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.
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 |
$350,000
4 bd
2 ba
Enjoy gorgeous 8- mile wide waterfront views, promising sunrises and relaxing sunsets from this waterfront property on the Albemarle Sound! It offers 4BR, 2 BA with a large living room and a spacious covered screen waterfront porch that are excellent for entertaining! The structure is situated on top of healthy pilings to prevent flooding of the structure and providing additional storage below. All furniture, furnishings, appliances, and everything in the 2 sheds including fishing gear, and other marine equipment convey. 2 boats, motors and boat trailers also convey. Seller says everything must go! The pier with a dock, boat lift and jet ski lift provide easy water access for all of your watersports needs! Rip- rap bulkhead is in excellent condition. No HOA. Nice waterfront community! Property needs some TLC. Ready to move in!
If you have always wanted to live on the water, now is your chance! We believe that this property is also an excellent Airbnb opportunity! Located 5 miles north of Columbia, NC and an hour from the NC OBX! Offered at $350,000. Lots of interests in this property!
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5 bd
2 ba
Step back in time and discover the charm and potential of this classic 1950s beach cottage, ideally located in the heart of Kill Devil Hills. Situated on the oceanside just three lots from the ocean, this five-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home offers an incredible opportunity to create your dream coastal retreat.
Enjoy the relaxed Outer Banks lifestyle with deeded beach access just moments away, along with covered porches perfect for enjoying ocean breezes, morning coffee, or evening gatherings. An outdoor shower makes rinsing off after a day at the beach convenient and easy.
With its spacious layout, sought-after location, and timeless beach-house character, this property presents endless possibilities for a primary residence, vacation getaway, or investment opportunity. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, entertainment, and all the attractions that make Kill Devil Hills one of the Outer Banks’ most desirable destinations.
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3 bd
2 ba
Welcome to Big Break, a stunning oceanfront retreat located at 25258 Bold Dune Dr in Waves, NC. Perfectly positioned along the Atlantic, this well-maintained home offers sweeping, unobstructed ocean views and the relaxing sound of waves as your daily backdrop.
Designed for true coastal living, the home features bright, open living spaces filled with natural light and framed by breathtaking water views. Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting guests, the layout provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere just steps from the sand.
One of the standout features of Big Break is the spacious rooftop deck, where you can enjoy panoramic sunrises over the Atlantic, evening stargazing, or simply unwind with the salty ocean breeze. After long beach days, the convenient outdoor shower makes rinsing off easy and keeps sandy toes outside where they belong.
Whether you’re looking for a personal seaside escape, a second home, or an investment opportunity, Big Break delivers the ultimate oceanfront experience in the heart of Waves. This is Outer Banks living at its finest.
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$524,000
3 bd
2 ba
Welcome to your coastal retreat in the heart of Carova Beach! This beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect blend of modern updates and laid-back Outer Banks living. From the stunning updated kitchen featuring stylish finishes and contemporary touches to the thoughtfully renovated interior, every detail has been designed with comfort and functionality in mind. This home has not been used in a rental program but will do quite well as a short-term or long-term rental.
A brand-new "FORTIFIED ROOF" provides added peace of mind, while the open living spaces create the perfect setting for relaxing after a day at the beach. Whether you’re searching for a primary residence, second home or investment property, this move-in-ready home is ready to be enjoyed from day one.
Located in the unique 4-wheel-drive area of Corolla where the wild horses roam, you’ll enjoy the privacy, natural beauty and adventure that make Carova one of the most sought-after destinations on the Outer Banks. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a beautifully updated beach getaway!
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3 bd
2 ba
Nestled on an oversized, beautifully landscaped lot in sought-after Colington Harbour, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers exceptional privacy and a long list of desirable features. Recent improvements include a renovated kitchen, updated bathroom, new deck addition, and a newer roof, providing peace of mind and modern comfort. The spacious layout is complemented by abundant storage, including large storage rooms and a powered shed perfect for hobbies, tools, or workshop space. Outside, enjoy the private yard and unwind in the included hot tub, creating the perfect setting for relaxation and entertaining. Whether you're seeking a primary residence, second home, or investment opportunity, this property combines functionality, updates, and outdoor enjoyment in one of the Outer Banks' most popular waterfront communities.
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3 bd
3 ba
Absolutely adorable, well maintained and lightly used ten year young home! Three bedrooms and two full bathrooms upstairs with living area/flex space and one full bathroom downstairs. This Sandy Bottom Homes gem has many upgrades including a tiled kitchen back splash, dining room chandelier, blinds, custom cabinets with soft close doors and drawers gorgeous granite countertops and beautiful hardwood floors in the main living area and tile in the baths PLUS a nice sized storage shed that coveys with the home! Located on popular Yorktown Street this well built home is a must see and comes with many furnishings. Items with a pink "dot" on them "will not" convey with the sale.
