CITRO - Australia's top 30 retirement locations 2024

Alex Brooks Editor’s letter

Editorial Director

Relocating for retirement is an Aussie tradition

Whether it’s a sea-change or tree-change, moving to a regional location to retire is as Australian as football, meat pies, kangaroos and Holden cars

Relocating to live outside the hustle and bustle of big cities but close to medical and recreational facilities is a trend that’s likely to continue as people trade their valuable city homes to boost their superannuation

As AMP’s chief economist Dr Shane Oliver tells us, “the most sought after locations are likely to be north east New South Wales, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts in Queensland and Mandurah in Western Australia

“As affordability issues in those areas start to bite, there will be a likely flow onto cheaper, more affordable locations such as the New England region of NSW, the mid north and south coasts in NSW, around Hervey Bay in Queensland and parts of Tasmania.”

My own grandparents made the leap from renting an inner city Sydney flat to owning on the rural south coast of NSW back in the 1960s

They saved for 20 years to buy a simple fibro shack, putting money away each week to pay it off and save for a septic tank. Their dream retirement property was not lavish, even after my grandmother wallpapered it with her favourite colours, royal purple and regal gold

The importance of that home was that it was a mortgage-free roof over their head, which allowed them to live simply on the Age Pension

The locations Citro has chosen for this guide offer a good mix of affordable spots to rent or buy near decent amenities like a good hospital and plenty of dining and leisure options.

The best place to retire is as personal as your favourite wallpaper colours - there’s no right answer for everybody, only what’s right for you.

New South Wales & Australian Capital Territory

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT GREATER SYDNEY $777

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT REST OF NSW

RENT ACT

Source: Core Logic 2024

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE GREATER SYDNEY

$1,156,020

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE REST OF NSW $733,354

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE ACT $840,100

Armidale

NEW SOUTH WALES

NORTHERN TABLELANDS

→ UNIVERSITY TOWN

→ LEAFY COOL CLIMATE

→ MULTICULTURAL

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $449,677

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $444

Why you might like it

About halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Armidale is a bustling administrative centre, with easy access to national parks, gorges, cool-climate vineyards, waterfalls and wildlife habitats All at a fraction of the cost of living in either of the big cities.

As the home of the University of New England, it’s a multicultural and sophisticated city too - with people from over 80 nations calling Armidale home. It also has all the infrastructure and amenities you need for a comfortable life.

Culture Fest, a free celebration of the region’s diversity of different cultures, is held every March and sees the city lined with international food vendors, live music and cultural events

Population: 29,630

Distance to nearest major hospital: Armidale Hospital is in Armidale Traditional custodians: The Anaiwan people

Discover the perfect blend of urban sophistication, charming country life and natural beauty in the multicultural university town of historic Armidale.

Regional art and culture

For culture lovers, Armidale boasts the best regional gallery in NSW outside of the main metropolitan cities - New England Regional Art Museum - with major collections valued at over $40 million. The museum also hosts regular events, workshops and art classes

Armidale also has a twin cinema, a music conservatorium, a symphony orchestra, the biennial Bach Festival and several choral groups you can join The university theatre students also put on regular shows throughout the year.

If you love the outdoors, there’s plenty to keep you occupied, with bushwalking in local national parks, trout fishing, sailing on Malpas Dam and heli-fishing.

Armidale is also home to the Waterfall Way, 185 km of scenic road that passes various waterfalls, valleys and rainforest bush. Wollomombi Falls is one of the highlights of the way, with a 240 metre long drop easily seen from a viewing deck.

For a local tipple, there are plenty of wineries and breweries to visit. Try Welder’s Dog and Great Hops craft breweries, as well as Petersons Wines for cellar door tastings.

A busy social life

If you like the idea of a sustainable life, you might want to consider a hobby farm on the outskirts of the city, or there is a variety of houses and apartments in the Armidale suburbs to choose from.

If you’d like to get involved in the local community, Garden Volunteers is a not-forprofit group that cultivates community while improving the historical gardens of Saumarez Homestead.

Armidale Golf Club offers a scenic 18-holes and it welcomes new members. ‘Servies’, the Armidale Ex Services Memorial Club is also a thriving social hub, with a bar, cafe, bistro and gelato bar

There are also volunteering opportunities, with the Armidale Volunteer Referral Service matching people to opportunities to suit their skills and interests.

Sold for $620 in March 2024

Armidale has 4 national parks close by, with historic homes and buildings throughout the district.

Ballina

NEW SOUTH WALES NORTHERN RIVERS

→ CLOSE TO BYRON BAY

→ SUBTROPICAL CLIMATE

→ BEACH, RIVER AND WATERWAYS

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $981,075

MEDIAN RENT: $747 PER WEEK

Why you might like it

If you like the feel of Byron Bay but not the crowds or the price tag, Ballina could be for you.

Located in northern New South Wales, on the banks of the Richmond River, Ballina perfectly blends country town charm with coastal living. It’s got the relaxed, beachy vibe and cafe culture the region is famous for without the less-than-relaxing tourist crowds

Ballina is big enough to have all the amenities you need, including excellent healthcare, but small enough to still be a tight-knit community (that happily welcomes newcomers). And if you ’ re a regular traveller, it’s hard to underestimate just how good it is to have a well-serviced airport right at your door.

Population: 29,630

Distance to nearest major hospital: Ballina District Hospital is in Ballina Traditional custodians: The Bundjalung people

Ballina is a coastal paradise with great beaches, great food, great fishing and an equally great community to welcome you.

Beaches and beauty

The first thing that will strike you about Ballina is its natural beauty Surrounded by stunning surf beaches, the area is also home to several national parks - perfect for those who love the outdoors.

Perhaps the second thing to strike you about Ballina is that it’s home to the iconic 35-tonne Big Prawn. And if that’s not enough of a hint that this is a seafood lover’s paradise, the myriad fresh seafood suppliers and restaurants should do the trick.

The Ballina Fisherman’s Co-op has fresh and cooked seafood, as does Northern Rivers Seafood

Or you can go out and catch your own haul, with plenty of boat ramps, jetties, sea walls and rocky outcrops to fish from, as well as the Richmond River, with a variety of bream, whiting, flathead, jewfish, trevally, blackfish, mangrove jack and tailor living here. The Ballina Angling Club is always looking for new members.

Apart from the beaches and seafood, it’s Ballina’s strong sense of community that draws people in. There’s always something to do and plenty of ways to get involved and meet new people.

The Ballina Cup, a thoroughbred horse race, is held every January at the local track and is known for its food, drink and fashion And the Ballina Art Society hosts an exhibition each November, as well as hosting classes and workshops throughout the year.

Ballina’s what’s on website keeps you up to date with events and opportunities like a platypus walk, meet locals for a sundowner, take craft classes and much more.

Byron Bay is only half an hour’s drive down the road, so you ’ re close to big events like the Byron Bay Bluesfest, as well as all the Byron Bay Writers Festival and the Byron Spirit Festival.

Ballina boasts a huge range of clubs and social groups to join, including the local RSL, Men’s Shed, Dragonboat Club, walking and gardening groups, croquet, petanque and the Ballina Concert Band. There is also a bustling calendar of trivia, bingo and raffles at the many local pubs and clubs. You can check out the full list of activities and events on the Discover Ballina website.

The town has a wide range of housing available, from beachside apartments to rural acreages. And while recent demand has driven prices up, it still offers great value compared with some of its more fashionable coastal neighbours

Ballina is a beach town with great surfing, cycling, fishing and eating spots - try the fresh seafood.

Ballina lighthouse

Belconnen

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

GREATER CANBERRA

→ CAPITAL LIFESTYLE

→ CANBERRA LIVING

→ ROOM TO BREATHE

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $521,834

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $553

Why you might like it

If you love suburban living, with all its everyday conveniences, but still want to be connected to the hustle and bustle of a big city, Belconnen in Canberra’s northwest could be for you.

Catering to a range of lifestyles, the district has plenty of action, but also gives you room to breathe - and, being only 7 kilometres from the Canberra CBD, you know the area is well-planned out with good major roads, public transport and accessible amenities.

Canberra has a high standard of living at a generally lower cost than other major Australian cities Which means you can enjoy being close to the action in Belconnen without the major expense of a similar property in an inner suburb of Sydney or Melbourne.

Population: 106,061

Distance to nearest major hospital: 4.8 km to Calvary Bruce Private Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Ngunnawal People

Love the modern conveniences of the big city, but want it at a lower price with less traffic? Belconnen offers a busy lifestyle with room to breathe.

Belconnen is known for its array of native plants and nature walks - which range from easy to intermediate, with many being under 5 km. You can see some of the more popular bushwalks here. The National Bonsai and Penjing Association is also located 10 minutes away in Bruce and it boasts 75 trees on display at any one time.

Footy fans will also enjoy the thriving sports community in Belconnen. Between the Magpies, the Blue Devils and the Sharks, you ’ ve got every code covered

GIO Stadium is in neighbouring Bruce, where you can watch the Canberra Raiders and Brumbies play, as well as see motorsports and a range of big stadium concerts.

And there is plenty in the area to keep you busy, with the local Westfield having cinemas, shops and eateries - plus you’ll also find a library, swimming pools and dozens of cafes and restaurants lining picturesque Lake Ginninderra.

Lake Ginninderra is also a popular local spot for picnics and barbecues and the western section also has a sandy beach, swimming enclosure and boat launching ramp. Fishing in the ACT can hook you Murray cod, golden perch, brown trout, redfin and carp

For golfers who like the 19th hole as much as the rest of them, The Burns Golf Club is a hub of activity and opportunities to meet people. With huge screens for live sport, a bistro open for lunch and dinner and a busy social calendar of activities, it’s open every day.

Writers and stars

The Senior Citizens’ Social Group in Belconnen is a group of lively over 50s who get together to have fun and learn new skills, including craft, stretch and balance classes, dancing, table tennis, line dancing, singing and indoor bowls. They pride themselves on their warm and friendly atmosphere.

All of this is on your doorstep in Belconnen, but if you want more, you just have a venture out a few kilometres to the rest of Canberra, where you ’ ve got all the comforts and amenities of a big city Some highlights include Lake BurleyGriffin, Mount Stromlo Observatory and of course, Parliament House.

Canberra is also a cultural hub, with a rapidly growing arts scene. The Canberra Writers Festival brings authors, publishers and readers together every year and Enlighten Festival transforms the city with stunning illuminations, street performances and a dazzling hot-air balloon event.

Belconnen will give you city living within proximity to waterways, bush and good roads and transport.

Berrigan

NEW SOUTH WALES

SOUTHERN RIVERINA

SMALL TOWN LIVING

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $281,711

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $373

Why you might like it

If quiet country towns and a simple way of life sound like heaven to you, Berrigan could provide the retirement lifestyle of your dreams.

A traditional agricultural area, known for its vineyards, grain, fruit, potatoes and cattle farming, Berrigan has a 1950s charm that seems to have frozen in time.

Being a small town, it’s a quiet life here, but Melbourne is only three hours’ drive south and major shopping centres are nearbywith Shepparton and Albury-Wodonga each around an hour away.

