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 |
$340,000
3 bd
2 ba
Welcome to Anna’s Beach Cottage, an oceanfront gem in the heart of Rodanthe with unbelievable views and the beach literally steps away. Situated at an angle on the lot to maximize the ocean views, this cottage has a front row seat to sunrises, surfers, and rolling waves. If you’ve been dreaming of waking up to the sound of the ocean and spending your days barefoot in the sand, this is it.
Inside, the home is full of coastal charm with bright beachy colors inspired by shells and the sea. The open living area is all about the view, with large windows that bring the ocean right into the home. Equipped with spacious granite counters, the kitchen opens to the living and dining areas, making it easy to gather after a long beach day. The home offers comfortable sleeping arrangements with a king bedroom, queen bedroom, and a queen over queen bunk room, making it ideal for family and guests.
Located in the laid back fishing village of Rodanthe on Hatteras Island, this area is known for world class surfing, kiteboarding, fishing, and endless stretches of uncrowded beach. Watch surfers right from the deck or head over to the sound side for kiteboarding and legendary sunsets. Nearby attractions include the Rodanthe Pier, Good Winds, Waterman’s, Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station, Pea Island Wildlife Refuge, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Whether you are looking for a second home, investment property, or your own oceanfront escape, Anna’s Beach Cottage captures the classic Hatteras Island lifestyle people fall in love with.
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3 bd
2 ba
Who doesn't need a beach getaway? Come check out this 3 bedroom, 2 bath house in South Nags Head. The open floor plan has a kitchen with an island, a dining area and a comfortable living area. Pass through the sliding glass door and enjoy the enclosed porch which also leads to the deck area on the south side. The ground level offers an area with a picnic table, outdoor shower and a storage room for beach and yard tools. From this property you have a personal walkway when headed to the beach! For peace of mind, costly updates have already been done by the owners. They have maintained their home with new windows, new doors, HVAC and carpet replaced in 2025, new deck and new bridge in 2024. If you're looking to relax in your own beach house, or perhaps make some income, consider renting it though a management company or perhaps VRBO.
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2 bd
1 ba
Charming Beach Box in Gated Colington Harbour – Updated & Move-In Ready!
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath beach box located in the desirable gated community of Colington Harbour. Offering 960 square feet of living space on a 6,000 square foot lot, this home combines affordability, style, and coastal convenience.
Recent upgrades (2023–2025) include:
- Fortified roof for enhanced storm protection
- Quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances in the updated kitchen
- Newer flooring, windows, siding, and interior paint
- Stylish tiled shower and refreshed bathroom finishes
The spacious garage and workshop area is perfect for storage, hobbies, or home projects. A bonus room downstairs provides flexible space—ideal for a gym, office, or studio.
Located just minutes from the beach, this home offers access to Colington Harbour’s top-tier amenities:
- Saltwater pool
- Boat ramp and sound access
- Tennis courts, playground, and community pavilion
Whether you're searching for a primary residence, vacation home, or income-producing rental, this property checks all the boxes. Enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of the Outer Banks with nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions just a short drive away.
Don’t miss this opportunity to own a turnkey home in one of the OBX’s most popular communities!
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3 bd
2 ba
291 sq ft
Sit back, relax, and move right into this charming beach home located in the amenity-rich Colington Harbour community of Kill Devil Hills! This spacious and well-maintained home offers ABUNDANT storage and flexible living space, making it ideal for full-time residents, second-home seekers, or investment buyers. Step inside to an open, bright, and airy floor plan featuring vaulted ceilings and a cozy gas fireplace—perfect for entertaining. The upgraded kitchen boasts solid surface countertops, a stylish tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an adjacent dining area. The private primary suite includes a walk-in closet and a beautifully updated bathroom with double vanities and a ceramic tile shower. Downstairs, you'll find approximately 925 sq. ft. of garage and workshop space—ideal for a home gym, hobbyist, or skilled craftsman and all of your water toys. There's also an additional 290 sq. ft. unheated finished bonus room currently used as a guest studio, plus an additional 150 sq. ft. tiled storage area that connects to the garage and interior stairs—endless possibilities for creative use! (This additional square footage is not included in the 1396 sq ft of the main home) This home is packed with upgrades and big-ticket improvements: new drainfield (2024), water heater (2024), fortified roof (2019), HVAC with UV filtration (2016), and pre-wired for surround sound, a security system, and wired for a generator. The fully fenced yard is beautifully landscaped, complete with irrigation in the flower beds. After a day of yard work or fun in the sun, rinse off in the outdoor shower and relax under the pergola-covered sundeck—engineered to support a future second-story deck. As part of the Colington Harbour community, residents enjoy access to a basketball court, sound side park with beach area, covered picnic pavilion, playground, boat ramp, and available boat slips. For a small additional fee, you can join the Colington Harbour Yacht & Racquet Club, which offers an Olympic-size saltwater pool, tennis courts, and a welcoming clubhouse. From thoughtful upgrades and extras to a vibrant, coastal community—this home has it all.
