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Outer Banks Retirement Homes

Choosing the Perfect OBX Retirement Lifestyle

Retiring to the Outer Banks is a bit different than moving to a traditional, age-restricted retirement community. That is exactly why people love it here. Instead of isolated senior compounds, the OBX offers vibrant, age-eclectic neighborhoods where active retirees live side-by-side with year-round locals.

Because of our unique coastal geography, finding the right home layout is the most critical decision you will make for your "Golden Years." Between navigating elevated stairs, exploring the convenience of single-level ranch homes on high-elevation lots, and evaluating the long-term utility of residential elevators, your property choice dictates your comfort. Use our specialized breakdown below to explore current OBX property listings tailored for low-maintenance, long-term senior living across Dare and Currituck counties.

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 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

4 bd
2 ba
Amazing home, ready for it's next family! Located in Grandy approximately 15-20 minutes for the Outer Banks beaches, this home has been meticulously cared for. It features a large lot with mature landscaping and a private, fenced backyard. No HOA but this neighborhood does have a community pond for fishing and a public boat ramp just a few minutes away. Carolina Golf Club is a few minutes away also. The Brazilian Koa hardwood floors in the living and dining area along with the master bedroom are a nice feature along with the heated marble floors in the bathrooms and the custom marble floored foyer. Other features include a propane fireplace, vaulted ceiling in the living area, granite counter tops and all wood cabinets, whole house water filter, water softening system, reverse osmosis system, and so much more.
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4 bd
3 ba
Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort, thoughtful design, and peaceful country living in this brand-new 4-bedroom, 3-bath home, beautifully situated on 5 expansive acres in Camden County. With limited neighboring homes and NO HOA, this property offers the space, privacy, and freedom to create the lifestyle you've been dreaming of. Step inside to a bright, open floor plan designed for effortless everyday living and entertaining. At the heart of the home, the sun-filled kitchen makes an impressive statement with a generous center island, abundant cabinetry, and an oversized pantry offering exceptional storage. Just beyond the kitchen, a private screened porch extends your living space outdoors—an inviting retreat for morning coffee, quiet evenings, or gathering with family and friends. Privately positioned, the primary suite is a true sanctuary. A decorative tray ceiling adds architectural character, while the oversized walk-in closet features custom wood shelving and built-ins, providing impressive organization and storage. The spa-inspired primary bath is equally appealing with a beautiful tiled shower featuring a rain shower head, relaxing soaking tub, dual vanities, generous cabinetry, and built-in linen storage—plenty of room for everyone to have their own space. Conveniently located just off the garage, the spacious laundry room makes everyday routines easy. Upstairs, you'll find an additional large bedroom with its own private bath, spacious closet, and separate temperature control, creating an ideal retreat for guests, older children, extended family, or a private home office. Outside is where the possibilities truly begin. With 5 acres, limited neighbors, and NO HOA, there's room to make this property uniquely yours. Dreaming of a pool, detached garage or workshop, horses, garden, recreational space—or even your own dirt bike track? Here, you have the freedom and space to bring those ideas to life. This thoughtfully designed home truly offers something for everyone—space to gather, room to retreat, and acreage to enjoy. All while remaining conveniently located to Elizabeth City, the U.S. Coast Guard Base, Virginia, and the Outer Banks. Brand new. Five acres. No HOA. Endless possibilities. Call today for additional details and be sure to ask about the closing cost assistance currently being offered by the seller!
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This thoughtfully designed new construction ranch-style home offers modern comfort and functional living with an open-concept layout perfect for today's lifestyle. The spacious kitchen features level 2 quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a breakfast island, and ample cabinetry, flowing seamlessly into the dining and living areas, making it ideal for entertaining or everyday living. Durable LVP flooring will extend throughout the main living areas, while carpet adds comfort to the bedrooms and finished room over the garage (FROG). The home will feature plaster walls, adding a classic, quality finish throughout. The private primary suite includes a well-appointed bath with a walk-in shower and dual-sink vanity, along with generous closet space. Two additional bedrooms and a full bath provide flexibility for guests or a home office. The FROG offers valuable bonus space for a media room, office, playroom, or additional living area. Enjoy outdoor living on the patio, plus the convenience of a 1-car oversized garage. Quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and modern finishes make this home a must-see.
