Deciding where you are going to retire to often comes down to affordability, climate preferences and access to healthcare. Often our clients also say they would like to be close to their children and grandchildren.
While it can be tempting to follow your kids around, we know they can’t always be relied on to stay. Job transfers or other reasons may mean they move on and that can be disruptive in retirement. There are so many wonderful locations to choose from in our beautiful state so it shouldn’t be too hard to entice your family to visit, at the very least.
Here are our top five:
Sunshine Coast and Noosa
The Sunshine Coast is a large and beautiful region spanning from Caloundra in the south to Noosa in the north and out to the hinterland including the picturesque mountain towns of Montville and Maleny. It is popular for its relaxed lifestyle and sub-tropical climate, but you will also have access to an international airport and exceptional health facilities such as the Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH). Many of our clients are lucky to already live here and choose to stay.
Fraser Coast
If you are after a quiet, coastal lifestyle you can’t go past the Fraser Coast. This region is about 250 kilometres north of Brisbane and centred on the twin cities of Hervey Bay and Maryborough. It also contains Fraser Island. There is a thriving retirement living scene so you will find something to suit your needs whether you are independent or in need of some extra support.
Brisbane
With still affordable apartment living options and a buzzing cultural and food scene, Brisbane is a great place to retire. Beyond the city centre you will find suburban living with access to parklands and bike paths that will take you into the city. Ebikes are big in this town! If you prefer the idea of acreage living there are plenty of options only 45 minutes from the CBD. Brisbane’s warm climate and easy access to the beaches of the Gold Coast just an hour’s drive away make it an appealing choice for those wanting to enjoy the vibe of city living.
Gold Coast
For retirees wanting a beach lifestyle with a faster pace, the Gold Coast is a great option. The city’s stunning coastline stretches from Rainbow Bay to South Stradbroke Island and includes world famous beaches like Coolangatta and Surfers Paradise. The beautiful waterways and spectacular hinterland make it a nature lovers haven and if you like to dine out there are plenty of fabulous restaurants and cafes.
The Gold Coast has everything you’d expect in a metropolitan area, including hospitals, sports and recreational facilities, and arts and cultural attractions.
There is also a fantastic public transport network including a light rail and a major airport so you can travel interstate or overseas.
Toowoomba
Known as Queensland’s Garden city, Toowoomba has strong appeal, particularly with our rural clients seeking a more cosmopolitan lifestyle in retirement. Toowoomba is crisp in winter, and you get to experience all four seasons with beautiful autumn leaves and a riot of colour in spring. Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, Toowoomba offers plenty of retirement living options including acreage blocks. You will have access to quality healthcare and an airport so you can travel interstate with ease.
Think about downsizing
If you are considering retiring this is also a good juncture to consider the benefits of downsizing. You may be able to make a downsizer contribution into your superannuation of up to $300,000 from the proceeds of selling your home. It is always worth seeking professional advice at this stage to ensure you put yourself in the strongest position. Get in touch.
