery; rheumatology; ear, nose, and throat; and cancer. South Carolina, a state with plenty of history and marshland was actually not discovered until a while after North America had been founded. By 2026, the individual income tax will drop to 3.99%. If you havent yet, you must ask yourself if retiring in North Carolina is a good option for you.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'retirefearless_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-retirefearless_com-medrectangle-3-0'); The truth is that North Carolina is one of the most beautiful and fairly reasonable states in the United States. Social Security Income is exempt. The states property tax rate stands at 0.77%, which means that a homeowner has to pay around $770 every year for every $100,000 in home value. Obviously your lifestyle with depend on your way of life in North Carolina. A popular getaway for beachcombers, the Outer Banks is ideal for climbing sand dunes, cruising the ocean, learn more about history, exploring nature, and more. [ See: The Best Places to Retire in 2022. ] If youre a history enthusiast, you can explore the many museums at Beaufort or Cape Fear and get lost in the centuries of history.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'retirefearless_com-leader-1','ezslot_14',114,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-retirefearless_com-leader-1-0'); The true reality of a state can often be judged through its people, and if thats the case, then North Carolina truly is the most charming state in the US. As for my favorite BBQ joint? 4 Full Seasons Cons of Retiring in West Virginia 1. Being called maam isnt a reference to your age, fret not. Marion. Greensboro. This climate diversity means that there's something for everyone regarding retiree weather. The scenery is also beautiful, and its one of the few states that is diverse enough to offer everything from small mountain towns to major cities and beaches. 6. Cities such as Raleigh and Charlotte have a public transportation system, but they lack the convenience that other cities, such as Chicago or New York, offer. The parkway is a total of 469 miles and is world-renowned for its biodiversity featuring extremely rare habitats. Average daily temperatures hover around 40F-50F with nights dipping below freezing 28F-35F. NC isnt the worst state for retirees when it comes to income taxes, but it isnt the best either. Get money-saving tips, hard-to-find info and tactics for a successful retirement in our free weekly newsletter. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Sign up for helpful guides, interesting topics, and tips from locals. It has an old town feel and is very affordable, giving older adults the chance to retire in a charming town with great scenery. The famous Blue Ridge Parkway runs for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains. However, as with every other state, North Carolina also has quite a few pitfalls that if you can look past, youll love living here. IBM WatsonHealth named it a Top 50 cardiovascular . Overall Score. Please call us using the phone number listed on this page. According to the NC Rural Health Research Program, people who live in rural areas often have to travel long distances for care. When it comes to weather, North Carolina has the best of both worlds. I think this is a normal human reaction to outsiders, but it takes a little while for folks to warm up and to make genuine friends after moving to North Carolina. All-in-all, you will find that the big city vibe doesn't come with a significant price tag. According to the Census Bureau, both states ranked in the top five for net migration of people aged 60 and older. One of the benefits of retiring in North Carolina is that the state offers tax breaks for seniors. You can learn more about our writers, here. In cities such as Charlotte or Raleigh, temperatures during winters rarely drop lower than 35 F. North Carolinas summers are also temperature, even though the temperatures do rise above 90F at times. RetireGuide.com. APA But there are still notable drawbacks to retiring in North Carolina. However, its important to remember that the cost of living varies from state to state.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'retirefearless_com-leader-4','ezslot_13',144,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-retirefearless_com-leader-4-0'); North Carolina has a complicated tax system. To retire comfortably in the state of North Carolina starting today, you will need to have saved at least $65,000. Mild Weather Year-Round #3. That rate continues to drop from what was 5.75% in tax years 2015-2016. Good news for retirees eyeing North Carolina as a landing pad for their golden years: State residents 65 and older can, on a space-available basis, audit classes tuition-free at the campuses of. The low property taxes in the state are one of the reasons for the below-average housing costs. Property taxes vary from county and municipality. Drawing people from all over the country with its beauty, stunning coastline, and southern hospitality, theres a lot to love about retiring in North Carolina. Many of our communities include a wide range of amenities including. With over 300 miles of beaches, you are sure to find one you love. North Carolina is an overall safe state for you and your family to call home. This is very ideal for retirees. The answer is yes, between the affordable housing market, low cost of living and unmistakable southern hospitality, living in North Carolina is living life on easy mode. Sauna-quality humidity (yay!). Many of our outpatient clinics are located near Mission Hospital, right in the center of Asheville. If you're over 65, you can exempt up to $35,000 of your retirement income from state taxes. Retirefearless.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. In sum, heres a quick roundup of the pros and cons of moving to North Carolina. 