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1978 brick home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths in Hickory Acres on a treed lot with a 1 car garage and storage shed. Featuring a living room with coat closet, eat-in kitchen, shower in the master bath, utility room and a closet in the garage. This home has been a rental in the past and is being sold ''As Is''. Just minutes to downtown Elizabeth City, but in the county. Septic system and county water.
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Bubba Watson Cottage at Kilmarlic Club – Turnkey OBX Golf Retreat Fratures a putting green in the courtyard.Experience the ultimate golf getaway at the Bubba Watson Cottage located in the prestigious Kilmarlic Club community in Powells Point, NC. This fully furnished, turnkey coastal cottage offers the perfect blend of golf lifestyle, vacation rental potential, and low-maintenance Outer Banks living. Located in the desirable Cottages at Kilmarlic, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath home with a spacious loft comfortably sleeps six and is ideal for golf groups, family vacations, or second-home ownership. Featured on OBX Golf Experiences, this rental-ready property attracts visitors seeking championship golf, coastal relaxation, and convenient access to the Outer Banks beaches. The open-concept floor plan includes a full kitchen, spacious living area, high-speed internet, washer and dryer, and tasteful coastal furnishings throughout. Enjoy peaceful pond and courtyard views from the private back deck complete with a gas grill.Golf enthusiasts will love stepping directly onto the community putting green and enjoying the unique four-hole par-3 short course woven throughout the neighborhood. Kilmarlic Club also offers access to the adjacent Westside Athletic Club featuring tennis courts, pickleball, resort-style pool, fitness center, yoga studio, and dining at the Black Tartan Tap Room. Conveniently located just minutes from the Outer Banks, H2OBX Waterpark, shopping, and local dining, this property offers strong vacation rental appeal in one of coastal North Carolina’s most desirable golf communities. HOA services include landscaping, common area maintenance, trash pickup, and septic maintenance, making ownership simple and stress-free.Whether you’re looking for a golf-focused retreat, income-producing OBX investment property, or a lock-and-leave coastal cottage, the Bubba Watson Cottage at Kilmarlic Club delivers exceptional value, location, and lifestyle. Some amenities require a membership.
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3 bd
2 ba
Tucked away at the end of a quiet street, 824 Fernando Street offers privacy, space, and a convenient Manteo location. Set on a generous half-acre lot with no HOA, the property provides plenty of room for outdoor living, recreation, gardening, and hobbies. The low-traffic setting offers a peaceful residential feel while keeping everyday amenities close at hand. The home also offers the ease and convenience of one-level living. Inside, the open kitchen, dining, and living area creates a comfortable gathering space with an easy flow for daily living and entertaining. The home includes three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing plenty of space for overnight guests, a home office, or other household needs. The spacious primary bedroom features its own private bath, while the two additional bedrooms share a second full bathroom. A separate laundry room adds everyday convenience and extra functional space. Recent improvements include a new Fortified roof installed in 2026, fresh interior paint completed in 2026, and a new water heater installed in 2025. A vapor barrier was installed in the crawl space by the previous owner. A standout feature is the detached garage and workshop, complete with a concrete slab floor, electricity, lighting, a roll-up garage door, workbench, and built-in loft shelving. The space is ideal for projects, storage, equipment, hobbies, or creative pursuits and offers versatility beyond the home’s interior square footage. The property is just minutes from historic downtown Manteo, local schools, shopping, restaurants, parks, and the waterfront, while remaining removed from heavier tourist traffic. Its location provides convenient access to the amenities of Roanoke Island and the surrounding Outer Banks, making 824 Fernando Street a comfortable year-round residence.
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2 bd
2 ba
Enjoy the best of both worlds at 106 Hidden View Loop in Moyock, NC. Located just minutes from the Virginia/North Carolina border, this beautifully maintained home offers an easy commute to Chesapeake, Virginia, while placing you only 55 minutes from the beautiful beaches of North Carolina's Outer Banks. Offering over 2,000 square feet of expanded one-level living, this move-in-ready home features a handicap-friendly layout designed for comfort and convenience. The modern kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing a large center island, abundant cabinetry with additional storage, and an open-concept design that flows seamlessly into the spacious living room--perfect for everyday living and entertaining. A dedicated theater room, complete with the couch, projector, and screen that all convey, creates the ultimate movie-night experience. The sellerbis willing to put barn doors on this room incase you need a 3rd bedroom. Home is on county waater ane sewer. The spacious two-car garage offers built-in shelving for exceptional storage and organization. HOA amenities include lawn maintenance and trash pickup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your home and less time on yard work. Whether you're searching for a ranch home, one-level living, first-floor living, handicap-accessible home, or a home with an easy commute to Virginia, this exceptional , Moyock property offers comfort, convenience, and an unbeatable location close to shopping, dining, military bases, and the Outer Banks. Thus is a home that you need to see in person.