The region is a golfer’s paradise, with some fantastic golf courses, including Wagga City Golf Club, Murray Downs Golf and Country Club, Corowa Golf Club and Yarawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort.

Population: 1,264

Distance to nearest major hospital: Berrigan Multi Purpose Service offers a range of healthcare options, including an emergency department. The nearest major hospital is Corowa District Hospital, 74 km away

Traditional custodians: The Wiradjuri People

Yearning for a simpler life, where the people are kind and the setting is wholesome? Berrigan offers true-blue country charm.

You’re also close to Rutherglen wineries, Corowa Whisky and Chocolate, a motor museum in Deniliquin and cod fishing on the Murray River.

You can even wave out the window to the Big Murray Cod on your drive into Berrigan from Tocumwal

Berrigan is a popular retirement choice because of the warm and welcoming nature of the locals. Not only do many choose to move here, it’s also claimed quite a few grey nomads who were passing through fell in love with the country charm and decided to stay.

Friendly, affordable living

The Berrigan Community Golf and Bowling Club is a social hub that hosts regular events and casual dining, plus it also has a dam great for catching trout and other native fish.

Berrigan War Memorial Swimming Pool offers free entry, you can join the Berrigan District Race Club and the Berrigan Red Cross welcomes volunteers.

For the past 123 years, on the October long weekend, the town has come together for the annual Berrigan Show. If you ’ ve ever experienced a proper country show, you’ll know the weekend is a highlight for a reason

Berrigan has quite a few compact units and one-bedroom homes, which are a great choice if you’d like to keep things small. You’ll also find bigger homes in town and as you head out to more rural properties

If you ’ re a walker, you’ll love the range of flat walking trails in the area and the sweeping fields of canola that carpet the land in yellow in the spring The Berrigan Heritage Walk is a great way to get to know the town and settle in, taking you through 20 different locations, including the Heritage Museum.

This area has a rich Aboriginal history, with the name of the town coming from the local Wiradjuri word for ‘weeping emu bush’.

Sold for $150,000 in August 2023

Berrigan is close to towns like Tocumwal and Deniliquin in NSW and is close to Rutherglen wineries.

Katoomba

→ FRESH MOUNTAIN AIR

→ VIBRANT ARTS SCENE

→ TRAIN LINKS TO SYDNEY

NEW SOUTH WALES BLUE MOUNTAINS

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $780,729

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $611

Why you might like it

Katoomba puts you at the centre of the iconic Blue Mountains just 90-minute drive to Sydney and on the city train line. You’re in the hub of the Blue Mountains, with plenty of supermarkets, shops and places to eat

Many move to the Blue Mountains for the natural beauty, peace and calm energy. It’s a magical place full of lookouts, waterfalls, historical walking tracks, Aboriginal culture and history and historic buildings

Summer can be warm and dry, like many places in Australia, but in autumn, the place comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colour as the leaves change from green to red, amber, yellow and earthy brown. If you ’ re lucky, you might see snow during the chilly winter (especially in nearby Blackheath). Then, in spring, the land comes alive again with wafts of boronia, wattle and waratahs in bloom

Population: 7,964

Distance to nearest major hospital: 1.7 km from Blue Mountains District ANZAC Memorial Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Dharug and Gundungurra Peoples

If

scenic mountain views and peaceful bushland

are what you ’ re after, but you don’t want to sacrifice big-city amenities, Katoomba can give you the best of both.

Gorgeous homes of all sizes

Bush retreat-style homes are the go here, tucked between headlands of bush and often surrounded by scenic views of the Blue Mountains. A few traditional wooden cottages remain, some with expansive views over the valley.

Tourists come to Katoomba for the iconic views of the Three Sisters mountain formation from Echo Point and to ride the scenic cableway at Scenic World, but many residents understandably say they can never get enough of the scenery too

Plenty to get stuck into

There are myriad walking trails to explore too and - for those brave enough - the famous Giant Stairway, which is 800 steps down to the valley below (remember to tell someone where you ’ re going and also that you’ll have to somehow get back up!).

Live music fans will love the annual Blue Mountains Blues Festival, gigs at The Bootlegger Bar and The Baroque Room at the Carrington Hotel (the hotel’s historic Grand Dining Room is also a must-visit).

For yoga lovers, Mid Mountains Chair Yoga is a gentle class, but there are lots of yoga schools in the area. If the gym is more your style, Anytime Fitness is here, plus a range of other gyms and fitness classes to suit every kind of workout

For green thumbs, the lovely Blue Mountains Organic Community Garden hosts a weekly gardening event where you can help maintain the land, create art, plant seeds and even pick fruit and vegetables to take home.

Up the road, the Katoomba Men’s Shed is a local community of mateship and better wellbeing, where local men can connect, use the facilities to work on carpentry projects and participate in groups, such as computer club and the model railway group.

Katoomba also has a Probus Club, an RSL that hosts plenty of shows by touring musicians, comedians and performers and a rural fire brigade that is entirely staffed by dedicated volunteers

Katoomba is an old coal mining town. Its name is said to come from the Indigenous word for ‘waterfalls’.

Orange

NEW SOUTH WALES

CENTRAL TABLELANDS

→ REGIONAL HOTSPOT

→ GOOD HOSPITAL AND LIFESTYLE

→ HISTORIC HOMES AND ACREAGE

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $622,905

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $545

Why you might like it

Located in the heart of New South Wales, Orange is a tree-change retirement dream. It’s so open to newcomers that the local council runs welcome lunches for new residents several times a year.

The affordability is one of the town’s most attractive features, with Californian bungalows in the city, or rural properties with country views and room for a horse - all for about half what you’d expect to pay in Sydney.

Elegant streetscapes, beautiful parks and the small community vibe will make Orange feel like home in no time. It’s an area of four distinct seasons, with mild summers and cool winters.

Orange was a site of the Gold Rush era, which brought infrastructure to the area and made it an important business centre. The beautiful parks and gardens that are enjoyed in the city today were developed during that era.

Population: 41,920 Distance to nearest major hospital: Orange Health Service is in Orange Traditional custodians: The Wiradjuri People

With everything you need for the tree-change of your dreams, Orange is welcoming to newcomers and it has a thriving food and wine scene. What are you waiting for?

Great food and wine

Foodies and wine lovers will be in their element in Orange, with over 60 winerie and cellar doors in the area and local win regularly winning national and internatio awards.

The region’s quality wine and produce features heavily in its bustling cafe and restaurant culture and several events ar held to celebrate this vibrant foodie sce

The Food of Orange District (FOOD) Week is an annual highlight and the weekly Orange Regional Farmers Markets is a great place to find fresh, locally sourced produce.

Active community life

Orange Health Service is one of the largest regional hospitals in NSW, so most of your healthcare needs can be taken care of locally, now and into the future.

If you want to get social, the Orange and District 40+ Social Group is a community that comes together regularly for various social activities, the Ionian Club is a women ’ s friendship group that welcomes newcomers to the area and the Senior Citizens Association is a great network that hosts a community lunch almost every week day.

The Seniors Village Hub is another place for over 55s to take part in inclusive activities, maintain health and wellbeing, socialise with likeminded people or simply enjoy a cuppa and a chat with friends. Some of their activities include tai chi, art group, chair yoga, craft and Scrabble.

You’ll also find every kind of interest group, like the Orange Art Society, Everupward Craft Group, Male Voice Choir, Orange Social Dance Group and more.

Orange is part of Wiradjuri land – which was the largest Aboriginal territory at the time of European settlement, covering the Central West slopes and plains.

Today around 6 2% of the population identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander

Orange is a rich and fertile farming district with a thriving tourism industry.

Tuncurry

NEW SOUTH WALES

MID-NORTH COAST

→ TWIN TOWN LIVING

→

→

BEACHES, LAKES AND MORE

WATER LOVERS’ PARADISE

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $678,687

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $492

Why you might like it

It’s hard to talk about Tuncurry without mentioning the entire Forster-Tuncurry area.

The twin towns of Forster-Tuncurry are a holiday-style area with plenty of accommodation, great seafood (they claim to have the best Sydney rock oysters you’ll get anywhere), abundant cafes, good fishing, surfing and swimming areas and a relaxed lifestyle with plenty to do

Nearby Booti Booti National Park is popular for birdwatching and bushwalking - the endangered Little Tern breeds on two of Wallis Lake's many islands

They’re ‘twin towns’ but we think Tuncurry has the edge on Forster - visit busy Forster for all its amenities before slipping back to your idyllic beach life in Tuncurry

Population: 20,995

Distance to nearest major hospital: 32 km from Manning Base Hospital, Taree Traditional custodians: The Biripi People

Spectacular coastal living near big showy beaches and spectacular lakes on the midnorth coast. If you want to be a part of a thriving, active community, beautiful Tuncurry is beckoning.

Thrive on beaches and fun

As with many coastal holiday towns, there are plenty of units available to rent or buy in Tuncurry, many built on big blocks with a lawn and only a stone’s throw to the water.

The leisure options are plentiful. Tuncurry Rock Pool is a popular swimming spot in clear, protected waters and the nearby walkway is great for an afternoon stroll.

The Coominya Pub - also known as the Bellevue Hotel - is a local favourite with a well-run bistro serving classic pub grub

Seafood lovers can visit one of the many oyster farms and eat super-fresh seafood by the sea Try Colin Wren Oysters or nearby Blue Coast Oyster Co

The Forster-Tuncurry region is also home to some of the best fishing on the midnorth coast. This local guide provides advice on the best sites, times and baits you’ll need. And only a 17-minute drive from Tuncurry is Black Head Headland, a shallow reef perfect for a day of fishing.

If you ’ re looking to stay fit and active, the Great Lakes Aquatic and Leisure Centre offers a range of memberships and Twine Yoga Studio offers vinyasa and restorative yoga and mat pilates.

Sold for $799,000 in Feb 2024

Interest groups galore

The Great Lakes Women’s Shed is a community group of local Forster-Tuncurry women, where you can gather for fun activities, hear from guest speakers and learn new skills.

Group classes at the Shed include painting, mosaic art, carpentry and jewellery making.

There’s also an organisation called Linked Community Services, which arranges outings for locals Trips vary, with recent ones being coffee catch-ups, lunch and breweries and attending musicals. A great way to meet people and get involved with your local community.

You might also want to join Sporties Tuncurry and the Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club hosts bowls tournaments and live sport coverage, as well as live music and bistro dining.

Tuncurry is on the Barrington Coast, which is known for its great fishing - catch bream, bonito and kingfish.

Yass

NEW SOUTH WALES

CENTRAL TABLELANDS

→ EASY CITY ACCESS

→ FRIENDLY LOCALS

→ WINERIES AND WALKS

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $688,072

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $522

Why you might like it

Looking for the best of both worlds? Yass is a modern, growing community with wide open spaces and clean air, all a hop, skip and a jump from our nation’s busy capital.

Being less than an hour from Canberra means you don’t have to give up access to the conveniences of a big city, but the Yass Valley truly feels like a world away.