201-447-2212 171 E. Ridgewood Ave. Suite 205 Ridgewood, NJ 07450 The state experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters in the mountains. Whether youre looking for directions or recommendations for a good restaurant, the locals will be more than enthused about helping you out. You may be surprised to learn that the home of Duke University and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill might value public education enough to fund it, but no dice. Everything is a lot cheaper here, especially when it comes to housing. The city mixes the old with the new in an innovative way, bringing history to life with Civil War landmarks, the Discovery Place, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and even Carowinds, a sprawling theme park all within the Queen City. Many folks are surprised to learn that North Carolina the 3rd most hurricane prone state in the country. Table of Contents. Festivals and events take place throughout the year. However, it taxes public and private pension incomes, 401(k), IRA, and other retirement accounts at an income tax rate of 5.25%. Generally speaking, North Carolina offers more diversity in locations and scenery, from major cities and beaches to full-blown mountain ranges. Resorts are spread throughout the mountains and many are open for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. On the flip side, NC has a high-than-usual crime rate, increased chances of hurricanes, higher taxation, and a poor transportation system. When evaluating the cost of senior living first think through your current expenses because so much of senior living is all-inclusive. Many retiree-friendly communities have been developed with top-notch health care facilities. Over the last 10 years, Greenville has become one of the most vibrant cities in the nation. However, with your retirement nearing, you dont have to look past this wonderful state. Thats a similar level of cost of living for states like Wyoming or Wisconsin, and significantly lower than most of the states that make up the Northeast, Midwest and West Coast. Is South Carolina or North Carolina better for retirement? Cities such as Raleigh and Charlotte have a public transportation system, but they lack the convenience that other cities, such as Chicago or New York, offer. These include Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and Asheville. In fact, according to a 2019 report,1.4 million of the states residents live in poverty, making NC the state with the 15th highest poverty rate. And the next 10 years are predicted to bring even more growth. Enter North Carolina, sweet North Carolina. Get money-saving tips, hard-to-find info and tactics for a successful retirement in our. The University of North Carolina, for example, offers a Continuing Education program with a range of general interest courses for community members. In July of 1933, the North Carolina State Legislature formed the EBNC. As in North Carolina, South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits. Heck, it wont take long after moving to North Carolina for you to realize the vital role BBQ plays and that folks are willing to defend the honor of their preferred style. Consider these retirement communities in North Carolina: Asheville. In fact. Especially if you are moving from up north, youll find that even the largest cities compare favorably to the cost of living that youre used to. The average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in North Carolina is $825, which is much lower than in many other states. , both states ranked in the top five for net migration of people aged 60 and older. One of the most significant drawbacks of retiring in North Carolina is the lack of a public transportation system. 1.. Social Security is not taxed, but 401(k) and pension distributions are. According to the U.S. News and World Report, Charlotte is viewed as an excellent retirement destination. Residents can claim a $3,000 deduction if they are under 65 or $15,000 if they are over 65, making it exceptionally welcoming for senior citizens who are receiving income from sources other than social security. If you're considering retiring to North Carolina, it's important to research the health care options in the area you plan to live. North Carolina does have a state income tax, which can be unappealing to some retirees and sets it back from a financial perspective from popular retirement states like Florida, which doesnt have tax income at all. North Carolina may be most known for its scenic mountain ranges, but it also has plenty of beach options with 322 miles of coastline. We appreciate your feedback. Over the years we've found the best ways to live, how to travel, take on new hobbies and give back. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Worth mention: The flat 4.99% state income tax is one of the lowest in the country, further adding to the lost cost of living in North Carolina. Moreover, given the vast and diverse landscape, you can engage in a myriad of outdoor activities, such as visiting the beach or trekking, completely free of cost. Your money will go far there, helping you to have a full retirement. Regardless of your preference, know this: you cant go wrong but you better learn to defend it. North Carolina is home to the Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. If youre considering retiring in North Carolina but still require some convincing, Ive lined up more than a few reasons to help you make a decision. South Carolina Is Tax-Friendlier to Retirees Than North Carolina.Kiplinger ranks South Carolina as one of the most-friendly states for taxes on retirees. Indeed, its hard to find yourself bored after moving to North Carolina, as most of your free time can be spent outdoors. Asheville is the #1 retirement town in the U.S. As a result the entire region has experienced rapid growth as tens of thousands of retirees have migrated to these mountains in western North Carolina. The state is home to some of the best hospitals in the country, including Duke University Hospital and Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Historically, Virginia has had a reputation for wealth creation. Pros of Retiring in South Carolina Beautiful Landscapes Tax-Friendly Good Healthcare System Great Weather Numerous Outdoor Activities Southern Hospitality Convenient Transportation Historically Rich Low Crime Rates Free Education for Retirees Cons of Retiring in South Carolina High Cost of Living Too Much Construction Hurricanes Flood Alligators Thats lower than every bordering state except Tennessee. One option that stands out is Hendersonville. But North Carolina has a lot to offer, from stunning scenery to tax breaks for seniors. Locals Tip: Something that caught me off guard after moving to North Carolina was hearing kids use yes maam and no sir in practically every interaction. ; There are no social security taxes. Oops! The median home cost in the city is $260,000, but you can save some by relocating to Durham if you prefer. Pros of living in North Carolina 1. Essentially, the public transport in North Carolina doesnt cover a huge ground and is rather under-serviced, so it becomes particularly tricky to get from one place to another without a car.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'retirefearless_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_19',147,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-retirefearless_com-narrow-sky-1-0'); With multiple family members currently in senior living facilities, David is in the trenches every week, learning the ins and outs of nursing homes, assisted living, memory care, and general senior living.