Living Easy<\/h4>\n
The best part about North Carolina living is that it\u2019s so easy. With nationally ranked medical facilities, low property taxes, and abundant amenities, you will have everything you need to live an easy, healthy, and happy lifestyle.<\/p>\n
Climate<\/h4>\n
Most of North Carolina\u2019s climate is the perfect middle ground between the extreme heat in the southern summers and the bitter cold in northern winters. However, temperatures can vary approximately twenty degrees depending on altitude. Although the western Appalachian mountain range has cooler year-round temperatures, there is no drastic difference in temperature from one part of the state to another.<\/p>\n
In winter, the average temperature high is around the low-to-mid 50s throughout most of the state, with the average low temperatures reaching between the 30s to low 40s. Average summer temperatures rarely stray above the high 80s with July being the hottest month.\nRainfall tends to vary moderately throughout the state, and July is the wettest month. You will enjoy sunny or partly cloudy skies for approximately three-quarters of the year.<\/p>\n
Fortunately, severe weather is fairly rare throughout the state, but hurricanes typically pass near North Carolina about twice a year, causing stormy conditions and high tides.<\/p>\n
If you decide to call North Carolina home, you can brag about its auspicious weather, which is moderate and much less extreme than many other states. Even during the few stormier, colder, and rainy days, there are an array of indoor activities available, meaning you will never feel bored due to the weather.<\/p>\n
Activities and Attractions<\/h4>\n
Infinite activities, attractions, and events contribute to the high quality of North Carolina living. Gorgeous gardens, panoramic hiking and biking trials, serene beaches, and ample entertainment are just a few of the countless features that make North Carolina the ideal place to visit or call home.<\/p>\n
![\"Wildflowers](\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mounain-flowers-photo-courtesy-Bill-Russ-Visit-NC-750-w.jpg\")
Wildflowers in the mountains near Robbinsville, NC. Photo: VisitNC.com. Bill Russ.<\/p><\/div>\n
A Hiker\u2019s Paradise<\/h4>\n
Hikers and adventure seekers will find themselves in paradise in North Carolina\u2019s national hiking trails and parks. The Appalachian national scenic trail<\/a> extends 2,100 miles from Maine to Georgia, giving you the opportunity to cross many borders and see numerous natural wonders and wildlife.<\/p>\n While in the Appalachians, make sure to journey the Great Smoky Mountains<\/a>, America\u2019s most visited national park. The Appalachian Trail runs northeasterly up to Davenport Gap (I-40 exit 451) near Waterville, North Carolina in the Great Smoky Mountains section. With the extensive diversity of wildlife, historical sites, and breathtaking beauty, it\u2019s no wonder the Great Smoky Mountains are so popular.<\/p>\n But what if you can\u2019t decide between the mountains and the beach? North Carolina\u2019s Mountains-to-Sea Trail<\/a> gives you the best of both worlds. Nothing\u2019s better than finishing a long hike on the seashore, laying back with your toes in the sand, and enjoying the cool ocean breeze.<\/p>\n If you want to glimpse the breathtaking views of the Appalachian Trial and Great Smoky Mountains without stepping foot on a trail, there are two wonderful options for mountain viewing from your own car or via train \u2026<\/p>\n LINN COVE VIADUCT ROAD ON BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY (VisitNC.com\/Bill Russ)<\/p><\/div>\n Take the most scenic drive of your life on the Blue Ridge Parkway<\/a>. Boasting 469 non-stop miles, the parkway links the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Picnic areas, mountain meadows, and mountain-overlook sites are scattered along the parkway, so you can make the most of your picturesque road trip.<\/p>\n GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS RAILROAD PHOTO (VisitNc.com\/BILL RUSS)<\/p><\/div>\n If you\u2019d rather ride than drive, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad<\/a> is the ultimate way to experience the secluded areas of the Smoky Mountains. There are 3.5-hour or full-day excursions available, and the train takes you above river gorges, into tunnels made through the mountains, across lavish valleys, and finishes through charmingly historic small towns.