Northeastern Retirees Flee Florida for Calabash, NC: A Shift Unfolds
UPDATE: A significant trend is emerging as **Northeastern retirees** make the bold move to **Calabash, North Carolina**, seeking refuge from **Florida’s heat, costs, and crowds**. This shift, driven by a desire for a calmer lifestyle, is reshaping the retirement landscape in the southeastern U.S.
Just announced, the latest data shows nearly **40,000 people** migrated from Florida to North Carolina in **2023**—the highest number from any state. With the allure of Florida diminishing due to rising living costs and overcrowding, retirees are opting for the tranquility of Calabash, a coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the beach.
Take **Diana Cawood**, for example. She relocated from **New Jersey** to Calabash at the end of **2019**, stating, “**Florida was not an option**.” Cawood emphasized her need for a location that allowed easier access to family back in the Northeast, noting, “We can drive back to New Jersey in about nine hours. That’s a day trip rather than a couple of days.”
Calabash is situated just **27 miles northeast** of **Myrtle Beach**, making it an attractive alternative for retirees seeking a quieter beach lifestyle without the chaos of Florida cities like **Naples** or **Tampa**. Cawood and her husband decided on **Kingfish Bay**, a housing development positioned just **four miles** from the nearest beach. “It’s still a better commute than driving home from anywhere in Florida,” Cawood stated.
Another retiree, **Kathie Yllanes**, moved to Calabash from **Raleigh, North Carolina**, in **2017**. Despite being originally from **Long Island**, she finds the access to her family easier from North Carolina than it would be from Florida. “Being able to get to Long Island… is a lot easier than if you were in Florida,” Yllanes explained.
While Florida remains a popular destination for retirees, many express concerns over its increasing costs and density. **Darren Bouley**, a real estate agent in North Carolina, notes a marked increase in **“half-backs”**—individuals who initially moved to Florida but have since returned partway up the coast. “Florida has lost a little bit of its allure simply because the costs have changed down there,” Bouley shared.
The **pandemic** initially boosted Florida’s popularity as the fastest-growing state in **2022**, but recent shifts indicate a reversal. Rising home insurance costs and a crowded environment are compelling many retirees to reconsider their options.
**Samuel Miller**, a representative for Kingfish Bay, highlighted that the cost of living in **Calabash** is comparable to Florida but often offers better value. “When you talk of the state tax rates, for example, it’s better in North Carolina than the Northeast,” Miller stated. He noted that retirees are increasingly recognizing the benefits of moving to Calabash, both in terms of housing prices and quality of life.
As retirees continue to flee Florida for quieter, more affordable options, the focus is shifting to areas like Calabash, North Carolina. With its appealing climate and proximity to family, this coastal town is becoming a beacon for those seeking a peaceful retirement.
What’s next? As this trend develops, potential retirees may want to monitor the ongoing migration patterns and real estate opportunities in North Carolina. With the current climate and living conditions in flux, now is the time for those considering retirement options to act swiftly.
