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Outer Banks Retirement Homes

The Outer Banks does not really have any purely retirement communities. There are areas, mostly on the westside of the big road, populated mostly with year round residents, affectionately referred to as locals. There are no communities composed of only seniors. A couple of communities tried starting out that way but they failed and then became homoginzed mix of old and young. The Outer Banks tends to attract the more active seniors who want to live in an age eclectic neighborhood. We humans tend to reflect our environment so living around younger people can have a positive effect.

Everybody has their own ideas and aspirations about how they will spend their retirement years. You have probably already spent a lot of time figuring out what you will be doing in your Golden Years. This is probably why you are here looking at retirement homes.

The Outer Banks has a lot to offer to retirees. Low taxes, low crime, great community senior centers and plenty of flat level nature for those who want to get outside and stay active.

I am not going to tell you how or what to do with your Golden Years, I am sure you already know, but I will share what years of experience have shown. The biggest commonality amongst people is the deteriorating condition of our knees. None of our knees are getting any better which brings up our first topic.

Stairs

The Outer Banks is full of stairs, and stairs, like my forehead and prostrate, seem to be getting bigger every year. Stairs are one of the major concerns shared by soon to be seniors when shopping for their retirement home. Having hospitals and such nearby is great, but having to navigate stairs during the course of your routine day can make life miserable.

Add in an extra set or 2 of stairs to get up to the kitchen and living area on the top floor, and it can become insurmountable. These types of houses are commonly referred to as 'Reverse Floor Plans' and are best suited to the more physically inclined unless they are equipped with an elevator.

One Level Living

One of the better options is to retire to a house with one level living. When the kitchen, living area and ensuite are all on the same floor.

One level living can be found on the ground floor or the 3rd floor. If the house has an elevator then every floor can be one level living. You see this a lot with the reverse floor plans which are usually located where there might possibly be a water view.

The most popular style house for retirees is the ranch style homes. The entire house is situated on one floor built close to the ground. Minimal or no stairs to get in and no stairs inside. The only downside is they tend to sprawl as the square footage starts to increase."

You won't find many homes on the Outer Banks that are built directly on the ground. Our low elevation puts most of the OBX in some type of flood zone which requires the homes to be elevated.

If the ground is 10 feet above sea level then a house can be built right on the ground. The houses below are ranchers, scroll down further for other style houses.

Elevated Ranchers

There are areas on the Outer Banks where the ground has some minor elevation. If the ground elevation is 7 feet, which is very common, then a 3 foot high masonry foundation will supply enough elevation to meet the flood insurance requirements and shorten the entrance stairs.

You can have a rambler or rancher where everything is spread out on one level except that it is built a couple of feet up off the ground. The houses below should be those on masonry foundations with minimal elevation. Scroll down further for different style homes.

OBX Beach Box Homes

The Outer Banks traditional "Beach Box" offers one level living up on pilings. You still have to climb a set of steps to get into your house but once you are inside all of your living area is on one level. If your one of the lucky ones without knee problems this could be a perfect match for you.

Outer Banks Retirement Homes
OBX Ground Level Homes OBX Ranch Style Floor Plan
OBX Homes W/Inlaw Apartment
OBX Homes With Dry/Covered Entry OBX Homes Built On Foundation OBX Homes With Elevator