<\/p>\n The many riding options that the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers is part of the reason why it\u2019s such a popular attraction. You can choose from round-trip packages that drop you off at a zip-line station, show you extravagant waterfalls via a separate jeep tour, or take you rafting for a river ride you won\u2019t forget. Train rides featuring themes such as The Wizard of Oz or The Polar Express are also available and include theatre performances that the whole family will enjoy.<\/p>\n If you enjoy nature that is a bit more \u201ctamed,\u201d you will love the variety of the exquisite gardens in North Carolina. While there are excellent gardens across the state, you won\u2019t want to pass up these four gardens \u2026<\/p>\n Topping our list are the Sarah P. Dukes Gardens at Duke University<\/a>, located in Durham. The 300,000 people from around the world that visit the gardens annually can attest to the extravagancy of this 55-acre site. Events and tours are almost always taking place, including Japanese tea gatherings and a range of adult programs to choose from. The best part? Free admission all year.<\/p>\n Another university garden you can\u2019t miss is The JC Raulston Arboretum<\/a> in Raleigh. This arboretum is highly acclaimed for having one of the most profuse and distinctive assortments of landscape plants habituated in the Southeast. Located on North Carolina State\u2019s campus, there are many educational programs, events, and tours available for all visitors.<\/p>\n If you won\u2019t settle for anything less than the best, the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden<\/a> won\u2019t fail to impress. Dubbed the \u201cjewel in the Queen City\u2019s crown,\u201d the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is listed as one of HGTV\u2019s Flower Gardening\u2019s top-20 gardens in the United States. The 380 acres includes gardens for every season, a tropical conservatory, glistening fountains, and a radiant canal paved between two rows of colorful flowers the length of a football field.<\/p>\n Nature walks, bird watching, and a gift shop are a few of the many bonuses presented in the Daniele Stowe Botanical Garden. The best days to visit are Thursday nights from 5 to 9 p.m., May through September, when the garden hosts \u201cSip and Stroll\u201d Thursdays. Guests are encouraged to unwind with tai chi classes, listen to live music, sample delicious food from an assortment of food trucks, and peacefully tour the garden with a wine glass in hand.<\/p>\n Garden lovers, history admirers, food fanatics, and nature enthusiasts all join together at the Biltmore Estate<\/a>, one of North Carolina\u2019s top attractions. The 250-room Biltmore House was completed in 1895 for the wealthy Vanderbilt family. Today, the estate is one of the most popular spots for active adults ages 45 and over.<\/p>\n Visitors can roam the miles of scenic trails within the estate by foot, bike, Segway, horseback, or even horse-drawn carriages! Situated near the enchantingly scenic Pisgah Mountains, the estate could have easily emerged from a fairytale.<\/p>\n There is never a shortage of activities and sight seeing at the Biltmore Estate. From an annual summer concert series to a Vanderbilt inspired Christmas celebration, there are events for every season. For shopaholics, foodies, and wine connoisseurs, Biltmore has many shopping options, tons of tasty dining locations, and an on-site vineyard.<\/p>\n KAREN MALINOFSKI\u2014NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART<\/p><\/div>\n Located in the heart of North Carolina, the North Carolina Museum of Art <\/a>is where history and stunning artwork combine. The permanent art collection contains outstanding artistry from the ancient Egyptians to now.<\/p>\n Claude Monnet, Mary Cassatt, and Frank Stella are among the many renowned artists whose works are featured in the museum. One of the museum\u2019s most unique characteristics is its 164-acre Museum Park where natural and man-made wonders merge to create a dazzling aura.\nAside from the visual arts, the museum also embraces the musical and theatrical arts by presenting movie screenings and concerts showcasing world-class musicians.<\/p>\n Art appreciators of all kinds can attend book clubs, writing workshops, art classes, and more. If you\u2019ve dreamed of painting masterpieces but can\u2019t do much better than a stick figure, you\u2019ll find yourself a few steps closer to Picasso after attending a studio workshop or art classes at the museum.