What is the best age to move into a retirement village?

The age you move into retirement living will depend on your personal circumstances, many people choose to move while they’re still active and independent so they can fully enjoy the lifestyle, community and amenities on offer. The median age of entry into retirement villages is now 75.

How much does it cost to live in a retirement village?

Costs vary between retirement living communities but typically include an entry price, ongoing service fees and any applicable exit fees. The average two-bedroom independent living unit is around 59% of the median house price in the same postcode, making retirement living an affordable option for many Australians.

Will I still be able to live independently?

Yes. Retirement living villages are designed for independent living, giving you the freedom to maintain your lifestyle while enjoying the reassurance of a supportive community around you.

Should I start exploring retirement living before I’m ready to move?

Absolutely. Visiting retirement living communities early gives you time to understand your options and make decisions at your own pace. With village vacancy rates sitting at just 4% nationwide, planning ahead can help ensure you find a community that feels right for you.

What happens if my care needs change in the future?

Many retirement living communities are designed to support ageing in place. Nearly eight in 10 villages now provide or facilitate home care services, helping residents access additional support while remaining in their own home.

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Is It Time to Think About Your Next Chapter?

Retirement LivingJuly 15, 20263 minute read

There comes a point when maintaining a large home starts to feel like hard work, and the things that matter most become simpler: feeling connected, staying active, and having confidence about your future.

If you've been wondering what your next chapter might look like, you're not alone. More Australians are choosing retirement living as a lifestyle decision rather than waiting until support becomes a necessity. In fact, the PwC–Retirement Living Council Census shows that the average age of people moving into a retirement village is now 75, and residents typically enjoy around nine years of independent living within their community. ¹

What many people discover is that retirement living isn't just about changing where you live — it's about changing how you live. Retirement living offers the freedom of fewer household responsibilities, the comfort of knowing your neighbours by name, and the opportunity to spend more time doing the things you enjoy.

Today’s retirement communities are designed to support independent, confident living. Residents have the freedom to choose the services and care providers that meet their changing needs over time, while continuing to enjoy the comfort and privacy of their own home. Many communities also offer wellbeing programs that promote healthy, active and connected lifestyles.

There can be financial benefits too. The latest Retirement Census found that the average two-bedroom retirement village home costs around 59% of the median house price in the same postcode¹ , allowing many people to free up capital while remaining close to family, friends and familiar neighbourhoods.

As financial commentator Rachel Lane recently noted, retirement villages are increasingly becoming a pathway through ageing, rather than simply a housing choice.

“The old idea that retirement villages are simply places for healthy retirees is changing. More residents want their village to be their “forever home”.” Lane explains. ²

More residents are looking for communities that can support them as their needs change, with care and wellbeing services becoming a key consideration. With village vacancy rates sitting at just 4% nationwide ¹ and Australia’s ageing population continuing to grow, demand for quality retirement living is stronger than ever ².

Ultimately, retirement living isn't about leaving a life behind—it's about creating space for the life you want to live now. For those considering their next chapter, retirement living offers the opportunity to join a community where you can enjoy greater connection, confidence and independence, while staying close to the people, passions and everyday moments that matter most.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Sources

¹PwC–Retirement Living Council, Retirement Census Snapshot Report 2024 (published 17 July 2025)

² Rachel Lane, "Thinking of Moving into a Retirement Village? Here's What You Should Know", The Sydney Morning Herald, 24 June 2026.

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