Think rolling hills, lush vineyards and tranquil countryside. Whether you want to run, walk, cycle, or drive, Yass has the kind of scenery that instantly unwinds you.

Yass also has a bustling town centre filled with boutique businesses and many larger chain stores. There’s a range of housing options to pick from, including apartments, country cottages and large homes, all much more affordable than similar city dwellings

Population: 17,379

Distance to nearest major hospital: Yass

District Hospital is in Yass Traditional custodians: The Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri People

Set in the Yass Valley, less than an hour from Canberra, the recurring theme of Yass is its welcoming nature and relaxed lifestyle. Could Yass be the friendliest town in Australia?

Historic buildings & a great vibe

There is a flourishing wine industry around Yass, with a number of old and new wineries dotting the picture-perfect landscape. These cool-climate vineyards produce exceptional wines, attracting wine lovers from far and wide - but lucky you: you get to live here

Yass is known for welcoming newcomers, with a warmth that will make it easy to integrate into the fabric of the town And no matter what you ’ re into, there are plenty of events and activities to get involved in and meet your new neighbours.

It all comes together at venues like Yazzbar, a wine and jazz club that is always hopping. Annual music and arts festival Alive in the Park is also not to be missed.

The Visual Arts Society of Yass holds regular events at the local community centre, including clay workshops and lampshade making.

Right in the heart of town, The Liberty Theatre ( a restored Art Deco building from 1939) offers culture and arts to the neighbourhood through cinema theatre

Culture and community

Yass does well catering for culture-lovers. The Yass Day View Club is a local women ’ s network which welcomes new members and the Yass Music Club welcomes music lovers of all persuasions. The club puts on regular concerts at the Yass Memorial Hall.

The Yass Soldiers Club is a great place to socialise and get a meal seven days a week, with regular trivia, poker and bingo nights.

The Yass Bowling Club is the place for social and competition bowls and the adjoining Steve’s Terracotta Restaurant is a local favourite that makes excellent steak and bistro meals.

The annual Yass Show, held every March, brings the community together through a range of exhibits farm stock competitions

Yass is close to Canberra and Sydney, making it popular for retirees from both cities.

Queensland

Beautiful one day, perfect the next. This state has long been a magnet for southern retirees seeking warmer weather, more affordable property and a great lifestyle.

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT GREATER BRISBANE

$653

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT REST OF QLD $620

Source: Core Logic 2024

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE GREATER BRISBANE

$843,231

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE REST OF QLD

$637,570

Bundaberg

→ FRESH MOUNTAIN AIR

→ VIBRANT ARTS SCENE

→ TRAIN LINKS TO SYDNEY

QUEENSLAND

WIDE BAY BURNETT

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $509,855

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $538

Why you might like it

With a mild but warm climate, mirroring that of Hawaii, it’s the near perfect weather that draws many retirees to Bundabergalthough if you ’ re going to be a local, you’ll need to start calling it ‘Bundy’

Summers average a top of 30 degrees and winters a top of 22 degrees - that’s just about perfect for an outdoor lifestyle all year round

But it’s not just the weather that you’ll love about Bundy. It’s also perfectly situated for easy access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, as well as offering a wide variety of nature parks, bushland, beaches and fishing

Community life thrives here too with every kind of club, interest group and organised activity you could ever wish for We also hear they’re quite good at making rum

Population: 102,076

Distance to nearest major hospital: Bundaberg Hospital is in Bundaberg Traditional custodians: The Taribelang, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang and Bailai Peoples

With a warm tropical climate, the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, Bundy is a haven for those that love the outdoors.

Community paradise

Located 360km north of Brisbane, Bundy is a bustling provincial capital, dotted with well-preserved heritage buildings in town contrasted by modern, dynamic architecture found along the Burnett River

The city has a growing cafe culture and a relaxed lifestyle, with everything you need just a few minutes away Real estate is still relatively affordable and there are multiple hospitals, solid infrastructure and a safe community. All of which comes with easy access to beautiful beaches and hinterland.

Just a 10-minute drive down the road is the seaside town of Bargara, the first point of entry for the Southern Great Barrier Reef. You’ll also find the clear waters of Elliott Heads nearby, as well as the famous turtles of Mon Repos, which lay their eggs on the beach every year.

If you ’ re a nature lover and you’d like to get involved in the community, the Mon Repos Turtle Centre welcomes volunteers to help guide newly-hatched baby turtles.

The Friendly Society Private Hospital is also always looking for volunteers to help patients find their way and feel welcome

Bundy hosts its own Relay for Life event each year, hosting fun relays and activities to fundraise for cancer research There are also a range of clubs you can join, including the Men’s Shed, Rotary, Lions, RSL and more. You can see an extensive list on the Bundaberg Regional Council website

The Bundaberg Botanical Gardens is a popular spot for picnics and the Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery showcases works from local artists, as well as national and international exhibitions For aviation enthusiasts, the Hinkler Hall of Aviation offers insights into the life and work of early Australian aviator Bert Hinkler.

And no conversation about Bundy is complete without mentioning its most famous export: Bundaberg Rum. You can visit the distiller of “Australia’s favourite rum ” and guide yourself through their museum, or participate in a tasting or two

Listed for $159,000 in March 2024

Bundaberg is the 10th largest city in Queensland and has a rich agricultural history.

Caloundra

→ REMARKABLE BEACHES

→ LOTS TO SEE AND DO

→ LAIDBACK CHARM

QUEENSLAND SUNSHINE COAST

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $826,745

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $650

Why you might like it

Ideally located along a protected stretch of several Sunshine Coast beaches, Caloundra sits just across a narrow channel from the northern tip of Bribie Island.

While not as flashy as its glamorous northern cousin Noosa, Caloundra offers spectacular views out to the Glass House Mountains and is a bustling community with an endless variety of things to see and do You can live the carefree life of a beachside tourist for around the same price would pay in the Brisbane suburbs.

Rental homes here range from luxe waterfront apartments offering panoramic Pacific Ocean views to cosy suburban homes further back from the beach, nestled among green parks and walking trails, so there’s a home in Caloundra for every preference and budget

Population: 56,213

Distance to nearest major hospital: 9 km to Sunshine Coast University Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Kabi Kabi and the Jinibara Peoples

Dreaming of a sun-kissed retirement? Caloundra has plenty to keep you busy and all the laidback charm you want – without the price tag of some of its flashier Sunshine Coast neighbours.

Float down the waterw

South-facing Bulcock Beach offers calm waters to float in, as well as e fishing and waterfront barbecues.

A short stroll along the extensive c walking paths takes you around to patrolled Kings Beach, where you s the ocean pool or stroll along the M Trail.

There are plenty of dining options to choose from - like Kings Beach Surf Club, the Caloundra RSL, fine dining seafood options and beachfront cafes.

But life in Caloundra is not just about eating well and soaking in sunsets, it’s also a place for the active and creative.

You can join a range of sports clubs, including the Waves Bowls Club, Pelican Waters Golf Club, Caloundra Mallet Sports Club (try your hand at golf croquet...) and the Caloundra Power Boat Fishing Club.

For creative types, the Wild Craft Collective offers workshops in jewellery, dl ki i ti d Th ’

Caloundra s thriving volunteer culture offers unique ways to get involved, from beach clean-ups to Meals on Wheels And the Caloundra Community Centre is a hub where you can lend a hand in various programs, or even start your own.

The active community spirit is particularly evident on Sundays when Bulcock Street is closed off to make way for the Caloundra Street Fair with over 100 unique stalls.

Culture buffs will also make good use of the Strand Cinema, as well as the Sunshine Coast’s premier performing arts venue, The Events Centre.

Retiring to Caloundra offers a rich, inclusive lifestyle that's as relaxed or as active as you h B t thi i f ’ll

Caloundra has spectacular beaches that include calm water bays and surf beaches.

Coolangatta

→ BEACH LIVING

→ VIBRANT FOOD CULTURE

→ GOLD COAST CHARM

QUEENSLAND GOLD COAST

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $1,213,743

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $806

Why you might like it

Located on the Queensland-New South Wales border at the southern end of the Gold Coast, ‘Cooly’ is truly a surfers’ paradise - but it’s so much more than that.

Away from the chaos and tourism of busy Surfers Paradise (which you can visit in a 30-minute drive), Coolangatta has retained a lot of old-school charm.

Most housing on offer near the coast is older apartments, with some newer developments springing up. As you move further inland, you’ll start to see houses on decent-sized blocks

Cooly has all the amenities you need to live the good life for years to come. It draws a mature and relaxed crowd which means you can enjoy the sun, sand and pristine surf beaches by day, relaxing into quiet evenings after the sun goes down.

Population: 6,681

Distance to nearest major hospital: 2 km from The Tweed Hospital and close to Gold Coast University Hospital Traditional custodians: The Yugambeh People

If you want the natural coastal beauty of the Gold Coast, without the glitz and noise of Surfers Paradise, Coolangatta offers something different.

Every kind of beach experience

If you like a surf - or you just like watching world-class surfers from the comfort of your towel - Snapper Rocks, Rainbow, Duranbah and Currumbin Alley are the go-to beaches. Or visit Kirra, Tallebudgera Creek or Greenmount for a calmer beach or creek swim

Cooly is home to the Quicksilver Pro and the Roxy Pro - some of the biggest events on the world surf calendar, as well as iconic endurance race, the Coolangatta Gold.

Great fishing & lifestyle

Beach fishing is allowed all along the Gold Coast (just stay away from the areas with the red and yellow flags).

Whales and walks

Starting or ending your day with a beach walk feels like a must here and you can do that along a beautiful beach walk that wraps its way along Greenmount Hill, connecting Greenmount and Rainbow beaches.

Keep walking up the hill towards the Queensland-New South Wales border at Point Danger and you could also be treated to some in-season whale watching.

Other Cooly-good ways to get outside include meeting up with the Twin Towns Social Walkers and Runners, taking in a round at Coolangatta & Tweed Golf Club or joining a morning Tai Chi class.

Try your luck at Snapper Rocks, Kirra Beach and Coolangatta-Greenmount Beach, or Currumbin and Tallebudgera creeks and don’t forget the Tweed River (you’ll need a licence for this one).

If you ever tire of fishing (and really, could anyone?), there’s great shopping in Cooly, with The Strand the place to find cinemas, boutiques, chain stores and eateries.

If you want to get social, see a show or grab a bite, you can’t go past Twin Towns, a massive services club. It’s popular with locals and tourists alike, making for a lively vibe all week. The Coolangatta Surf Club is also a popular social hub, with unbeatable beach views

The Cooly Bowls Club calls itself the “friendliest little club on the Gold Coast”worth checking out the hype The Coolangatta Senior Citizens Centre is another excellent social spot for over 50s.

The bustling community markets are held every Thursday at Goodwin Park and Cooly also hosts a number of popular weekend festivals during the year (like Cooly Rocks On which proudly celebrates anything and everything vintage).

Snapper Rocks is a worldrenowned surf break and is often referred to as the “superbank” thanks to its long, consistent waves.

