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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

Welcome to this charming, single-level residence nestled home located in the community of Baum Bay Harbor. Offering an ideal all-on-one-floor layout, this home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, an attached 1-car garage, and ample driveway parking situated on an impressive 13,000-square-foot lot. The front of the property has a nice size open sun deck completed in 2025 in addition to a covered screen porch located off of the dining room that was completed in 2022. You will love this home and its location! The current owners have owned the home since 2002 and made several updates over the years. Some updates include, Water Heater replaced in 2024, Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring added in the Kitchen, Living, Dining and all (3) Bedrooms in 2022, Bath flooring added in 2021 & 2022. Quaint community located a short distance to the Beach Access on Ocean Bay Drive, shared with the Kill Devil Hills Ocean Rescue facility offering lifeguards, bathhouse, outdoor showers, and handicap friendly. Within short distance of the Kill Devil Hills Rec Center, Public Tennis Courts, Skate Park, Library, Dog Park and Playground, all 3 First Flight Schools, Shopping, Restaurants and the Wright Memorial.
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Endless Potential – Sold As-Is! If you've been searching for a home with great bones, generous living space, and an incredible opportunity to add your own finishing touches, this is the one! The seller has completed many of the major improvements but has decided not to finish the remaining rehabilitation, creating an excellent opportunity for homeowners, investors, or anyone looking to customize a property to their own style and preferences. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2 full-bath home offers a comfortable layout with generously sized rooms and exceptional closet space throughout. Freshly repainted on the interior, the home has already received several updates, allowing you to focus on completing the finishing details that match your vision. Recent improvements include: Fresh interior paint throughout New carpet in all bedrooms and hallway New luxury vinyl plank (LVT) flooring in the sunroom Some new light fixtures New sliding glass door leading to the backyard New front and rear steps with new handrails Some new decking Roof replaced in 2019 (per seller) 1,000-gallon septic system replaced in 2016 (per seller) One of the property's standout features is the impressive approximately 1,600-square-foot three-bay garage. Whether you're a car enthusiast, contractor, hobbyist, or simply need abundant storage, this versatile space offers endless possibilities. It may also provide potential for additional living space, a workshop, studio, or recreational area, subject to buyer verification and any applicable local zoning or permitting requirements. Another great addition is a boat launch just minutes away. Outside, you'll appreciate the generous outdoor space and the recent exterior improvements that enhance both safety and functionality. This property is being sold strictly As-Is, and the seller will make no additional repairs or complete the remaining rehabilitation. That's reflected in the opportunity this home offers—bring your imagination, add your personal finishing touches, and create the home you've always envisioned. Whether you're looking for a primary residence, an investment property, or a project with tremendous upside, this home is packed with potential. Schedule your private showing today and come see everything this property has to offer!
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4 bd
4 ba
Designed for exceptional comfort and functionality, this custom-built 4,350-square-foot home offers the convenience of one-level living with four spacious en-suite bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and a convenient half bath. The main level features three private en-suite bedrooms, all with updated custom bathrooms, one with direct access to the back deck, a dedicated office, mudroom, laundry room, and an expansive open-concept great room with a wood-burning stove insert that seamlessly connects the gourmet kitchen, dining area, and living space. The chef's kitchen is complemented by a large walk-in pantry, a fantastic gas oven and cook-top, creating the perfect setting for everyday living and entertaining. Quality construction is evident throughout, with 8-inch exterior walls on the north side of the home for enhanced insulation and durability, while the remainder of the home features 6-inch exterior walls. Experience the abundant wildlife from the 400sq ft back deck, where ospreys fish in the canal from the pines in the back yard and great blue herons fly by every day, and enjoy an extensive and rare view south on the canal towards the Dick White Bridge, your morning coffee has never been so tranquil. The walk-out lower level offers incredible flexibility with a fourth en-suite bedroom, an oversized game and recreation room complete with a pool table and entertainment area, plus abundant storage space with the potential for a temperature-controlled wine cellar. A dehumidification system helps maintain year-round comfort, while the unfinished areas provide endless possibilities for a workshop, hobby room, fitness area, craft studio, or additional finished living space. This thoughtfully designed home combines quality construction, generous living spaces, and exceptional versatility to accommodate a wide variety of lifestyles. A direct walk-out from the lower level takes you to the custom-built, heated, saltwater swimming pool with plenty of room for lounging about in your outdoor private oasis. Not to be outdone, the backyard cascades to the bulkheaded canal and kayak dock area, with access to Ginguite Creek and all the water sports, fun and fishing you desire. A large RV or boat parking pad offers a 30 amp electrical hook-up. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac, teeming with bird song, thoughtfully landscaped for the birds, butterflies and bees, nature and wildlife thrive.
