5 Reasons to Move to the Country When You Retire

Retirement is an exciting time – when you no longer work, you suddenly have a world of opportunity in front of you.

It’s also a time of change, with many retirees opting to move from the family home, and settle somewhere new. The reasons for the move may be financial, to downsize, to escape the hustle and bustle – or all of the above. So where do you go? For many retirees, moving to the country ticks all the boxes. Here’s five reasons why.

1.Lifestyle

Probably the biggest drawcard of living in a rural setting for retirees is the promise of a relaxed and quiet lifestyle. In a country setting, you’ll wake up to birds instead of traffic, and you’ll have the time and space to pursue those hobbies and interests you never got around to doing while you were working. And a trip into town is easy – no battle for a carpark or queuing 10 mins for a coffee. Living at a slower pace means your days will be less stressful, and you’ll be happier and healthier – so you can enjoy your retirement to the fullest.

2. Community

Being part of a community has many benefits, especially for retirees. Small towns often have thriving communities, with plenty of opportunities for older Australians to get involved. People are friendly, and you’ll get to know your neighbours, local butcher, baker and newsagent by name – which is not always possible when you live in a busy suburb or city. Being part of the community will keep you active and offer the chance to make new friendships and feel connected – which are all essential to happy retirement living.

3. Affordability

Getting your finances sorted is essential to being comfortable and having the funds available to enjoy your retirement. Downsizing your home and moving to a rural location can mean a big boost to your bank balance, or can help you reduce or wipe out your debt. Homes in regional locations offer an affordable option for over 55s – for example, you can build your own freestanding home in Village Lifestyle Park Traralgon for less than $200,000.

4. Security

If you currently live in the city or surrounding suburbs, the risk of robbery and other crime is generally higher than regional locations. With lower populations, and closer communities where people look out for each other, a move to the country can make you feel safer, both at home, and while you’re out and about. There’s also the option of over 55s retirement communities, such as Village Lifestyle Park, which provide residents with 24/7 access, with the added safety and security of a gated community.

5. Scenery

There’s some spectacular scenery to be found in regional areas – and when you move to the country, you can have it right at your doorstep. From mountains and rolling hills, to beaches and lakes, the toughest part is trying to decide which you like best. Some locations, such as Gippsland in regional Victoria, are close to all of the above, offering retirees an abundance of options for day trips and scenic drives.

Finding the Right Fit

Retiring gives you the chance to take your life in a new direction – and a move to the country is a great fit for many over 55s. Before you commit, visit the regions on your shortlist, to get a feel for the town and people. If you’re considering a retirement community, like Village Lifestyle Park, then you can book a tour, so you can see the facilities and meet the residents and managers. Moving to the country is a big decision, so plan ahead and do your research – and it could just be the best decision you’ll ever make.

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