12 Best Places To Retire In Tasmania
Tasmania’s peaceful lifestyle, stunning scenery, and strong sense of community make it an ideal retirement destination. From coastal walks in Devonport to riverfront relaxation in Huonville and lively markets in Kingston, the island offers a variety of experiences to suit different preferences. Burnie provides quality healthcare close to the sea, while Margate and Bellerive balance natural beauty with everyday convenience. With historic charm, affordable living, and plenty to explore, Tasmania offers a rewarding way to enjoy your later years in comfort, connection, and calm. Here are the 12 best places to retire in Tasmania.
Devonport
Devonport provides calm living with practical convenience. Set along the Mersey River in northern Tasmania, it is an attractive choice for retirees. Voted Tasmania’s top tourism council in both 2023 and 2024, this regional hub is quiet without feeling remote and offers easy access to essential services.
Highlights include the Bass Strait Maritime Centre, home to historical maps and exhibits, and the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, where visitors can enjoy sweeping ocean views. Each October, Devonport hosts Seniors Week, a lively program filled with social events and wellness activities tailored to older residents. The Devonport Community Centre supports ongoing health needs, and with a median home price of $480k, settling here can be both comfortable and affordable.
Burnie
On Tasmania’s northwest edge, Burnie is the island’s fourth-largest city and a comfortable retreat for those seeking a balance between convenience and calm. Known for its vibrant arts scene and natural beauty, the city invites residents to slow down and enjoy each day at their own pace.
Locals often unwind along the Burnie Waterfront Foreshore or West Beach, where it’s easy to take a quiet stroll, connect with neighbors, or enjoy the ocean breeze. The Burnie Regional Art Gallery showcases an impressive collection of Tasmanian and Australian artists, adding cultural richness to everyday life. However, it is currently closed for renovation, with completion expected in June 2025. With the North West Regional Hospital nearby and a median home price of $565k, Burnie combines scenic living with solid healthcare and affordability.
Margate
With a population of under 5,000, Margate is a small but active community where residents enjoy daily life at an easy pace. While often seen as a stop on the way to Snug or Bruny Island, Margate itself has plenty to offer those looking to settle in for the long term.
Antique lovers will enjoy the Channel Museum, which features photographs, documents, and memorabilia from the Channel region. The nearby Margate Train, a repurposed rail landmark, now houses vintage displays and small local businesses. For a bit of nature and light activity, Dru Point Bicentennial Park is just a short drive away and is perfect for relaxed afternoon walks.
Margate Health Centre supports everyday medical needs, and with a median home price of $780k, seniors can enjoy a quiet life without giving up access to essential services.
Bellerive
Bellerive is a waterfront suburb that combines scenery with city-side convenience. Positioned across the Derwent River from Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, it offers lovely views of the water and Mount Wellington.
Bellerive Beach Park is popular for quiet walks and picnics, while the Kangaroo Bluff Historic Site adds a touch of nature and history to daily routines. For those interested in local heritage, the Tasmanian Family History Society offers valuable insight into genealogical records. Sports lovers can enjoy matches at Ninja Stadium, home to cricket and football events throughout the year. Medical care is nearby at Bellerive Health Hub, and the suburb’s reliable public transport and safe atmosphere make daily life stress-free. With a median home price of $830k, Bellerive delivers comfort and accessibility in one of Tasmania’s most pleasant waterside areas.
New Norfolk
New Norfolk is a standout option for those who picture retirement surrounded by rolling hills and colonial charm. As the 12th oldest settlement in Australia and along the River Derwent, it offers a gentle pace of life with the benefits of nearby services and natural beauty.
The river provides peaceful spots for fishing, walking, and afternoon picnics. History lovers can explore Willow Court, a former mental asylum now home to markets and guided heritage tours, or visit St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, built in 1823. For outdoor views, Pulpit Rock Lookout and the Derwent Cliffs Walk reveal clear waters framed by dramatic rock and greenery. Health support is available through Corumbene Care, and with a median home price of $465k, New Norfolk presents an affordable and rewarding setting for a relaxed retirement.
Kingston
Kingston blends relaxed coastal living with easy access to city conveniences, making it a practical and scenic place to live. Whether you’re enjoying gentle walks along Kingston Beach or following the local Heritage Trail, which includes stops like the Kingston National Trust Museum, there’s no shortage of things to explore. The trail takes about two hours to complete and offers insight into its early colonial past. Kingston is also well-equipped for senior living, with medical support available at the Kingston Community Health Centre. Homes here are more affordable than in nearby Hobart, with a median price of around $740k. Reliable transport and a welcoming atmosphere make Kingston a standout choice for comfort and connection close to the Island’s capital.
