8 Best Towns In Tasmania For Retirees

Tasmania is often regarded as Australia’s most beautiful state. It is renowned for its promotion of social engagement among retirees and its community-oriented lifestyle. The abundance of great wine and food, stunning landscapes, and charming people make Tasmania a great place for retirees who love the outdoors. With incredible coastlines, ancient rainforests, expansive bushlands, and over 2,000 kilometers of walking trails, the towns and cities on the island offer a slice of paradise. While Tasmania might be the smallest state in Australia, the opportunities are endless.

Deloraine

A peaceful and relaxed town that offers a slice of country life is Deloraine, Tasmania. With a supportive community and friendly locals, this town is a great place to live, offering several aged care providers, such as Aged Care Deloraine and Grenoch Home, independent living units, a day centre, and residential care. The median housing price in Deloraine is around $590,000 as of September 2025, which is almost $100,000 less than the state average. Deloraine has many outdoor activities, such as the Great Western Tiers Sculpture Trail, which features dozens of captivating creations made by Tasmanian artists. The Kooparoona Niara Cultural Trail is a cultural landmark located on the bank of the Meander River. Take a riverbank walk through Deloraine Train Park, which offers an oasis for recreation and relaxation. Another popular park is the Rotary Park Reserve, where you can have a picnic, go for a nature walk, and engage in river activities.

Devonport

A more populated location that remains affordable is Devonport, Tasmania, with an average housing price of around $500,000. The area strongly emphasizes the well-being of seniors, offering health and lifestyle programs and access to community services and support, such as the Mersey Leven Community Health. For those who are fans of fresh fruit and vegetables, the Devonport Farmers Market is the place to grab some locally grown food.

Individuals who enjoy getting some fresh air can take a walk along Coles Beach, a small swimming spot equipped with shaded tables and nearby access to biking and walking trails. Visit the Don Reserve, a bushland park along the Don River, which offers a variety of sawdust and paved walking paths where you can see all the rare plant species located throughout the area.

Penguin

With a name like Penguin, this town in Tasmania is as adorable as it is welcoming. The median house price in Penguin is just lower than the state median, with an average home costing approximately $600,000. This charming coastal town supports retirees through social engagement via the Probus Club and other community groups in the region. Seniors who want to grab a bite can take a stroll through town and visit the Penguin Pantry, where responsible production and considered consumption meet fresh produce and quality gifts. Located by the water and featuring a windmill surrounded by beautiful flowers, is Hiscutt Park, where locals take the time to stop and smell the roses. And who can forget the Big Penguin, a 3-meter-high giant penguin statue that is a popular tourist attraction and will surely make you smile.

Cygnet

Cygnet, Tasmania, has a lot to offer those looking for a place to retire, such as low levels of crime and a median sold price of approximately $670,000, in line with the state average and far below the median of the capital, Hobart. Additionally, the town offers several activities and resources for retirees, such as the University of the Third Age (U3A) for learning and social engagement and Huon Valley Council’s self-contained retirement cottages. Cygnet is an art lover’s paradise, with numerous galleries and studios scattered throughout the area, such as the Lovett Gallery, which is considered a hub for the arts, and Huon Art, which showcases many talented local artists. Across from Port Cygnet is Burton’s Reserve, which features a playground and a popular place for canoeing and other water activities, ideal for active retirees.

Evandale

Evandale, Tasmania, is a safe and secure town with a strong sense of community, making it a perfect place for retirement. While the average cost of housing is around $650,000, it is still lower than the state average. The town has a population of around 1,300 with a median age of 53, indicating a strong social environment for seniors. Evandale also has a community-focused atmosphere with regular events and markets. The Evandale Community Centre offers groups based on shared interests, such as a board games group, yoga classes, and drop-in craft makers.

Curious seniors can spend the day exploring the Clarendon Estate-National Trust Tasmania, described as ‘one of Australia’s most imposing and romantic pastoral homesteads.’ While there, you can also visit the Australian Fly-Fishing Museum, which is located on site and features a wide array of fishing equipment displays. On the weekends, be sure to visit the Sunday Market to support local farmers.

Stanley

Located on the north-west coast of Tasmania, Australia, is the small, captivating town of Stanley. Popular among those looking for a place to retire, due to its affordable housing, welcoming community, and stunning scenery. The median house price for the area is around $550,000, making it less expensive than the state average. A prime attraction for both tourists and locals in Stanley is the Nut Chairlift, where you traverse 250 meters across the picturesque coastal town, rising 95 meters above the ground to a plateau where you can walk around and explore.

Below the Nut is Godfrey's Beach Penguin Viewing Platform, located between the sea and the cemetery, where you can catch a glimpse of penguins in a natural setting. It's perfect for a relaxing evening during one’s golden years. The Nut State Reserve, one of Stanley’s key attractions, is another ideal place for scenic viewing, walking, picnicking, or just studying nature. Throughout the year, residents can attend the numerous cultural and community events held at Stanley Town Hall, such as live music, theatrical performances, and harvest markets.

Geeveston

With the median house price significantly lower than the state average, at approximately $500,000, Geeveston, Australia, is a great place to consider for retirement. As part of the Huon Valley, this town has numerous services and groups available for seniors in the area. The Geeveston Community Hall and the Community Centre host a wide range of events for seniors. The town has cafes and bakeries that are sure to appeal to your sweet tooth, and keep an eye out for wooden statues scattered throughout the area, such as the John Geeves statue. Along the Kermandie River sits a place for recreation that includes walking trails, a playground, and picnic benches. There is also the Platypus Walk, where seniors can watch these charming mammals play and swim along the river. Geeveston is also the closest place to Arve Falls, a scenic spot in the Hartz Mountains National Park.

Queenstown

Known as one of the most affordable locations in Tasmania, Queenstown has a median house price of around $180,000, making it a dream destination for budget retirees. Located near the coast with tons of green space, you can buy your dream home for a fraction of the cost compared to major cities. Moreover, this small historic mining town offers access to a variety of activities such as contemporary art events, community meets, and outdoor exploration. Residents are able to enjoy Queenstown’s Senior Citizens Club, where a wide range of activities and events are organized.

Nearby, Nelson Falls is located in a forest surrounded by various plant life. It is a captivating, well-traveled waterfall featuring an easy path filled with educational panels. A prime location for soaking up the natural and unnatural beauty of Queenstown is the Confluence. On this spot, the polluted and pristine waters of two rivers collide to create a kind of eerie beauty. If you are looking to capture the full view of Queenstown and all its glory, take a trip to Spion Kop Lookout, where you can get a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

Settle Down In Tasmania

Each of the towns discussed offers its own unique and engaging experiences. While the state is less urbanized compared to the mainland, the metropolitan areas and cities have been steadily growing. For those seeking to retire, Tasmania has become a great place due to its increasing elderly population and the growth of the services sector. With an abundance of natural resources and beautiful scenery, Tasmania has many towns that are perfect for retirees to live in and visit.