10 Best Places To Retire In Victoria
Australia's southern state of Victoria spans 87,817 square miles, which makes it the country's second-smallest state. But as the old saying goes, "great things come in (relatively) small packages." Victoria (named after Queen Victoria) is one of those places that really does have it all. Beautiful shoreline along the Southern Ocean? Check. Stunning mountain ranges such as the Victorian Alps? Check. Arid, "Mad Max"-style deserts (minus the hordes of "Mad Max"-style baddies)? Check.
Victoria's diverse, rugged landscape is home to an equally diverse weather system as well, with cool winters and hot summers that vary in temperature depending on location. Victoria's rich culture has been shaped over millennia by those who have chosen to call it home. Each of the towns and cities that dot its map offers a unique and enriching experience for those considering the Garden State for their golden years. (Note: Home prices are in Australian dollars and below the current state median.)
Maryborough
Just 104 miles northwest of Melbourne sits the charming city of Maryborough. Established in 1854, Maryborough is currently home to around 7,769 residents. The town experiences all four seasons of the year, including mild winters that usually see July temperatures of about 55.2 degrees Fahrenheit. Homes in town can be found for as low as $599,000.
While in Maryborough, residents and visitors alike love spending time at the beautiful Goldfields Reservoir, which is a great place for a BBQ, swimming, or strolling along the shoreline. History lovers will want to take part in Maryborough’s history tours, which showcase numerous buildings from the city's storied past, including the School of Mines and the State Bank. Getting into Maryborough is easy thanks to its still-functioning historic train station. For a great meal while in town, make sure to stop in at the Peach Village Restaurant before hitting the links at the Maryborough Golf Club. Just don't forget to yell, "Fore!"
Warrnambool
The beautiful city of Warrnambool is currently home to around 32,894 people, but it could always use a few more. Despite the larger population size, residents of this city are friendly and welcoming. A great place to spend a few hours is the stunning Warrnambool Botanical Gardens, which have been in operation since 1877, just a few decades after the town was founded.
From there, why not do some shopping at the Fletcher Jones Market, open every day from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The market features an eclectic collection of stores and items to suit every need. Should any medical emergencies arise while living in Warrnambool, South West Healthcare is fully staffed and ready for anything. A great way to learn about Warrnambool's incredible maritime history is by spending time at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. Homes in Warrnambool can be found for as low as $380,000.
Colac
The city of Colac is home to one of the country's most unique natural features, as the plains surrounding the city form part of the third-largest volcanic plain in the world. As impressive as this natural wonder is, the area's greatest asset is the wonderful population of about 12,756 people who call Colac home. Homes in Colac can be found for as low as $420,000.
While living in Colac, make sure to stop by Rae Street Relics for previously loved home décor. One of the best ways for visitors and residents alike to learn about the area's history is to visit the Colac Visitor Information Centre. Sports fans looking to retire in Colac are in luck, as the city has an Aussie rules football team in the Colac Tigers Football Netball Club, so be sure to show up and show the boys some love as they go after the championship. Getting to Colac is a snap thanks to its location on the V/Line train line.
Lakes Entrance
Around 200 miles east of Melbourne is the charming community of Lakes Entrance. Founded around 1870, the town is home to approximately 5,145 residents. Homes can be found here for around $399,000. The town sits right at the mouth of the Gippsland Lakes, which has earned it its distinct name. The lakes provide a great way to beat the summer heat with a cool dip in the water and have long been loved by locals.
A fun way to learn about the town and its history is by spending time at the Griffiths Sea Shell Museum & Marine Display. Those with a sweet tooth will find that local favorite Chocky Sweet Box is a must-visit. For a bit of exercise and fun, the Footbridge Mini Golf, Lolly Shop & Ice Cream Shack makes for a fun outing for all ages or fore a full-size round of golf, head to the Lakes Entrance Golf Club and Function Centre.
Benalla
The charming city of Benalla and its roughly 9,316 residents enjoy a temperate climate that includes hot, dry summers and mild winters. That great weather is perfect for residents and visitors alike to spend time at the esteemed Benalla Golf Club, where golfers can enjoy the area's natural scenic splendor while playing 18 holes. One of the best parts about Benalla, other than homes that can be found for around $410,000, is the town's thriving arts community. This is on full display at the famed Benalla Art Gallery, which features incredible work from a number of local artists.
Art in town isn't confined to a single gallery, however, as Benalla is famous for its incredible street art. Many pass by these works without a second thought, but the purest beauty can often be found in the most unexpected of places. The town and its surrounding area are absolutely steeped in history, and not all of it pleasant. Some incredible aviation history is on display at the Benalla Aviation Museum & Men's Shed, featuring World War II era aircraft.