<\/p>\n Beach bums beware\u2014you\u2019ll never want to stray outside of North Carolina after visiting its picturesque beaches. The coastline is brimming with beaches of all kinds, so you\u2019re bound to find the perfect one for you.<\/p>\n Visit Cape Hatteras National Seashore <\/a>if you want to venture away from society and enjoy the 50-mile stretch of untamed shorelines. There are only a few small villages interspersed between miles of natural sand dunes, sea oats, and rolling waves.<\/p>\n View the sublime serenity of the island from atop the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Prepare for the stair workout of your life\u2014at 196 feet, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the nation and contains 248 steps.<\/p>\n Love horses? The uncultivated seashores in North Carolina are home to many wild horses. Carova Beach<\/a> and Emerald Isle<\/a> are some of the best spots to view wild horses grazing along the shoreline. While Carova Beach is the most isolated of all North Carolina beaches and is only accessible by foot or a four-by-four vehicle, Emerald Isle is more populous and considered \u201cthe crown jewel\u201d of North Carolina\u2019s Crystal Coast for its calm, radiant waters for wading and fishing.<\/p>\n When\u2014or if\u2014you\u2019re ready to jump back into a faster-paced beach life with classic boardwalk ice cream, the smell of fresh seafood, and sounds of laughter, Carolina Beach<\/a> will exceed your expectations for a friendly, traditional boardwalk and beach environment. With ongoing events, games, rides, live music, and great food, it\u2019s no wonder Food & Wine Magazine named the Carolina Beach Boardwalk one of its top 10-best boardwalks in the nation. Bring your family and friends to North Carolina Beach for nonstop fun.<\/p>\n Golfers, this one is for you. Pinehurst<\/a> is home to more than 41 golf courses, including Pinehurst No.<\/a>2, one of the world\u2019s top golf courses.<\/p>\n Pinehurst No.2 was the site of the U.S. Open and U.S. Women\u2019s Championships in 2014. More single golf championships are hosted at Pinehurst No.2 than any other course in the nation. The village of Pinehurst is so golf friendly that it is common to view people driving around in golf carts instead of cars.<\/p>\n Golfers and non-golfers will enjoy the many other features that this town provides. Spend a few hours at the village shops to browse local gifts, crafts, collectibles, and more. Afterwords, take a relaxing stroll through Sandhills Horticultural Gardens<\/a>, featuring 27 acres of diverse plants, landscapes, and sculptures. The Pinehurst Harness Track<\/a> is also a great hotspot for local events such as horse races, dog shows, automobile shows, rugby matches, and horse shows.<\/p>\n Pinehurst is ideal for golfers looking for a neighborly small-town feel, but Asheville<\/a> is one of the best cities in the nation to retire to if you enjoy living in or near a city.<\/p>\n Although moving to a city may provoke cringe-worthy memories of honking horns and crowds of people shoving their way past each other, Asheville is a far cry from the chaos that characterizes a typical city. Listed as the seventh friendliest city in 2015 and the best place to retire in 2016 by Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler<\/em>, Asheville is even friendlier than most suburbs (and has more amenities).<\/p>\n Asheville is located in the valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains, meaning you will breathe fresh mountain air and gaze at breathtaking natural views in the heart of a thriving city.<\/p>\n There are many attractions in and around Asheville that cater to everyone\u2019s interests. The Biltmore Estate\u2014with its grand gardens, scenic trails, and history\u2014is just one of the city\u2019s many gems.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re interested in learning more about downtown Asheville before heading out into the city, the LaZoom Comedy Tour<\/a> will provide information about the city and its most popular spots while sparking endless laughter. The wacky purple tour bus is embellished with plastic buckteeth, smeared in red lipstick at the front, making it impossible to miss. Hilarious acting has passengers laughing from the moment they step on the bus until the end of the 90-minute tour.<\/p>\n Once you step downtown, check out Downtown Asheville Arts District<\/a>, which boasts more than 25 art galleries, studios, and museums within only a half-mile radius.