Huonville
Beside the Huon River and framed by rolling orchards, Huonville is a relaxed regional center for those who enjoy space, tradition, and fresh air. Known for its apple-growing heritage, the town offers riverside walks, fishing spots, and easy access to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Locals often spend time at the Huon Valley Caravan Park or take drives through the surrounding countryside, which is dotted with produce stalls and open farmland. Healthcare needs are met at the Huonville Community Health Centre. With a median home value of $595k, Huonville is a peaceful and affordable option for those ready to settle into nature-rich retirement living.
Sandy Bay
Sandy Bay is an elegant village well-known for its calm surroundings and access to beautiful beaches; the suburb encourages a lifestyle that balances rest and engagement.
Mornings can start with a walk along the foreshore, followed by a visit to Long Beach or Nutgrove Beach for swimming or a casual picnic. Twilight Market is a popular local event that fosters connection among residents and showcases local food and crafts, operating from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm at Long Beach Sandy Bay on the first two Fridays of the month from November through March. Pensioners enjoy access to shops, services, and the Sandy Bay Senior Citizens Club, which provides regular social and recreational opportunities. With a median home price of $1.285m, Sandy Bay offers a refined place to live in retirement.
Sorell
One of Tasmania’s oldest towns, Sorell, was founded in 1808 and has retained much of its historical lure. Its colonial-era buildings and early churches lend a timeless feel to everyday life, creating an ideal setting for seniors seeking comfort with character.
The Waterway Trail near Pioneer Park is excellent for easy bushland walks, while the Sorell Fruit Farm invites locals to pick seasonal produce and enjoy casual outdoor activities. Each weekend, the Sorell Country Fresh Market showcases regional crafts and food in a lively, welcoming area. Medical support is available through the Sorell Medical Centre, and community programs like Senior Week keep older residents active and socially engaged. With quiet streets, minimal traffic, and a median home price of around $650k, Sorell delivers a steady, culture-rich lifestyle close to the essentials.
Bicheno
Retirees drawn to ocean views and quiet living will find a refreshing pace in Bicheno. The town is loved for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and close connection to nature on Tasmania’s east coast.
Enjoy cool afternoon strolls along Waubs Bay Beach or a short climb at Whalers Lookout for elevated views of the coastline. The Bicheno Blowhole remains a popular local feature, and in the evenings, visitors can join Bicheno Penguin Tours to observe little penguins returning from the sea to their nests. East Coast Natureworld offers a deeper look at Tasmania’s wildlife, with walking trails across 150 acres of natural habitat. Day-to-day health needs are supported by the Bicheno General Practice, which has larger medical facilities in Swansea. With a median home value of $742.5k, Bicheno provides a scenic and peaceful retirement option by the sea.
Deloraine
Deloraine is a picturesque township along the Meander River for seniors who appreciate heritage, creativity, and a slower rhythm. The Deloraine and Districts Folk Museum offers a glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past, while galleries like Deloraine Creative Studios Inc. highlight local talent through crafts and original artwork.
The town also hosts one of Australia’s largest annual craft fairs, making it a cultural hub for handmade goods and regional art. For a dose of nature and history, the Great Western Tiers Visitor Centre provides walking tracks and insight into the surrounding landscape. The Deloraine District Hospital covers healthcare needs, with additional support available at Aged Care Deloraine. With a median home value of $545k, this riverside retreat combines affordability with cultural richness.
St. Helens
Located on Tasmania’s northeast coast, St. Helens is best known for its proximity to the Bay of Fires, where white-sand beaches and turquoise water define the landscape. As the largest town along this stretch, it provides space, services, and connections for anyone seeking both quiet and activity. Enjoy walking trails at the nearby St. Helens Point Conservation Area or take part in community events like the Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival and weekly markets, which create regular opportunities for social engagement. Medical support is available at the St. Helens District Hospital and Community Centre, offering care around the clock. With a median home value of $560k, St. Helens presents a relaxed and affordable coastal lifestyle with plenty of local character.
Retirement in Tasmania: Where Community, Comfort, and Nature Align
Retirement should not feel complicated, especially with welcoming locations like Bellerive, Huonville, and Sorell offering a slower life rhythm and access to everything you need. Accessible healthcare and strong community ties make these towns ideal for a fulfilling retirement. If you love an afternoon in Bicheno’s coastal surroundings or would like to spend time among senior-friendly spaces in Margate, there’s always something meaningful to do. With accessible healthcare and strong community ties, these towns in Tasmania make retirement both rewarding and well worth the investment.
