Australia's 11 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Australia's vast size as a continent results in a wide range of landscapes, climates, and communities, making it an attractive country for retirement. From subtropical beaches and coastal towns to cool inland regions and temperate wine valleys, retirees can choose from a diverse array of settings to suit their preferences. This article ranks eleven of the best retirement towns across the country based on their combination of affordability, lifestyle offerings, and access to quality healthcare.
Coolum Beach, Queensland
Coolum Beach, located on the Sunshine Coast, lies between the large city of Brisbane and the vacation hotspot of Noosaville. While within a short drive of these two renowned destinations, Coolum offers a more relaxed atmosphere. The town offers a variety of recreational activities, including surfing, golfing, and scenic walks on pristine beaches. The cost of living is moderate, with average house prices around A$1,350,000 and units at A$972,500. Health care services are accessible, with the nearby Mount Coolum Medical Centre providing quality care. Coolum also features the Coolum Beach Bowls Club, which regularly hosts social events and competitions.
Greenwith, South Australia
Greenwith, a suburb of Adelaide, provides a suburban lifestyle with access to parks and shopping centers. Retirees can enjoy large green spaces like Cobbler Creek Recreation Park which is ideal for hiking and bird-watching. The median house price is A$822,000, and healthcare services are available at Modbury Hospital, along with numerous local clinics. The Golden Grove Recreation and Arts Centre nearby also hosts seniors programs including fitness classes and arts workshops.
Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
The Mornington Peninsula, south of Melbourne, is renowned for its beaches, wineries, and vibrant communities. Retirees can enjoy coastal walks, golf courses, and local markets. The Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery is an example of a great community, hosting regular art exhibitions, workshops, and local events. The median house price is around A$1,100,000. Healthcare facilities like Peninsula Health Network are accessible from the Mornington Peninsula. The Peninsula also hosts regular coastal cleanup events and volunteer gardening groups that foster local engagement.
St Helens, Tasmania
St Helens, located on Tasmania's east coast, is known for its fishing heritage and natural beauty. The town provides a peaceful environment with access to beaches and forests. Access these stunning landscapes through groups like the St Helens Walking Club which organizes regular walks along the coast. Housing is affordable, with median prices of around A$560,000. St Helens District Hospital ensures residents have access to necessary healthcare services. The town also hosts the Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival, which features regional artists and performances.
Casula, New South Wales
Casula is a well-situated suburb of the city of Liverpool and has access to the city of Syndey through a short train ride. The city offers a diverse food scene, community events, and local volunteer groups. For example, the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre is a heritage site that holds numerous exhibitions and community events. The median house price is $995,000 and is close to the Liverpool Hospital. Casula also includes Leacock Regional Park, which provides accessible walking trails and picnic facilities.
Beechworth, Victoria
Beechworth, a historic town in northeast Victoria, is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant community. Retirees can enjoy local markets, festivals, and scenic landscapes. A notable festival is the Beechworth Festival of Spring, held in September and offering a variety of activities and local produce/crafts. Housing is moderately priced, with median prices around A$400,000. Healthcare services are available at the Beechworth Health Service. The Beechworth Historic Courthouse also hosts heritage re-enactments that connect residents to local history.
Esperance, Western Australia
Esperance, situated on the southern coast of Western Australia, is known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The town is a peaceful environment, ideal for retirees seeking tranquillity. This could be the perfect location for those seeking to enjoy the outdoors with the famous Cape Le Grand National Park nearby. Housing is affordable, with median prices of around A$481,000. Esperance Health Campus ensures residents have access to essential healthcare services. Residents can also join the Esperance Photography Club or participate in the community garden projects available in the town center.
Hervey Bay, Queensland
Hervey Bay, located on the Fraser Coast, is famous for its calm beaches and whale-watching opportunities. The town boasts a relaxed lifestyle with various recreational activities. The Hervey Bay Whale Festival is one of the many great annual festivals. In August, they celebrate the migration of the humpback whales with exhibitions and wildlife tours all around town. Housing is affordable, with median prices of around A$680,000. Healthcare services are robust, with the Hervey Bay Hospital providing a range of medical services. The area also has the Hervey Bay Historical Village and Museum, which runs regular craft demonstrations and tours.
Launceston, Tasmania
Launceston, Tasmania's second-largest city, combines urban amenities with natural beauty. The city boasts a rich cultural scene, historic architecture, and proximity to vineyards. The Albert Hall hosts regular concerts, dance performances, and community events. Housing is affordable, with median prices of around A$690,000. Launceston General Hospital provides excellent healthcare services, ensuring retirees have access to necessary medical care. The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery holds exhibitions, lectures, and community history programs year-round.
Victor Harbor, South Australia
Victor Harbor, a coastal town south of Adelaide, is known for its stunning ocean views and historic charm. Retirees can enjoy whale watching, walking trails, and an excellent arts scene. Granite Island is accessible across a bridge and offers the Kaiki Walking Trail and the chance to see the island’s famous penguin residents. The cost of living is reasonable, with median house prices around A$692,000. Healthcare is readily available, with the South Coast District Hospital offering comprehensive services. The Victor Harbor Men’s Shed is a community space where retirees can engage in woodworking and social projects.
Withers, Western Australia
Withers is a quiet suburb of Bunbury, located near the coast in Western Australia’s South West region. It's two hours south of Perth, giving you easy access to a larger city. Surrounded by natural parks and just minutes from the beach, it offers a peaceful setting with strong community ties and access to urban services. Retirees can join groups at the Withers Community Library and the Bunbury Trotting Club. Bunbury also has the South West Sports Centre, offering senior-friendly fitness and aquatic programs. The accessible parks, pristine beaches, and a low median house price of A$330,00 give Withers the Gold medal on this list of great Australian retirement cities.
If you end up in any of these cities for your retirement, count yourself lucky! While Withers came out on top, any of these lovely Australian towns could easily steal your heart. All of these locations offer unique lifestyles, affordability, and access to healthcare. From coastal towns to inland communities, retirees can find a location that suits their preferences and needs. Careful consideration of factors such as cost of living and medical facilities can ensure a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
