Dreaming of a new life in retirement, free from the daily grind and school runs? Then it’s time to start planning your move to a peaceful paradise!
The Daily Mail looked into the data to find the areas where the most over-60s are moving to, giving you the inside track on some of the best places to spend your golden years.
Where the Over-60s Are Moving:
East Lindsey, Lincolnshire: This beautiful coastal area offers a relaxed lifestyle and affordable housing. You can find a charming bungalow for under £200,000! The area boasts picturesque countryside and access to the bustling city of Lincoln and market town of Louth.
North Norfolk: This tranquil region is perfect for those seeking a slow-paced life. With charming villages, stunning beaches and the Norfolk Broads, it’s a haven for nature lovers. You can find two-bedroom detached bungalows starting from £160,000.
Isle of Wight: This island gem boasts a mild climate and plenty of outdoor activities, from walking trails to dog-friendly beaches. Average property prices are around £282,870, with bungalows in Ryde starting at £150,000.
Fylde and Wyre, Lancashire: These areas offer stunning natural beauty, including the Forest of Bowland and the sandy beaches of Lytham St Annes. You’ll find property prices are more affordable, with an average price of £189,000 in Wyre.
Arundel, West Sussex: This charming market town with a medieval castle and Georgian architecture offers a perfect blend of history, culture and a bustling high street. It also boasts access to both the coast and the South Downs National Park. Prices are higher, starting from around £650,000 for a detached two-bedroom bungalow.
Tendring, Essex: This coastal area offers a “Sunshine Coast” with beautiful sandy beaches and traditional villages. Average property prices are £266,540, with a wide range of bungalows available for under £400,000.
Torridge, North Devon: This beautiful region offers rolling countryside, coastal cliffs, and serene river valleys. Prices are more affordable compared to other parts of Devon, with an average price of £294,850.
Rother, East Sussex: This area offers a slower pace of life, with easy access to the coast and beautiful countryside. You’ll find plenty of National Trust properties and great transport links to London. Average property prices start at £450,000 for a two-bedroom cottage.
West Devon: This area offers stunning scenery, including the valleys and ancient woodlands of Dartmoor, along with affordable prices. You can find a three-bedroom bungalow in Mary Tavy for around £550,000.
New Forest: This beautiful region boasts lush open moors, access to the sea, and the amenities of Southampton. You can find detached bungalows in New Milton for around £500,000.
Dorset: This region offers a blend of beautiful countryside, stunning coastline, and easy access to the New Forest. You can find bungalows for around £350,000 in areas like Highcliffe.
What Your Downsizing Funds Could Buy You:
North Norfolk: A one-bedroom end-of-terrace cottage in Titchwell overlooking a nature reserve, for £450,000-£500,000.
Dorset: A Grade II-listed, two-bedroom thatched cottage in Shaftesbury with exposed beams, for £400,000.
Hampshire: A three-bedroom waterside property on Hayling Island overlooking Chichester Harbour, for £975,000.
Other Areas Worth Exploring:
These eight locations offer more affordable options for your retirement dreams:
- Breckland, East of England
- Conwy, Wales
- King’s Lynn and West Norfolk
- East Devon, South West
- East Suffolk, East of England
- Isle of Anglesey, Wales
- Great Yarmouth, East of England
- Herefordshire, West Midlands
Finding Your Perfect Retirement Spot:
Remember, this is just a starting point! Don’t be afraid to research other areas that might appeal to you. Consider factors such as:
- Amenities: Do you need access to a hospital, GP, shops, or public transport?
- Lifestyle: Do you prefer bustling towns or peaceful villages?
- Cost of living: What are the average property prices and living expenses?
With a little research, you can find the perfect place to enjoy a happy and fulfilling retirement!