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 |
$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
$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
$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
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 floorplan 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
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
$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
$349,000
3 bd
1 ba
Tucked beneath a canopy of live oaks on a private 10,000 sq. ft. lot, this classic Avon cottage feels like the Hatteras Island many of us remember. The shady yard is perfect for hammock naps, cookouts after a day at the beach, and enjoying the privacy that mature trees provide. Inside you'll find a welcoming sunroom, comfortable living area, eat-in kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, and plenty of cottage charm. Need extra storage? The home also offers a surprisingly large attic space, perfect for storing beach gear, holiday decorations, and all the extras that come with island living. Recent improvements include a new 4-bedroom septic system in 2021, a new roof in 2018, and a new hot water heater in 2020. The 4-bedroom septic offers flexibility for future expansion.
Leave the car parked and hop on your bike. You're just minutes from the beach, sound, Avon Pier, restaurants, shopping, and the medical center. Spend the morning fishing at the pier, the afternoon kiteboarding at Canadian Hole, and the evening grabbing dinner with friends. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, investment property, or a place to make your own Hatteras memories, this classic cottage is ready for its next chapter.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
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.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
$674,900
3 bd
2 ba
This charming, updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home at Milepost 4.5 sits on a generous 10,000 sq ft lot on a quiet, private street—just an easy walk to the beach.
Located on sought-after Hallet Street, this property offers an exceptional blend of comfort, style, and investment potential. The light-filled, open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area is designed for effortless coastal living, featuring durable luxury vinyl plank flooring, updated windows and doors, and a well-appointed kitchen with granite countertops, stainless appliances, and clean, modern finishes.
Indoor and outdoor living connect seamlessly, with both sun and covered decks extending the living space—ideal for entertaining or relaxing with ocean breezes and a subtle ocean view. The layout is both functional and inviting, highlighted by a private King en suite with direct deck access, along with a Queen bedroom and a bunk room served by a beautifully renovated hall bath.
The outdoor space is equally impressive, featuring a private pool, 8-person hot tub, outdoor shower, fenced backyard, and covered parking—creating a true resort-style setting with added privacy and convenience.
Enjoy easy access to the White Avenue beach access, along with nearby restaurants, shopping, and local attractions. The oversized homesite, desirable oceanside location, and low flood risk further enhance the property’s long-term value.
Recent updates—including HVAC (2020) and refrigerator (May 2024)—support strong rental performance and turnkey appeal.
Polished, coastal, and income-producing—this is Outer Banks living at its finest.
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
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!
MORE Call Agent 800-647-1868
3 bd
2 ba
Waterfront Living in Old Nags Head Cove!
Discover this bright and airy 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom canal-front retreat. Designed for the ultimate coastal lifestyle, this home features a large garage, a refreshing outdoor shower, and an expansive concrete ground-level area—perfect for relaxing in the shade. A private wooden walkway leads you directly to the dock and 75 feet of fully bulkheaded canal frontage.
Inside, the great room boasts stunning hardwood floors, a cozy gas fireplace, and custom wood cabinetry. The vaulted ceilings provide a seamless, open feel throughout the entry, kitchen, and bar area. Enjoy your mornings on the covered south-side porch or soak up the sun on the open deck. New heat pump and water heater in 2022. Roof is 12 - 15 years old. As part of the community, you’ll enjoy access to the HOA clubhouse and a scenic picnic area overlooking the sound toward Roanoke Island. Experience breathtaking sunset views! Life is better on the Canal!!
MORE