Charlotte Retirement Communities

Charlotte isn't just the home of NASCAR. "The Gem of the South" is also a major financial hub (second only to New York City), a city rich in history and culture, and a relatively affordable place to find assisted living options. And if you're a golfer, this city of 731,000 may be your Shangri La.

Though housing prices are starting to creep up again, Charlotte is still an affordable big city. The most recent median home sales info shows prices of $152,812--still $68,000 cheaper than the other big Southern city of Atlanta. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Charlotte's cost of living is about 8% below the national average. The average property taxes are $2,391. And according to the Insurance Information Institute, North Carolina is one of the least expensive states for auto insurance with an average premium of $1,511.

Because Charlotte's weather is pleasant year-round, golfing is fun for golfers with nearly 100 public courses. And every year the city holds PGA events like the Wachovia Challenge and the Wells Fargo Championship. Other major sporting events include NASCAR's Coca-Cola 600 and the Queens Cup Steeplechase, an obstacle course for Thoroughbreds and their jockeys. You can also root for the NFL's Panthers and the NBA's Bobcats.

Spend a tranquil day at the Wing Haven Foundation Garden and Birds Sanctuary, home to birds such as eastern bluebirds, Carolina chickadees and Baltimore orioles. The McDowell Nature Center and Preserve, along the banks of Lake Wylie, is an 1108-acre home to native animals and butterfly gardens. The International House Book Club joins readers together once a month to discuss international authors, and book settings and themes. Take a beginner's watercolor class at Nancy Couick Studios. Tour the historic Rosedale Plantation, a model of Federal period architecture. Visit the homestead of President James K. Polk.

Charlotte has a number of assisted living options, particularly in the suburbs. Areas like Ballantyne, Cotswold, and Plaza Midwood are worth looking into. To get started, use our advanced search option to find retirement communities in and around the city.