Dare County Senior Services

Manteo Senior Center

Hatteras Island Senior Center

Dare County Senior Games

Kill Devil Hills Senior Center

Currituck County Senior Services

Welcome to 703 Francis Drake Street, this home ideally located just minutes from downtown Manteo! Enjoy easy access to local schools, shops, restaurants, and the Manteo Library, all while tucked into a peaceful neighborhood setting. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home features a bright and inviting open-concept floor plan, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The spacious primary suite offers a relaxing retreat with a large bedroom and private ensuite bath complete with a soaking tub and separate shower. Two additional guest bedrooms are generously sized and share a conveniently located hallway bathroom, providing comfort and privacy for family or visitors. Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment opportunity, 703 Francis Drake Street offers comfort, convenience, and coastal charm all in one. Schedule your showing today!
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$599,900
SOLD Price: $589,000
Closing Date 2/16/2026
4 bd
3 ba
Better than NEW CONSTRUCTION! This custom home is designed for maintenance free living and unforgettable gatherings. The home showcases a stylish inground pool with expensive Trex decking. The kitchen features a stylish floating island, stainless steel appliances, and an abundance of cabinetry. The primary suite is complemented by a spa-inspired bath featuring a beautifully tiled shower. The home offers exceptional storage throughout, including walk-in attic storage. A versatile bonus room above the garage provides the perfect space for a guest suite or media room. The whole house Generac generator provides uninterrupted comfort and peace of mind. The large lot provides plenty of privacy, views of the golf course, and is conveniently located to the marina. The Carolina Club is a championship par-72 layout featuring generous fairways and bentgrass greens, this scenic and tranquil community offers a relaxing retreat away from the bustle of the beach. Residents enjoy access to an outdoor pool with a clubhouse, tennis courts, and a marina with a boat launch and slips. The marina waterway leads you into the North River, which is part of the Intracoastal waterway. No Flood Insurance.
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Welcome to Rosedale Drive, a classic brick veneer ranch offering timeless character, solid construction, and incredible potential. Nestled on a generous .4-acre lot, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home combines comfort, space, and opportunity in one inviting package, all conveniently located just minutes from historic downtown Elizabeth City with its waterfront, local shops, dining, and community events. Step inside to find beautiful hardwood floors, built-in bookcases that add charm and functionality, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace that creates the perfect gathering space. Three rooms feature brand-new carpet, adding a fresh touch where it counts. A new HVAC system provides peace of mind and year-round comfort. Enjoy morning coffee on the covered front porch or entertain friends and family on the large back patio overlooking the spacious backyard, ideal for gardening, pets, or outdoor entertaining. The home also offers a 1-car attached garage PLUS a detached garage, giving you exceptional storage, workshop space, or room for hobbies. While there’s room to personalize and update to your taste, this home offers desirable features and endless potential to make it your own. Whether you're a first-time buyer, downsizing, or looking for an investment opportunity, this property is full of possibilities. Schedule your showing today1
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$615,000
SOLD Price: $607,000
Closing Date 3/3/2026
4 bd
3 ba
This is a custom built true four-bedroom home with all of the bedrooms on the main floor and a huge room over the garage. Conveniently located in the heart of Grandy minutes to the Outer Banks. Home has been filled with upgrades in every room. From the extravagant glass enclosed shower with a large soaking tub, walk in closet with barn doors, covered porch off of the master bedroom that leads to a screened porch, upgraded kitchen appliances, built in pantry, the list just goes on and on. If you wanted to leave the covered back porches, go take a walk to the private sound side park and enjoy the dock and waterfront.
