Looking to retire in NC? These counties are the best in the state, says one study
Nearly a fifth of the best counties to retire in the U.S. are in North Carolina, according to a new study.
Based on a recent study done by MSN, eight North Carolina counties made the list of the best 50 places to retire in the U.S. The ranking was determined by Stacker’s analysis of Niche’s 2022 U.S. Census and Bureau data. Out of 3,000 U.S. counties, the study highlights median home value, median rent and median household income.
The study comes just a few months after both Charlotte and Raleigh were included in the top 10 cities to retire by U.S. News & World Report, The Charlotte Observer reported.
Data also show that a large portion of new North Carolina residents moved to retire. A 2024 study by United Van Lines found that retirement was reason nearly 20% of people relocated to the Tar Heel State the year before.
“Anyone planning retirement may decide they want to live in the place they vacation every year, or that little town they found during their last cruise,” the MSN study said. “They may choose to live where their grandchildren are, or where they can enjoy the activities they couldn’t when they were working.”
Seven of the eight counties featured on the list are located in either western North Carolina or along the coast.
Here’s a look at the North Carolina spots that made the MSN list and why these counties were recognized. You can find the full report at msn.com/en-us/money/realestate.
Best places to retire in North Carolina
North Carolina has 100 counties, but only a handful made the list of best places to retire. Based on weather, entertainment and cost of living, these North Carolina spots are retirement-friendly, according to the MSN study.
No. 11: Carteret County: Located in North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, this county has a population of about 68,000. MSN says:
Median home value: $237,800 (73% own)
Median rent: $938 (27% rent)
Median household income: $61,805
No. 12: Brunswick County: The southernmost county in state, this coastal county has a population of about 134,000.
“Brunswick County is home to places like Bald Head Island, Southport and Carolina Shores. The county is a popular filming location, and you’ll never go hungry, with plenty of Calabash-style fried-seafood buffets dotting the area,” according to the study. MSN says:
Median home value: $238,800 (83% own)
Median rent: $1,071 (17% rent)
Median household income: $64,400
No. 16: Moore County: Located roughly between Charlotte and Durham, this county has a population of about 99,000. MSN says:
Median home value: $247,000 (77% own)
Median rent: $958 (23% rent)
Median household income: $67,440
No. 21: Polk County: Another county located in western North Carolina, southeast of Asheville, this county has a population of about 19,000. It’s known for its equestrian activities and fine art. MSN says:
Median home value: $228,000 (77% own)
Median rent: $870 (23% rent)
Median household income: $55,058
No. 24: Henderson County: Also located in Western North Carolina, this county has a population of about 116,000. MSN says:
“Home to cities like Hendersonville and Saluda, Henderson County offers an array of antique shops, boutiques, and Victorian-era homes. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you can explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or visit a number of local festivals each year,” the study says. MSN says:
Median home value: $251,800 (75% own)
Median rent: $960 (25% rent)
Median household income: $59,928
No. 27: Macon County: Located in Western North Carolina surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, this county has a population of about 37,000. MSN says:
Median home value: $176,900 (73% own)
Median rent: $771 (27% rent)
Median household income: $48,169
No. 40: Pamlico County: Located along the coast, this county has a population of about 13,000.
“Pamlico County provides easy access to beaches, golf, the Pamlico River and the Intracoastal Waterway. The area has low taxes, great weather and a vibrant and growing retiree community,” according to the study. MSN says:
Median home value: $166,500 (79% own)
Median rent: $760 (21% rent)
Median household income: $52,124
Inspired by a story from The Fort Worth Star-Telegram in Texas.
This story was originally published February 3, 2025 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Looking to retire in NC? These counties are the best in the state, says one study."
