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 |
$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.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
3 bd
3 ba
Tucked against the protected natural beauty of Jockey’s Ridge State Park, this thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers a rare blend of privacy, flexibility, and location in the heart of Nags Head.
Built in 2015, this coastal retreat features a bright open-concept floor plan that flows seamlessly from the living area into the kitchen and dining space—perfect for entertaining or relaxing after a day at the beach. Each bedroom is designed as a private suite with its own full bathroom, providing comfort and separation for guests, family, or rental potential.
Enjoy the peace and seclusion of backing up to wooded preserve land while still being just minutes from beach accesses, restaurants, and local attractions.
High-quality finishes include wood flooring throughout the main living areas, tile bathrooms, and a tankless (on-demand) gas water heater for efficiency and convenience. The spacious kitchen is complemented by a large pantry, while a generously sized laundry room just off the kitchen adds everyday functionality.
Storage is abundant with ample closet space and a large attic, offering plenty of room for future growth or customization.
Whether you're searching for a primary residence, second home, or investment opportunity, this property delivers privacy, location, and long-term potential—all set against one of the most iconic landscapes on the Outer Banks.
MORE 
$530,000
3 bd
2 ba
Least expensive home in Old Nags Head Cove. Situated on a large corner lot and a short walk to the sound or community pool The current owner installed LVP flooring, wood kitchen cabinets and granite/quartz countertops replaced the kitchen sink new bathroom vanities and toilets and interior was painted when the house purchased. New front stairway was installed along with expanded utility room and under house decking The heat pump was installed in 2021 and Hot Water heater in 2024. All new underpinning. The driveway was expanded to accommodate a boat. The house was just pressure washed-check it out.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
$625,000
3 bd
2 ba
Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Kill Devil Hills, 1704 Soble Drive offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and classic Outer Banks charm. This lovingly maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath single-level home has not been rented and has been cared for by the same family for over 40 years, a rare find in today’s market. Ideally located within walking distance to multiple beach accesses, restaurants, grocery stores, and shopping, you can truly enjoy the convenience of coastal living without needing to get in the car.
Inside, the spacious layout features generously sized bedrooms and thoughtful updates throughout. In 2022, the sellers completed extensive improvements, including a new heat pump, LVP flooring throughout the home, all new appliances, updated bathroom vanities, new underpinning, and a rebuilt outdoor shower. The open and functional floor plan makes for easy everyday living or a relaxing beach retreat.
Enjoy morning coffee or evening breezes from the large front porch, while the expansive storage room underneath provides plenty of space for beach gear, bikes, tools, and more. Whether you are looking for a primary residence, second home, or future investment opportunity, this well-cared-for property offers the ideal combination of location, updates, and pride of ownership in one of the Outer Banks’ most desirable central locations.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
$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.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
4 bd
3 ba
Located in the desirable First Flight Village neighborhood of Kill Devil Hills, this well-maintained beach box offers comfortable coastal living with a functional layout and approximately 1,800 sq ft of space. The upper level features a bright, open great room with kitchen, dining, and living areas, three bedrooms with large closets, two full baths (one en suite), and a convenient hallway laundry area. A large glass door leads to the spacious deck, perfect for enjoying the Outer Banks breeze. The lower level includes an additional bedroom, a full bath, and a bonus room with a wet bar, offering flexible space for guests or recreation. Outdoor features include a deck, outdoor shower with dressing area, garage, lighted carport, concrete driveway, and a spacious yard with sand and trees for privacy. Ideally located close to the beach and just minutes from grocery stores, shopping, and restaurants, this home offers both convenience and the best of Outer Banks living. New fortified roof installed in 2025.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
3 bd
2 ba
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.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
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.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
$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. 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.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
$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! 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.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
4 bd
3 ba
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bath coastal retreat, located just three streets from the oceanfront and offering ocean views from the top deck. Whether you're searching for a primary residence, second home, or investment opportunity, this turn-key property checks every box.
The upper level features a bright and inviting open living space with charming shiplap walls and a cozy coastal feel. The full kitchen flows seamlessly into the living area, creating the perfect space for gathering. Down the hall, you'll find a convenient laundry area, a full hall bath, and three bedrooms. One bedroom is outfitted with bunk beds—ideal for guests or kids—while the primary suite includes its own private ensuite bath.
The ground level offers a separate living space with its own entrance, making it ideal for guests or rental flexibility. This level includes a spacious lounge area with a large TV and couch, a pool table for entertainment, a wet bar, an additional bedroom, and a full bathroom. Step outside to your private backyard oasis, complete with a fenced-in heated pool and hot tub—perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach.
The exterior has been thoughtfully landscaped with lush Zoysia sod and features outdoor mounted speakers, creating the perfect setting for entertaining or unwinding outdoors. Additional highlights include an outdoor shower, a climate-controlled owner’s closet, and a wooden storage shed for all your beach gear, bikes, and more.
Lovingly maintained and successfully used as an Airbnb rental, this home comes with a proven rental history. Move-in ready and fully equipped, it’s an exceptional opportunity to own a piece of the Outer Banks lifestyle.
MORE 
$399,000
2 bd
1 ba
49 sq ft
Experience effortless waterfront living in this adorable canalfront "beach box" cottage. This 2-bedroom home blends simple coastal charm with modern reliability, boasting a private dock for immediate water access and a flexible floor plan that includes a large dining/flex space perfect for remote work. Location is everything here—enjoy the quiet of Barracuda Court while staying minutes away from the beach, dining, and local favorites by bike. Meticulously updated for the long haul, the property features a newer roof and septic (2019), updated electrical (2022), new pilings (2024), and 2026 plumbing refreshments. Sold turnkey and move-in ready, it serves perfectly as a low-maintenance private escape or a vacation rental. Just bring your flip-flops and start enjoying the Hatteras Island lifestyle today!
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868