Guide to 55+ Communities in North Carolina



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Guide to 55+ Communities in North Carolina

Retirees and seniors who prefer an active lifestyle may want to consider 55+ communities. With resort amenities such as golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools and social clubs, the biggest problem residents may face is fitting all this fun into the daily schedule. These communities are a great place to make new friends who share your desire to be active and social in retirement.

Resort Living

Residents of 55+ communities enjoy a resort lifestyle every day. Clubhouses with spa and fitness facilities are available for daily use. Onsite restaurants and bars give residents a night on the town without having to leave their neighborhood. 

Houses within these communities provide a mix of comfort and luxury. Generally, these single-family homes can be updated and customized. Newly constructed houses are outfitted with energy-efficient appliances. In some communities, landscaping and lawn care are also included in HOA dues so residents don’t have to spend hours trimming the lawn and shrubs.

Common areas within the neighborhood are also maintained. Residents will find manicured lawns, clean clubhouses, and trimmed pathways.

Safety and Privacy

Entry gates allow only residents and their guests into the neighborhood. There may also be extra security systems or patrolling units that make sure streets are safe.

Active Social Calendars

Holiday parties, themed dinners, golf tournaments, and tennis mixers are just a few events that are often on the calendar. Clubs for special interests, such as gardening and woodworking, are available so like-minded residents can gather and share their love for their hobbies.

Sample Communities to Discover

Retire NC

Raleigh, NC

North Carolina has always been recognized for its natural diversity and gracious hospitality, which now has made it into an extremely popular retirement destination. Choices abound for a healthy, happy retirement setting, whether you want to relax on the beach or enjoy the great outdoors in our mountains or stay busy in a bustling city. The North Carolina Certified Retirement Community designation means a city has completed a comprehensive evaluation process with requirements outlined by the North Carolina General Assembly. These Certified Retirement Communities are recognized for providing the amenities, services and opportunities retirees need to enjoy active and productive lives.

City of Reidsville

City of Reidsville

LIVE SIMPLY, THINK BIG isn’t just our tagline, it’s our way of life. We aren’t limited by
our size and neither are our dreams. Whether you want to spend your retirement volunteering,
spending time with friends or finally opening that small business you always dreamed of, you
can "Do What You Love in Reidsville"; Being "retired" doesn’t mean you can’t live out your
dreams, it means you now have the freedom to do it!
https://www.riseupreidsville.com/retire

Johnston County

Johnston County

Johnston County (JoCo) offers you more than you expect in retirement! Discover a blend of history, entertainment, dining, lodging, and outlet shopping, along with a generous helping of true southern hospitality. With a growing culinary and craft beverage scene, as well as revitalized downtowns, you don’t have to travel far from home to find what you are looking for. The unique communities that make up JoCo have one thing in common–a relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.
https://www.johnstoncountync.org/retire-joco/

Rumbling Bald

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure

If you are looking to build or purchase in an exceptional mountain golf community, it’s time to look closer at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure. You will find a few choice, undeveloped properties within our community at pleasantly affordable prices along with several spectacular homes in a variety of settings. You can come today; enjoy our lake and golf, and choose the opportunity to live in a remarkable community.
https://rumblingbald.com/living-here

Person County

Person County

Nestled in the northern piedmont of North Carolina, a short commute from the Triangle and southern Virgina, Person County is home to rolling hills, farmers markets, lakes, and trails. With two beautiful wineries, live music venues, historic general stores, and Uptown Roxboro, Person County values its history and community while embracing the new. No matter what you choose, life in Person County is homegrown, just for you.
https://itsbetterinperson.com/

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Cresswind at Rocky River

Locust, NC
Pricing Coming Soon

Cresswind at Rocky River is a 55+ community in Locust, North Carolina, where small-town charm meets everyday convenience. Located just 30 miles east of Charlotte, the community offers a peaceful, nature-rich setting with easy access to the city’s shopping, dining and entertainment.

New homes at Cresswind at Rocky River are specifically designed for active adults with design with flexible floorplans and hundreds of design and structural personalization options available. Miles of walking trails meander throughout the community, and the resident-exclusive clubhouse will feature a SmartFit Training Center powered by EGYM, resort-style swimming pool, over 30 pickleball courts, art studio and more. A full-time Lifestyle Director organizes a full event calendar, including fitness programs and clubs for every hobby.

Homebuyers can choose from a collection of 11 floorplans, ranging from 2- up to 5- Bedrooms and designed for optimal flexibility to create a home Built Around You. Kolter Homes offers a minimum of 25 structural options per plan so you can have the ability to add bedrooms, expand garages, second-floor bonus rooms and more. Plus, choose from hundreds of design personalization opportunities.

Locust blends natural beauty, rich history and recreation at every turn. From scenic parks like Locust City Park to nearby day-trip destinations such as Concord, Lake Tillery and the surrounding foothills, residents enjoy a lifestyle rooted in nature and connection. With its rolling hills, lush forests and strong community spirit, Locust is the ideal backdrop for life at Cresswind at Rocky River.

Requesting more information below is your first step towards enjoying the award-winning active lifestyle that will be offered at Cresswind at Rocky River.

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The Lawson of Knightdale

Knightdale, NC
Rental apartments, 1 and 2 bedroom floorplans

Welcome to The Lawson of Knightdale, where vibrant 62+ living meets comfort, convenience, and community. Our luxury senior apartments near Raleigh are thoughtfully designed for active adults seeking maintenance-free independence without sacrificing style or connection. You can skip the HOA fees and avoid restrictive meal plans, because here you have the freedom to live on your terms.

Choose from spacious, modern residences with in-unit laundry and full kitchens, perfect for home-cooked meals or easy nights out exploring the local dining scene.

At The Lawson, every detail supports your active lifestyle. Stay energized in our fully equipped fitness center, challenge neighbors on the pickleball court, or relax in peaceful courtyards and social lounges. From morning workouts to evening gatherings, our amenities foster wellness and meaningful connection.

Whether you are downsizing, relocating or simply ready for the next chapter, discover senior living in Knightdale near Raleigh, NC that balances independence with community. The Lawson at Knightdale is more than just an apartment; it’s a place to thrive. Tour today!

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Get Started

Finding and choosing the right 55+ community can be a daunting task. This is where ideal-LIVING can help. Sign up below to receive our complimentary relocation package, which offers tips on how to find a community that suits your needs. In this guide, you’ll discover the best 55+ communities in North Carolina, as well as what you can do to get started. Sign up for this free package to take the first step in your exciting journey.

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