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Guide to Active Adult Communities in North Carolina
Guide to Active Adult Communities in North Carolina
Active adult communities are designed for retirees and working seniors who prefer a dynamic lifestyle in a fun, social environment. These master-planned communities offer resort-style amenities such as clubhouses and pools, as well as lively social and activity calendars
While many active adult communities are age-restricted—which typically means that at least one member of the household must be 55 years or over—others welcome residents of all ages.
Homes Built for Comfort and Entertainment
Single-family, one-story homes are the norm in active adult communities. They can be customized to each household’s needs. Homes usually offer layouts and features that are standard in modern homes. Generally, master suites are complete with a spacious closet and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in tub. Newer homes also include office spaces for working seniors.
Houses in these neighborhoods are made for entertaining. Open living spaces, large patios, and screened porches make for ideal social gatherings. Visiting friends and family can stay overnight in the guest bedrooms.
Landscaping maintenance is often provided for all residents.
Elevated Amenities for Residents
While many active adult communities operate independently, some are located within larger master-planned residential developments. Both types of communities offer exclusive amenities such as pools and clubhouses.
Workout facilities deliver classes and programs that cater to all fitness levels. Low-impact aerobics and yoga are some of the most popular programs offered.
Those who would rather be outdoors can take advantage of walking trails, parks, and picnic areas. Pickleball courts, tennis courts, and lawns for croquet and softball games are available for athletic residents to use.
Active adult communities may also include services that cannot be found in regular neighborhoods. Residents can walk to onsite restaurants, golf courses, and water features like lakes or ponds. For those who want services to come to them, hair stylists and physical therapists may be available on-call.
Hubs and Clubs for Various Interests
Activity directors help new residents connect with their neighbors. They organize clubs for community members of various interests such as gardening, cooking, and woodworking.
Residents can keep sharp by attending academic classes and visiting lectures in the community centers. Live concerts and film screenings will appeal to those who love performance arts.
Community service clubs are popular, too. Neighbors can organize charities, drives, and other public service events for the community at large.
Idyllic Communities in Ideal Locations
The best active adult communities are located near town or city landmarks. Hospitals and healthcare facilities, for example, are situated nearby. Residents have easy access to physicians and dentists that specialize in senior wellness.
Prospective residents should choose a community that best fits their lifestyle. Some neighborhoods are only a short walk or ride away from bustling city centers. Others are closer to quieter, small-town shops.
Sample Communities to Discover
Compass Pointe
Located on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, only 10 minutes from Wilmington, Compass Pointe is a gated, private community that offers an unmatched resort lifestyle. Every day feels like a vacation where you can relax by our award-winning pool, float along the lazy river, join one of 100+ community clubs, or get some exercise at our fitness center, indoor pool, or golf club. Come see for yourself why Compass Pointe was honored with the 2020 Best Health & Fitness Community and America’s Best Places to Live 2021.
Amenities:
- Private, Gated Entrance
- The Grand Lanai
- Resort Oasis Pool
- Compass Pointe Golf Club
- Clubhouse (under construcion) & Pro Shop
- The Pointe Wellness Center & Spa
- Indoor Pool
- Lazy River
- Tennis & Pickleball Courts
- Recreation Lawn
- Putting Greens
- Latitudes Restaurant and Bar
- Dog Park
- Cardinal Lake with Canoe & Kayak Launch
- Outdoor Amphitheater
- Sidewalks Throughout for Walking and Biking
- Golf Cart Paths Throughout
Future Amenities:
- Club Member Pool & Bar
- Club Member Fitness Center
- Club Member Golf Simulator
The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach
The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach, located in the southernmost area of Coastal North Carolina, is the epitome of beach living with the added convenience and low maintenance of a planned community. Located steps away from local shops and restaurants, you can enjoy the laid-back coastal lifestyle Sunset Beach is known for. The resort-inspired amenities will make a weekend at home feel like a vacation getaway. Amenities within the community will include a resort-style pool with tanning ledge and lap lanes, coastal clubhouse, fitness center, open air cabana, outdoor fireplace, grilling stations, outdoor lounge area, golf cart parking, and miles of sidewalks & walking paths. The Sanctuary is only minutes from the beach (1.5 miles) and the intracoastal waterway, in close proximity to a variety of restaurants, beach shops, boutiques, the Sunset Beach Fishing Pier, bars & pubs, concerts at The Village Park COA Gazebo, golf courses, The Ingram Planetarium, local markets, and public parks. Well-appointed single family home and land package, both pre-designed and build to suit, are offered from the mid $400’s to $800’s. As one of the area’s premier new home communities with a color palette inspired by the sand, sun, salt, and sea, let The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach be your oasis at home!
Visit www.billclarkhomes.com to explore your new home options today!
The Lawson of Knightdale
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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Finding and choosing the right active adult 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 top active adult 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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