Hervey Bay

→ ONE FOR WILDLIFE LOVERS

→ RAINFOREST AND BEACH

→ CLOSE TO K’GARI FRASER ISLAND

QUEENSLAND FRASER COAST

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $637,134

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $578

Why you might like it

As housing prices have continued to jump across Australia, the effects have been felt all along the coast of NSW - but take one more tiny step north and you’ll find the Fraser Coast and Hervey Bay

Scenic Hervey Bay is known for its laidback-lifestyle and pristine beaches. It’s a small community, but big enough to house everything you need for a comfortable life: like supermarkets, boutiques, an art gallery, cinema, restaurants and cafes.

This special spot is flanked by amazing coastline, world-heritage listed K’gari (Fraser Island), Lady Elliot Island and picturesque hinterland. It’s a truly spectacular part of the world... yet somehow Hervey Bay is still affordable.

Population: 57,224

Distance to nearest major hospital: Hervey Bay Hospital is in Hervey Bay Traditional custodians: The Batjala people

Hervey Bay offers an affordable coastal lifestyle without sacrificing amenities or access to the city. And it comes with free whale watching. What’s not to love?

A short walk on a long pier

Hervey Bay promises the quiet life, but you ’ re only 3.5 hours away from Brisbane and 2 hours from Noosa. Plus, flights go direct from Hervey Bay airport to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane

Hervey Bay is known as the whale watching capital of the world and you can watch the humpback whales migration twice a year along the area ’ s 17km of sandy beaches

Listed for $530,000 in Mar 2024

Great weather completes it

Plus, you can make a weekend escape to the world’s largest sand island with popular K’gari just a 50-minute ferry ride away.

If you love breathing the sea air, Hervey Bay’s 14km-long tree-lined esplanade is a great way to enjoy the coast, with plenty of parks and cafes along the way to stop for a breather. You can see a full list of parks with barbecue facilities here

You can also experience the coastline from the unique perspective of the iconic Urangan Pier. Built in 1917, it’s the longest pier in Australia, stretching over 868 metres

Pet-friendly Urangan Pier Markets run here twice a week. And, bonus, it’s the perfect place to throw in a line. If you ’ re a fan of fishing, you might also want to join the active Hervey Bay Amateur Fishing Club

For golfers, there are two local courses to choose from, Hervey Bay Golf Club, and Fraser Lakes Golf Club as well as a fullsize golf driving range.

Several friendly bowls clubs in town have championship greens and great social club facilities, including Hervey Bay Bowls Club and Urangan Bowls Club.

The town has many lovely parks, with Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens the pick of the lot. It’s a key spot for bird and wildlife watching, with a large orchid house. They run a volunteer program that’s a great way to meet people

Another way to get involved in the local community is through the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre There are a variety of volunteering roles available here.

y on the water, the d Up Paddle Board Club come-and-try days, beach clean-up events.

g sense of community, n opportunities, acilities and spectacular wonder Hervey Bay am tree-change list.

The pier at Hervey Bay - known as Urangan Pier - is one of the longest in Australia, stretching almost 1 km into the ocean.

Ingham

→ AN HOUR FROM TOWNSVILLE → SMALL TOWN VIBE

FRESH PRODUCE AND FOOD

QUEENSLAND HINCHINBROOK

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $234,625

Population: 4,334

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $392

Why you might like it

Just an hour south of Townsville, Ingham is a raw tropical paradise, offering a unique collection of culture, fresh produce and vast green landscape.

Known as the ‘Little Italy’ of Tropical North Queensland because of its rich Italian history and culture, over half of Ingham’s residents are of Italian descent.

Lured here by the thriving sugar industry, many Italian migrants made Ingham home and now you can enjoy this tropical town while having access to an exceptional range of Italian restaurants and delicatessens

The annual Australian-Italian Festival brings thousands of visitors to the town to enjoy Italian wine, cuisine, music and culture. But with a bit of luck, you can join the Italians and enjoy this lovely spot year-round

Distance to nearest major hospital: Ingham Health Services is in Ingham, with Townsville University Hospital 114 km away Traditional custodians: The Batjala people

Combining a tropical wonderland with a rich history and culture (including an incredible foodie scene), Ingham is a unique North Queensland gem.

Small village life

Popular spots around town include JK’s Delicatessen, a deli and cafe serving Italian treats, Lou’s Food Emporium, which claims to be ‘North Queensland’s greatest deli’ and Julie’s Pasta Shopwhich is such a well-kept local secret it doesn’t have a website, but you can find it at 1 Arthur St, Ingham.

The Herbert Valley Steakhouse serves up perfectly cooked steaks straight from their back paddock.

World-class fishing & the Reef

There are also plenty of world-class fishing opportunities along the mangrove-lined inlets, beaches and jetties (as well as nearby Great Barrier Reef).

But there’s more to Ingham than just great food Nestled among rugged mountains, giant waterfalls, sugarcane fields, wild islands, tropical reefs and an enticing coastline, Ingham’s housing is a mix of traditional Queenslanders with large verandahs and more recent, modern designs

The area is home to Australia’s highest permanent single-drop waterfall, Wallaman Falls, dropping 268 metres into Stony Creek, which is also a great place for a picnic or barbecue.

The TYTO Wetlands are a perfect spot for bird watchers. Taking its name taken from the Eastern Grass Owl (tyto longimembris), these wetlands have a bird species diversity that rivals Kakadu National Park - in a space 18,000 times smaller! Twitcher paradise.

While you ’ re in town, enjoy the Mercer Lane Mosaic, a street-long artwork that tells the history of Ingham - perfect for a coffee and a stroll. The TYTO Regional Art Gallery is a contemporary space showcasing local artisans and craft enthusiasts And you can learn about the unique culture and history of the Nywaigi people at Mungalla Station.

Ingham does community groups proudly and well Hinchinbrook Community Support brings together a range of clubs and groups, covering gardening, coffee and physical activities.

And if you ’ re looking for a local with some history, you can’t go past Lee’s Hotel, Slim Dusty’s original ‘Pub With No Beer’. Good news: they have plenty of beer now, as well as pool competitions, bingo and a bistro serving lunch and dinner every day.

For a picnic, just out of town the Broadwater State Forest is a place of natural beauty and serenity, filled with eucalyptus trees, trails and fishing creeks.

Listed for $230,000 in March 2024

The local food is influenced by the Italians who settled in the region.

Scarborough

→ BEACH LIFESTYLE

→ BUSY ESPLANADE

→ CLOSE TO BIG CITY INFRASTRUCTURE

QUEENSLAND MORETON BAY

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $1,008,732

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $663

Why you might like it

There’s plenty of old village charm in Scarborough, which backs onto Moreton Bay’s protected waters.

There’s a friendly vibe and at least twice as many cafes than usual in a town this size - the locals clearly love to meet up for a cuppa.

It’s also great for people who love their water toys, especially jet skiers, stand up paddleboarders and kayakers Dolphin and whale watching tours are also popular, taking in the spectacular coastline that hugs the entire town.

Little wonder that Scarborough is a favourite among Brisbane day trippers - it’s just over an hour’s easy drive from the CBD. Which puts this small community in cooee distance of every kind of big city amenity, whenever the need arises

Population: 9,178

Distance to nearest major hospital: 2 km from Redcliffe Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Kabi Kabi, Jinibara and Turrbal people

Scarborough has a vibrant coastal lifestyle with stunning beaches, picturesque views and a relaxed atmosphere. And the locals clearly love a cuppa...

Music, swims & lots of good times

This seaside village offers a classic coastal life only 43 km from Brisbane’s inner city. Even without the city convenience, Scarborough has a good range of activities and community facilities

The Bee Gees Way is a council-owned tribute museum that celebrates the band. The brothers grew up in nearby Redcliffe and signed their first music contract in the area - the rest was indeed history.

Take a walk along Scarborough Beach and stop by the Gollum Tree, a local landmark rumoured to be home to Gollum from the Lord of Rings

For a refreshing dip, the Redcliffe Lagoon Settlement Cove is a manmade saltwater swimming pool right next to the ocean. It’s a top spot stop for a while with a bag of fish and chips from the nearby chippy. For the particularly robust, early morning winter swims are also a must-do at Redcliffeyep, it’s a thing!

Sold for $865,000 in Feb 2024

Settlement Cove swimming lagoon is a popular recreational spot - a saltwater pool right by the ocean.

Stanthorpe

QUEENSLAND

GRANITE BELT

→ GRANITE BELT LIVING

→ SMALL TOWN LIFESTYLE

→ COOLER CLIMATE (FOR QUEENSLAND)

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $458,563

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $423

Why you might like it

The Granite Belt in Queensland’s Darling Downs is known for its wine, history and charm - and Stanthorpe is a great place to experience all 3.

With a cool climate (relative to Queensland, at least), fertile soil and vibrant community spirit, Stanthorpe offers an idyllic country town lifestyle, just a couple of hours from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane

Although Stanthorpe isn’t a big town, it has all you need to live comfortably, including supermarkets, medical facilities, boutique shops and fantastic cafes

It’s also home to a vibrant art scene, which you can see in the murals, sculptures and mosaics around town (try the Artistic Stanthorpe Walking Trail on the official Southern Downs Visitor App for a full tour)

Population: 5,286

Distance to nearest major hospital: Stanthorpe Hospital is in Stanthorpe Traditional custodians: The Kamburwal people

Queensland's Granite Belt is rich in natural beauty, history and culture and it’s a great place to join a creative community that’s not far from big city Brisbane.

Art trails, music, gardens and ... snow

Stanthorpe’s surroundings only add to its rural charm, with rolling hills, verdant vineyards and pristine national parks all on your doorstep.

The fertile soil means the area is wonderful for gardeners as the local community garden group can attest.

Artworks Granite Belt is a hub for artists to meet, with a gallery, cafe and a range of classes and workshops to join The Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery also welcomes volunteers.

Music lovers can join in the Granite Belt Choir, or the Granite Belt Music Council

y y practices, swap tips and meet fellow gardeners.

Visit the 100% artisan handcrafted Market in the Mountains for locally grown produce, arts and crafts - check the website for dates

Each winter, the Snowflakes Winter Festival performs miracles to bring snow to Queensland You can discover how the magic works by volunteering with the festival.

Local publication the Granite Belt Informer has a comprehensive list of more local clubs and community groups you can get involved in.

Easy access to nature

Wine lovers will enjoy working their way through the 40+ cellar doors in the area (once you ’ ve completed the set, it will be time to start all over again) and the area is also home to craft breweries and artisan distilleries.

Girraween National Park draws 120,000 visitors each year, but Stanthorpe residents are lucky enough to have it in their backyard.

It boasts 117 square kilometres of gravitydefying granite rock formations, a wide variety of flora and fauna and a range of walking trails. If camping is your thing, you can volunteer in the park in exchange for free camping all year round.

Back in town, raise a glass at Granite Belt Brewery and toast your good fortune to live in this lovely part of the world.

Sold for $445,000 in Feb 2023

The Granite Belt region has a thriving wine community thanks to its high altitude.

South Australia & Western Australia

Australia’s southern and western states offer more affordable living than the east coast, beautiful beaches, world-class wineries, a mild climate and a vibrant arts scene.