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Welcome home to 75 Duck Woods Drive! This spotless and stylish home is the perfect place to call your next home at the beach! You will love all the updates! Ask for the detailed list of improvements in the associated documents. From the updated roof to the composite decks, its all been done! This classic plan has a large open living room and great room with a cathedral ceiling and a vented gas fireplace. The sun-room is sunny and is ideal for an office. The covered screen porch is the perfect place to enjoy outdoors any time of year and is so easy to keep clean with beautiful finishes. The kitchen features quartz tops and updated appliances. The primary bedroom is large and features a beautifully updated bathroom! Two other bedrooms share a bathroom. Outside, enjoy low maintenance siding and a landscaped huge yard! The garage has room for your car AND toys. There is a garden shed to store more things. The fenced yard is PERFECT for everyone to play with pets. There is a very functional garden with a raised bed, blueberry bushes and irrigation so that you can grow your own food and flowers! This home backs up to the woods owned by the golf course which gives the property incredible privacy and the opportunity to enjoy wildlife and nature. Built by Rob Lawson, this home has been owned by only one family and is very well maintained. Duck Woods Drive is perfect for year-round living. Enjoy a walking path to Kitty Hawk Elementary and shopping! Southern Shores has private beach accesses with parking for residents, tennis, pickleball and marina access. Come live your best life in this great home in the perfect location!
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$825,000
SOLD Price: $785,000
Closing Date 3/3/2026
3 bd
2 ba
Luxury Living Just Minutes from Virginia & the Outer Banks Discover refined coastal living in this exceptional 3-bedroom plus an office/flex space home built by Chesapeake Homes in 2021. Located in desirable Moyock, NC, this property offers a rare blend of elegance, functionality, and convenience—just minutes from the Virginia border and less than an hour to the beaches of the Outer Banks. From the moment you arrive, meticulous craftsmanship and pristine condition set this home apart. The open-concept design features 9' ceilings, designer finishes, hunter ceiling fans throughout, and spacious living areas bathed in natural light. For the car enthusiast or entrepreneur, a HEATED and COOLED 3-CAR ATTACHED GARAGE pairs perfectly with a DETACHED 4-CAR GARAGE (ALSO HEATED AND COOLED) and carport (built 2022) — ideal for housing luxury vehicles, watercraft, or serving as a private workshop or business space. Step outside to your own private resort: a HEATED AND COOLED SALT WATER POOL with a 16×36 footprint, 14×8 tanning ledge, LED lighting, deck fountains, and lounging ledges surrounded by lush landscaping and architectural lighting that transforms the backyard into an evening retreat. Additional highlights include a natural gas dual-fuel HVAC system, a tankless gas water heater (installed in 2024), and an immaculate exterior that radiates exceptional curb appeal. Experience luxury, privacy, and practicality all in one—perfectly positioned between Hampton Roads and the Outer Banks, where high-end living meets the relaxed charm of coastal North Carolina. Tax records indicate that the home has 5 bedrooms, and the septic system may be large enough to accommodate additional bedrooms, but further investigation with Albemarle Health is required. Septic system pumped in 2025.
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4 bd
4 ba
This single-story creek-side home aligns with the surrounding beauty of maritime waters! The moment you cross the canal you sense the awe of nature. Water views are spectacular and a birdwatcher's dream. Scenes of waterfowl as osprey fish, great blue herons glide, eagles soar and ducks take flight overhead. Hummingbirds, chickadees, blue birds and more hover and nest. The vista of Ginguite Creek soothes the soul! Inside...The interior has a floorplan that provides a water view from every room. The foyer leads into the living room with panoramic views as if from a giant bay window. The layout is unique with eye-catching features from hardwood floors to stone fireplaces (Living Room fireplace stones were handpicked from Narragansett Bay) to bead-board ceiling in the den. The floor plan is open, yet defined. The kitchen with dining area and large island makes entertaining easy; the dining room invites guests to be seated. The home continues to enlarge as you move to the library/den where reading or curling up to watch a movie is easy. A sun/Florida room looks out on a vast expanse of privacy canal-side. All of it making this a location that welcomes you and your guests to relax. There are 4 bedrooms and 4 full baths; two of the bedrooms have ensuites. Each bedroom/ensuite has ample closets. Outside...Canal-side, the front features a large yard with dock and boat lift. Walk the wrap-around deck from front drive to creek-side and be amazed by the beauty of Ginguite Creek. Extensive decking the length of the home gives breath-taking views creek-side. Bask in nature's beauty from the upper deck as Ginguite Creek flows directly into the Currituck Sound. Extras include a remarkable laundry room with washer, dryer, built in ironing-board, utility sink, large counter space and storage. There is an outdoor shower and "boat house" to store skis, fishing equipment and garden tools. Outside closet with water faucet on creek-side deck gives room for gardening supplies. Landscape lighting gives the home a warm glow both canal and creek-side! What to do?...Cast a line and drop crab pots from your 