Retirement in Charlotte is
not RETIRING

Charlotte, North Carolina retirement living - amid the hustle and bustle of commerce - may appear at first glance to be an afterthought. But the Charlotte area has much to offer those who want to be in the urban action, but near some of the most scenic and popular resort destinations in the U.S.

Head a few hours west of Charlotte and you are in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Head east and you reach the Atlantic coast with its soothing, unspoiled islands and unique history. Want to ski? Head for the hills. Want to play in the surf or deep sea fish? Head to the ocean. Want to play some of the nation's most challenging golf courses? Many are within a day's drive of Charlotte

And, while Charlotte itself cannot rival such natural beauty as the mountains or the coast, activities are plentiful partly due to the large number of church-affiliated organizations. Volunteer at two church-related branches of the Shepherd's Center, which provides educational, informational and assistance services to seniors by seniors.

Or get involved in the myriad arts organizations the city offers. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Senior Center serves as a resource center for the city. Through its beautiful main office on Tyvola Road and several satellite sites, the Senior Center is a hotspot for bridge, line dancing, seminars, classes of oil painting, volunteerism, computer classes, "Big Band" events and the like.

There is never a dull moment at the Senior Center.

The University of North Carolina-Charlotte or Central Piedmont Community College both offer tuition-free classes for seniors. And many area attractions offer reduced rates to older adults.

The Charlotte atmosphere is business, business and more business, so those seniors wanting to continue to work full or part-time should find no problem latching onto a position in Charlotte. Those with entrepreneurial aspirations will also find Charlotte as one of the most open-minded markets in America.

Those simply wanting to relax, soak up the local culture, live in a moderate climate and perhaps do some traveling will find Charlotte to be a wonderful East Coast base. The Carolinas are so diverse and historic and Charlotte is at the center of both Carolinas. While Charlotte is a city on the move, economically, there are plenty of opportunities for retirees to find fun and fulfillment.


NOTE: Article taken from the website Charlotte Chamber