Have you ever wondered if retiring to Topsail Island, North Carolina might be the place for you? You're not alone. There are plenty of reasons people choose to relocate here, but today we're focusing on it from a retirement perspective. Here are 10 of the best benefits of retiring to this 26-mile barrier island off the NC coast. It's certainly not a comprehensive list, so we'd love to know what you would add to it. Let us in know in the comment section below!

1. Lower Than Average Cost of Living

North Carolina has a lower cost of living than the national average. Housing, utilities, and transportation costs all fall below the national average while health care is one of the few categories that comes in slightly above the national average. Overall, the cost of living in North Carolina ranks below the national average anywhere from 1 to 10 points, depending on the category. You can view the chart that compares North Carolina's average cost of living with the national average here.

2. Great Tax Breaks for Seniors

In North Carolina, there is no tax on Social Security Income, income taxes have been lowered with a flat rate (and that rate has been decreasing), there is no State Estate Tax, and a there is a low corporate income tax. Retiring in North Carolina brings tax benefits, which means that the state is considered pro-business, with a great outlook on jobs for seniors looking to start their own business or begin a second career. (Source)

3. Barrier Island Beauty

What's not to love about living on a barrier island where residents are perfectly nestled in between the ocean and the sound—each with a beauty all its own? Barrier islands contain some of the most diverse and unique coastal life from the waters to the shorelines and everything in between. Think of how many ways you can explore and how much you can learn about the coastal ecosystems. Conveniently located near to the mainland of North Carolina which also contain the bigger urban areas including Wilmington and Jacksonville, NC—you're always close to city life and off-island opportunities and experiences.

4. Laidback Lifestyle

Island life and beach living combine into one beautiful way of life here. There's not too much hustle and bustle in day-to-day life, except for the peak of the summer beach vacation season. Things do get a little busier, traffic gets a little heavier, and the island teems with visitors and vacationers traveling to and fro over the bridges and onto this little piece of paradise that many are lucky enough to call home all year long. But most of the year you'll find that Topsail Island is a little more laidback than most places and certainly when compared to the bigger, busier beach destinations on the East Coast. It's very different here!

5. Southern Hospitality

You are in the south now, so you can expect a good dose of southern hospitality on the island and off. Whether it's with the interactions with your neighbors, in your frequenting of the local businesses, or just with passersby on the beach, you'll find warm smiles and friendly faces that make your days better. You'll feel a sense of belonging and community pretty quickly making you feel right at home. You might want to get used to saying "y'all" in the meantime. Oh and one more thing, remember it's pronounced "Topsul" not "Topsail".

6. Abundance of Activities & Things To Do for All Ages

There is so much to do here no matter what your age or interests, are so whether it's just you and your loved one or your entire family is coming to visit, you will find plenty of things to do for everyone to enjoy. From on-the-water activities and outdoor adventures to beachcombing and sunbathing, to sports fishing, pier fishing and surf fishing—and oh so much more—there are a lot of fun ways to fill your days. 

7. Family Friendly

Topsail Island is known for its family-friendly beaches, atmosphere and attitude. There is a focus on families since they are the foundation of our neighborhoods and communities all along the island. Get to know your neighbors and the community at large better and you'll see what we mean. Your family will definitely want to come and visit you when you make the move to Topsail Island, so no worries there!

8. Strong Community

If there's one thing you should know about our community, it's that we're Topsail Strong. This rings true over the years as we meet challenges and accomplish goals that make Topsail Island, its communities, and its people better than ever. There is a tight-knit community that is woven together through its experiences over time and in all seasons. You'll recognize the sense of pride and protectiveness of this place that many call home, and why many are loyal to maintaining and protecting all it has to offer. You can be part of that by supporting a local cause, volunteering in the community, or just by being a good neighbor and conscientious resident. 

9. Four Seasons

North Carolina is making headlines as an up-and-coming place to retire, even earning some retirees moving here the nickname “halfbacks” as retirees from Florida move halfway back home to the mid-Atlantic and mid-South states. Why? When it comes to weather, North Carolina has the best of both worlds. The state has a moderate climate while still offering four distinct seasons. Summers on the beaches, comfortable winters, breathtaking views in the fall, and beautiful blooms in the spring—Topsail, North Carolina has it all. The moderate temperatures mean that the outdoors can be enjoyed year-round, keeping retirees active and engaged. 

10. Best Little Beach Town in the USA

Last but certainly not least, you shouldn't just believe what we say. Discover it for yourself! You can also read what others have to say about Topsail Island and its beach communities that include North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and Topsail Beach. This collective area of Topsail Island was recently named as the Best Little Beach Town in the country. Why? For many of the above-mentioned reasons and more. Check out this news article to read more about it.