Affordable oceanfront living isn't just a dream, it's fully attainable in Washington, New Bern, and Swansboro. Whether you're looking for a retirement haven, a family-friendly neighborhood, or a quaint place to work remotely, these Eastern North Carolina cities offer incredible opportunities. Wrightsville Beach is famous for its crystal clear waters and wide sandy beaches. Locals appreciate the active lifestyle, with opportunities to surf, paddle and run along “the loop”, a popular trail of physical conditioning.
Oak Island offers a serene coastal environment with less tourist traffic compared to other coastal towns. Residents enjoy extensive beaches, fishing piers, and a variety of local restaurants and fish markets. The island's 10 miles of sandy shoreline provide ample space for relaxation and recreation. The nearby town of Southport adds to the charm with its historic sites and waterfront restaurants.
The area is less commercialized and offers a quiet haven. Activities include climbing the Currituck Beach lighthouse, exploring the Whalehead Club's historic mansion, and enjoying water sports. Duck is known for its walkable village atmosphere and for its pet-friendly boardwalk along Currituck Sound. Residents and visitors enjoy boutique stores, local restaurants and a variety of activities aquatic.
The city hosts the Duck Jazz Festival every year on Hispanic Heritage Day weekend, which encourages a strong sense of community. While popular with tourists, Duck maintains the relaxed charm of a small town. Salvo offers a quiet, relaxed lifestyle with pristine beaches and access to Pamlico Sound. It's less touristy and provides a haven if you're looking for a a little bit of loneliness.
Nags Head combines classic beach charm with modern amenities. Locals love Jockey's Ridge State Park, which houses the highest natural sand dunes on the East Coast, perfect for hang gliding and watching the sun go down. The city offers a variety of dining and shopping options. Southport oozes historic charm with its maritime heritage and picturesque waterfront.
Residents enjoy exploring antique stores, dining at oceanfront restaurants, and attending local festivals. The city has been a filming location for numerous movies, adding to its appeal. While welcoming visitors, Southport maintains a relaxed pace and a strong sense of community. Places like Oak Island and Salvo tend to offer more affordable housing compared to some of the more exclusive areas, such as Figure Eight Island or Bald Head Island.
Carolina Beach and Oak Island are popular with families thanks to their attractions, schools, and close-knit communities for children. Except, Beaufort and parts of Oak Island offer a quieter, less touristy environment, ideal for residents seeking peace and space. Cities near Wilmington, such as Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island, benefit from close proximity to strong school systems and educational resources. As a coastal city, Kitty Hawk has several access points to public beaches with parking lots that lead to the impressive and extensive beach in front of the Sea.
Journey through the idyllic mountains of western North Carolina on these magical road trip routes. According to the list, Jacksonville, located in eastern North Carolina along the New River, is one of the most affordable beach cities to live in the country. Eastern North Carolina is a hidden gem for oceanfront living, offering unbeatable value, a rich history and a strong sense of community. Located in Carteret County, Atlantic Beach is one of the most beautiful cities in North Carolina, where approximately 1,430 live.
people. Locals enjoy strolling down Front Street, visiting the North Carolina Maritime Museum, and taking boat trips to nearby islands. With its magnificent historic pier and waterfront, Kitty Hawk is a perfect coastal city in North Carolina to retire and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. With a combination of these vital factors, North Carolina has some of the best places to retire in America, from vibrant cities to quiet towns.
In addition, being one of the states with the most coastline, North Carolina has incredible coastal cities that attract older people who are attracted to stunning beaches that offer more than just sun and sand. I currently live in Mount Airy, but I really want to live near a coastal town, either in the beachside town itself or at most an hour or two from the beach. This list features some of the best and most affordable coastal cities to retire in North Carolina, which also serve as cheap retirement destinations in the U.S. Department of State with good weather.
When it comes to North Carolina, the city with the most affordable beach houses isn't as well-known. North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, public access to Memorial Park and Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area.