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4 bd
2 ba
Luxury Canalfront Retreat on the Outer Banks
This is your opportunity to own the perfect blend of coastal elegance and laid back canal front living. Tucked within one of the Outer Banks' most desirable boating communities, this beautiful updated home captures stunning water views and the effortless lifestyle that makes OBX living special. Colington Harbour is a private gated boating community where every day feels like vacation.
Step inside to soaring vaulted ceilings and sun-filled spaces with panoramic water views that immediately draw you in. The open-concept kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring beautiful cabinetry, a spacious peninsula, solid hardwood flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a cozy dining area- All overlooking the serene canal.
The primary suite is located on the top floor, offering sweeping water views, a walk-in closet, and a spa-inspired bathroom- a true owner's retreat. On the Mid-level, you will find three additional bedrooms with deck access and views of the canal.
Downstairs on the first level waterfront, you'll find a motorized boat lift, oversized 2 car garage, an outdoor shower for post-beach rinses, as well as a large "Man Cave" perfect for afternoon or evening sports gatherings or to just enjoy a quiet night at home watching the game.
Outside, enjoy multiple outdoor living areas perfect for dining out or lounging with a good book. Your private dock offers deep-water access—launch your boat, paddleboard, or kayak right from your backyard and explore the sound in minutes.
As the sun sets, unwind with a cold beverage and watch the reflections dance across the water.
This home isn’t just a property—it’s a lifestyle. Luxurious, comfortable, and undeniably Outer Banks.
Whether your passion is boating, fishing, or simply enjoying peaceful waterfront sunsets, this home offers it all. Don't miss your chance to own this one-of-a-kind canal-front getaway... Schedule your private tour today!
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3 bd
2 ba
455 sq ft
Welcome to your new OBX retreat, located in the boater's paradise of Colington Harbor. This charming beach box beauty sits on a nicely elevated lot. Outside you'll find a large front deck perfect for taking in an OBX sunsets, and an inviting covered outdoor lounge area complete with TV. This home boasts a convenient cargo lift, so no more lugging groceries or heavy luggage up stairs.
Inside on the ground level there's a host of possibilities, the mudroom & dry entry is nicely finished (heated via electric fireplace, and cooled with window AC so lives like 1,687 sq ft) and has an added half bath on this level not reflected in listing otherwise. This space makes the perfect man-cave, home gym, or a game room. Up the custom stairs to the main level you'll find a nicely updated kitchen, with newer tile floors, granite countertops, and stainless appliances. New windows and a brand new storm door adorn the front of the home, allowing plenty of sunshine on the cozy dining area and spacious living room. Down the hallway you'll find an updated bathroom with tile flooring, a well-situated laundry area, pantry closet and 3 spacious br's with lots of room to relax. The primary suite offers an updated full bath and walk in closet. All the bedrooms have spacious closets. This home has been meticulously maintained and cared for, it features a 2020 fortified roof, just recently recertified, the heat pump was replaced in 2019 with an annual service contract to cover your spring tune up, and the water heater was replaced in 2022. Home is sold fully furnished so you can move right in. You'll enjoy all the gated community of Colington Harbor has to offer, including a marina with boat ramp and clubhouse, an optional community pool membership, basketball, tennis and pickleball courts, and a private sound front beach with a playground and picnic area. Come experience all that life on a sand bar has to offer! Be sure to check out the virtual tour.
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3 bd
2 ba
The moment you step inside this canal front oasis it feels like a warm Outer Banks hug. Cozy hardwoods greet you as you enter the open and spacious living room, perfect for relaxing after a day on the beach. The whole interior has been freshly painted in 2025. Glide on over to the dining area overlooking the water, the perfect place to play a game or plan your next Outer Banks adventure. From there move on to the kitchen, which boasts ample cabinet and counter space, along with an inviting breakfast bar. Outside the kitchen area are double french doors, which leads you out onto the inviting wrap around covered porch with a true southern coastal vibe. Back inside just down the hall you'll find the primary suite, which connects to a bathroom and walk in closet. The spacious two additional bedrooms are connected by a user-friendly jack and jill bathroom. Finally, at the end of the hall you'll find the convenient washer and dryer. Down the stairs on the ground level you'll find a handy dry entryway, with plenty of room for extra storage. Outside is a covered parking area which leads to a roomy workshop with its own restroom, a must have for any woodworkers or home improvement enthusiasts. In the backyard you'll find the boat dock with shore power. This backyard is an ideal spot to lounge in the sun or launch your kayak. Colington Harbour is a gated community that features a private community boat launch, a community pool (with add'l membership), a clubhouse available for private functions, a playground area and private beach, basketball courts and tennis/pickleball courts. Be sure to check out the virtual guide and floorplans.
