Southern Pines, NC 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Overview 

Southern Pines is a golfing city in the Pinehurst area of Moore County, North Carolina. Known for its plentiful outdoor sports and recreation, residents also love its charming historic downtown with local shops and eateries. In addition, its warm temperatures and proximity to popular Fayetteville make it a popular destination for active adults.

Climate & Geography 

Central North Carolina experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by long, hot summers and shorter, cool winters. The Appalachian Mountains to the west help reduc extreme temperatures, often preventing cold temperatures from the north. However, some snowfall does occur. Residents can expect more than average rain and around 213 days of sunshine a year.

Southern Pines is located in the Piedmont plateau of the state, which is generally hilly and full of forested areas. The city borders several small lakes, and the Uwharrie National Forest is to the northwest.

Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment 

Nicknamed the “Home of American Golf,” there is no shortage of opportunities to tee off in Southern Pines. There are over 30 courses in the area, and 23 of them have been rated by Golf Digest as four-star and above. 

In addition to golfing, residents enjoy the historic downtown area with local boutiques, art galleries, breweries, a theater, and outdoor cafes. The larger Moore County is known for its pottery and features dozens of pottery artisans and galleries as well.

For more outdoor recreation, active adults can fish, canoe, kayak, and hike at Reservoir Park. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, a 27-acre English-patterned garden, is another popular outdoor destination.

Retirees seeking even more shopping and dining can head to nearby Fayetteville, located just an hour away.

Cost of Living & Taxes 

The cost of living in Southern Pines matches the national average. While factors like housing and health care are above average, others—like utilities, groceries, and transportation—are below average.

North Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits, but it does fully tax all other forms of retirement income at the state’s rate of 5.5 percent. There are no deductions specifically for retirees, but the standard deduction in the state is fairly large. Property taxes are low, and there is a homestead exemption aimed at retirees. Sales taxes in the state are average, and residents can expect to be taxed at a lower rate on groceries.

Health Care

According to Gallup’s Well-Being Index, North Carolina scores well in the community factor of the survey, ranking in the top 20 states for that particular factor.

There are no hospitals in Southern Pines, but FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in nearby Pinehurst is rated by U.S. News as high performing and is the No. 9 hospital in the state. In addition, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville is also high performing.