Interested in Australia's darker history with a touch of beauty? A trip to nearby Stringybark Creek where infamous outlaw bushman Ned Kelly and his gang engaged in a fight with local police in 1878 is well worth the visit. More than just a macabre tourist attraction, Stringybark Creek is a beautiful area perfect for a BBQ and taking in the area's wonderful scenery. The town's medical needs are provided for by the state-of-the-art Benalla Health facility.
Ocean Grove
Sitting at the mouth of the Bellarine Peninsula is the beautiful town of Ocean Grove. The laid-back community is a wonderful place to spend one's golden years, thanks to its wide range of activities. Even people whose favorite pastime is simply walking along the water’s edge while listening to the waves crash onto the shore will feel at ease here. Homes in Ocean Grove can be found for around $650,000. That leaves plenty left over for playing 18 holes at the Ocean Grove Golf Club or enjoying a delicious meal at The Dunes restaurant.
Sports lovers will be thrilled to know that Ocean Grove is home to both an Aussie football team, the Ocean Grove Grubbers, and a European-style football team, the Ocean Grove Soccer Club. Ocean Grove is located about 61 miles from Melbourne, making it close enough for a convenient day trip. While in town, Kingston Village Square Shopping Centre sits just a few blocks from the beach and, as the largest shopping center on the peninsula, offers everything needed to fully stock a newly purchased home.
Portarlington
The seaside town of Portarlington has long been a destination for retirees looking to enjoy their golden years, and all it takes is one look around the area to see why. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills, olive groves, and wineries, residents of Portarlington can enjoy sweeping views of the Bellarine Peninsula while strolling along the Portarlington Pier.
A great way to learn about the local area is at the ever-popular Portarlington Community Information Booth, where visitors and residents alike can discover nearby attractions such as the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway. After a fun train ride, stretching one's legs at the Portarlington Market held every Sunday from April to September is a great way to spend the afternoon. Homes in this town of around 4,436 people can be found for approximately $650,000, which is a great value for such beautiful surroundings.
Mooroopna
Founded in 1873, the town of Mooroopna has grown into a modest community of around 8,312 people who enjoy the area's pleasant year-round weather. Homes in Mooroopna can be found for around $520,000. That leaves plenty left over to enjoy everything the town has to offer. One highlight is the Museum of Vehicle Evolution (M.O.V.E.), where visitors can explore decades’ worth of automotive history.
Art lovers will also appreciate nearby Shepparton, home to the impressive Shepparton Art Museum, which features an extensive permanent collection alongside rotating exhibits. Like much of Australia, Mooroopna is surrounded by natural beauty. A great place in town to experience it firsthand is W. B. Ferrari Park, an ideal spot for a picnic or simply settling in with a favorite book.
Beechworth
The stunning town of Beechworth is an excellent choice for history lovers looking to spend their golden years in a truly storied setting. Owning a home in Beechworth won’t break the bank either, with houses available for around $590,000.
The town’s past is on full display at the Burke Museum Beechworth, where an impressive collection from Australia’s history is showcased. Beyond the museum, Beechworth’s historic district includes notable landmarks such as the Telegraph Station and the Courthouse. All told, the area makes for a wonderful walk—especially when paired with a tasty treat from the famous Beechworth Bakery.
Despite being surrounded by countryside, the town also boasts a natural wonder of its own: the picturesque Newton Falls, a perfect spot for photos or quiet reflection. Health care needs are well covered by the Beechworth Health Service, a fully staffed, modern facility.
Bairnsdale
The town of Bairnsdale can definitely lay claim to having a "wow factor" all its own. Just north of town rises the imposing Mount Taylor, while the Mitchell River flows along the town’s edge. During the warmer months, when average temperatures hover around 68 degrees Fahrenheit, the river becomes a popular place to cool off. Homes in this community of about 17,666 people can be found for around $560,000. The Bairnsdale Bowls Club offers a fun and mildly challenging way to keep in shape.
If lawn bowling doesn’t quite scratch that itch, the nearby Bairnsdale Golf Club might be what one is looking for. Bairnsdale also has deep cultural roots tied to the area’s traditional Indigenous population. The Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place emphasizes that it is not a museum, per se, but a space to understand and appreciate the living, continuing culture of the Gunaikurnai people, the original custodians of East Gippsland. Finally, one of the biggest advantages of towns like Bairnsdale is being able to enjoy a great meal at a place like 5ive Canarys before or after catching a movie at Sunbird Cinema, all without the hustle and bustle of a big city.
Each of the towns mentioned and others like them remain relatively affordable and full of engaging activities. Thanks to Victoria’s generally stunning weather, it’s possible to stay active year-round, even if that simply means going for a stroll. With each town offering its own terrain and character, there is always something new and incredible to discover. If anything, the biggest challenge is choosing just one place to call home. After all, home is wherever one’s heart is. Happy travels.
