11 Best Places To Retire In South Australia
South Australia is an ideal destination for anyone planning to settle down and enjoy a slower pace of life. From the rolling vineyards of Clare Valley to the calm of Victor Harbor, the region abounds in natural beauty with a relaxed lifestyle that is easy to embrace.
If you would like to spend your retirement years exploring the Barossa wine trails, browsing local galleries in the Adelaide Hills, walking along sunlit beaches, or enjoying a cozy time at home, South Australia has something to suit every pace and preference. With access to reliable healthcare, warm communities, and plenty of outdoor relaxation, here are 11 best places to retire in South Australia.
Wallaroo
If a peaceful life by the sea sounds like your ideal retirement, Wallaroo might be just the spot. Located on the Yorke Peninsula, this historic port delivers a relaxed pace and ocean views. Office Beach is perfect for quiet walks or casting a line off the jetty, while the Wallaroo Heritage and Nautical Museum offers insight into the area’s copper mining roots.
Fishing, swimming, and local shopping provide simple pleasures close to home, and Wallaroo Hospital and Health Services ensures convenient access to medical care. With a median home price of around $480K, this haven is well-suited for anyone looking to enjoy their golden years in comfort.
Victor Harbor
For a scenic stay by the coast, Victor Harbor is one of South Australia’s most appealing retirement destinations. Located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, it is known for its stunning shoreline and relaxed atmosphere. The Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tramway offers a nostalgic ride across the causeway, while the South Australian Whale Centre gives a deeper look into the region’s marine life.
At Urimbirra Wildlife Park, you can explore wide-open enclosures and observe native Australian animals up close. With dependable healthcare available at South Coast District Hospital, retirees can feel at ease while enjoying the coastal scene. The median home price of approximately $710K reflects both the quality and comfort this seaside location provides.
Mount Barker
Mount Barker, located near the Adelaide Hills, combines country charm with modern convenience, making it a smart option for retirees seeking space, nature, and access to essential services. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and historic landmarks, with highlights like the Laratinga Wetlands, a reserve ideal for walking and birdwatching. The Mount Barker Heritage Trail also reveals much of the region’s early history.
The SteamRanger Heritage Railway offers a nostalgic ride through the hills, while Parkindula Park provides quiet walking trails perfect for unwinding. Healthcare needs are well supported by the Mount Barker District Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. With a median home price of around $705K, Mount Barker delivers both comfort and a high standard of living for those looking to retire in a beautiful hillside setting.
Goolwa
Although Goolwa sometimes comes off as a busy port area, it is a fantastic choice for those looking to retire in an active, welcoming environment. Situated where the Murray River meets the Southern Ocean, Goolwa features scenic waterfronts and a variety of outdoor experiences. You can take a cruise on a paddle steamer or visit the Goolwa Barrage for sweeping river and ocean vistas. It is also a great spot to observe local wildlife and capture memorable photos.
Nearby, Coorong National Park offers even more opportunities for nature lovers during their downtime. The town has a supportive atmosphere and access to quality medical care, making it both comfortable and reliable for long-term living. With a median home price of around $600K, Goolwa is an affordable community with a healthy balance of activity and relaxation.
Port Elliot
Port Elliot is a great option for seniors looking to reside in a city with stunning ocean views and a relaxed feel. It is best known for Horseshoe Bay, a sheltered beach that is perfect for swimming and gentle shoreline walks.
The Port Elliot Railway Station and surrounding trails reflect the area’s rich heritage, while the Southern Fleurieu Historical Museum offers insight into local history. During the right season, whale watching along the coast adds to the natural appeal. Nearby beaches like Knight Beach and Port Elliot Beach bring even more beauty to everyday living.
Residential aged care is available through Resthaven, helping ensure access to reliable medical support. With a median home price of around $990K, Port Elliot combines serenity with a strong support system for later-life living.
Strathalbyn
For those who prefer a country setting, Strathalbyn is a standout choice. It is known for its historic architecture, antique stores, and beautifully maintained green spaces. The Soldiers Memorial Gardens is a quiet spot for walks and picnics, while the Strathalbyn and District Heritage Centre offers a glimpse into the town’s early years.
