What Are the Best Suburbs of Raleigh, NC, for Active Adults?

In this guide, we explore some of the best suburbs of Raleigh, NC, for active adults, highlighting what makes each one unique. Known for its culture and mild climate, Raleigh is increasingly becoming a popular destination for homebuyers ready to retire or downsize. Let's find the perfect place for you! 

Summary:

• Is Raleigh a Good Place to Retire?

• Best Raleigh Suburbs for Active Adults

• New Homes in Raleigh Suburbs for Active Adults

• Conclusion

Is Raleigh a Good Place to Retire? 

Raleigh is a fantastic place to retire. With a lower cost of living, access to quality healthcare, and an abundance of recreational options, Raleigh is an attractive choice for retirees. The area is home to numerous parks, golf courses, and trails, giving residents ample opportunities to stay fit and active. The mild climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, from hiking in the nearby mountains to enjoying the ocean breeze along the coast.

Best Raleigh Suburbs for Active Adults 

The best suburbs around Raleigh, NC, for retirees and active adults have a lot to offer if you’re searching for the perfect place to settle down in your golden years. Whether you’re looking for scenic trails, engaging social activities, or friendly 55+ communities to call home, these suburbs are sure to have something that fits your lifestyle.

Clayton

Clayton is a delightful little town just southeast of Raleigh and one of the best Raleigh suburbs for retirees. With several parks, including the popular Clayton Community Park, you'll find plenty of trails, sports fields, and playgrounds to enjoy. The downtown area is buzzing with local shops, tasty restaurants, and a farmers' market that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, you can stroll through the historic Hilliardston neighborhood to admire its beautiful architecture—it’s a lovely spot to soak in the charm of the area.

Fuquay-Varina

Fuquay-Varina has a charming downtown district that's perfect for delicious local dining, shopping, and entertainment, helping make it one of the best suburbs in Raleigh, North Carolina, for active adults. You can unwind at the historic Fuquay Mineral Spring Park, which is great for relaxing strolls. With several community events and festivals throughout the year, like the popular Fuquay-Varina Arts & Crafts Festival, there’s always something fun going on to bring neighbors together.

Morrisville

Among our picks of the best suburbs of Raleigh, North Carolina, for retirees is Morrisville, a town of convenience and great amenities. It’s packed with parks, like Morrisville Community Park, where you can enjoy trails, sports fields, and picnic spots. Plus, it's right by Research Triangle Park, which opens up a world of educational and cultural experiences. For dining and shopping, you can’t beat Park West Village; it’s got something for everyone and makes it a fantastic place for people to get together.

Wake Forest

Wake Forest really shines with its historic downtown area, where you’ll find charming local boutiques, cozy cafes, and art galleries to explore, making it one of the best suburbs of Raleigh for active adults. The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre is a wonderful spot for catching concerts and theater performances throughout the year. If you love the outdoors, E. Carroll Joyner Park is the place for you, with its trails, picnic spots, and community gardens. The town also offers plenty of recreational programs through the Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department to keep everyone active and having fun. 

Holly Springs

New Homes in Raleigh Suburbs for Active Adults 

If you’re ready to make a move to one of the best Raleigh, NC, suburbs for active adults and retirees, consider one of the over-55 communities from Del Webb®, with some fantastic new home options tailored just for you. These retirement communities are designed with active adults in mind, offering modern layouts, convenient amenities, and plenty of opportunities to connect with your neighbors: 

• Carolina Overlook: This 55+ community features homes with flexible living spaces and optional three-car garages. Located just three miles from Downtown Clayton and various shopping and dining options, residents enjoy easy access to grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and major highways. Additional amenities include community access to the 32-mile Neuse River Greenway and nearby golf clubs.

• Carolina Gardens: Located in Fuquay-Varina, this community has a 20,500-square-foot clubhouse that serves as a social hub, featuring a fitness center, multipurpose rooms, and indoor and outdoor pools. Residents have easy access to major roads, including NC 55 and US 401, with Downtown Raleigh just over 18 miles away and RDU Airport about 32 miles away. Additional amenities include a community dog park, bocce ball, tennis, and pickleball courts, plus proximity to local shopping, golf courses, and recreational facilities like Ting Park and the Kraft Family YMCA®.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer the quiet, laid-back lifestyle of Clayton, the cultural richness of Wake Forest, or the community spirit of Fuquay-Varina, there’s sure to be a suburb of Raleigh, NC, that’s right for you. The best suburbs near Raleigh for active adults and retirees offer a sweet blend of community, convenience, and an engaging, enriching way of life for your next chapter.

Explore active adult communities in Raleigh, NC, today, or browse more Del Webb blogs. 

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: 1/24/25