Plenty of cities try to look retirement-ready on paper, but Cary really proves itself. There’s something easygoing in how this city functions. It doesn’t scream “retirement town,” but that’s the charm—Cary stands out without fanfare. Want to know why it falls among the top retirement destinations in the US? Here are 10 little features doing all the work.
Mild Year-Round Climate
With temperatures varying from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 89 degrees Fahrenheit, the climate stays balanced year-round. Snow is minimal, and humidity rarely becomes overwhelming. The muggier stretch, from late May to early October, is ideal for easy mornings outdoors and relaxed afternoons under the shade.
Strong Retiree Community
Here, retirees don’t just settle; they stay active. The town has senior centers, adult-focused programs, and plenty of social events. One of the biggest draws is the annual “Senior Games,” where older adults jump into friendly competitions and connect with others in the community.
Manageable Monthly Expenses
Unlike Florida’s $60,000 yearly average, Cary delivers a sunny, laid-back lifestyle. The city offers seniors a chance to stretch their savings without sacrificing comfort. With average monthly expenses around $3,615, it’s far more affordable than larger metro areas. Healthcare and utilities also remain manageable.
Proximity To Top Healthcare
Being close to great healthcare is important, and Cary’s got you covered. This city is just 9 miles from Raleigh, which is home to major centers like Duke Raleigh and UNC Health. Even throughout the town, urgent care and specialty clinics are just minutes away. What’s better? More than 20 top-rated hospitals are within 25 miles.
Lifelong Learning Opportunities
Cary supports lifelong learning through nearby universities and local libraries. Seniors may audit courses for free at NC State and Duke. Libraries also host workshops on subjects like genealogy and watercolor techniques. Additionally, residents can explore niche topics such as drone flying, Shakespeare, and beekeeping—all at no or low cost.
Tax-Friendly For Seniors
Living in Cary means retirees keep more of what they’ve earned. Social Security goes untaxed, and property owners can benefit from generous relief programs. These savings come easily, since the city still offers easy access to all daily essentials and amenities.
Access To Affordable Amenities
Speaking of amenities, the city provides free or low-cost events, including concerts and fitness classes for seniors. Public transportation is both budget-friendly and accessible. Plus, farmers’ markets accept SNAP and feature senior discounts, which makes it easier to save money.
Abundant Green Spaces
Nature lovers won’t run out of places to explore in Cary. With over 30 parks and 70 miles of greenways, this city makes outdoor time easy to enjoy. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve sits nearby, where visitors can see Appalachian plant species not typically found in central North Carolina.
High Livability Score
Cary’s livability score is tough to top. GoBankingRates gave it a 90 out of 100—one of the highest nationwide. AreaVibes backed that up with A+ marks in housing, safety, healthcare, and amenities. Even with a modest cost-of-living score, Cary outperformed spots like Metairie overall.
Low Crime Rate
Cary continues to earn high marks for safety, with crime levels well beneath the national average. Strong community policing and active watch groups help maintain that standard. The city also promotes trust through programs like “Coffee with a Cop,” which offers residents casual interaction and fresh doughnuts with local law enforcement.