<\/p>\n Arguably the best way to travel to and from Asheville is via The Blue Ridge Parkway<\/a>, which winds 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains. Drivers and cyclers on the parkway don\u2019t need a destination other than the many picnic areas, trails, and designated mountain-overlook areas. A road trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway will be the most scenic one of your life.<\/p>\n CROSS COUNTRY SKIING WOMAN AND DOG (VisitNC.com\/BILL RUSS).<\/p><\/div>\n Still not thrilled by the idea of moving to a bustling city? That\u2019s OK, because Blowing Rock<\/a> offers mountain views as beautiful as Asheville without the hustle and bustle of city living.<\/p>\n With a population of around 1,233, Blowing Rock is known as a \u201cquaint storybook mountain village\u201d that is highly popular among retirees. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the town is isolated from larger cities and has a laid-back ambiance; but just because Blowing Rock is lightly populated doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s short of things to do.<\/p>\n Head over to the Moses Cone Memorial Park<\/a> for history, horseback riding, and hiking. The park is home to Flat Top Manor, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Moses Cone owned the estate and was a conservationist, philanthropist, and successful textile entrepreneur of the Gilded Age.<\/p>\n On the first floor of the home you can explore distinctive handmade crafts and gifts made by regional artists in the Parkway Craft Center. Select a guided tour to see the rest of the house and lose yourself in history, or go outside and venture the 3,500-acre estate on horseback, foot, or horse-drawn carriage.<\/p>\n With great mountains also comes great ski slopes. Whether you\u2019re a pro or have never strapped on a snowboard or set of skis, check out the Appalachian Ski Mountain <\/a>for an unforgettable day on the slopes. Beginners will cruise down the big slopes in no time after a beginner\u2019s session. Relax at the cozy caf\u00e9 or skate at the ice rink at the base of the slopes for a pleasant break.<\/p>\n What better way to unwind from an exhausting day of skiing and adventure than treating yourself to a soothing spa? While there are a few great spas to choose from in Blowing Rock, The Spa at Chetola Resort tops the list.<\/p>\n Get pampered with massage or beauty services next to the warm fireplace while listening to a flowing wall fountain. Then top off the treatment by entering the indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, or fitness room.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re a lover of learning, Raleigh is right up your alley. There are 33 colleges within 50 miles of Raleigh, many of which are located within the city itself. The city\u2019s rich culture and educational opportunities means you will never stop gaining knowledge.<\/p>\n Visit the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute<\/a> at North Carolina State University to engage your mind. The institute offers affordable courses, study trips, lectures, and events in a plethora of subjects for adults aged 50 and over. There is no pressure to \u201cpass or fail\u201d here since the courses are noncredit, and you will have the opportunity to form lifelong friendships with others who share your love of learning.<\/p>\n Since Raleigh is learning savvy, it\u2019s no surprise that the city is bursting with various museums. Once you immerse the creative side of your mind at the North Carolina Museum of Art, spend time at the Museum of Natural Sciences<\/a>, the most popular museum in North Carolina, welcoming approximately 1-million visitors per year.<\/p>\n Anticipate a highly interactive learning experience at the Museum of Natural Sciences, which is open 7 days a week and free to the public with the exception of 3D movies and special or traveling exhibits. There are so many exhibits, events, and tours to choose from that the museum will have you constantly coming back for more.<\/p>\n Hone your inner voyager in the \u201cTropical Dry Forest\u201d exhibit complete with tarantulas, butterflies, and a two-toed sloth. Then, delve into the \u201cPrehistoric North Carolina\u201d exhibit to gasp at perfectly preserved dinosaur skeletons and \u201cswim\u201d through prehistoric seas in the Eocene Era tunnel.<\/p>\n The upcoming exhibit, \u201cThe Secret World Inside You,\u201d is projected to be a hit among adults. Larger than life models, computer interactives, videos, and art installations will demonstrate the inner workings of our bodies and the hundreds-of-trillions of microbes that inhabit us.