Coastal living with a side of golf: Why retirees continue to choose St. James

For many retirees, finding the right place to live is about more than buying a home. It's about finding a community that supports the lifestyle they want to enjoy for years to come.

That's one reason St. James continues to attract retirees from across the country.

Located along the Intracoastal Waterway near Southport, the Brunswick County community offers a combination of coastal scenery, recreation and amenities that appeal to active adults looking to make the most of retirement.

Key takeaways

• The bigger picture: St. James has become one of southeastern North Carolina's most established retirement communities.
• The details: The gated community spans more than 6,000 acres and offers golf, tennis, fitness facilities, a marina and multiple housing options.
• Why this matters: Many retirees are looking for communities that provide recreation, convenience and opportunities to stay active.
• The more you know: St. James features a full-service 475-slip marina and 81 holes of golf, making it one of the largest amenity-rich communities in the region.

A community designed for active living

One of the biggest reasons retirees choose St. James is its extensive collection of amenities.

The community offers opportunities for residents to stay active, pursue hobbies and enjoy the outdoors without traveling far from home.

Amenities highlighted include:

• 81 holes of golf
• Tennis facilities
• Fitness centers
• A full-service marina
• Waterfront access along the Intracoastal Waterway

For many residents, these amenities become part of everyday life, helping create the active retirement lifestyle many people seek when relocating to coastal North Carolina.

A waterfront location near Southport

Location remains one of St. James' biggest draws.

The community sits along the Intracoastal Waterway near Southport, one of the Cape Fear region's most popular coastal towns.

Residents enjoy easy access to:

• Southport's historic waterfront
• Local restaurants and shops
• Coastal attractions
• Area beaches
• Boating and water recreation

The combination of waterfront living and small-town charm continues to attract newcomers looking for a slower pace of life.

Housing options for different lifestyles

Not every retiree is looking for the same type of home.

St. James offers a variety of housing options, including:

• Custom homes
• Townhomes
• Villa complexes

That variety allows residents to choose a home that fits their lifestyle, whether they are seeking a larger residence or something that requires less day-to-day upkeep.

Part of a growing retirement destination

St. James is located in Brunswick County, one of North Carolina's fastest-growing counties.

The GoodLife Wilmington retirement guide notes that communities such as St. James and Brunswick Forest continue to attract retiree populations to the area.

Several factors contribute to that growth:

• Coastal lifestyle
• Recreational amenities
• Mild climate
• Access to Wilmington
• Proximity to beaches and waterways

As more people discover southeastern North Carolina, established communities like St. James continue to benefit from the region's popularity.

Why St. James remains a favorite

Retirement means different things to different people. Some prioritize golf. Others care most about boating, fitness or simply being near the water.

What continues to set St. James apart is its ability to bring many of those priorities together in one community.

With a waterfront setting, extensive recreational amenities and a location near Southport and Wilmington, it's easy to understand why St. James remains one of coastal North Carolina's most sought-after retirement destinations.