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT GREATER ADELAIDE

$594

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT REST OF SA $419

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT GREATER PERTH $676

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT REST OF WA

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE GREATER ADELAIDE

$757,448

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE REST OF SA

$419,317

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE GREATER PERTH

$736,649

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE REST OF WA

$504,106 $567

Source: Core Logic 2024

Bridgetown

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $637,247

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $492

Why you might like it

Three hours south of Perth, Bridgetown feels like another world. Known as one of the most picturesque towns in Western Australia, Bridgetown lies in the Blackwood River Valley and it positively glows with country charm.

The region is also abundant in produce, wineries, crafts, art and stunning scenic drives If you ’ re looking for a place to slow down, breathe deeply and softly arrive in an active and inspiring community, Bridgetown could be exactly what you ’ re looking for.

Unsurprisingly, the picturesque scenery that surrounds Bridgetown and the area has lured many creatives and artists. As well as bringing vibrancy to life in the town, you’ll find exhibitions of local artists’ work in the region’s many galleries

Population: 4,670

Distance to nearest major hospital: Bridgetown Hospital is in Bridgetown Traditional custodians: The PibulmunWadandi people

With endless outdoor adventures and local gatherings, Bridgetown offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

Comfy small town life

You can learn about local artists where they’re displaying their w Blackwood River Arts Trail. The Art Trail booklet offers a walking through town so you can imme in the local art galleries

It’s not all slow pace here thoug plenty of action and adventure who seek it. You’ll find canoeing and kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and more

Books and blues

The Blackwood River walk is a local favourite and you can join the Bridgetown Walking Group to meet other friendly locals who love exploring the area together on foot.

Bridgetown is a small town, but it has everything you need for your daily life, such as a supermarket, pharmacy, vet, butcher, petrol stations and a regular farmers market.

There are also some good takeaway

If you want to get involved with your community, you can grab a meal and join in the activities at the Bridgetown Club, such as card quiz and open mic nights

And Bridgetown Hub offers a range of workshops to encourage connection within the community and a book club that meets regularly for book chats and a friendly meal

Also worth a mention is that the tiny village of Bridgetown buzzes with music and activity each year when iconic Blues at

Sold for $380,000 in Feb 2024

Western Australia is known for its stunning wildflowers and unique bird life - Bridgetown has plenty of scenic walks for nature lovers.

Mandurah

WEST AUSTRALIA

GREATER PERTH

→ BEACH LIVING

→ WITHIN COO-EE OF PERTH

→ LAIDBACK LOCALS

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $656,850

Population: 95,568

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $596

Why you might like it

Located 72 km south of Perth, Mandurah is Western Australia’s second biggest city.

It’s a popular spot for Perth retirees because what was once an isolated seaside town is now a quick drive down the Kwinana Freeway, so it maintains its connection to all you need.

The lifestyle is more laidback in Mandurah than it is in Perth and the foreshore is a wonderful spot to swim, stroll and watch the pelicans and dolphins play (over 100 dolphins call Mandurah home).

Tourism is big here, so there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops and options for exploring the region. The range of waterways in the area have earned Mandurah the nickname of ‘Little Venice’ Along with its ocean beaches, the area is excellent for swimming, fishing and boating.

Distance to nearest major hospital: 2 9 km from Peel Health Campus

Traditional custodians: The Bindjared people

Mandurah offers a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of recreational activities. From leisurely strolls to exploring captivating murals, every day brings new opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

Outdoor living year-round

Mandurah’s Mediterranean climate mean you can live an outdoor lifestyle all year round (although you’ll still need to rug u winter) and - just like Perth - the city is b along the coast, so you ’ re never too far from the beach

Living life on the water is second nature Mandurah. You might like to spend time at one of the many pristine beaches, like the northern facing Falcon Bay Beach, or the supervised Town Beach Or for kilometres of clean sand and safe, calm waters, Silversands Beach is a winner.

An active & creative life

If you ’ re into arts and crafts, Mandurah Arts and Crafts has a social group of ‘mature ladies’ who meet once a week, offering their crafty know-how and friendship to newcomers It’s an easy-going group who welcome newcomers with open arms.

The Mandurah Fishing and Sailing Club is a hub of the town and operates a 220-bay floating marina, as well as learn-to-sail classes, regattas and events.

Mandurah Bowling Club hosts the weekly Peel Community Bingo Club nights on Tuesdays, with the bowling club also offering a range of social and competitive bowling and special events.

And as well as the outdoor Olympic-sized pool you’d expect, the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre has an impressive lineup of heated pools, gym equipment, fitness classes plus wet and dry sauna.

There are also plenty of galleries to visit and explore in the area. As a visitor, you won’t want to miss Thomas Dambo’s ‘Giants of Mandurah,’ a free outdoor exhibition of five giant wooden sculptures celebrating the extraordinary beauty and natural assets of Mandurah’s waterways, wetlands, bushland and wildlife As a resident, you can volunteer to help keep this treasured art exhibit ready for show.

Sold for $495,000 in Feb 2024

With calm estuaries and Indian Ocean coastline, Mandurah is a hotspot close to Perth but miles from care.

Mount Barker

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ADELAIDE HILLS

→ LUSH HILLS LIFESTYLE

→ GOOD FACILITIES

→ CLOSE TO ADELAIDE

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $690,435

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $588

Why you might like it

As the largest town in the Adelaide Hills, Mount Barker is a captivating choice thanks to its serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage and comfortable country lifestyle.

With a charming main street full of historical buildings, balanced out with a range of modern amenities, Mount Barker presents an inviting retreat for those escaping city life in favour of a more chilled lifestyle

Located at the southern end of the Adelaide Hills, Mount Barker has now become a part of Adelaide’s commuter belt (it’s only 33 km from the city centre), so you might find it busier than some other country town options, but with that comes the luxury of easy access to the city and plenty of places to shop, dine and explore.

Population: 44,772

Distance to nearest major hospital: 2.4 km from Southern Fleurieu Health Service

Traditional custodians: The Peramangk people

Retire to the largest town in the iconic Adelaide Hills, with verdant landscapes, rich heritage and a relaxed country lifestyle - all within easy reach of Adelaide conveniences.

Lush, verdant country

Despite it’s city access, life in Mount Barker unfolds at a leisurely pace, with that fantastic country living feeling. You just don’t have to sacrifice the urban conveniences you ’ ve come to know and love to live your country dream.

The air is crisp here - you’ll need those thermals in winter - and the views are endless, with green rolling hills, mixed farming and lush vineyards all around.

There are plenty of walking trails and parks and you ’ re only 10 minutes from the magical German village of Hahndorf - a haven for history, architecture and food lovers

And let’s not forget the wines of the Adelaide Hills - the cool climate region is home to some of the country’s best pinot noirs and sparkling wines

If you like an outdoorsy lifestyle without getting too sweaty, Mount Barker offers an array of outdoor recreational pursuits, from leisurely walks through Laratinga Wetlands to scenic drives along Mount Barker Summit Scenic Drive, there are countless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature, reconnect with the land and savour the region's tranquil ambiance.

There are plenty of options for those wanting to maintain an active lifestyle in Mount Barker, including the Adelaide Hills Masters Cycling Club, the Mount Barker Aquatic Club, the Mount Barker Croquet Club and the Aston Hills Golf Club

There are also plenty of non-sporting clubs to join and classes to try, including arts and crafts, floral arranging, book clubs, fourwheel drive groups and community sheds. Mount Barker Council publishes a full list, complete with contact details here

Mount Barker Council also runs a range of social programs, including Community Connect, bus trips, ‘Barker Blokes lunches, shopping, card groups, park walks and cafe and cinema visits

The council also welcomes volunteers to help with a variety of services and programs It’s a great way to meet locals and contribute to your new community.

Close to charming Hahndorf, Mount Barker offers a more affordable lifestyle with good facilities.

Victor Harbor

→ VIBRANT SEASIDE TOWN

→ ABUNDANT WILDLIFE → CLOSE TO CITY

SOUTH AUSTRALIA FLEURIEU PENINSULA

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $634,799

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $480

Why you might like it

Perched on the postcard-worthy Fleurieu Peninsula, Victor Harbor beckons with its breathtaking coastal vistas, relaxed seaside ambiance and abundant recreation options

Just an hour south of Adelaide, Victor Harbor has the nostalgic and unspoilt feel of childhood beach holidays

If pristine beaches, charming heritage architecture and a vibrant community spirit sound good to you, Victor Harbor is definitely worth considering as your seachange haven

Start your days with a leisurely stroll along the iconic Granite Island Causeway, etched with Indigenous artwork linked to Dreaming stories, where you can breathe in the sea air and take in panoramic views of Encounter Bay.

Population: 16,427

Distance to nearest major hospital: 2 4 km from Southern Fleurieu Health Service

Traditional custodians: The Ramindjeri and Ngarrindjeri peoples

Victor Harbor is a coastal gem with abundant recreational options. Step back in time and enjoy the simple life of beach strolls and local markets, all about an hour from Adelaide.

Fairy penguins & a unique tram

Walk the circumference of Granite Island on the Kaiki Walk, a 3 km coastal trail, climb the bluff to watch the sunrise, or walk along the track to Kings Head to watch the waves crashing on the rocks.

You can also take The Horse Drawn Tramway to Granite Island and try to spot the wild colony of penguins that inhabit the shores. In town, the Victor Harbor Farmers Markets are a leisurely way to pick up the week’s fresh produce or browse the stalls

There are plenty of opportunities to connect with nature here, with swimming and surfing at Granite Island and Middleton Beach and coastal walking tracks along the Heysen Trail (the entire trail is 1200 km but you can just choose a local segment).

Fishing is a popular pastime here all year round, but from December through to March each year people flock here to fish for tuna. The Victor Harbour Fishing group is a great way to meet other enthusiasts

Victor Harbour RSL hosts regular dinners and social events, Victor Bowls is a hive of activity and friendly competition for beginners and veterans alike and Fleurieu Pride provides connection and social events for LGBTIQ+ people in the community.

It’s a sign of it’s growing population that over the past few years Victor Harbour has become home to many major stores, including Bunnings and Aldi. So everything you need is right here. If you can’t find what you need, it’s just over an hour’s drive to Adelaide on the A13

The weather here is milder than Adelaide and it gets a fair amount of rain but the

Listed for $486,000 in March 2024

The fairy penguins on nearby Granite Island are just one of the natural attractions of Victor Harbor.

Wallaroo

→ CORNISH HERITAGE

→ EXCELLENT FISHING

→ BEAUTIFUL, UNSPOILED BEACHES

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

YORKE PENINSULA

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $448,242

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $410

Why you might like it

Wallaroo claims to be one of South Australia’s most popular seaside resorts and it’s easy to see why.

Just 160 km north of Adelaide, Wallaroo boasts long, wide northern beaches, a multi-million dollar marina complex and plenty to keep you busy.

While there’s heaps to do in town, the ferry across the Spencer Gulf provides easy access to Lucky Bay without the long drive.

