9 Best Places To Retire In Queensland
Retirement is a stage of life that many look forward to—a time to relax, unwind, and truly enjoy the rewards of years of hard work. When searching for the perfect place to settle down, Queensland, Australia, consistently ranks among the best retirement destinations and it's easy to see why.
Beyond the mild climate, natural beauty, and laid-back lifestyles, Queensland has a lot of accomodations for those looking to retire there. Queensland boasts affordable housing, easy access to essential amenities, and also has a growing community of retirees.
If you are considering putting down roots in this sunny paradise, here are nine top locations in Queensland that could be your perfect retirement haven.
Ingham
With over half of Ingham's population being from Italy, this coastal town is often referred to as "Little Italy." The town really embraces that theme in both its culture and its environment as well. They host an annual Australian-Italian Festival in August and the town serves as the beating heart of the local sugar cane industry.
Outside of the festival, there is a lot of nature to explore in the many National Parks and State Forests. A few places to consider are Girringun National Park, which has Wallaman Falls—Australia's highest permanent single-drop waterfall. The Paluma Range National Park is also a fine alternative for hiking and viewing waterfalls. The parks in Ingham are senior-friendly, with a lot of flat terrain and beautiful scenery, perfect for those looking to remain active.
Outside of that, there are many local GP clinics, aged care facilities, and visiting specialists to ensure retirees are looked after and cared for. You also have ready healthcare in Ingham Health Services. Housing also isn't much of an issue as a home in Ingham is roughly $287,000 AUD.
Gladstone
North of Brisbane is Gladstone, Australia's best kept holiday secret and great place to retire to. Also called the 'Engine room of Queensland', Gladstone is an energetic regional city with surprising and interesting experiences. Those interesting experiences include things like going to Round Hill Lookout for beautiful views of the surrounding area, playing golf at the Gladstone Golf Club, or unwinding with a round of lawn bowling at Gladstone Bowls Club. Gladstone also has an aquatic center for public swimming.
With a median home price of $465,000 AUD , Gladstone is a great place to retire. In addition, the natural attractions, wide range of amenities and vibrant community makes it safe for retirees to visit and enjoy the area. For all its industrial roots, Gladstone has embraced a natural environment atmosphere that makes it flexible for where seniors wish to settle.
Townsville
Located in northeastern Queensland, Townsville offers retirees a warm climate, vibrant community, and diverse amenities, making it a popular destination for those seeking a fulfilling lifestyle. The cost of living in Townsville is approximately 14% lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for retirees, especially with a median price for apartment units of $450,000 AUD. The price is worth it with great amenities and healthcare services offered at Townsville University Hospital. In addition, there are several retirement villages like Bolton Clarke Rowes Bay, Carlyle Gardens Townsville, and Oak Tree Retirement Village Riverway, each offering various living arrangements tailored to retirees.
Then there is the range of activites as Townsville boasts quite a bit. You can join community groups like U3A Townsville for lifelong learning opportunities, or participate in the Senior Social Club or gardening clubs. The city hosts cultural events, such as the Townsville Cultural Festival, which showcases local arts and traditions, as well as numerous museums and galleries like the Queensland Museum Tropics and the Perc Tucker Regional Gallery. For retirees who love the outdoors, Townsville offers easy access to Magnetic Island and Castle Hill, which provides breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Whether it’s enjoying local cultural events, exploring natural wonders, or staying active in community groups, Townsville offers a perfect blend of relaxation and engagement for retirees.
Hinchinbrook
Hinchinbrook Shire, located in Northern Queensland, is renowned for its serene coastal and rural surroundings, making it a top retirement destination. Ranked second among Australia’s top 30 retirement spots for those over 50, the region is perfect for retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle. The Ageing in Place Community Initiative offers comprehensive support for older residents, focusing on their health, well-being, and independence.
Housing is affordable with the median house costing $349,000 AUD. For healthcare, Hinchinbrook is supported by nearby facilities such as Ingham Hospital, which offers a range of medical services, including emergency care and specialists.
Retirees can enjoy a variety of local activities, such as exploring the stunning natural beauty of Hinchinbrook Island and the famous Hinchinbrook Channel, known for its scenic views and great fishing spots. The nearby town of Cardwell also provides access to local dining, arts and craft shops, and seasonal events, offering plenty to keep retirees engaged and active. For those seeking a relaxing and vibrant retirement experience, Hinchinbrook Shire combines community, nature, and excellent services.
Toowoomba
Toowoomba, known as the "Garden City," offers retirees a unique blend of urban amenities and a relaxed country lifestyle. The cost of housing isn't cheal, with the average house costing $614,000 AUD; however, that cost is made up for with lower-than-average costs in everything else compared to other major cities, housing included.
Toowoomba has a pleasant climate, is a highly safe place to live, and offers some of the best healthcare around. Notable hospitals in the area include St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, offering a wide range of services, and Toowoomba Hospital, a public facility providing comprehensive emergency and medical care.