150' dock, catch a game of croquet on the large front lawn, golf nearby at Duck Woods Country Club, boat out to fish, crab, dock, shop, eat and be entertained in nearby Duck or across the sounds in Manteo...93 Osprey Lane has the look and feel of being on a cruise with unlimited excursions! It's a refreshing departure from the typical Outer Banks experience; truly one-of-a-kind. Sidewalks throughout Southern Shores connect you to treasures of the Outer Banks. Easy access from ocean to sound: beautiful clean beaches and the surf of the Atlantic Ocean on the East—restaurants, shops, places of worship, activities in-between—and a home overlooking Ginguite Creek on the West! Dare County has excellent elementary, middle and high schools and hosts a community college and trade school offerings. Known for the location of the First Flight of the Wright Brothers with the iconic Wright Memorial and Visitor's Center, the Outer Banks offers creative recreation...Jockey's Ridge State Park with hang gliding and kite flying, Parks and Rec with indoor and outdoor facilities, Library and Senior Center (Baum Center), bike paths and walkways. Everything for daily needs is close by. Most shops are locally sourced, but familiar names of larger stores dot the area giving it a spirit of the thriving, seasoned community it is. The location of this home allows for easy ingress and egress when coming across Wright Memorial Bridge or heading to the mainland. 93 Osprey Lane is a treasure you will be glad you discovered on the Outer Banks!
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Welcome to 110 Doxey Creek Road in the highly sought-after Snow Goose Landing community in Currituck — where thoughtful upgrades, coastal charm, and move-in-ready condition come together beautifully. This stunning 3-bedroom, 2 full bath home with a spacious FROG (Finished Room Over Garage) offers flexible living space perfect for a home office, media room, guest retreat, or playroom. Designed with an inviting open floor plan, the main living areas flow seamlessly together, creating the perfect space for entertaining and everyday living. The elegant coffered ceiling adds architectural detail and a custom, high-end touch to the heart of the home. Step inside to find fresh paint (2025), upgraded lighting and ceiling fans, and beautiful new oak hardwood stairs and railing (2023) that create a striking first impression. The kitchen and living areas have been refreshed with updated flooring, including new LVP in the third bedroom and FROG, while the primary and second bedrooms feature plush new carpet. Both bathrooms and additional bedrooms have also received flooring updates, giving the home a cohesive, modern feel. Enjoy peace of mind knowing all appliances have been replaced within the past two years, and a new side garage door and frame were installed in 2025. The home is wired for an ADT alarm system, offering added security and convenience. Outdoor living truly shines here. The custom fencing and expansive decking create the perfect backdrop for summer gatherings, and the above-ground pool adds a fun, private retreat right in your own backyard. An established butterfly garden brings seasonal color and charm, while the firepit area and dedicated concrete grill pad make entertaining effortless. A storage shed provides additional space for tools and toys, and the incredible Govee exterior lighting transforms the home into a stunning nighttime showpiece. If you’re looking for style, upgrades, and a welcoming open layout with resort-style backyard living in desirable Currituck, 110 Doxey Creek Road is ready to impress.
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3 bd
2 ba
Escape to the peace and privacy of country living without sacrificing convenience. Perfectly situated on 5 scenic acres, this beautifully built one-level ranch offers the ideal balance of tranquility and accessibility—just a short drive to Virginia, Elizabeth City, and the Outer Banks. Thoughtfully designed with a split floor plan, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home provides both comfort and privacy. Step inside and immediately feel at home in the bright, open living space featuring cathedral-style ceilings and abundant natural light. Durable luxury vinyl plank flooring flows throughout the main living areas, combining modern style with everyday practicality. The heart of the home is the spacious kitchen, designed to inspire gathering and connection. A large center island anchors the space, complemented by ample cabinetry, generous counter space, and a convenient butler’s pantry—perfect for entertaining, meal prep, and effortless organization. Just beyond the kitchen, step out onto the rear patio and take in the peaceful views of your expansive property, where quiet evenings and wide-open skies become part of your daily routine. Each bedroom offers plush carpeting for added comfort, while the primary suite provides a private retreat within the home. Start your mornings on the covered front porch with a cup of coffee, surrounded by nature and the calm of country life. With no HOA restrictions, you have the freedom to create your own vision—whether it’s adding a workshop, pool, garden, or simply enjoying the open space as it is. This move-in ready home offers modern simplicity, timeless comfort, and room to grow. Experience the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of—schedule your private showing today. This home is even more impressive in person.