The town was built during the copper mining boom in the late 1800s (they don’t call it the Copper Coast for nothing) and was once home to the largest smelting complex in the southern hemisphere. These days it’s a popular holiday town which a lucky few get to call home year-round

Population: 4,426

Distance to nearest major hospital: Wallaroo Hospital and Health Services is in Wallaroo Traditional custodians: The Narungga people

This historic port town is only small but is on the western side of the stunning Yorke Peninsula. It’s an old mining and shipping town that’s now popular with tourists.

Wallaroo is a great spot if you like the outdoor beach lifestyle, with beach swimming, fishing and diving all being popular local pastimes. North Beach is huge, spanning 2.3 km and it has a gradual slope into the water, so it’s a calm, safe swimming spot.

You can also drive on the beach and even at the busiest times, there’s plenty of room for everyone. The ironically named Office Beach is safe for swimming too and is conveniently located near the town centre, with shade sails to provide comfort and protect you from the sun.

A favourite activity among tourists and locals alike is the Wallaroo Silo Light Show, which is on nightly. The themed show is projected onto the end of the painted silos in the township just after sunset and is best viewed from Jetty Road.

Unsurprisingly, given it’s location, Wallaroo is also a favourite spot for fans of fishing, with snapper and whiting in abundant supply and it’s also an excellent area for squid when the water is clear

Wallaroo Jetty is a popular fishing spot, extending 869 m into the pristine waters and - if you don’t get a nibble - you can always grab a pie at the local favourite Jetty Road Bakehouse afterwards

Sailing is also a popular activity in the area, with the Wallaroo Sailing Club running competitions, races and social activities

The Copper Coast Dragon Boat Club also welcomes new members for competitive or social dragon boating

The Wallaroo Community Sports Club complex is a local hub that offers bowls, croquet and golf for members and visitors.

Copper Cove Marina is a relatively new complex that is one third the size of the original town. For a lucky few it offers homes with their own pontoons, for the rest of us it’s home to Coopers Alehouse, where you can enjoy a local beer and enjoy a meal with spectacular gulf views.

You’ll find everything you need for your everyday needs in Wallaroo, like supermarkets, a post office, chemist, doctors, dentists and other health professionals.

There are also cafes, restaurants, bakeries and other spots that make your seaside life that bit more fun

Wallaroo is a cute tourist village surrounded by excellent boating and fishing opportunities.

Tasmania

Australia’s island state has been attracting mainlanders for decades, offering wild nature, stunning history and affordable property.

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT GREATER HOBART

$549

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT REST OF TASMANIA $450

Source: Core Logic May 2024

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE GREATER HOBART

$655,170

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE REST OF TASMANIA

$514,069

Clarence District

→ HISTORIC VILLAGES

→ LUSH SURROUNDINGS

→ CLOSE TO HOBART

TASMANIA

GREATER HOBART

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $687,349

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $565

Why you might like it

On the eastern shores of the Derwent River, Clarence is one of the 5 municipalities that make up Greater Hobart.

The Clarence district encompasses the smaller towns of Cambridge, Richmond and Seven Mile Beach and it offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy access to both urban amenities and natural wonders.

The city is surrounded by the Meehan Range, which runs parallel to the Derwent and the skyline has been preserved, thanks to regulations limiting building height.

There’s a strong arts scene in Clarence, with historic site Rosny Farm (built around 1806) being converted into Rosny Farm Arts Centre, a vibrant hub for a range of music, art exhibitions and workshops

Population: 63,086

Distance to nearest major hospital: 12 km to Royal Hobart Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Mumirimina people

With preserved streetscapes and a vibrant arts scene, Clarence is home to pretty historic villages like Richmond and Cambridge.

Village life across Clarence

Richmond is one of Australia's most authentic and well-preserved Georgian villages in the Clarence district, with the country’s oldest Roman Catholic Church and our oldest bridge, built in 1823 and stil in use today.

Richmond also has great shopping and dining and is home to some excellent wineries. Richmond Art School offers regular classes for adults.

Visit the Richmond Farmers and Makers Market every Saturday for local produce and crafts sold by Tasmanian artisans.

If you like a good stroll (or power hike), the Clarence Foreshore Trail is a 14.5 km path that follows the bayline from Geilston Bay to Howrah, through parklands and beaches, with weeping willows, yacht-watching and salty ocean air to pull you along.

Bellerive Village is a great spot for dining (don’t miss Belle’s Burgers) and strolling by the sea It’s also home to Bellerive Oval, one of Tasmania’s largest sporting grounds.

Lindisfarne is another vibrant hub of shops, cafes and parks and South Arm Peninsula is a busy beachside community with monthly markets an RSL a pharmacy and a

Fitness in the Park is a free fitness group in Richmond Village Green park where anyone is welcome For country music fans, Clarence Country is a fun weekly live music event with local musicians gathering to play any country song by request.

Clarence has a strong community feel and there are plenty of groups to join, like the Coal River Valley Garden Club or the Coal

Tasmania’s historic buildings and streetscapes continue to lure mainlanders to retire to the island.

Huonville

→ ARTISANAL COMMUNITY

→ RURAL LIVING

→ PEACEFUL SURROUNDINGS

TASMANIA

HUON VALLEY

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $619,512

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $477

Why you might like it

The cliched truth is that mainlanders who visit Tasmania often fantasise about retiring to the beautiful state.

Huonville provides the best of that great Tassie dream: green grass, ancient forest, rich pastures, four seasons, stunning river and loads of wildlife - all just half an hour from the modern conveniences of central Hobart

Huonville has a vibrant artisanal community, with local producers, artists and crafty types showcasing their talents and wares throughout the valley

You’ll find plenty of locals selling their produce in roadside stalls, as well as at a range of bustling weekly markets throughout the area

Population: 2,714

Distance to nearest major hospital: 37 3 km from Calvary St John’s Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Melukerdee and Lyluequonny peoples

Just a stone’s throw from Hobart, Huonville offers a dreamy rural lifestyle with a thriving artisanal community, and stunning landscapes.

Spectacular views to inspire

At the markets you’ll also find local cheese producers, woodworkers, potters and artists and there’s a range of galleries and studios you can visit as well.

It’s no wonder there’s so much art inspired here, everywhere you go in Huonville seems to have spectacular views of the verdant surroundings The tannins in the Huon River (a result of the abundant buttongrass planes) give it a reflective surface you won’t be able to resist photographing

Wildlife abounds: platypus magic

And, as a local, you’ll become accustomed to seeing wildlife everywhere you goincluding wedge tailed eagles, pademelons, wallabies, echidnas, quolls and Tassie devils

It’s said that, if you have a dam on your property, odds are you also have at least one platypus.

If you ’ re a bushwalker, you’ll be spoiled for choice and also part of a thriving community. You can do some of the more popular walks - from entry-level to day-long adventures - with the help of the Huon Valley Council

Springtime brings blankets of flowers to the cottage gardens and orchards across the valley and summer is a great time to get out on the water, fishing, yachting andfor those brave enough - even swimming.

While housing prices appear similar to that of the city, but properties out here tend to be larger or more attractive, with many offering acreage or water views. It’s not uncommon to grow your own veggies, along with raising some animals such as chickens, goats, horses, sheep - or perhaps even an alpaca or two.

But what makes Huonville a wonderful place to live is its sense of community It’s welcoming to everyone and people care about supporting one another and preserving this pristine environment. There is a range of social groups welcoming newcomers as ‘Huon Beings’ on the Huon Valley Council page

And wine lovers will find some of Tassie’s best cool climate pinot noirs, chardonnays, rieslings, shiraz and pinot gris in the area.

Huonville is for people who want to experience the seasons - you’ll love the summer sun, the stunning colours of spring and autumn and even some winter snow.

Huonville is close to Bruny Island’s stunning food and Hobart’s city attractions.

Launceston

→ HISTORIC HOMES → BEAUTIFUL NATURE → RIVERSIDE LIVING

TASMANIA NORTH-EAST

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $524,281

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $487

Why you might like it

In the heart of Tasmania's northern countryside, Launceston beckons with historic charm, natural beauty and a flourishing cultural scene.

And, sure, while it’s clear that pretty much anywhere in Tasmania can lure you with history, nature and culture, Launceston is special. As the nation’s third-oldest city, it’s home to loads of historic architecture and an extra-rich history

Known as Lonnie or Launnie to the locals (the spelling is a hot topic of debate), Launceston is on the larger side, with a population of over 70,000, so it has all the urban comforts you want, plus a tight-knit international community, where neighbours become friends and newcomers are embraced with open arms

Population: 71,878

Distance to nearest major hospital: Launceston General Hospital is in Launceston Traditional custodians: The Kanamaluka people

This northern Tasmania city boasts walkable streets and the stunning Cataract Gorge. It’s also a UNESCO City of Gastronomy with a thriving food and wine scene.

An active life of beauty

What’s great about living in Launceston is that it’s easy to stay healthy and active

The city is all quite walkable and plenty of people get around on the myriad walking tracks and bike paths around town.

For theatre lovers, Albert Hall is a large convention centre with high Victorian architecture and is known as a landmark and popular meeting spot of the area. The Princess Theatre and Earl Arts Centre is a well-preserved traditional theatre, presenting a wide program of theatre and dance performances of local culture.

Launceston also has a thriving food, fermentation and drinks scene (it’s a UNESCO City of Gastronomy - and if you didn’t know that was a thing, it just means it's one of only 49 cities in the entire world notable for its foodie scene)

You’ll also find the stunning Cataract Gorge just a short stroll from the city centre This true urban wilderness is 5 km of forested river reserve wrapped around a dramatic gorge. Cataract Gorge is thought to be about 65 million years old and is said to be a place of peace.

You can sit under an ancient tree and soak up the area ’ s natural beauty, go for a swim, visit the tea rooms , or take the Gorge Scenic Chairlift for a bird’s eye view of the entire scene

Take advantage of that at Harvest Market, where you can pick up a fresh bottle of milk straight from the farm, buy ethically farmed salmon at 41 South and dine in a converted watermill at Stillwater Restaurant, one of Tasmania’s most awarded restaurants.

And if you ’ re into wine, the famous Tamar Valley is only a 15-minute drive away.

Tamar Valley also prides itself on being ‘the good kind of quirky’ - boasting that in one day you can visit a nudist beach, try the world’s largest jumping pillow, visit a gravelly beach, see a turbo chook, pat a pig, see Australia’s oldest colonial graffiti, visit a museum where 13 million ounces of gold have been produced and drive Australia's longest navigable estuary. Big day!

Don’t pretend you ’ re not a little bit curious! If you want to get involved with your new Launceston neighbours, there are plenty of events you can join in, from yoga to community art projects Check out the local council page for a full calendar.

Sold for $590,000 in Feb 2024

Launceston is a city known for drinking Boag’s beer while the southern city of Hobart drinks Cascade.

St Marys

→ BEACH AND BUSH

→ TINY RURAL LOCALITY

→ AFFORDABLE ACREAGE

TASMANIA EAST COAST

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: NOT ENOUGH DATA

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: NOT ENOUGH DATA

Why you might like it

If you love all that Tasmania has to offer and want to embrace a village lifestyle, St Marys on the east coast could be exactly what you ’ re looking for.