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Move right in to the stunning Applewood model in Keeter Barn Landing, one of South Mills' premier new home communities just minutes from the Virginia line. This beautifully crafted ranch-style home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience in highly desirable Camden County, known for its top-rated schools, lower taxes, and easy commute to Chesapeake, Norfolk, and Hampton Roads military bases.Designed for modern living, this open-concept home features upscale finishes throughout, including granite countertops, soft-close cabinetry, a spacious center island with breakfast bar, wall oven, built-in microwave, electric cooktop with vent hood, under-mount sink, and a large walk-in pantry. The inviting family room showcases an elegant electric fireplace and flows seamlessly into the dining area, creating an ideal space for entertaining and everyday living. The first-floor primary suite is a private retreat featuring dual vanities with granite countertops, a soaking tub, and a tiled walk-in shower with dual shower heads. Two additional bedrooms share a convenient dual-entry bath, while the Finished Room Over Garage (FROG) 4th bedtoom with full bath, provides flexible space for a guest suite, home office, media room, or playroom. Enjoy relaxing evenings on the covered rear porch overlooking your spacious homesite and appreciate the convenience of an oversized two-car garage. Located just a short drive from shopping, dining, Elizabeth City, the Outer Banks, and the VA/NC border, this move-in-ready home offers the peaceful lifestyle of Northeast North Carolina while remaining close to everything Hampton Roads has to offer. Don't miss this opportunity to own a beautiful new construction home in one of Camden County's most sought-after communities!
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3 bd
1 ba
WATERFRONT! Enjoy direct canal access to the Pamlico Sound and endless opportunities for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kiteboarding, fishing, and more—all from your private backyard 2-level dock! Recent updates include new flooring, fresh interior paint, a new dock, and new decking, making this charming coastal cottage truly move-in ready. Step into a bright, open concept kitchen designed for both style and high utility, featuring crisp white cabinetry beautifully paired with durable granite countertops and a built-in breakfast bar that seats four—ideal for casual dining or entertaining. The comfortable single-level floor plan offers easy, relaxed coastal living. New luxury vinyl plank flooring flows throughout, tying the all of the living areas together beautifully. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises and unwind each evening with spectacular sunsets from the spacious wraparound porch. Sip your morning coffee overlooking the water or enjoy a refreshing evening beverage as the gentle Hatteras breeze melts your cares away. Bonus - fig trees are producing fruit! Whether you're searching for a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment property, Dream Catcher offers the perfect waterfront lifestyle. Come experience the best of Hatteras Island and start making your beach home dreams a reality!
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Welcome to this beautifully renovated home in Kill Devil Hills! Situated on a desirable corner lot, this light and airy home has been thoughtfully updated throughout, offering a fresh, modern feel. The renovated kitchen features updated appliances, a farmhouse sink, and butcher block countertops., Within the last two years, the owners have installed new flooring and fresh interior and exterior paint throughout. They have replaced most of the interior doors to updated solid wood doors. Both bathrooms have been completely updated with the primary getting a new floor-to-ceiling walk-in shower with Fireclay Tile. The exterior deck has been fully resurfaced with new horizontal railings. The flexible floor plan offers a bonus fourth room currently used as a playroom. The home’s septic system is rated for four bedrooms, providing excellent flexibility for a growing family, guests, office, or additional sleeping space. Residents of The Landing also enjoy access to a private neighborhood dock and boat ramp. This updated turnkey home would make a great primary, second home or investment property.
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3 bd
3 ba
200 sq ft
Located in the waterfront community of Bell's Island, this beautifully maintained custom built one owner home has over 2600sq ft of living space with the potential of expanding to a second story. This home has been well cared for, and it is obvious. A true ensuite master bedroom features walk in closets, large bathroom, sitting area/office that leads to a covered porch overlooking the pool. Home has a large saltwater pool and an abundance of outdoor living space as well as a detached two car garage. This property sits on 1.7 acres of a well landscaped yard with no HOA. This home has an abundance of outdoor living space to enjoy the cool breezes coming off of the water. Second story of this home has the potential of expansion and has been framed for another ensuite and another bedroom. https://thebanksrealestategroup.com/
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MOVE IN READY!- BACKYARD OASIS • CUSTOM BRICK RANCH • $15,000 SELLER CONCESSION AVAILABLE • NO HOA • MINUTES TO THE VA LINE Why wait months for new construction when you can move into a home that already has what so many buyers are searching for—but rarely find? Just minutes from the Virginia line, this custom-built brick ranch offers something that's becoming increasingly difficult to find in Moyock: a private backyard retreat featuring a 21,000-gallon saltwater pool, expansive concrete patio, custom pergola, mature landscaping, and no HOA. Skip the expense, time, and hassle of building a pool after closing—it's already here and ready to enjoy. Seller is offering up to $15,000 in seller concessions with an acceptable offer, plus a one-year home warranty (up to $650), giving buyers added peace of mind and flexibility. Welcome to 147 N Point Blvd, where quality craftsmanship meets comfortable one-level living. This beautifully maintained custom brick ranch features three bedrooms on the main level plus a finished room over the garage (FROG)—ideal for a home office, media room, playroom, fitness space, or guest suite. Inside, you'll find an inviting living room centered around a cozy propane gas fireplace, creating the perfect gathering space. The kitchen features a Jenn-Air smooth-top range, abundant cabinetry, and convenient access to the backyard through brand-new exterior stairs, making entertaining effortless. The spacious primary suite offers a relaxing escape with a jetted soaking tub and dual closets. Need storage? You'll appreciate the fully floored walk-in attic, providing exceptional space rarely found in homes today. Outside is where this property truly shines. Spend your summers enjoying the saltwater in-ground pool, complete with a new chlorinator cell, entertain beneath the custom pergola, or relax on the expansive patio designed for outdoor living. The charming front porch pergola swing creates an equally inviting welcome home. Additional upgrades and features include: Custom brick construction No HOA Two-car attached garage Tankless water heater Water softener system Propane recently filled Fully floored walk-in attic for outstanding storage Located in the sought-after North Point community, this home offers an exceptional commute to Virginia while providing the space and privacy many buyers desire. Approximate drive times: 20–25 minutes to Chesapeake shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences 30 minutes to Norfolk International Airport Convenient access to major military installations, including Naval Station Norfolk, NAS Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story, NAS Oceana Dam Neck Annex, and US Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City. Schedule your private showing today and discover why this home offers far more than just a place to live—it offers a lifestyle.
