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Nags Head, North Carolina

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What It Is Like to Retire in Nags head

Nags Head is a resort community on the Outer Banks (OBX) of North Carolina.  The population is only about 3,000, although it swells to 10s of thousands in summer. It is just across the bay from Manteo.  The ocean beaches are exceptional with beautiful dunes and rolling waves. This is the area where the Wright Brothers were the first to successfully fly in a heavier than air machine. The huge dunes in the area of that park are something to see. The average age is about 50, as many retirees are drawn here.  The downside is that there is always a risk from hurricanes, so many  only come here for part of the year.

Where to Retire in Nags head and Home Prices

Real estate tends to be expensive since much of it is either on the ocean or steps from it. On the bay side and west of Route 158 it gets less expensive.  The median home value was $655,661 in early 2023, as reported by Zillow. Insurance is expensive. There is at least one nice active community in Nags Head.

What Is Special about Nags head

Fantastic beaches, plenty of seafood restaurants, and your grandchildren will LOVE coming here to visit.


What Is Not Special about Nags head

Hurricanes are a big danger.  In off season it can be quite quiet, almost deserted.

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Who Will Like Retirement in Nags head

People who like living on the beach will appreciate these beautiful beaches. The average age is 47, higher than the state average of 39. Many retirees live here for part of the year, usually leaving for the winter before the fall hurricane season.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Tourism is the economy in Nags Head.

Climate and Physical Environment

Nags Head is part of a barrier island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, well above the town of Hatteras and to the east of Elizabeth City. The average January temp is in the mid 40s and the average July temp is in the high 70s.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Nags Head offers a plethora of outdoor activities and adventures, along with a great variety of seafood and waterfront restaurants.

Crime

The crime rate here is lower than the national average for violent crimes, but higher than the national average for property crimes, which mainly involve theft.

Medical facilities

Outer Banks Health has a medical center here.

Transportation

Nags head is not considered a walkable community, but there is biking. The closest airport is in Norfolk, Virginia, about 90 miles away, the largest International airport is in Richmond, Virginia, almost 200 miles away.

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