Car enthusiasts will enjoy Gilbert’s Motor Museum, home to a wide collection of vintage and classic vehicles. In the evenings, the Angas River walkway becomes a place to unwind with friends or enjoy a solo stroll. Strathalbyn District Hospital provides reliable medical support, adding peace of mind to the lifestyle here. With a median home price of around $675K, Strathalbyn balances charm and quality care for a fulfilling retirement.
Coorong
For nature-loving retirees, Coorong offers a serene place surrounded by striking landscapes and rich culture. Best known for Coorong National Park, an haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys time outdoors. Its lagoons, sand dunes, and salt flats provide endless opportunities for walking, fishing, and kayaking.
The area is steeped in Indigenous history, with sites that share the stories of the Ngarrindjeri people. With a welcoming, low-key environment and a median home price of around $415K, Coorong is an affordable setting for those looking to enjoy their retirement close to nature.
Port Lincoln
Known as Australia’s "Seafood Capital," Port Lincoln is a coastal gem full of adventure, comfort, and natural beauty. Located on the Eyre Peninsula, it has earned a reputation as one of South Australia’s most desirable places to live. Local attractions like Mill Cottage Museum and the Port Lincoln Railway Museum celebrate the area’s rich heritage, each set against a picturesque backdrop.
For ocean views and serene surroundings, Billy Light Point and Kirton Point are perfect for relaxing by the water. The town also has a lively arts culture and a friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to connect with others. Medical care is readily available through Port Lincoln Hospital. With a median home price of around $480K, Port Lincoln balances calm and activity, ideal for anyone looking to retire near the sea.
Glenelg
For retirees seeking to live on the beachfront with a touch of sophistication, Glenelg is a standout choice. Just a short tram ride from Adelaide, this vintage suburb is known for its long sandy beach, vibrant atmosphere, and deep maritime roots. The Bay Discovery Centre explores Glenelg’s seafaring history, while Holdfast Marina is ideal for boat rides and scenic waterfront views.
Strolling through Glenelg’s charming streets, you will pass heritage buildings like the town hall and discover galleries showcasing local art. Colley Reserve, with its open green lawns and sea breeze, is a peaceful spot for a quiet afternoon. Quality medical support is available at Glenelg Community Hospital, helping ensure peace of mind. With a median home price of around $1.580 million, Glenelg offers a high-end lifestyle for those ready to enjoy their retirement in comfort.
Port Willunga
Set along South Australia’s coast, Port Willunga is a scenic destination known for its pristine beaches and stunning sunsets. Frequently photographed for its natural beauty, it is an ideal setting for retirees who appreciate quiet mornings and picturesque surroundings.
Gentle walks along the golden shoreline lead to cliffside caves and the historic remains of the Star of Greece shipwreck. Just a short drive away, the Willunga Courthouse Museum is the place for history lessons.
Local life is relaxed and welcoming, with the Willunga Farmers Market and nearby wineries that you can visit to get to know the locals. Support services like the Aldinga Senior Citizens Centre help foster community care for older residents. With a median home price of around $780K, Port Willunga combines elegance that is perfect for retirement.
Port Noarlunga
With a scenic coastline, friendly atmosphere, and easy access to services, Port Noarlunga is an excellent retirement choice. Located about 30 kilometers south of Adelaide, this place brings together natural beauty and everyday convenience.
The iconic Port Noarlunga Jetty and Reef provide ideal spots for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, while the nearby Onkaparinga River National Park offers peaceful walking trails and places to unwind. The Port Noarlunga Arts Centre adds a creative flair to daily life, showcasing a variety of local works and performances. Medical facilities are close by for regular check-ups, with Noarlunga Hospital providing comprehensive healthcare services. With a median home price of around $865K, Port Noarlunga is a warm and fulfilling place to retire.
These destinations across South Australia are known for their food, culture, history, and natural beauty, qualities that have attracted visitors and residents for generations. Coastal locations like Goolwa, Port Elliot, and Port Lincoln offer great views, charming streets, rich heritage, and gorgeous backdrops, creating an ideal setting for retirement. If you picture your next chapter as a retiree in a picturesque and welcoming environment, these South Australian towns are well worth considering.