Combining beach and bush beauty with a strong artsy feel, St Marys is a quaint and friendly hamlet between Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park.

This is a quiet area where boating, fishing and bushwalking are the collective loves For avid hikers, making it up St Patrick’s Head will reward you with 360-degree views of the valley and the entire coast.

As with any small town, St Marys is not a place to move to if you value your anonymity, but it could be for you if you love the idea of a town that stops for a chat, genuinely cares how you are and is always ready to lend you a cup of sugar

Population: 738

Distance to nearest major hospital: 36 5 km to St Helens District Hospital and Community Centre

Traditional custodians: The Kunnarra Kuna people

Discover the charm of small village life in St Marys, surrounded by a stunning mix of beach and bush. Tucked under the rocky outcrop of St Patrick’s Head, St Marys is about an hour’s drive from Launceston.

Heritage homes with a modern-day mindset

St Marys was once a convict working station and you can still see many convictbuilt buildings along Main Street.

Much of the action centres around the shops and cafes in the centre of townand, of course, St Marys Hotel, where a staggering 130 people are members of the social club - almost 20% of the population!

The hotel hosts regular events like dinner parties, Christmas in July, karaoke nights and live music.

The Break O’Day Regional Arts Summer Celebration festival brings markets, live music, food stalls and community together for the celebration of the local arts culture every January.

Avid car enthusiasts will want to spend a bit of time at the Cranks and Tinkerers Museum, located inside the St Marys train station, which has interesting displays of old cars, motorbikes, planes and boats.

St Marys Repurposing & Upcycling hosts regular workshops for the community to learn how to restore and upcycle their belongings.

You’ll find a selection of older style and heritage homes in St Marys that are much more affordable than in Hobart, or even Launceston or Huonville. Just make sure you have good insulation and heatingwinter temperatures often dip below zero

While residents once went to nearby St Helens for their shopping, St Marys is now equipped with a chemist, several cafes, a service station, a news agency, a hardware store and two IGA supermarkets. So you may not need to borrow that cup of sugar after all...

Because the area is so small, there isn’t enough property data to indicate purchase or rental prices, but if you ’ re already under St Marys spell, the local real estate agents will help you out.

Close to Freycinet National Park and the Bay of Fires, St Marys is nothing short of stunning.

Victoria

Australia’s southern mainland state offers a range of great retirement spots by the coast and in the bush.

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT GREATER MELBOURNE

$593

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT REST OF VIC $466

Source: Core Logic May 2024

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE GREATER MELBOURNE

$780,437

MEDIAN DWELLING VALUE REST OF VIC

$571,402

Bundoora

→ TRANQUIL MELBOURNE LIVING

→ PARKLANDS → GREAT AMENITIES

VICTORIA GREATER MELBOURNE

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $804,509

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $555

Why you might like it

You don’t have to move to the beach or the country just because you ’ ve retired.

If you love the hustle and bustle of the city, there are some great options in Melbourne that are more affordable than prime coastal or inner city spots.

The City of Banyule is located in Melbourne’s north-east, incorporating 21 suburbs, including Ivanhoe, Heidelberg, Greensborough, Bundoora and Rosanna.

Banyule offers a noteworthy retirement lifestyle due to its abundant recreation and sporting opportunities, plus excellent services and amenities.

The area is home to a diverse and inclusive community with relaxed, safe feel that means you’ll soon feel right at home

Population: 127,348

Distance to nearest major hospital: 4 5 km from Austin Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people

Experience city living with a touch of tranquillity in Bundoora, Melbourne's north-eastern gem. Enjoy a diverse community, safe surroundings and abundant recreational opportunities.

A slower pace in the suburbs

Bundoora offers a slower pace and a quieter life than Melbourne’s inner suburbs and housing here is a mix of traditional homes and modern townhouses with a smattering of apartments, too.

Banyule Council is so motivated to provide a safe and inclusive environment here, it adopted the Resilient and Safe Banyule Framework in February 2024. It stipulates an emphasis on protecting residents’ health and wellbeing, providing social inclusion and connection opportunities, developing a strong local economy and creating a sustainable, natural environment.

The Heidelberg Historical Society is a great way for history buffs to get involved with the local community. If you’d like to do your bit to help protect the local environment, you might like to volunteer your time with the always-busy Warringal Conservation Society.

There are many ways you can get involved in your local community here, including a range of sporting clubs, or try some social croquet at the nearby Ivanhoe Park Croquet Club

Banyule Probus Club offers golf, tennis, theatre, book groups, technology groups, craft groups and social outings and holidays, plus a busy U3A (University of the Third Age), ready with a huge range of educational courses for lifelong learners.

A club specifically for over 50s meets in the community hall in nearby Watsonia It offers tai chi, qi gong, card games, aerobics, table tennis, carpet bowls and local excursions. You’ll also find a range of other niche social clubs listed on the council website.

For those that like to get outside and enjoy the natural environment, Banyule Flats Reserve features a river with long paths to explore It’s perfect for casual cyclists and walkers and rarely busy during the week.

And Rosanna Parklands is also great for walkers and nature lovers, known for its resident rainbow lorikeets and kookaburras

Bundoona might offer a peaceful pace of life, but being in Melbourne you still have access to all the amenities and leisure and entertainment options you need

Listed for $680,000 in July 2024

Finding affordable places to retire in big cities like Melbourne can be a great way to stay connected.

Echuca

→ RIVERSIDE LIVING

→ HISTORIC TOWN

→ WELCOMING COMMUNITY

VICTORIA NORTH CENTRAL

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $585,514

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $639

Why you might like it

If you ever dreamed of running away to live on a paddleboat on the set of All the Rivers Run, Echuca could be the escape you ’ re looking for

Located at the junction of the Campaspe and Murray rivers on the Victoria-New South Wales border, Echuca is Australia’s renowned paddle steamer capital

It’s also the joining place for the Barmah National Park and the Murray Valley National Park, forming the world’s largest river red gum forest The area is popular for camping and is also an important place for the Yorta Yorta people.

You’ll often see Echuca mentioned in the same breath as Moama, which is its twin town across the New South Wales border.

Population: 15,038

Distance to nearest major hospital: Echuca

Regional Health is in Echuca

Traditional custodians: The Yorta Yorta people

Echuca is Australia’s paddle steamer capital and offers gentle living among ancient river red gums on the banks of the Murray and Campaspe rivers.

An engaged community

As you would expect, the town is full of historical buildings that house shops and cafes, including the riverside Star Hotel, which does great woodfired pizzas and regularly hosts live music.

It also still has the underground escape tunnel, which led out to the back alley, so drinkers could escape police raids after t pub lost its licence in 1897 (it’s all above board now, don’t worry; you can leave by the front door)

There is also an emerging foodie scene in Echuca, with new restaurants and cafes springing up regularly and a range of craft breweries, wineries and a gin distillery to keep you busy.

The Echuca Moama website keeps an updated list of appetising local options

And while we ’ re on the subject, it’s worth noting that the Great Aussie Beer Shed & Heritage Farm Museum is an interesting look at Australia’s brewing history, with one of the nation’s largest collections of beer memorabilia.

Summers are hot and dry, which makes Echuca the perfect site for a range of river activities, including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, skiing, boating and fishing

The Echuca Moama Fishing Club welcomes new members and can tell you the best spots to find Murray cod, yellowbelly and silver perch.

Echuca Bowls Club also welcomes new members and it’s a great place to meet the locals and have a drink and some fun. They also welcome volunteers to help out.

The town has everything you need for a comfortable day-to-day life, including cinemas, supermarkets and good medical facilities. The nearby Moama Markets are held fortnightly and are a great place to pick up fresh produce and tasty treats from over 120 stalls.

The dry climate and flat topography make Echuca an especially good place to get around by bicycle and the many welltended trails make it an easy ride

Close to a junction of Goulburn, Campaspe and Murray Rivers, Echuca means ‘meeting of the waters’.

Gisborne

→ CITY MEETS COUNTRY

→ MAJESTIC MACEDON RANGES

→ HANGING ROCK BEAUTY

VICTORIA MACEDON RANGES

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $903,296

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $627

Why you might like it

Gisborne may only be a 45-minute drive from Melbourne, but it feels like stepping into another world.

It’s a town of distinct seasons, comfortable country homesteads, treelined streets and lush parklands set in the majestic Macedon Ranges - all with the amenities you expect from a modern town.

Think of all of the natural beauty of Picnic at Hanging Rock (located a short drive down the road)... only without the mysterious disappearances.

The Macedon Ranges are known for their unique granite rock formations, native forests and waterfalls and living in pretty, park-like Gisborne is the quintessential tree-change.

Population: 10,152

Distance to nearest major hospital: 20 km from Sunbury Day Hospital

Traditional custodians: The Wurendjeri Woi Wurrung people

Retire to Gisborne, where city amenities meet country charm, just a short drive from Melbourne. Enjoy the tranquility of tree-lined streets and lush parklands among the majestic Macedon Ranges.

Four glorious seasons

Speaking of trees, there are four distinct seasons to enjoy in Gisborne, but the town really comes alive in autumn, with a vivid colour display you’ll never tire of.

Jackson’s Creek Walk is a wonderful way to get some exercise and take in the beauty of the area and, of course, Hanging Rock is a must-visit for its accessible walking paths, trout fishing (don’t forget your fishing licence) and abundant bird watching.

There is also a dog-friendly cafe within the reserve, offering cosy indoor dining by the fire and an ever-changing cake menu.

Back in town, Gisborne Botanic Gardens features a range of plants native to New Zealand - which recognises New Zealand’s own Gisborne city as the town’s sister city.

The Gardens welcomes volunteers, which is reflective of the town’s strong sense of community There are plenty of ways to get involved and meet like-minded localsjoin in at the museum, work at the resale shop, visit the elderly and more.

For hikers, the Gisborne Bushwalking Club goes on regular day walks, with the occasional overnight adventure as well.

The Gisborne Singers is a choir you can join without audition - just come along to any rehearsal Gisborne Masters is the local football club that welcomes all ages, or you can join the lively group at aqua aerobics at the Macedon New Gisborne Swim Centre.

Produce and artisanal products are in good supply out here, with your new neighbours including Villa Pileggi Olive Oil, Gisborne Cherries and the South Gisborne Cherry Farm, Gisborne Peak Winery and Mountain Distilling. The Gisborne Olde Time Market is regularly ranked in the top five markets in Victoria It’s held on the first Sunday of each month.

Gisborne Village Shopping Centre is the retail hub of the town, with everything you need for daily life, including a post office, supermarket, bakery, florist, newsagency, butcher, hairdresser and more.

Gisborne’s post office opened in the 1850s and this historic area is now known for wineries, markets and peaceful surroundings.

Maryborough

→ GOLD RUSH HISTORY

→ AFFORDABLE LIVING

→ TRAIN CONNECTIONS

VICTORIA CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $351,913

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $381

Why you might like it

For an authentic country town with friendly people, you can’t go past Maryborough, in the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields region.

