Pinehurst Trace vs. Knollwood Village
These are the two leading true 55+ communities in the Sandhills, and they appeal to different buyers. One is newer, uniform, and low-maintenance in the Village of Pinehurst; the other is larger, older, more varied, and walkable in downtown Southern Pines. Here’s the honest comparison.
At a glance
| Pinehurst Trace | Knollwood Village | |
|---|---|---|
| Town | Pinehurst (resort village) | Southern Pines (walkable downtown) |
| Size | Established, mid-size | ~240 homes (largest in the area) |
| Built | Established; newer stock than Knollwood, new + resale | 1959–2000 (oldest stock) |
| Home types | Low-maintenance single-family | Attached, condos, and houses |
| Amenities | 7,000 sq ft clubhouse, fitness, billiards, library, events | More neighborhood-style; varies |
| Maintenance | HOA covers exterior, lawn, exterior painting | Varies by home type |
| Entry price | Higher (Pinehurst + newer) | Often friendlier (older homes) |
| Golf club | None mandatory | None mandatory |
Choose Pinehurst Trace if…
- You want newer, uniform, low-maintenance homes and a true lock-and-leave lifestyle.
- You value a full clubhouse and an active social calendar on site.
- You want the Village of Pinehurst address and resort proximity.
- You’d rather pay more up front than manage updates on an older home.
Choose Knollwood Village if…
- You want walkable Southern Pines — downtown shops, restaurants, Amtrak — at your doorstep.
- You want variety and a friendlier entry price, and you’re comfortable with an older home.
- You prefer an established, character-rich neighborhood over a uniform subdivision.
- You’re willing to inspect carefully and budget for modernizing.
The tiebreaker. It often comes down to town and home age. Pinehurst Trace = newer, polished, resort village, higher price. Knollwood = walkable Southern Pines, more character and variety, lower entry but budget for updates. Neither carries a mandatory golf club, so both keep you on the affordable side of the total cost picture — the club decision is separate.
Dig deeper
Overviews: Pinehurst Trace · Knollwood Village. Carrying costs: Pinehurst Trace true cost · Knollwood true cost. Prefer something smaller and gated? See Village Green.
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