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A Classic rancher with BIG potential! Looking for a home you can make YOUR OWN? This could be the one! This home is ready for its next family and offers an incredible opportunity to bring your vision to life. Conveniently located close to the Coast Guard Base and downtown, you'll enjoy a great location with room to spread out! Imagine creating your very own private oasis--beautiful gardens, outdoor entertaining, a play area, fire pit, or simply a peaceful space to enjoy the outdoors. The possibilities are yours! PLENTY OF POTENTIAL! This home is ready for your personal touch. Bring your ideas, your style, and your vision and turn this property into something truly special. Roof replaced in 2022, newer deck, spacious half-acre lot, convenient location near the Coast Guard Base & downtown THIS GEM IS WAITING FOR YOU! If you've been searching for a home with potential and the opportunity to make it your own, don't let this one pass you by!
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Welcome to an exceptional waterfront retreat designed for refined coastal living in Kitty Hawk Landing! Perfectly situated on a deep-water canal with desirable inlet access to the sound, this beautifully maintained home blends luxury, comfort, and an effortless waterfront lifestyle. From boating and fishing to quiet evenings overlooking the canal, every detail invites you to enjoy the best of life on the water. The bright, elegant second-level living area is thoughtfully designed for everyday relaxation and elevated entertaining. The living room, kitchen, and dining area flow seamlessly around a warm gas fireplace, creating an inviting central gathering space. The tastefully renovated kitchen is a standout feature, appointed with a spacious island, pot filler beside the gas range and cooktop, granite countertops, beverage cooler, dishwasher, built-in microwave, refrigerator, and trash compactor. New luxury vinyl plank flooring adds a fresh, sophisticated finish, while sliding-door access to the back deck creates an easy connection to canal views and outdoor living. A convenient half bath is located just off the foyer. At day’s end, retreat to the beautifully renovated white owner’s suite bath, designed for comfort, style, and everyday ease. Highlights include tile walls, quartz countertops, a French-door closet, a walk-in shower with grab bars, LED-lit mirrors, and thermostat-controlled heated tile floors. The owner’s suite also includes sliding-door access to the back deck, offering peaceful waterfront views. This floor also features two additional bedrooms and an updated shared bath. The bath includes a new granite countertop, updated light fixtures and mirror, vinyl plank flooring, new sink fixtures, and a grab bar. One bedroom opens directly to the back deck, providing convenient access to outdoor living and waterfront views. Downstairs, the heated and cooled living area adds flexibility with a full bath with shower, a comfortable den or family room, and a separate office or craft room. This level also includes a two-car garage, workshop space, and extra storage, with doors offering easy access to the front and back yards. Outside, the property is landscaped with a variety of trees and shrubs. Just beyond the back door, a large dock provides slips for three boats. With a 10-foot-deep canal, there is ample water depth for a sizable vessel; the current owners have accommodated a 40-foot trawler in the slip. This home has too many updates to list here. Planning a beach day? Kitty Hawk Landing property owners enjoy permitted oceanfront access, including a gated entry, dune steps, a deck, outdoor showers for rinsing off sand, and a portable restroom. Don't miss this Canal-Front Opportunity. With its premier canal-front setting, sound access, beach access, and beautifully updated interior, this home offers a rare opportunity to experience elevated waterfront living in comfort and style. MANY UPDATES! SEE ASSOCIATED DOCS FOR ALL UPDATES! Please give 24 hours notice. Home is owner occupied.