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Beautiful Home & Yard! You will love this 3 bedroom with 2 masters and a 4th room used as an office/bedroom. Another great feature is the 2.5 bathrooms, hall bath has a large shower with a shower door, the 1st master has a jetted tub/ shower with tiled walls, double sinks and the 2nd master has a half bath. The living room has plenty of room with laminate floors. The galley kitchen has been updated and freshly painted with the all the appliances and a pantry closet. The dining area is just off the living room and kitchen. On each side of the home is a 1 car garage. The back yard is fenced with fenced areas on each side of the home for your pets. There is a green house, shed, garden boxes and trees. The 16 x 20 deck will allow you to enjoy views of the back yard. Other features: laundry room, gutters, garage door opener in garage on the left, pull down attic door, cul-de-sac lot, 1st master has an exit door and could be in law suite, work bench in right side garage and the appliances convey. Graveyard to right of the property. Flood Zone AE.
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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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4 bd
4 ba
Classic Southern Shores gem. Waterfront on wide, deep Ginguite Creek. Walk out and hop on your boat...kayak, stand-up-paddle, ski, fish, crab right from your dock! Rare single-story convenience with direct water access both creekfront and canalfront. Home naturally aligns with surrounding maritime waters. Life creek-side is soothing: birdwatcher's canvas with continuous scenes of waterfowl. Ospreys fish, great blue herons glide, eagles soar and ducks & geese take flight overhead. Hummingbirds, chickadees, blue birds and more hover and nest. INSIDE...Designed to maximize your waterfront lifestyle in comfort. Heavy duty insulated, UV treated Anderson windows inspire you with awesome, panoramic views. Home is truly unique with eye-catching features from hardwood floors to stone fireplaces (Living Room fireplace stones handpicked from Narragansett Bay) to bead-board ceiling in den. Kitchen with dining area and large island makes entertaining easy; Dining room invites guests to be seated. Layout enlarges as you move to library/den where reading or curling up to watch a movie is easy. Sun/Florida room looks out on vast expanse of privacy canal-side. Four bedrooms and four full baths; two bedrooms have ensuites. Each bedroom/ensuite has ample closets. Spacious laundry room with washer, dryer, built in ironing-board, utility sink, large counter space and storage. OUTSIDE...Boaters' dream location. Front yard has private dock and boat lift on deep canal. Boat, paddleboard, kayak or walk wrap-around deck from canalfront to creekfront. Longest private dock on creek (150') provides depth for larger boat with tie-up pilings and ample room for recreational boats. Ski, fish or crab right from back yard! Extensive decking length of home gives breath-taking views: Bask in nature's beauty from upper deck as Ginguite Creek flows directly into the Currituck Sound. Outdoor shower with direct access door to laundry room. "Boat house" to store skis, fishing equipment and garden tools...easy living! Outside closet with water faucet on creek-side deck gives room for gardening supplies. Landscape lighting both canal and creek-side. WHAT TO DO?...Experience the look and feel of being on a cruise with unlimited excursions! Cast a line and drop crab pots from dock or catch a game of croquet on front lawn, golf at Duck Woods Country Club nearby. Easy and direct access to the Currituck Sound. Water ski, kayak, paddleboard; boat out to fish, crab, dock, shop, eat and be entertained in nearby Duck or across the sounds in Manteo. From ocean sunrise to sound sunset: more to do than can be imagined. EASY ACCESS...From Ocean to Sound. Sidewalks and roads in Southern Shores connect to treasures of the Outer Banks. 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 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 & Rec with indoor and outdoor facilities, Library and Senior Center (Baum Center), bike paths and walkways. Everything for daily needs nearby. Most shops locally sourced; familiar names of larger stores dot the area giving it a spirit of the thriving, seasoned community it is. LOCATION...Skip the traffic. Easy ingress and egress when coming across Wright Memorial Bridge or heading to the mainland! Beautiful clean beaches and the surf of the Atlantic Ocean on the East—restaurants, shops, places of worship, activities in-between—and an amazing waterside home and dock on the West...93 Osprey Lane marks the spot: a treasure you will be glad you discovered on the Outer Banks!
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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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