Fuquay-Varina, NC 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina lies the charming town of Fuquay-Varina. With its small-town feel and friendly community, it’s no wonder why many retirees are choosing to call this place home. Fuquay-Varina is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, including the scenic Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Education Park, perfect for an afternoon stroll or birdwatching. The downtown area offers an array of unique shops, restaurants, and local businesses, giving active adults plenty of opportunities to explore and socialize. The town also hosts a variety of annual events, such as the Celebrate Fuquay-Varina Festival and the Independence Day Celebration, providing 55+ homebuyers with exciting and engaging activities throughout the year. Fuquay-Varina's location is also a plus, as it is situated about 20 miles away from the bustling city of Raleigh, which offers even more opportunities for entertainment and culture.

For more information about Fuquay-Varina, retirees can check out the town's official website. They can also explore the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce website, which offers a wealth of information about the local business community and events. For those looking to explore the outdoors, the Triangle Land Conservancy's website is a great resource for finding and learning about the many parks and nature preserves in the area. Finally, the Fuquay-Varina Museums website offers a fascinating look into the town's rich history and culture.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Income taxes in Fuquay-Varina are a flat 4.99% All social security benefits are exempt from the state income tax, and residents only need to pay federal taxes on that income. Other types of retirement income, including pensions, are subject to the 4.99% tax. There is no estate tax in North Carolina, nor is there an inheritance tax. 

The state sales tax in North Carolina is 4.75%. The local sales tax in Fuquay-Varina is 2.50%, leading to a total sales tax of 7.25%. Prescription medications, some types of grocery and food items, and certain medical devices are exempt. Most groceries are exempt from the state part of the sales tax but not the local tax. 

Property taxes are lower than other states in the U.S., North Carolina’s effective tax rate is around 0.70%, considerably lower than the national average of 0.99%. The local tax rate in Fuquay-Varina is 0.425%, and the effective county tax rate is 0.615%. Property is appraised every eight years for tax purposes. North Carolina will defer a portion of a homeowner’s tax bill if that homeowner is 65 years of age or older, has resided in the home for more than five years, and meets income standards. 

The average cost of living in Fuquay-Varina is slightly above the national average, mainly because the housing costs are 14% higher than what home prices average around the country. Groceries, healthcare, and utilities are right at the same level as other communities. Housing and transportation costs are higher. 

Climate and Geography

The climate of Fuquay-Varina is characterized by warm summers and cool winters. The average high temperature in the summer months of June to August is around 89 degrees, while the average low temperature during the winter months of December to February is in the low 30s. The town experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an annual average of around 47 inches. However, the town also sees plenty of sunshine, with an average of around 216 sunny days per year. Overall, the climate of Fuquay-Varina is pleasant, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal location for retirees seeking a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

The geography of Fuquay-Varina offers a mix of rolling hills and flatlands, with easy access to both the coast and the mountains. The town is situated in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, which offers a diverse and varied landscape, including lush forests, winding rivers, and picturesque lakes. Fuquay-Varina’s location makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as it is located near many state parks and nature preserves, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Fuquay-Varina is a charming town that offers plenty of recreational activities, cultural events, shopping, and entertainment.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Bentwinds Golf & Country Club
• Devils Ridge Golf Club
• 12 Oaks Golf Course
• Action Park Tennis Courts

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Education Park
• Bass Lake Park
• Fuquay Mineral Spring Park
• Raven Rock State Park

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Fuquay-Varina Museums at Ashworth Park
• City of Raleigh Museum
• North Carolina Museum of History
• Pope House Museum

Performing Arts:

• Fuquay-Varina Arts Center
• Garner Performing Arts Center
• Holly Springs Cultural Center
• Theatre Raleigh

Shopping:

• Fuquay Commons
• Sexton Commons
• Shoppes at Holly Springs
• SouthPark Village

Parks and Gardens:

• Fleming Loop Recreational Park
• Fuquay-Varina Dog Park
• Honeycutt Road Park
• Juniper Level Botanic Garden

Festivals and Fairs:

• Celebrate Fuquay-Varina Festival
• Independence Day Celebration
• Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival
• Got to Be NC Festival

Health and Wellness

Fuquay-Varina is conveniently located near several major medical centers, making it an ideal choice for 55+ homebuyers who prioritize access to quality healthcare. The town is situated within easy driving distance of WakeMed Health & Hospitals, one of the largest healthcare systems in North Carolina, as well as Duke University Hospital and UNC Health, both of which are nationally recognized for their medical expertise. Additionally, Fuquay-Varina is home to several local medical centers and clinics, including Fuquay-Varina Family Practice and FastMed Urgent Care, which offer a range of services to meet the healthcare needs of residents.

In addition to access to top-notch medical facilities, 55+ homebuyers in Fuquay-Varina will find a variety of options for self-care and wellness. The town boasts several fitness centers, including the Fuquay-Varina Community Center, which offers a range of exercise classes, including yoga and Pilates, as well as a full gym and an indoor pool. For those who prefer to exercise outdoors, Fuquay-Varina also features several parks and trails that are perfect for walking, running, or biking, including Bass Lake Park and the Cape Fear River Trail. Additionally, the town hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Celebrate Fuquay-Varina Festival and the Independence Day Celebration, which offer opportunities for socialization and community engagement, promoting mental wellness and overall well-being.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day One

Morning

• Start the day with breakfast at Biscuitville, known for its hearty biscuit sandwiches and breakfast platters.
• Take a stroll through the downtown area and explore the local shops and boutiques, such as The Shoppes on Main and The Mason Jar Lager Company.

Afternoon

• Grab lunch at Aviator Smokehouse, which features a range of barbecue and craft beer options.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the outdoors at Bass Lake Park, which offers a variety of trails and scenic views.

Evening

• Head back downtown for dinner at Joyce & Family Restaurant, where locals enjoy a wide selection of homestyle Southern dishes.

Day Two

Morning

• Grab breakfast at Brus on Main, a local favorite for breakfast, baked goods, and more.
• Play a round of golf at Bentwinds Golf and Country Club, which features an 18-hole course and a range of amenities.

Afternoon

• Enjoy lunch at Anna's Pizzeria, a family-owned restaurant that serves up traditional Italian fare
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to learn more about the 55+ communities in the area.

Evening

• Grab dinner at the Mason Jar Tavern, which features a range of southern-inspired dishes and craft beer options.

Getting to Fuquay-Varina, NC

Fuquay-Varina is easily accessible by car and is located just off major highways in North Carolina. Visitors driving from the north or south can take I-95 and then exit onto I-40 west. Visitors coming from the west can take I-40 east and then exit onto Highway 401 South, which runs through the center of town. For those arriving by air, Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is the closest major airport and is located about 30 miles from Fuquay-Varina. RDU is served by major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United, with connections to primary hubs such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and New York. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service from the airport to Fuquay-Varina.