\nStep outside to the museum\u2019s 45-acre outdoor educational facility and hike along the Prairie Ridge Ecostation to examine wildlife in the pond, prairie grasses, and a bird blind. You will become a natural science geek in no time.<\/p>\n Swinging back to the coastal side of North Carolina, Southport is one of the best coastal towns to retire to. The small town is bordered along the shores of the Cape Fear River and is only around 15 minutes from Bald Head Island. You can kick back on the fishing dock, tour the town, golf, go boating, and enjoy the great outdoor climate in Southport.<\/p>\n Stroll along the Southport Pier and Riverwalk<\/a> for great birdwatching and fishing opportunities. Since Southport is an active fishing community, you will encounter many people who enjoy fishing for sport, leisure, and food (and not to mention, you will discover delicious sea cuisine!). Relax on the dock\u2019s swings and you may spot White Ibises, Glossy Ibises, Seaside Sparrows, Painted Buntings, raptors, and terns.<\/p>\n Capture the essence of Southport through an examination of its history and culture in the North Carolina Maritime Museum <\/a>at Southport. Learn about nearby shipwrecks, underwater archaeology, and marine life\u2014all for free admission!\nWith a unique coastal town, you can expect an unique shopping experience. Downtown Southport is rich with local gift shops, boutiques, candy shops, and craft shops.<\/p>\n The Silver Coast Winery Tasting Room<\/a> is among one of the top spots in downtown Southport. In addition to delectable wines and craft beers, the Silver Coast Winery Tasting room hosts special events such as movie nights and Painting with a Twist. Hop in on Tuesdays for open mic nights or Wednesdays for Wine Club.<\/p>\n There are plenty of noteworthy locations to call home in North Carolina, but these five spots are among the best and most popular places to settle.<\/p>\n Whether you desire a grand, luxurious resort or a quiet bed-and-breakfast, North Carolina has your lodging covered, so you can make the most of your visit.<\/p>\n For golfers headed to Pinehurst, The Pinehurst Resort <\/a>is as good as hitting a hole-in-one. There are three luxurious hotels to choose from at the resort and each one is historic and distinct.<\/p>\n The Carolina Hotel<\/a> is the most famous of the three and is referred to as the \u201cQueen of the South\u201d for its massive size, expansive verandas, copper copula, and rich history. When the hotel opened in 1901, it was the largest frame hotel in North Carolina.<\/p>\n The Holly Inn<\/a> is considerably smaller than The Carolina Hotel but is nonetheless extravagant. The antiquity-dense lounge area is decorated with a fireplace and elegant library, making you feel at home as soon as you arrive. The hotel opened in 1895 on the first New Year\u2019s Eve in Pinehurst.<\/p>\n The Manor Inn<\/a> is the smallest of the three hotels and is also the most modern of the three, built in 1923. Guests enjoy the relaxed vibe of the Manor Inn and the access to all of the resort\u2019s amenities.<\/p>\n After a long day of golf on the resort, head to the spa, which receives rave reviews from hotel guests. There are also delectable resort restaurants, a fitness center, pools, and more.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re headed to the Vanderbilt\u2019s grand estate, you may as well live as the Vanderbilts did. The Inn on Biltmore Estate<\/a> majestically extends across Antler Hill on the estate, overlooking the Antler Hill Village and the captivating views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.<\/p>\n The Inn has won multiple awards for its luxurious hospitality and every guest is treated like royalty. Casual and fine dining, a day spa, and a heated outdoor pool are among the inn\u2019s generous amenities.<\/p>\n There\u2019s no better way for the traveling nature enthusiast to visit Blowing Rock than to stay at The Mountainaire Inn and Log Cabins<\/a>. The Inn and Log Cabins are rustic and inviting. The wooden walls, wooden floor, fireplace, outdoor fire pit, and mountain-inspired decorative details will leave you feeling relaxed and closer to nature.<\/p>\n Guests who stay in the cabins have a spacious kitchen in which to cook while guests at the inn can enjoy complementary hot and cold beverages in the lobby with a microwave and refrigerator in each room. Both the Inn and cabin guests can spend evenings by the fire pit roasting s\u2019mores and enjoying the amicable atmosphere.