11 Best Western Australia Towns For Retirees
The state of Western Australia is distant from the eastern half of the country. Separated by the vast stretches of natural expanse, it is bordered in the north by the Timor Sea and to the west by the Indian Ocean. Consequently, many cities are situated along the coastline, where most of the population resides. Given its size, there is plenty to see and do, and many destinations to consider as a possible home. The median sale price of a home in Western Australia is AUD $566,000, and homebuyers will find these prices fluctuate significantly depending on the city. If you are looking to retire in the region, you will find houses that fall across a wide range of prices. However, in every city, you will find plenty to see and do as you enjoy your retirement.
Esperance
With a median home price of AUD $540,000, Esperance offers homes with costs comparable to the rest of the state. The benefit for retirees in the town is the beautiful view of Esperance Bay. From Castletown Beach in the north to Bow Park in the south, locals have plenty of places to enjoy the shores. Those hoping to sail the waters can launch from Bandy Creek Boat Harbour, which services recreational vessels along the west side of the harbor. Boat ramps and boat pens are both available for those looking for a place to set sail from.
Views of the water can even be enjoyed while teeing up at Esperance Golf Club, which sits along the shores of Windabout Lake. People in town can stop by for a round or visit during one of the golfing events held at the club throughout the year. For retirees in the area who require ongoing health monitoring, Esperance Health Campus offers 24-hour care.
Albany
Although the median sale price of a home in Albany is $950,000, the advantage of living here is that there is so much to do. The town is between King George Sound. Unsurprisingly, this is a fantastic place to hit the beach, and Emu Beach is a popular destination for those in town. Beach goers will find coffee at the nearby café, plenty of places to barbecue, and of course, plenty of space to hit the waters. Those hoping to stay fit may want to walk the Point Possession Heritage Trail, a 5km loop that showcases views of surrounding sights such as the Vancouver Peninsula and Albany Port.
One unique destination to visit while still enjoying the outdoors is Albany Heritage Park. While exquisite views are on display around the park, there are also memorials to the city's history, such as the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial. Positioned at the summit of Mt. Clarence, it celebrates the sacrifices of those who fought in World War I. Locals also have numerous healthcare options, including Albany Day Hospital.
Busselton
Busselton is yet another lovely coastal city, featuring median home prices of $872,500. In exchange, locals enjoy access to many coastal destinations. The Busselton Jetty is a popular 1.8km wooden pier that features a train ride on the pier and an underwater observatory to view the diverse aquatic life.
Those simply hoping to stroll the shores can visit Wonnerup Beach and enjoy the dunes before hitting the water. New retirees hoping to learn more about the town's history can visit The Busselton Museum. Housed in the former Old Busselton Butter Factory, visitors can discover the city's history through artefacts, as well as a unique schoolhouse that portrays what life was like back in the day. Retirees also have little to worry about regarding health, with facilities such as the Busselton Health Campus providing regular care.
Margaret River
Like many coastal towns, homes in Margaret River carry a higher median price $940,000. However, there is a great deal to do here. East of town, The Berry Farm is a popular destination for seniors who want to enjoy everything from jams to wines. Guests can book a table before buying something to take home with them. More creative retirees may enjoy time at Melting Pot Glass Studio, where visitors can blow their own baubles and create their own wine glasses. And for those hoping for some time on the shores, it is not a far drive to Gnoocardup Beach or, further south, Kilcarnup Beach. Although more remote, these coastal spots offer all-natural views of the ocean and surrounding dunes. Those living there are also well cared for in the region, thanks to facilities such as the Margaret River Medical Centre.
Kalgoorlie Boulder
A smaller, more affordable city, Kalgoorlie-Boulder boasts homes with a median sale price of just $360,000. Yet there is still plenty to find in the region. Anyone hoping to enjoy a day out on the green may want to visit Kalgoorlie Golf Course. The 18-hole course is ranked among Australia's best, and golfers will also find the Waterhole Bar and Bistro for a bite to eat after a round. Furthermore, art enthusiasts will appreciate the Goldfields Arts Centre, which features year-round exhibits and showcases local artists. Guests can also attend shows hosted in the Goldfields auditorium. There are also plenty of spaces to take a leisurely walk. Hammond Park is a particularly popular destination among locals, as it sits near the animal sanctuary and features a community garden and a miniature Bavarian castle decorated with gemstones. For retirees watching their health, Kalgoorlie Health Campus is open 24 hours a day for assistance at all times.
Geraldton
Despite its enviable coastal location, Geraldton remains relatively affordable, with a median home price of only $491,000. Of course, one of the biggest attractions in town is the beach, and Town Beach offers sandy shores and a yacht club that appeals to boaters settling in the town.