The city lives up to its nickname through its multiple green spaces. Some of these include Queens Park, which has beautiful flowerbeds and large lawns, and the tranquil Japanese Garden at the University of Southern Queensland, which provides retirees with peaceful outdoor retreats. The annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers draws visitors from all over the world to enjoy stunning garden displays, live music, and local food.
For active retirees, Toowoomba offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Laurel Bank Park, famous for its autumn-themed gardens, and Lake Annand is perfect for birdwatching and picnicking. With its vibrant cultural scene, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, Toowoomba is an ideal destination for retirees seeking a peaceful yet engaging lifestyle.
Hervey Bay
Located in Queensland’s Fraser Coast Region, Hervey Bay is a prime retirement destination offering a combination of quality housing options, boutique resort-style communities, and an abundance of recreational activities. The city is renowned for its whale-watching experiences, with retirees having the chance to witness humpback whales during their annual migration.
There are also several attractions like the Fraser Coast Discovery Sphere, which showcases local history and marine life, and the Hervey Bay Golf Club, home to an 18-hole championship course too. These provide entertainment for those looking for cultural enrichment and outdoor activities.
Beyond that, the area’s mild subtropical climate, clean air, and coastal breezes contribute to a relaxed and healthy lifestyle, making it an ideal place for retirees seeking both adventure and tranquility. You can see that through Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens and the nearby Fraser Island - the world's largest sand island. In addition, the Urangan Pier is a popular place for fishing and leisurely strolls.
Hervey Bay also boasts reliable healthcare services with Hervey Bay Hospital and St. Stephen’s Hospital, both offering excellent medical care, including emergency services, specialist consultations, and routine checkups.
Yeppoon
Yeppoon, a charming coastal town located in Central Queensland, is known for its stunning beaches, welcoming community, and relaxed lifestyle, making it an ideal destination for retirees seeking tranquility. With a small but growing community, Yeppoon is in the unique position to serve as the main hub along the Capricorn Coast and offers retirees the opportunity to explore the nearby Great Barrier Reef.
Yeppoon’s affordable property market also provides flexible housing options. This includes retirement villages, beachside homes, and low-maintenance apartments. Apartment units in town are relatively affordable, with a median price of $475,000. For healthcare, Capricorn Coast Hospital offers emergency care and general medical services, while specialized care can be found in nearby Rockhampton.
Retirees can enjoy a wealth of activities and local landmarks in Yeppoon, such as the Yeppoon Lagoon, perfect for a relaxing swim, and the Capricorn Coast National Park, where hiking trails and scenic views await. Fisherman’s Beach offers tranquil beach walks and fishing spots, while The Keppel Bay Islands are easily accessible for those interested in nature exploration and reef tours.
Bargara
A short drive from Bundaberg, Bargara is a bustling coastal hub thanks in part to holidaymakers and retiree appeal. It's easy to see why the latter is the case as the Friendly Society Private Hospital nearby Bundaberg ensures surrounding areas receive great medical care. In addition, Bargara has many things to do and explore.
The Southern Great Barrier Reef stretches out before its shores. In addition, Bargara has multiple parks, beaches, cafes, and shops. Specifically, you can visit Neilson Park, which is popular for its protected swimming area and picnic spots. The Esplanade is six kilometres of paved pathway for you to pick out dining spots, places to shop, or people to meet. In addition, the Basin is a swimming spot for the young and old to feed fish that swim around your legs or to see more up close with some goggles. For a more active activity, the Bargara Golf Club is great thanks to its well-maintained greens and clubhouse facilities.
Peregian Springs
Lastly is Peregian Springs, which has bustling streets, beautiful landscapes, and an expansive beach, all contained in a small town, making it great to retire. It's nearby Noosa which makes it easily accessible to quality healthcare services, but Peregian Springs is not short on those either. You have the Peregian Family Medical Center and Arcare Peregian Springs which provide premium care, with Arcare specifically specializing in aged care.
Beyond that, you really get a connection from Peregian Springs to Noosa in what you can do. To start, the two areas are connected via the southern tail of Noosa National Park, a great place for walking, having a picnic or taking in the sights. For more physical activity you can also climb the nearby Emu Mountain.
Peregian Springs also has a local golf club as well as a nice hidden beach to help you unwind away from the crowds. That said, if you want a taste of the hustling life, you just need to check their shopping district which has various shops, cafes, and excellent dining experiences.
Queensland offers retirees a variety of living options, from coastal paradises like Peregian Springs to quieter regional towns such as Toowoomba and Yeppoon. With affordable housing, excellent healthcare, low crime rates, and numerous recreational opportunities, retirees can enjoy a fulfilling and well-supported lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant, active community or a peaceful retreat, Queensland has a destination that suits your needs. If you’re considering retirement in Australia, these locations provide the perfect combination of affordability, amenities, and natural beauty.