<\/p>\n If 5-star ammenities is what you\u2019re looking for, The Umstead Hotel and Spa<\/a> has it. Located in Cary and just 15 minutes from the city of Raleigh, the hotel and spa is the optimal escape to relax and rejuvenate.<\/p>\n Although the hotel is situated next to a lake and a wooded trail system in close proximity to urban attractions, you may find it difficult to leave the hotel. The savory food, soothing spa, and seemingly infinite amenities within the hotel are to blame for guests\u2019 unwillingness to exit its vicinity.<\/p>\n A steam room, sauna, whirlpool, current pool, art exhibitions, spa, yoga classes, fitness center, a 2,500-bottle wine cellar, and even a dog park are just a few of the countless activities and attractions in the hotel.<\/p>\n The hotel\u2019s upscale restaurant serves American food from mostly locally sourced ingredients and was awarded five stars by Forbes Travel Guide. At night, specialty chocolates, slippers, and robes are delivered to guests for the most restful sleep of their lives. If you can afford this 5-star stay, you won\u2019t want to lodge anywhere else.<\/p>\n If bed-and-breakfasts are more your style, book your stay in Southport at the Robert Ruark Inn<\/a>. Start your morning with a mouthwatering breakfast entr\u00e9e such as the melt-in-your-mouth blueberry pancakes alongside fresh fruit. In the afternoon, sip complementary wine and enjoy free appetizers on the front rocking porch.<\/p>\n The inn is decorated to replicate the history and culture of Southport. It has private baths and showers in each room and a fireplace in most rooms. The owners of the inn will direct you to the town\u2019s many attractions and events and will attentively accommodate you to ensure the you experience the most pleasant stay possible.<\/p>\n Photo: Sanderling Resort<\/p><\/div>\n For oceanfront luxury, check out Sanderling Resort<\/a> just north of Duck, North Carolina. This is a unique spot for the Outer Banks experience.<\/p>\n In partnership with Kitty Hawk Kites, Sanderling offers a variety of activities and excursions that explore the natural playground of the Outer Banks. Try stand up paddle board and surfing, kayaking, sailing and even kiteboarding. The Spa at Sanderling offers soothing and effective treatments that are perfect for rejuvenating weary muscles as well as centering exercises, like morning yoga.<\/p>\n The restaurants offer something for every palate but always with an emphasis on “S.O.A.L,” the philosophy of cuisine rooted in Sustainable, Organic, Artisanal and Local ingredients. The three-meal restaurant, the Lifesaving Station, offers comfort foods with elegance and is legendary for its goat cheese hushpuppies. Kimball\u2019s Kitchen is their fine dining room, ideal for a special night out offering outstanding steaks and seafood along with an impressive wine list paired with impressive views of the Currituck Sound.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Duke University Hospital<\/a> located in the Durham-Raleigh area is accredited by Time and U.S. News & World Report as one of the best health care providers in the world. The hospital is ranked number one in North Carolina and is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties. Among the adult specialties, the hospital is listed as high performing in heart bypass surgery, heart failure, knee replacement, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.<\/p>\n The Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center<\/a> in Winston-Salem is recognized as the second-best hospital in North Carolina and has an 80 percent patient-satisfaction ranking as compared to the national average of 71 percent. The hospital is ranked nationally in 7 adult specialties and performs high in cardiology and heart surgery, diabetes and endocrinology, geriatrics, gynecology, and orthopedics.<\/p>\n University of North Carolina Hospitals <\/a>located in Chapel Hill is nationally ranked in 5 adult specialties and performs high in neurology and neurosurgery, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology and GI surgery, geriatrics, and nephrology. The North Carolina cancer hospital in the Chapel Hill location is the only public cancer hospital in the state and treats patients from every county in the state.