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3 bd
3 ba
Income Producing! Impeccably maintained 3BR, 3BA home just outside the gates of Colington Harbour with access to the Harbour’s boat ramp, soundfront park, and optional pool/clubhouse. The main living area offers an open floor plan and a chef’s kitchen with gas range, vented hood, soft-close shaker cabinets, granite countertops, HUGE island, pantry, stainless steel appliances, and a tongue-and-groove ceiling with recessed LED lighting. Updated baths feature new vanities, sinks, toilets, and fixtures. Additional upgrades include LVP flooring, ceiling fans, custom paint, and custom shades. Brand-new deck (2025) for outdoor entertaining.
Lower-level bonus space (no interior access) includes a mini-split unit, separate entrance, fenced yard, granite countertops, movable island, walk-in closet, and washer/dryer—ideal for an in-law suite or possible Airbnb. Large garage with workspace and mini-split for year-round comfort. Fully fenced yard with fresh sod, gravel, and bark mulch, tankless water heater, ample parking, and a high, dry location with no flood insurance required. Current tenant in place, paying $1,500/month with lease ending October 31st, 2025. Reach out for more information.
Check out the virtual tour like a Matterport walk yourself through both floors!
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3 bd
3 ba
Discover a rare opportunity to own a private retreat in the heart of Nags Head. Backing directly to the protected Nags Head Woods Preserve, 2824 S Lost Colony Drive offers exceptional privacy with direct access to nature trails leading toward the Sound. Lovingly maintained by its original owners since 1994 and never rented, this property has been used exclusively as a cherished family second home. The upper level features a bright, open-concept great room with vaulted ceilings, a spacious kitchen with abundant cabinetry and breakfast bar, dining area, and of course flow out to expansive outdoor living areas. Large sun decks and a spacious screened porch provide the perfect setting for outdoor dining, morning coffee, afternoon breezes, and peaceful views of the surrounding maritime forest. Three bedrooms are located on this level, including a private ensuite, plus a shared hall bath. One of the home's most unique features is its versatile lower level, complete with three additional flex space rooms, a large full bath with laundry, a spacious recreation room, and a full second kitchen! Whether you're seeking a multigenerational living arrangement, space for extended family or additional flexibility for your lifestyle, the dual-kitchen layout offers countless possibilities. The game room is ready for serious entertaining (Cousin Eddie and the kids may never leave ...) with a pool table, arcade game, pinball machine, darts, popcorn cart, and additional refrigerator. Outside, the property feels even larger thanks to the paper street buffer to the south and the protected preserve directly behind the home, creating a private wooded setting rarely found this close to everything Nags Head has to offer. Multiple covered and open deck spaces extend the living area outdoors, while the generous area beneath the home provides ample room for storage, entertaining, or the future addition of a hot tub. Recent improvements include a roof (2022), upper HVAC (2022), lower HVAC (2023), decking (2022), septic drainfield (2024), and water heater (2024). Located in one of the most desirable areas of Nags Head, you'll enjoy easy access to Nags Head Woods Preserve, Jockey's Ridge State Park, Dowdy Park, the YMCA, Bonnett Street beach access, local restaurants, shopping, fishing, and watersports. Enjoy the best of the Outer Banks lifestyle with beaches, sound side sunsets, nature trails, and local attractions all just minutes from your doorstep. Offering a rare combination of privacy, versatility, outdoor living, and location, 2824 S Lost Colony Drive is a unique Outer Banks property that must be seen to be appreciated.
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$423,000
3 bd
1 ba
Welcome to this charming Avon Beach Box--your perfect slice of island living! Whether you're looking for a full time home or a cozy second getaway, this home offers easy one level living with a spacious storage area and laundry underneath for all of your beach toys! With a public beach access within walking distance, there is rental income opportunity as well. There is an ample wrap around deck with access on both sides of the home for morning coffee, cocktails, or a sunset dinner. Located in the heart of Avon, you are just minutes from local shops, restaurants, and entertainment. This home has seen numerous updates, including new stainless steel appliances and countertops in 2024, some cabinets, and fresh interior paint 2023, 21 new pilings 2022-2023. This sweet coastal cottage truly shines--don't miss your chance to secure your own little slice of beach life!
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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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$399,000
3 bd
1 ba
Cute 3bd/1.5 bath home in downtown Hatteras Village is ready for new owners. Affordable living within walking distance of the grocery, library and post office and just minutes to the beautiful Hatteras beaches by car or bike. This home has a large living/dining/kitchen area just in the front door. There is also access to a spacious front porch with sliders that let in tons of light. The full bath is in the hall convenient for all three bedrooms. Two of the bedrooms also share a 1/2 bath with sink and commode. There is a nice size side yard and ample parking under the home. Come see this village gem and make it yours today.
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