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Move-in ready! Welcome to the Applewood model at Keeter Barn Landing—a stunning ranch offering luxury finishes and an open floor plan. The designer kitchen features soft-close cabinets, a center island, wall oven, microwave, electric cooktop with hood, and undermount sink. The bright family room includes an electric fireplace and flows seamlessly into living areas. The FROG serves as a private suite, while guest rooms share a dual-entry bath. Relax in the primary suite with tiled shower, soaking tub, dual vanities, and walk-in closet. Enjoy the covered porch overlooking your half-acre lot. Minutes from Chesapeake, VA, military bases, shopping, and dining with easy access to Hwy 17. Model open Wed–Sun, 12–5 or by appointment.Choose from seven floor plans starting in the low $400s. Photos show a similar model and may include upgrades. Call today!
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A rare opportunity to own a well-maintained, fully furnished, brick ranch situated on approximately 0.8 acres in the heart of Wanchese, NC. Perfect for those seeking an island homestead lifestyle, the property features a fenced backyard, mature producing fruit trees, a large barn, and fenced side yard, ideal for a horse, hobby farm animals, or simply enjoying wide-open space. Ample space allows for gardening, outdoor use, additional structures, or recreational enjoyment. Inside, a welcoming foyer opens to a bright sunroom style living area that flows into a spacious dining room, perfect for entertaining. Just beyond, the kitchen connects to a large living room highlighted by a beautiful brick fireplace, abundant natural light, and dual doors leading to the back deck for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The kitchen is well maintained with generous cabinet and counter space, plus dual sided seating for casual dining and conversation. Beyond the kitchen, a sizable utility room with washer, dryer, and large storage closet provides convenient dry entry from the garage and additional access to the backyard. This home includes three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The hall bathroom features tile flooring and a tile shower. The primary suite features two spacious closets and an ensuite bath with tile tub/shower combination and granite shelving. Whether you’re dreaming of a mini-farm, space to roam, a large parcel of land, or a peaceful retreat in an Outer Banks fishing village, this Wanchese property offers a rare opportunity to create the lifestyle you’ve been looking for. Currently operating as a second home and short term rental, the property comes fully furnished and features many recent updates including crawlspace encapsulation, new deck boards, and security cameras. A full Features and Update list is available.
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3 bd
1 ba
Nestled on 3.12 wooded acres, survey done 2025. Discover this home just minutes from the waterfront in beautiful Manteo! This newly refreshed coastal cabin offers comfort, character, and a long list of recent upgrades that make it truly move-in ready. Zoned R1. Step inside to a bright and welcoming interior. The kitchen boasts natural hickory all-wood cabinetry with soft-close drawers, custom shelving, under-cabinet lighting, and granite countertops.includes two refrigerators—a full-size side-by-side and a compact unit for extra storage—along with a new stove, microwave, and plank flooring. A new 40-gallon water heater and HVAC system installed in early 2023 ensure year-round comfort. The remodeled bathroom is both stylish and functional, featuring a walk-in shower, wood vanity with granite top, and a solid wood recessed medicine cabinet. Throughout the home, you'll enjoy new flooring, fresh paint, vinyl tilt-in windows, vinyl siding, and heavy-duty storm doors that add both charm and energy efficiency. Additional updates include a new septic system (2017), 200-amp electrical service brought up to code with underground power, and new storm doors on both the front and side entries. A new roof installed in 2025, and the home has been recently repainted for a fresh, clean finish. Located in the heart of Manteo, this property is just moments from the town's quaint downtown area filled with locally owned shops, art galleries, charming cafes, and scenic waterfront strolls. Known for its rich history, friendly community, and laid-back coastal lifestyle, Manteo offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and Outer Banks adventure.Whether you're searching for a serene primary residence, a peaceful vacation retreat, or a turn-key short-term rental opportunity, this lovingly updated cabin is a rare find on the Outer Banks. Easy to see call today!
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