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3 bd
2 ba
Investor opportunity in Kill Devil Hills on the Outer Banks! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath fixer upper at 102 Porthole Court is located in a highly desirable west side location near Publix, Lowe’s, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. Perfect for fix-and-flip investors, rental property buyers, or rehab loan purchasers looking to add value and build equity in the OBX real estate market. The home offers a spacious layout, solid potential, and strong upside in a growing coastal market. Ideal for cash buyers, renovation loans, or investment financing. Hard money and rehab loan financing contacts are available for qualified buyers, making it easier to move quickly on this investment opportunity. Bring your contractor and vision to transform this Outer Banks property into a profitable resale, rental, or personal residence. Property is being sold as-is with endless possibilities for renovation and value-add improvements.
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$769,000
4 bd
3 ba
Just a short stroll from the beach on the oceanside of Kitty Hawk, this 4 bedroom, 3 bath retreat delivers everything buyers love about Outer Banks living, including a private 35' x 14' saltwater pool, hot tub, game room, fenced backyard, and a prime location close to dining, shopping, and local attractions. Whether you're searching for a second home, vacation rental investment, or full-time coastal residence, this property checks all the boxes and includes a 10,000 Seller paid closing cost credit with an acceptable offer! Recent improvements add both value and peace of mind, including new front decks in 2025, new Smart Side siding on the front of the home in 2025, new sunroom sliding glass doors in 2026, and updated luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout all bedrooms in 2026. Designed for making memories, the outdoor living space serves as your own private coastal oasis. Spend sunny afternoons lounging beside the pool, unwind in the hot tub after a day in the surf, or host family and friends in the expansive fenced backyard complete with an outdoor shower and plenty of room for cookouts, games, and gatherings. Inside, the lower level was built for entertaining with a spacious game room featuring a full-size pool table, secondary living area, and convenient kitchenette with direct access to the backyard and pool area. The flexible floor plan offers plenty of space for owners and guests alike, making it equally suited for personal enjoyment or maximizing rental appeal. Upstairs, natural light pours into the inviting sunroom, creating the perfect place to start your day before heading to the beach. The spacious kitchen and main living area provide a comfortable gathering space, while three of the four bedrooms are located on this level, including two that share access to a private deck where you can enjoy the ocean breeze. Located just a short walk from both the White Street beach access and the Paper Street pedestrian beach path located five lots south, this property offers multiple convenient routes to the ocean, making beach days effortless. Spend your mornings watching the sunrise, afternoons by the pool or on the sand, and evenings enjoying some of Kitty Hawk's favorite local spots including Trio Wine, Beer & Cheese, The Black Pelican, Josephine's Sicilian Kitchen, I Got Your Crabs, Two Roads Tavern, and Bad Bean Baja Grill. Shopping, fishing, Kitty Hawk Pier, Jockey's Ridge State Park, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial are all just minutes away, placing the best of the Outer Banks right at your doorstep. Offering the perfect blend of location, amenities, updates, and coastal charm, this oceanside Kitty Hawk property presents an exceptional opportunity to own a beach home designed for relaxation, recreation, and unforgettable Outer Banks memories.
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$820,000
4 bd
2 ba
If you've been dreaming of a no-fuss beach cottage where the ocean is front and center, Dolphin Run delivers. This classic single-level home is a true Hatteras “beach box,” full of vintage charm and steps from the sand. The expansive oceanfront sundeck gives you big views over the dunes—perfect for soaking up the sun, catching the sunrise, or stargazing with your favorite people. Inside, you’ll find four bedrooms and two full baths—one is a private en suite off the queen bedroom, and the other is conveniently located in the hall. The open living, dining, and kitchen area brings everyone together, whether you're grabbing a quick bite or unwinding after a long beach day. The elevated laundry and storage room downstairs offers plenty of space for your gear, and the roomy, convenient outdoor shower makes cleanup a breeze after sandy adventures. There is also a fish cleaning table and grill for added convenience. Located in the heart of Hatteras Village, you’re right across from Teach’s Lair Marina—ideal for boating and fishing—and just a golfcart ride from local shops, galleries, and restaurants. Hop on a charter, explore the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, or take the free passenger ferry to Ocracoke. With nearby ORV beach access and paddleboarding at Sandy Bay, adventure is always close by. Whether you're looking for a nostalgic retreat or a solid oceanfront investment, Dolphin Run offers the best of coastal living in one of the most beloved villages on the Outer Banks.
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$1,299,000
7 bd
3 ba
Free Bird is a stunning 7-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom oceanside retreat in South Nags Head, designed with everything you need. Completely updated with quality coastal décor and furnishings, this multi-level home effortlessly balances laid-back beach style with generous space for everyone to gather or spread out in separate spaces.
