Overview
Located in the Greensboro-Winston-Salem area (also known as the Piedmont Triad), the city of Burlington offers retirees a diverse arts culture, scenic outdoor recreation, and various community involvement opportunities.
Climate & Geography
Burlington has a humid subtropical climate, which is characterized by hot, humid summers, and winters that are mild to cold. Residents of Burlington can expect more rainfall and sunny days than the national average.
Located in the Piedmont Plateau region, Burlington is mostly surrounded by flatlands with some small rolling hills. The northeastern edge of the city borders the Haw River, with a portion of the southwestern edge along the shores of Lake Mackintosh. Within the city limits there are a handful of small lakes and creeks.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Burlington has plenty of activities for active adults interested in arts and culture, music, and outdoor recreation. There are more than 25 annual community events held in Burlington, including a costume and Christmas parade, movie showings, a Carousel Festival, and more. Public art pieces can be found throughout downtown Burlington, and Alamance Arts offers displays exhibits, gallery talks, live performances, and classes for residents to enjoy.
Musical Chairs and 4th Friday events bring a variety of live music to the community throughout the summer.
There is also no shortage of outdoor activities to find in the city. The Burlington Tennis Center offers 12 courts for open and tournament play, lessons, and programs. Indian Valley Golf Course is an 18-hole, par-70 course nestled along the banks of the Haw River. Great Bend Park is a 30-acre woodland area that offers hiking trails, fishing areas, and scenic views.
Cost of Living & Taxes
Burlington’s cost of living is significantly lower than the state and national average, with grocery, health care, housing, and transportation costs all below the national average.
North Carolina is moderately tax-friendly to retirees. It does not tax Social Security benefits, but does fully tax pensions and retirement savings accounts. There is a 6.75 percent sales tax in Burlington.
Health Care
Burlington has one hospital that is rated high performing by U.S. News: Alamance Regional Medical Center.
Nearby, Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro is ranked No. 2 in the Piedmont Triad and No. 6 in North Carolina. This hospital is also rated high performing, as well as being nationally ranked in urology.