Climate
From our coastline and urban centers to our scenic mountain region, we enjoy all four seasons. You can experience long transitional seasons and an average annual high of 69 degrees and low of 49 degrees. Play golf and enjoy our beautiful outdoors year-round.
| NC Region | Average Temperature | Average Rainfall | Average Snowfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountains | 55° | 48" | 16" |
| Piedmont | 59° | 41" | 8" |
| Coast | 64° | 54" | 2" |
Visit the following for more information on the climate history of some of our major cities that include: Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro (Piedmont-Triad region), Greenville, Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill and Wilmington.
Arts and Entertainment
North Carolina offers something for everyone: We have extensive history and heritage exhibited by landmarks such as The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills or in museums such as the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. A range of symphonies, ballets, theaters and outdoor dramas span the state, along with a 500-acre zoo and three aquariums. The state also is home to more than 100 wineries where you can experience wine country with a touch of our signature hospitality.
Recreation
With more than 300 miles of coastline, North Carolina is a great location for water sports from boating to saltwater fishing. Horseback riding and hiking are popular activities in the Piedmont and through the mountains. Finally, we have more than 550 world-class golf courses to help you elevate your game. Whether you’re interested in a mountain, Piedmont or coastal course, we have the destination for you.
Health Care
We have six medical systems joined by more than 100 community hospitals, and our hospitals perform exceptionally well in U.S. News & World Report’s annual ranking of America’s Medial Centers, one of which made the honor roll. North Carolina has a steady stream of medical professionals who graduate from one of our four medical schools and elect to continue their careers here.
Cost of Living and Housing Opportunities
The cost of living in North Carolina is very reasonable. Each year, the price of housing, utilities, supplies and groceries, transportation and health care are below the national average. Average cost of construction in our metropolitan areas also is well below the national average. Our state and local taxes are currently equal to the national average of 9.8%. Additionally, the Homestead Exemption allows senior and disabled homeowners a reduction on property tax. North Carolina is a beautiful and affordable place to call home.
Personal Safety
North Carolina cares about its citizens and their personal safety. From natural disaster response to protecting motorists along highways, the Department of Public Safety takes its charge of protecting its citizens seriously.
Working Opportunities
In addition to our universities and community colleges, the AARP Employment Planner can help individuals with the decision to look for employment. For senior persons with a lower income, the Senior Community Service Employment Program may also be helpful.
Transportation
North Carolina is well-located along the East Coast and is easily accessible by major highways and through commercial airports. Home to nine commercial airports, four of which are international, there is no shortage of options for how to get here. Other options include bus, train or ferry transit. The NC Department of Transportation has additional details on these options.
| Airports with Scheduled Passenger Service | |
|---|---|
| Pitt-Greenville Airport | Greenville |
| Coastal Carolina Regional Airport | New Bern |
| Albert J. Ellis Airport | Jacksonville |
| Wilmington International Airport | Wilmington |
| Piedmont-Triad International Airport | Greensboro |
| Raleigh-Durham International Airport | between Raleigh & Durham |
| Charlotte-Douglas International Airport | Charlotte |
| Fayetteville Regional Airport | Fayetteville |
| Asheville Regional Airport | Asheville |
| Moore County Airport | Pinehurst |
Continuing Education
North Carolina is home to four universities in the Atlantic Coast Conference, along with the University of North Carolina System, comprised of 16 campuses, a number of private schools and community colleges. Many of these institutions offer online and distance education for individual classes or enrolled part-time students.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Corporation for National Service, Senior Corps, sponsors four major programs, and each of these programs has a presence in North Carolina. Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) allows volunteers to engage with children who have special needs while Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) places volunteers in schools. The Senior Companion Program allows volunteers to work with homebound seniors, and the North Carolina Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) places volunteers with low income individuals. These opportunities and more are available.