<\/p>\n The Carolinas Medical Center <\/a>in Charlotte is nationally ranked in ear, nose, and throat and urology and performs high in 6 other adult specialties. Patients can trust the quality of care they receive during their stay, as the hospital scores very well in patient safety. The hospital is also home to the region\u2019s only level-one trauma center.<\/p>\n Mission Hospital<\/a> in Asheville is ranked number 5 in North Carolina and performs high in diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology and GI surgery, nephrology, orthopedics, and pulmonology. The cancer center opened 25 years ago and was the work base for the first board-certified oncologist in the region.<\/p>\n North Carolina\u2019s economy ranks ninth best in the nation with an average personal income of approximately $408 million in 2015. Forbes listed North Carolina as the second-most-prosperous place for businesses in the nation as of 2015.<\/p>\n The most recently updated unemployment rate in North Carolina is 5.1 percent (May, 2016), slightly above the national average of 4.9 percent (updated June, 2016). Fortunately the unemployment rate has continued on a downward trend from 5.6 percent in 2016, giving hope for a lower unemployment rate in the following summer season and the state\u2019s future.<\/p>\n With a population growth rate of 21.13 percent from 2000 to 2014, North Carolina is the seventh-fastest-growing state in the country. Retirees continue to swarm the state for its mild climate and superior attractions. The median home value stands at $151,900 and is expected to increase by 3.5 percent in 2017 according to Zillow.<\/p>\n Among our list of the top-five places to live in North Carolina, the median home value in Blowing Rock is most expensive at $304,900, and the median home value in Raleigh is least expensive at $205,600.<\/p>\n While there are benefits and drawbacks to every state\u2019s tax system, North Carolina provides some perks that retirees will appreciate.\nThe flat income tax rate in North Carolina was lowered to its current percentage after a major tax reform deal launched in 2013. Social security remains untaxed by the state under the plan, despite original pressures to tax the payouts. An already favorable tax exemption for those who qualify was further improved by the omission of taxing a separate state estate and the abolishment of an inheritance tax.\nWhen it comes to individual income taxes, North Carolina\u2019s average is dead set in the middle of United States\u2019 averages with a flat rate of 5.75 percent. North Carolina fares better in its property tax rates, which are the 20th lowest in the nation at an average of 0.84 percent. Several property tax exclusions exist for those who qualify.<\/p>\n You may not want to drive a gas-guzzling vehicle in North Carolina, since gas taxes are the eight highest in the country at 0.35-and-a-quarter cents per gallon. On the bright side, the median general sales tax of 4.75 percent in North Carolina is notably below the national median of 5.95 percent.<\/p>\n For more information about North Carolina taxes, visit http:\/\/www.bankrate.com\/finance\/taxes\/state-taxes-north-carolina.aspx.<\/p>\n You can feel at peace knowing that North Carolina offers idyllic living communities for every budget. All active-living communities in North Carolina promote a healthy, exuberant, and tranquil lifestyle that encourages learning, fun, and social engagement.\nThe following communities are just a few of the outstanding residential areas in North Carolina to call home. So kick back, soak in the lush natural scenery, and breathe easily knowing you\u2019ve picked the perfect place to live the best years of your life.<\/p>\n Anderson Creek Club<\/a> is surrounded by 17,000 acres of pine forests and includes one of the top-rated golf courses in the nation, located in none other than North Carolina\u2019s golf capital, Pinehurst. The Anderson Creek Golf Course was given the rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in Golf Digest, but the community\u2019s golf course isn\u2019t the only reason why Anderson Creek Club is considered one of the 50 Best Master-planned Communities in the United States by Where to Retire Magazine.<\/p>\n The 23 community parks and ponds amplify the health and well-being of residents. Canoeing, paddle boating, and fishing in the pristine ponds are some of the residents\u2019 favorite activities. Pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, and outdoor games such as croquet and horseshoe keep the community lively and entertained.