Historical and cultural sites of interest are also appealing reasons to live in town. The Museum of Geraldton features a shipwreck gallery as well as a variety of artefacts from throughout the town's history. Exhibits showcasing the prehistory and cultural history of the region, including the indigenous and colonial periods, are also on display. And for those who enjoy cultural events of all kinds, Queens Park Theatre features dance exhibitions, writers' festivals, and other special occasions. People here also find themselves well taken care of, thanks to healthcare services provided by facilities such as Geraldton Regional Hospital.
York
Among the smaller towns to retire to, York boasts houses with a median sale price of $502,500. Retirees can find a diverse range of things to do in town. For car enthusiasts, the York Motor Museum is an intriguing local destination. Collections of classic cards and motorcycles showcase how vehicles evolved.
Retirees looking for a place to tee off will want to visit the York WA Golf Club. The club offers an 18-hole course and practice facilities, perfect for spending the day getting to know your new neighbors. Further west of town, Wandoo National Park is a popular spot for those who prefer time in nature. The park is filled with wandoo eucalypt forest and offers numerous places to bushwalk, as well as a variety of birds and wildlife to keep an eye out for.
Exmouth
The port town of Exmouth is among the priciest to live in, with a median home price of $1,100,000. However, locals find themselves surrounded by plenty to see and do. The town is on the tip of North West Cape on Exmouth Gulf, and Town Beach is a popular destination for residents. Sandy beaches line the river, just a walk from several attractive beachside restaurants.
Nearby, the Exmouth Marina provides berths for everything from jet-skis to yachts and smaller fishing boats. The Marina makes for the perfect destination for anyone hoping to make boating a significant part of their life in Exmouth. For those interested in the cultural spots around town, Exmouth Pavilion and Café is a fun destination where a variety of shows, from comedy to fashion shows, are held. Guests can enjoy dinner before their show, with discounts extended to those attending a performance. A cultural hotspot is the Exmouth Museum and Heritage Centre, which has preserved the city's history for 40 years. Visitors can expect to find artifacts showcasing the town's history, with an emphasis on its nautical heritage. The Centre also offers talks about Exmouth's history, holds monthly raffles, and hosts quiz nights to help you get to know your new neighbours.
Pemberton
Among the most affordable retirement destinations is Pemberton, where the median home price is $450,000. Landlocked Pemberton remains close to many attractive outdoor destinations. Big Brook Damn Foreshore and Picnic Area is particularly popular. Beaches along the water provide easy access for swimming, while guests can also enjoy the numerous walking trails.
For those who love diverse floral life, Big Brook Arboretum features exotic trees that were originally planted to see how they would develop in the local climate. Today, American redwoods can be found alongside karri trees, and camping sites are available for overnight stays. Those who prefer art and culture may want to leave the outdoors for a visit to the Peter Kovacy Studio and Art Gallery. The gallery features glass art and sculptures in both indoor and outdoor exhibits. For all medical needs, Pemberton Hospital operates day and night.
Broome
Another popular destination for retirees is Broome, where the median home sale price is $725,000. Retirees will find, though, that there is plenty to enjoy in town, with multiple destinations to visit along the coast. Streeter's Jetty reopened in 2022 after reconstruction to ensure it would stand the test of time. Those in town regularly head out onto the waters here and enjoy peerless views of the coastline.
Those preferring to stay more active may want to visit Broome Golf Club. The club offers an 18-hole course, golf clinics, and a bar and restaurant to enjoy a meal while enjoying views of the bay. However, anyone new in town may first want to stop by the Broome Historical Museum. The museum showcases photographs from throughout the city's history, news archives, and oral histories of those who have called the city home. For anyone keeping track of their health who is relocating there, Broome Hospital offers care 24/7.
Augusta
Although not heavily populated, Augusta is ideally located, and homes reflect this, with a median sale price of $845,000. The town is tucked against West Bay in the north and Finders Bay in the south, so retirees will have plenty to do here on the water. The Augusta Boat Harbour in the south allows people to set sail for fishing on the bay. For those who prefer to let others sail for them, Naturaliste Charters is also located in the harbour and offers whale watching tours and bird spotting expeditions. For those who enjoy time in the water, the sea is calm around Granny's Pool. The calm waters allow for peaceful exploration of the beach, where visitors go to snorkel or rest beneath the nearby trees. Augusta Medical Centre provides routine care for locals.
Retiring In Style In Western Australia
Western Australia is a diverse and beautiful destination, offering a range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that make it an ideal retirement destination. Whether you want to enjoy the art of the Goldfields Arts Centre or the shores of Wonnerup Beach, there is so much to find that makes the region a strong candidate for your next home. If you are thinking about moving one final time, consider one of these 11 destinations as the perfect place to spend your retirement.