The ground level sets the tone with a large game room featuring a pool table, wet bar, full-size refrigerator with icemaker, and a comfortable sitting area with flat-screen TV. Two spacious bedrooms with a connecting Jack-and-Jill bath round out this level, along with washer/dryer — and direct access to your private, fenced 30'×15' concrete pool and covered deck. Too chilly for the pool? A relaxing hot tub is just outside. Throw in the grill to make this outdoor space ideal for long summer cookouts and post-beach hangouts. Step up to the middle level and you're greeted by a bright, open living and dining area with beamed ceilings and gorgeous ocean views. The well-equipped kitchen features stainless steel appliances, lots of granite counter space, a large bar space and the dining area. Five bedrooms are spread across this level, including one with a private bath, deck access, and ocean views. A half bath and sun deck round out this floor. Enjoy the sunrises in the morning and sunsets in the afternoon. The third level loft is a true showstopper — a lounge area with a game table, comfy seating, and sweeping views of the sound and more ocean views. It's the perfect spot to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. The location couldn't be better. The Ida Street Beach Access is less than 500 feet away, and Fish Heads Bar & Grill at the OBX Fishing Pier is an easy walk. As part of the South Creek Acres community, you also enjoy access to a community outdoor swimming pool and tennis facilities and a pickle ball court.
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3 bd
2 ba
AVAILABLE TO SHOW 6/8 & 6/11-6/13! Welcome to Herbie’s, your classic OCEANFRONT beach cottage in the heart of Kill Devil Hills. This 4-BEDROOM, 2-BATH coastal retreat offers sweeping, unobstructed ocean views and the timeless charm of an Outer Banks getaway, all just steps from the sand.
Wake up to the sound of the waves and enjoy breathtaking ocean views from many rooms throughout the home. Spend your mornings on the screened porch enjoying the ocean breeze, or soak up the sunshine from the spacious sun deck that wraps from the back to the side of the home.
Inside, the home features a classic and functional beach cottage layout designed with comfort and gathering in mind. The open living area and kitchen are centrally located, both positioned to take advantage of the ocean views. Durable tile flooring throughout the main living space makes beach living easy after long days in the sand and surf.
The layout offers excellent functionality for families and guests alike. The spacious king bedroom features a private ensuite bath with a tiled shower, while the remaining 3 bedrooms share a second full bath with a tub. Sleeping arrangements include a king bedroom, 2 queen bedrooms, and a bunk room, providing plenty of space for family and friends. The septic permit is for 3 bedrooms; however, the home has long functioned as a TRUE 4-BEDROOM, 2-BATH property.
Herbie’s underwent an extensive renovation in 2013 when the owners took the home DOWN TO THE STUDS. Major improvements included new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, doors, roof, kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and more, blending classic beach cottage character with updated systems and finishes. The septic system was replaced in 2025.
Centrally located in Kill Devil Hills, Herbie’s places you close to some of the Outer Banks’ favorite local spots. Grab your morning coffee from Ashley’s Espresso Parlour, treat yourself at Mom’s Sweet Shop, or easily explore nearby restaurants, shopping, and attractions. The convenient central location offers easy access to all the best of the Outer Banks while still enjoying the privacy and beauty of oceanfront living.
Herbie’s has also proven itself as a STRONG RENTAL PERFORMER. After joining a new rental program in January 2025, the property generated OVER $100,000 IN GROSS RENTAL INCOME during its first year, even with owners reserving personal use time. Already, approximately $75,000 is on the books for 2026 with bookings continuing to come in. For additional rental information, reviews, and booking details, visit the rental website here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1316054910352994841?unique_share_id=838f619a-0c11-462a-8425-6fdaddeedfb2&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76&source_impression_id=p3_1779963015_P3xgkcbHdYKrSYD3
From its stunning ocean views and thoughtful layout to its strong rental history and unbeatable location, Herbie’s captures the essence of classic Outer Banks oceanfront living.
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3 bd
2 ba
Gorgeous and Affordable OBX Beach Cottage in the heart of Duck. This is the one you have been looking for! Walk or bike to all the restaurants, shopping, and events in the town park. You don't need to get back in the car! Only 6 lots back from the oceanfront; less than a 5 minute stroll to walkway over the dune to one of the most beautiful OBX beaches.
Tastefully and beautifully furnished and decorated. 3 bedrooms and 2 baths; one is a primary ensuite. Bright, open living/dining and kitchen. Private screened porch extends the living area. Enjoy your breakfast and coffee while you listen to the birds. Ample size sundeck for the whole family. The lot is large and provides privacy.
Owners are "hands on" and have maintained the property over the years. Fortified roof 11/22, windows replaced in 4/21; heat pump 5/17, most kitchen appliances replaced in 2/24; new septic system.
Quiet, Private street with beach access.
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