<\/p>\n You can expect to get well acquainted with your neighbors and other residents if you live in Anderson Creek Club. Social events occur daily and there are a myriad of social and special-interest clubs designed for community bonding.<\/p>\n Thirsty for knowledge? Quench your mind at the lifelong learning center, which hosts lectures and activities on a broad range of topics. Then grab a book from the library and a drink from the Clubhouse Pub and Grill on your way to the gazebo for a relaxing read.\nWith ever-expanding activities and amenities, living in Anderson Creek Club is a never-ending vacation. Both spacious and more intimate homes are available and meet a wide range of budgets. You will feel extremely safe in the gated community and happy to call it home.<\/p>\n With so much to do around Biltmore Estate, we just can\u2019t get enough of Biltmore. That\u2019s why the location of Biltmore Lake<\/a> is an expert blend of both city and rustic outdoor living.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll hardly realize that you\u2019re only a 15-minute drive away from downtown Asheville as you enjoy lakeside and mountain views. After a long day hitting the shops and areas of interest in downtown Asheville, you can simmer down in a leisurely canoe ride right outside your home.<\/p>\n The community at Biltmore Lake is vibrant and busy in the best ways. Positive reviews of Biltmore Lake from its residents echo the animated attitude displayed throughout the community. Tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, fishing, and boating foster fun opportunities to get together with family, friends, and neighbors.<\/p>\n If you envision yourself surrounded by vast wilderness and a shimmering starry night sky, you will quickly embrace the nature-made paradise around Coves Mountain River Club<\/a>. Located in Lenoir, the Coves Mountain River Club is just 30 minutes from Blowing Rock and close to both Morgantown and Hickory.<\/p>\n The Pisgah Mountain Lodge is situated above the entire 3,600-acre community on the mountain top and is one of the community\u2019s most prized amenities. Take a swim in the saline swimming pool or soak in the hot tub as you absorb the entrancing views from the lodge. Local chefs, artists, musicians, educational speakers, and hiking guides visit the lodge monthly for the ultimate entertainment and learning experience.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll no longer wake up on the wrong side of the bed if you start your Monday mornings with a yoga class overlooking the sunrise on the mountain\u2019s edge. Horseback riding by cascading waterfalls, fly fishing in Wilson Creek, swimming in Coleton\u2019s Swimming Hole, and walking or jogging the miles of trails will keep you fit and amused throughout the years within the counity\u2019s vicinities.<\/p>\n Here, you can sip wine from Evelyn\u2019s Vineyard and make a meal in the outdoor kitchen using the freshly grown produce from Isabel\u2019s Garden. You will feel a strong sense of community and good health in The Coves Mountain River Club, and you\u2019ll be thankful you evaded urban living for this rejuvenating location.<\/p>\n![\"blue-ridge-parkway-photo-courtesy-visit-nc-650\"](\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/blue-ridge-parkway-photo-courtesy-visit-nc-650-1.jpg\")
![\"GREAT](\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Great-Smoky-Mountains-Railroad-with-Fall-Color-photo-courtesy-visit-nc-650-final.jpg\")
Gorgeous Gardens<\/h4>\n
The Biltmore Estate<\/h4>\n
![\"KAREN](\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/karen-malinofski-nc-museum-of-art-2-650.jpg\")
North Carolina Museum of Art<\/h4>\n
Pristine Beaches<\/h4>\n
Pinehurst<\/h4>\n
Asheville<\/h4>\n
![\"CROSS](\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Cross-Country-Skiing-Woman-and-Dog-Bill-Russ-VisitNC.com-2-650w-72dpi.jpg\")
Blowing Rock<\/h4>\n
Raleigh<\/h4>\n
Southport<\/h4>\n
Premier Places to Stay while Visiting<\/h4>\n
The Pinehurst Resort<\/h5>\n
The Carolina Hotel<\/h5>\n
The Holly Inn<\/h5>\n
The Manor Inn<\/h5>\n
The Inn on Biltmore Estate<\/h5>\n
The Mountainaire Inn and Log Cabins<\/h5>\n
The Umstead Hotel and Spa<\/h5>\n
Robert Ruark Inn<\/h5>\n
![\"sanderling](\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/sanderling-aerial-beach-optimized.jpg\")
Sanderling Resort<\/h5>\n
Healthcare<\/h4>\n
North Carolina\u2019s Economy<\/h4>\n
Tax Time<\/h4>\n
Top Active-Living Communities<\/h4>\n
Anderson Creek Club<\/h5>\n
Biltmore Lake<\/h5>\n
The Coves Mountain River Club<\/h5>\n
Carolina Preserve<\/h5>\n