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$454,100
SOLD Price: $454,100
Closing Date 9/1/2026
3 bd
2 ba
Too be built under construction home in Keeter Barn Landing - South Mills, NC (Camden County). Discover your dream home in Keeter Barn Landing, a peaceful new community of just 37 homes in beautiful South Mills, North Carolina -- only minutes from Hampton Roads, VA. Enjoy a rural lifestyle with modern comforts on a half-acre lot, offering space, privacy, and southern charm. This to-be-built (under construction)home combines quality craftsmanship with thoughtful design and standard luxury features: • Open Concept Layout ideal for entertaining and family living • Spacious Kitchen with beautiful cabinetry, ugraded appliance package and modern finishes • Primary Bath (PBA) with a luxury shower • 12x12 Covered Rear Porch and slider door leading outside - perfect for relaxing evenings • Single front door entry with classic curb appeal • Laundry room with optional cabinets and shelving (custom add-ons available) • Finished Room Over Garage (FROG) for flexible use - home office, guest suite, or bonus space. Each new construction home in Keeter Barn Landing blends modern efficiency and timeless style, crafted by Sicario Properties, one of Camden County's premier builders. Enjoy quiet country living while staying conveniently close to Elizabeth City, Hampton Roads, and the Outer Banks. Model open 12-5pm Wed-Sunday.
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3 bd
3 ba
Discover 573 Snowden Road in Moyock, NC, where quality craftsmanship, thoughtful upgrades, and one-level living come together on a spacious homesite with NO active HOA and NO flood insurance required. A welcoming foyer opens to the impressive great room featuring a cathedral ceiling, gas fireplace, and an open-concept design that flows seamlessly into the dining area--perfect for entertaining or everyday living. The chef-inspired kitchen is a standout with upgraded cabinetry, quartz countertops, breakfast bar, wall oven, cooktop, wine refrigerator, and all appliances conveying. The split-bedroom floor plan offers privacy, with a spacious primary suite showcasing a tray ceiling, private access to the covered rear deck, a custom walk-in closet with built-in shelving, and a luxurious ensuite featuring double vanities, a soaking tub, separate shower, and linen closet. The oversized FROG provides incredible flexibility as a media room, home office, guest suite, or hobby space, while the walk-in attic offers abundant storage. Step outside and enjoy true Carolina outdoor living from the screened porch or expansive composite deck overlooking the large backyard. The property also features two storage sheds, including one with electricity and a portable generator hookup. Garden enthusiasts will appreciate the fenced garden area beyond the backyard, while the 8-zone irrigation system keeps the landscape looking its best. Additional improvements include a lighted flagpole and a partially encapsulated crawl space with a dehumidifier for added peace of mind. Conveniently located just minutes from the Virginia line with an easy commute to Chesapeake, military bases, shopping, restaurants, and the Outer Banks, this exceptional home offers the perfect combination of luxury, functionality, and location. If you've been searching for a move-in-ready ranch home with premium finishes and outstanding outdoor living, This is a must-see! Call Today.
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Discover 173 Laurel Woods Way, Currituck, NC 27929 | One-Level Living | Pond View | Laurel Woods Estates. Looking for one-level living with convenient access to both Chesapeake, Virginia and the Outer Banks?Welcome to a move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch-style home in the established Laurel Woods Estates community. Step inside to a bright, open floor plan designed for comfortable everyday living and entertaining. New LVP flooring gives the home a fresh, updated feel, while the open living, dining, and kitchen areas create an easy flow throughout the main living space. With all three bedrooms and both bathrooms conveniently located on one level, the floor plan offers the simplicity and flexibility many buyers are searching for. Outside, enjoy a covered rear porch and fenced backyard overlooking the community pond--a peaceful setting for morning coffee, outdoor dining, grilling, or simply unwinding at the end of the day. Laurel Woods Estates adds even more to the lifestyle with neighborhood walking trails, ponds, playgrounds, basketball and RV parking, giving residents plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors close to home. And the location is hard to beat. Situated just off the Caratoke Highway corridor, Laurel Woods Estates provides convenient access north toward Chesapeake and Hampton Roads and south toward the Outer Banks beaches of Corolla, Kitty Hawk, and beyond. Enjoy the best of Northeast North Carolina living while staying connected to nearby shopping, dining, recreation and coastal destinations. Just minutes away, Morris Farm Market and Back 40 Live which offers fresh local produce, baked goods, food trucks and live music featuring local, regional and national artists. Nearby dining options along the Currituck corridor add even more convenience. Whether you're searching for a Currituck NC ranch home, one-story home near Chesapeake VA, home near the Outer Banks, pond-view property, or a home in Laurel Woods Estates deserves a closer look. One level. Open living. Pond views. Fenced backyard. Covered porch. Convenient to Virginia and the OBX. Come see what the good life at Laurel Woods Estates is all about!
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