Here is a list of the ten best small towns in North Carolina for retirement, considering public safety, quality of life, access to quality healthcare, and amenities:

1. Pinehurst

Overview: Pinehurst is known for its charming village atmosphere, top-rated golf courses, and Southern hospitality. It offers a peaceful environment with a strong sense of community.

  • Amenities: Pinehurst Resort, local boutiques, art galleries, and dining options.
  • Healthcare: FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.
  • Parks: Rassie Wicker Park, Arboretum Park.
  • Other Features: World-renowned golf courses, village green, cultural events, and festivals.

2. Southern Pines

Overview: Southern Pines offers a blend of small-town charm and urban conveniences, with beautiful historic districts and outdoor recreation.

  • Amenities: Historic downtown with shops and restaurants, Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities.
  • Healthcare: FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (shared with Pinehurst).
  • Parks: Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, Reservoir Park.
  • Other Features: Equine community, active arts scene, and annual festivals.

3. Hendersonville

Overview: Hendersonville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering scenic beauty and a mild climate. The town has a vibrant downtown with a rich history and culture.

  • Amenities: Downtown Hendersonville, Historic Depot and Model Railroad, wineries, and breweries.
  • Healthcare: AdventHealth Hendersonville, Pardee UNC Health Care.
  • Parks: Jackson Park, Patton Park.
  • Other Features: Annual Apple Festival, Flat Rock Playhouse, and nearby outdoor activities.

4. New Bern

Overview: A coastal town with a deep historical legacy, New Bern provides access to waterways, a walkable downtown, and a friendly community.

  • Amenities: Tryon Palace, Historic New Bern, waterfront dining.
  • Healthcare: CarolinaEast Medical Center.
  • Parks: Union Point Park, Lawson Creek Park.
  • Other Features: Waterfront living, boating, fishing, and historical tours.

5. Boone

Overview: Boone offers a mountain lifestyle with access to outdoor adventures, a lively arts scene, and a college-town vibe thanks to Appalachian State University.

  • Amenities: Appalachian State University, local shops, and galleries.
  • Healthcare: Watauga Medical Center.
  • Parks: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, Howard Knob Park.
  • Other Features: Ski resorts, Blue Ridge Parkway access, cultural events.

6. Holly Springs

Overview: A growing small town near Raleigh, Holly Springs has a balance of suburban amenities and small-town charm, with easy access to the Research Triangle.

  • Amenities: Shopping centers, local restaurants, cultural arts programs.
  • Healthcare: UNC Health Rex Holly Springs Hospital.
  • Parks: Bass Lake Park, Womble Park.
  • Other Features: Community events, farmers markets, proximity to Raleigh and RTP.

7. Brevard

Overview: Nestled in the mountains, Brevard is known for its music and arts scene, outdoor recreation, and small-town friendliness.

  • Amenities: Brevard Music Center, downtown galleries and shops.
  • Healthcare: Transylvania Regional Hospital.
  • Parks: Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Recreational Forest.
  • Other Features: Waterfalls, biking, hiking trails, and local festivals.

8. Mount Airy

Overview: The inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry, Mount Airy offers a nostalgic atmosphere with a vibrant community.

  • Amenities: Mayberry attractions, downtown shopping and dining.
  • Healthcare: Northern Regional Hospital.
  • Parks: Riverside Park, Veterans Memorial Park.
  • Other Features: Blue Ridge Parkway access, annual Mayberry Days festival, wineries.

9. Clayton

Overview: Clayton is a fast-growing town near Raleigh that maintains its small-town charm. It's ideal for retirees who want a peaceful community close to the city.

  • Amenities: Local shops, Clayton Center for the Performing Arts, golf courses.
  • Healthcare: Johnston Health Clayton.
  • Parks: Clayton Community Park, Legend Park.
  • Other Features: Greenway trails, vibrant arts community, and proximity to Raleigh.

10. Blowing Rock

Overview: A quaint mountain town, Blowing Rock is a haven for those seeking serene beauty and a slower pace of life. It's known for its natural scenery and outdoor activities.

  • Amenities: Quaint downtown with shops and restaurants, Blowing Rock Art & History Museum.
  • Healthcare: Appalachian Regional Healthcare System (nearby Boone).
  • Parks: Julian Price Memorial Park, Blowing Rock Memorial Park.
  • Other Features: Scenic drives, hiking, nearby ski resorts, and cultural events.

These towns offer a blend of safety, quality healthcare, cultural amenities, and beautiful surroundings that make them attractive destinations for retirees.