The first thing you’ll notice is the grand, gold rush architecture and the beautiful, lush gardens - despite the town being in a dry, temperate climate.

On a visit to Australia in 1895, Mark Twain described Maryborough as a “railway station with a town attached” and in trueblue Aussie style, we ’ ve been celebrating that railway station ever since.

The historic station is now the hub of the city, with a museum and gallery, cafe and visitor centre - plus it still operates as a train station, connecting Maryborough to the bustling regional centres of Bendigo and Castlemaine.

Population: 7,769

Distance to nearest major hospital: Maryborough & District Hospital is in Maryborough

Traditional custodians: The Wurendjeri Woi Wurrung people

Eternal optimists might come here hoping to find gold, but the genuine warmth of country living is the real reward in Maryborough.

Delight in the historic architecture and lush gardens.

Live the high life

And Maryborough has become so much more than just a train station.

Despite not having the bells and whistles of some other towns, Maryborough is a peaceful place to live the simple country life, with a low crime rate and an abundance of open spaces, trees and parks.

Phillips Botanical Gardens is a local favourite, with great bird watching, walking tracks and shady picnic tables. The town also has excellent amenities, like the Maryborough Tennis Centre and Mill House, which offers an art space for locals to come together for creative classes or to volunteer with a social team.

The Marlborough Highland Society was established in 1857, making it one of the oldest buildings in the state.

Art lovers will also enjoy the Central Goldfields Regional Art Gallery (which also welcomes volunteers) and the Possum Gully Fine Arts Gallery.

craft beer, gourmet oils, olives and artisan baked goods. And on Maryborough’s High Street, you’ll find a range of shops, services, food outlets, cafes and medical services

Friendly Maryborough Lions Club operates a bookshop that stocks a wide variety of books and it happily welcomes new members and volunteers

It’s also the town’s social hub, offering bistro meals, weekly events, bowls and tennis. It’s biggest event is the annual Highland Gathering on New Years Day, which attracts visitors from all over Victoria. The popular Gathering was established during the goldrush in 1858 and naturally it celebrates all things Scottish (Scotsmen were among the first settlers in the town), complete with highland dancing and highland games.

Of course, if you ’ re going to live in the goldfields, you’ll want to try your luck at gold prospecting. Gold nuggets are still being discovered across the region and government surveyors estimate there is still over $500 million worth of gold under the ground in Victoria.

It doesn’t hurt to dream, right?

Visit the Coiltek Gold Centre in Maryborough for maps showing areas most likely to produce nuggets and be sure to purchase a Miners Right online at Earth Resources and ensure prospecting is permitted in your search area

Listed for $320,000 in July 2024

53,000 people lived in Maryborough during the gold rush days in the 1800s, giving the town its lovely architecture.

Paynesville

→ STUNNING WATERWAYS

→ PEACEFUL RURAL TOWN

→ GREAT FOR BOATIES

VICTORIA GIPPSLAND

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $560,037

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $460

Why you might like it

Life on the water is just a dream for many, but if you want to make it your retirement reality, you’ll be happy in Paynesville.

A charming village surrounded by water on three sides, Paynesville offers a gentle, uncomplicated life. It’s the boating capital of Victoria’s Gippsland, with canals and inlets providing plenty of sheltered mooring opportunities Most properties are within walking distance of the lake and you won’t find a single traffic light in town!

Water activity enthusiasts flock to Paynesville for holidays, but if you ’ re living here, you can settle into a lifestyle of fishing for black bream, tailor, whiting and mullet, windsurfing, swimming, jet skiing and boating - alongside the plentiful dolphins that frolic in these waters.

Population: 6,438

Distance to nearest major hospital: 18 km from Bairnsdale Regional Health Service

Traditional custodians: The Gunaikurnai people

If you want a life on or near the water, Paynesville could be your new home. Surrounded by canals and inlets, this charming village is ideal for boaties.

Life on the water

Nature lovers will also be happy to regularly take the five-minute ferry ride to Raymond Island, where you ’ re guaranteed to see koalas every time you visit

The Koala Trail on the island is a 2 km stroll and sure to become part of your routine.

Despite being a small town, Paynesville’s popularity with tourists means it has excellent amenities, with waterside dining, a large supermarket and a friendly community atmosphere anchored by plenty of social clubs

Once you ’ ve worked up an appetite on the local walking trails, enjoy the fresh local seafood and seasonal dishes at one of the restaurants in town with views of the water, such as Pier 70 or Sardine Eatery & Bar. The pub is always popular for meal and there are plenty of spots to picnic close to water and the bush.

The Toonalook Amateur Fishing Club Paynesville hosts regular events and

The Paynesville Bowls Club offers competitive and social bowls, the Kingfisher Dragon Boat Club welcomes new members and the Paynesville Neighbourhood Centre is a not-for-profit organisation that offers a range of social and recreational activities, as well as adult education classes.

Bairnsdale Golf Club is just down the road, with special programs like Women in Golf and a lawn bowls coaching clinic. It’s open to the public for bowls or the bistro and new members are always welcome

The Paynesville Farmers and Makers

Paynesville attracts holidaymakers, especially anglers, windsurfers, jet skiers and water skiers.

Rosebud

→ CLOSE TO MELBOURNE

→ MORNINGTON PENINSULA LIVING

→ RELAXED LIFESTYLE

VICTORIA MORNINGTON PENINSULA

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE: $776,706

MEDIAN WEEKLY RENT: $567

Why you might like it

Rosebud offers the best of both worlds: spend your retirement living in a charming seaside town on the Mornington Peninsula, while still being only an hour’s drive down the freeway to everything Melbourne has to offer.

While the housing cost is comparable to many Melbourne suburbs, you get a lot more bang for your buck out here and the beachside location is unmatched

Rosebud is popular among retirees and young families, so it’s a vibrant and friendly area, with all the amenities you need

The population swells in the summertime as families flock to the coast. It’s testament to this little town’s friendliness that despite the jump in population, everything just keeps on joyfully flowing

Population: 14,468

Distance to nearest major hospital: Rosebud Hospital is in Rosebud Traditional custodians: The Bunurong, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Wadawurrung peoples

Perched on the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, Rosebud exudes a laidback allure. Beachside living meets convenience, along with a busy and welcoming community.

Explore coastal walks

If you live in Rosebud, it’s easy to leave the car at home and walk just about anywhere local, including to the safe and clean beach, which is protected by offshore sandbars and stretches for 9 km.

The foreshore reserve offers barbecues and shady picnic spots to pleasantly while away an afternoon

If you like a longer walk, the area has a variety of coastal walking trails with pretty beaches, bird watching, bush, lighthouses and lookouts

There is a strong community in Rosebud and it’s very welcoming. Try joining the Rosebud Over 50s Social Club, which is open most days, offering a range of activities to keep you social and active, including dance and fitness classes, a quilters group and regular social days.

The Rosebud RSL has a popular bistro with regular bingo and quiz nights and bus trips away. The Rosebud Italian Club welcomes people from all backgrounds and promises love, happiness and good food!

Another reason to love Rosebud is its proximity to the 50 boutique cellar doors around the Mornington Peninsula, famous for its pinot noir and chardonnay. With wineries this close, you can make your visits a regular event and take your time choosing a favourite.

Mornington Peninsula Golf Club is in Rosebud too, with practice facilities open to the public and membership open in all categories. There is also excellent dining at the club’s Bistro 62 and a large bowling green for competition and social bowls

The Rosebud Hotel is an iconic social hub, directly opposite the beach. You’ll find young and old hanging out here, with a range of social activities including footy tipping competitions, live music and pokerplus it offers great meal deals for seniors.

If you want to help out your new community, there are many ways you can volunteer your time and expertise - from gardening to council projects.

Rosebud was originally called Banksia Point, until a ship ran aground in 1855. The ship’s name? Rosebud, of course.

How we chose the locations

Citro’s purpose is to empower Australians to celebrate ageing with joy and purpose.

Housing forms a central pillar of the way people retire in Australia

We researched Australia’s most affordable, mid-priced and upper end retirement locations to inspire our members to think about the great places across Australia where they can live out their freedom years with joy and comfort.

The guide’s editor Alex Brooks and expert writer Carolyn Tate chose locations that are well-serviced by hospitals and quality amenities. We consulted experts like Core Logic and AMP’s Chief Economist Shane Oliver to help us pick the right spots.

Owning a mortgage-free property close to quality infrastructure like hospitals and leisure activities makes it relatively easy (or at least easier) to survive on a fixed retirement income

All the suggested retirement income figures published by The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) also assume you already own your own home (which is always excluded from the Age Pension assets test)

For those of us who don’t yet own a home, moving to a cheaper tree-change or seachange location can make our super and Age Pension stretch further

Alex Brooks editorial director

Carolyn Tate, Citro’s lifestyle & money writer

For this guide, Citro wanted each location to demonstrate ‘value’ in price, location and leisure opportunities.

Price: whether you need to rent or buy ‘value for money ’ needed to be evident in each of our locations.

Leisure opportunities: while some locations are small towns, we tried to ensure they offered a good mix of things to do.

Location: we made sure each area offered good health amenities and general infrastructure.

We chose a broad range of retirementfriendly locations, spread across most of Australia, that would appeal to renters, owners, downsizers and upsizers

We ensured that a ‘day in the life’ of each location offered something for everyonewhether you ’ re into nature, sports, crafting, the foodie scene, socialising, volunteering, or quieter pursuits

Choosing where to retire to is no easy feat, but it sure is fun visiting all places on your ‘list’ to see if they’re a good fit for you

Hopefully this guide can help narrow down that list, or perhaps be the very start of it. Wherever you ’ re at in your retirement journey, enjoy the dreaming and planning!

About the price data

Citro used Core Logic data, which took the average price of ‘all dwellings’ - both houses and apartments in May 2024 - and compared it to dwelling prices in the nearest capital city

Like everything related to Australia’s housing market, this data is subject to rapid change We urge you to do your research to keep up to date with current house prices and population numbers in areas you ’ re interested in.

AMP Chief Economist Dr Shane Oliver says sea-change and tree-change locations are likely to continue to perform well over the next 10 to 20 years.

“More Australians moving into retirement as the population ages will be the key driver (or price growth) but so too will be a longer term trend towards more flexible

working made possible by new technology, an increasing focus on the quality of life and a quest for more affordable housing,” he says

Core Logic Research Director Tim Lawless agrees that Australia’s regional lifestyle property markets are likely to flourish as more Australians than ever hit retirement age and move away from capital cities

“These areas need to offer more than just coastal, hinterland or a rural environment,” he says “The most popular locations will need to have a minimum level of social and retail amenity as well as health care. ”

Australia’s regional lifestyle property markets are likely to flourish.

“These areas need to offer more than just coastal, hinterland or a rural environment. The most popular locations will need to have a minimum level of social and retail amenity as well as health care. ”

Tim Lawless Core Logic Research Director

“More Australians moving into retirement as the population ages will be the key driver (or price growth) but so too will be a longer term trend towards more flexible working made possible by new technology, an increasing focus on the quality of life and a quest for more affordable housing,”

Dr Shane Oliver AMP Chief Economist