The Regional Housing Choice for Older Australians, examines the top 25 Statistical Area Level 3 (SA3) regions with the highest proportion of residents aged 65 and over as of 2023. By focusing on current housing availability, demand for houses versus units, and price trends in these areas, this report provides insights into whether regional housing markets meet the needs of an older demographic.
View our November report here
Regional Housing Choice for Older Australians Report Highlights
Top Retirement Regions
Several regions stand out for their high proportion of older residents, and these areas predominantly encompass coast and rural settings, where lifestyle, affordability and natural surroundings appeal to retirees. Bribie – Beachmere in QLD’s Moreton Bay North has the highest population of retirees at 41% aged over 65. Great Lakes in NSW’s Mid North Coast at 36% and Fleurieu – Kangaroo Island in SA also at 36% round out the top three. These areas offer access to healthcare and a sense of belonging. They are also considered more affordable than the major metropolitan areas.
Houses vs Units
The need for space, privacy and a stable environment results in 65% of over 65’s desiring a house over a unit, however, factors can change this. As Australians age, the practical housing options that units or apartments offer, such as being lower maintenance, become more desirable. There are fewer units available than houses, with Gippsland East in VIC having 686 house listings compared to 83 unit listings, whilst in South East Coast in TAS, there are 143 houses to the 11 unit listings available. Price also plays a part, with the average price of a unit being much lower than houses. Southern Highlands in NSW has a house asking price of $1,295,000 compared to a unit price of $895,000.
State Analysis
The population of over 65’s varies by region and state and can be dictated by housing availability and affordability. The top regions across the country include Great Lakes in NSW (36%), Gippsland – East in VIC (31%), Hervey Bay in QLD (31%), Fleurieu – Kangaroo Island in SA (36%), Manjimup in WA (26%) and South East Coast in TAS (35%).