Choosing a retirement village: the factors to consider

Making the decision to move into a retirement village is about far more than finding a new place to live – it’s about choosing a home and a community that supports your purpose, happiness and future needs. With so many options available, it’s important to know what to look for when weighing up your choices.

Location and lifestyle

Where the village is located has a huge impact on your day-to-day enjoyment. Consider whether you want to be near family and friends, close to shops and medical services, or in a quieter setting surrounded by the bush or seaside. Many villages are designed to offer the best of both worlds – peaceful, landscaped grounds combined with easy access nearby services.

Community and connection

One of the greatest benefits of retirement living is the sense of community. Ask yourself: does the village have opportunities to socialise, join clubs or participate in group activities? A welcoming community can provide friendship, reduce isolation and give you the freedom to enjoy life surrounded by like-minded people. When visiting villages, ask if you can take part in an activity or social event, this will help give you a taste of the community and discover if they are “your” people.

Safety and security

Peace of mind is essential. Look for a village with thoughtful safety features, such as an on-site team and a personal emergency response system. Knowing that support is available if needed allows you to relax and focus on the things you love.

Accommodation options and design

Retirement villages offer a range of accommodation styles from villas and apartments to serviced units. Consider whether the design is future-proofed for ageing well, with features like step-free access, wide doorways and walk-in showers. Pet-friendly policies, natural light and low-maintenance layouts also add to comfort and convenience.

Services and amenities

Think about what services you’ll use regularly. Some villages include amenities like pools, gyms, cafes or libraries. Others provide practical support such as maintenance, gardening or care services. The right mix will depend on your priorities, whether that’s staying active, enjoying new hobbies and/or enjoying a low-maintenance lifestyle.

Care and support options

While you may be healthy and well now, it’s worth considering future needs. Some villages offer access to Support at home services or aged care services, so you won’t need to relocate if your care requirements change. This forward-thinking approach can provide continuity and comfort down the track.

Financial considerations

Finally, make sure you understand the financial model. Many people are surprised at how different the cost and ownership structure of retirement villages can be. It’s important to understand the entry payment, ongoing service fees and management fee. Transparency is key, so look for villages that clearly explain costs upfront. At RetireAustralia, we offer a clear contract so you know what you will receive when you decide to leave the village.

Finding the right retirement village

Choosing a retirement village is about more than just location—it’s about feeling connected, supported, and confident in your future.

Take the time to explore how each village meets your social and emotional needs, supports your wellbeing and aligns with your future care plans and financial goals.

Visit, talk to residents and ask questions. Ultimately, the right village will be the one where you feel secure, connected, and excited about the future.