How to choose a place to retire

Choosing the right retirement location is one of the most significant decisions you will make in planning for a satisfying and comfortable retirement.

Where you choose to live can profoundly impact your quality of life, shaping everything from your daily activities and sense of belonging to your financial wellbeing and access to essential services.

However, knowing how to choose a place to retire is half the battle when it comes to retirement. A well-chosen location aligns with your lifestyle preferences, whether that means community events, tranquil natural surroundings, or access to the best healthcare.

Taking the time to assess and balance these factors will help you find a retirement property that supports your unique needs and aspirations for a happy, healthy, and connected life.

Identify your priorities for retirement

The first step when trying to figure out how to choose a place to retire is understanding what your priorities are in retirement.

Defining what you most value in day-to-day life will help narrow down the locations that best suit your goals, preferences, and needs.

Think about how you envision spending your retirement years, and whether there are any specific hobbies or activities you are passionate about. You may then want to choose locations with active community centres, groups, or social clubs.

On the other hand, perhaps proximity to family is essential, so it is worth considering how important regular visits and social connections are in your retirement vision.

Ultimately, having a clear sense of your priorities will guide you towards a retirement location that aligns with your lifestyle, supports your wellbeing, and enhances your overall happiness.

Location

What type of location do you want to live in? For some, living in a retirement bungalow by the sea represents the ideal retirement. However, others prefer to live within easy reach of modern amenities like shops, malls, restaurants and public transport. Regardless of whether you prefer to live on the coast, in the countryside, or in an urban setting like a city, this should be taken into consideration when trying to figure out how to choose a place to retire.

When deciding on the location of a retirement property, think about which area of the UK best suits your lifestyle and preferences. For example, perhaps retreating to the highlands of Scotland will offer the tranquillity and peace you’ve always dreamed of. On the other hand, you may prefer the hustle and bustle of a major city.

For most people, their desired location will be influenced by the proximity to family and friends, the availability of modern conveniences, and financial considerations. We discuss all of this and more in greater detail below.

Financial considerations

When choosing a place to retire, financial considerations play a critical role in determining long-term comfort and security.

Evaluating the costs associated with various locations will help ensure that your chosen retirement spot aligns with your budget and financial goals. Below are just a few of the major considerations you should factor in when choosing a place to retire.

Cost of living: Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, transportation, and council tax can fluctuate depending on where you choose to settle. For instance, cities may offer a wide range of amenities but often come with higher living costs, while rural areas may offer a more affordable lifestyle but with fewer immediate services.

Understanding these costs and how they will impact your budget is essential when it comes to knowing how to choose a place to retire.

Retirement home costs: The cost of your retirement property will also have a major effect on your finances. Take the time to compare the costs of retirement properties, and whether any additional costs are included, such as meals, security, amenities, activities and any other inclusions or exclusions. You can do this easily on Autumna through our directory.

Healthcare access

Some retirement properties do not include healthcare or medical supervision as part of their offering, because they are designed for elderly people with autonomy and a high level of independence. However, if you move into a retirement property that is a member of the Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO) then you will have the reassurance of knowing that all of its members provide healthcare on site.

However, should your needs change, you will want to ensure that you have easy access to GPs, pharmacies and other healthcare facilities in the nearby area. Depending on your financial circumstances, look for places with a mixture of NHS or private options.

You should also consider whether there are any local wellness resources like senior centres, community health programmes, and exercise classes in the area you live.

Having nearby options for healthcare and wellbeing resources will help you maintain a healthy, active lifestyle and adapt to any changing needs over time.

Amenities

Choosing a retirement location with the right amenities will ensure that your daily needs and lifestyle preferences are easily met.

Proximity to essential conveniences like shops and grocery stores means you won’t need to travel far for day-to-day necessities, making life simpler and more enjoyable. In addition to basic shopping options, think about leisure facilities such as fitness centres, pools, and parks that support an active lifestyle. By choosing a place with amenities that align with your interests and needs, you can enjoy a fulfilling retirement lifestyle without having to venture far.

Safety

Safety is another crucial factor in how to choose a place to retire, as it directly affects both comfort and security. Start by researching crime levels in the areas you’re considering, as some neighbourhoods may offer a greater sense of security and lower crime rates.

Communities with active neighbourhood watch programmes can provide additional reassurance, as these groups help monitor and maintain a safe living environment through community involvement and vigilance.

Opportunities for socialisation

Socialisation opportunities play a significant role in retirement, providing chances to engage in shared interests, make friends, and enjoy an active social life.

Choosing a retirement location with plenty of social options can help you maintain an enjoyable routine and build new connections. Look for local clubs or groups that align with your hobbies—whether that’s gardening, art, reading, or crafting. With plenty of social activities available, you can stay engaged and connected in a way that feels natural and fulfilling.

Restaurants, cafés, and other dining spots are great for social gatherings and casual meet-ups, making them ideal for connecting with friends or family. If faith is important to you, then it is worth checking whether there are any places of worship nearby.

Proximity to friends and family

When deciding how to choose a place to retire, proximity to friends and family can be an important factor for many. Being close to loved ones not only brings a greater sense of connection and support but can also enhance your social life, making day-to-day living more enjoyable.

Multicultural considerations

Living in an area that embraces diversity can make retirement a richer and more inclusive experience. Retiring in a multicultural community means exposure to varied cultures, traditions, and perspectives, which can be rewarding and encourage open-mindedness.

Ethnically diverse neighbourhoods often have unique dining, shopping, and community experiences that make day-to-day life more interesting and dynamic. If this is something that is important to you, be sure to check for local organisations or clubs focused on cultural exchange or global issues, which may provide a sense of belonging and community.

A thoughtful choice for lifelong wellbeing

Knowing how to choose a place to retire involves aligning your retirement goals with both personal priorities and practical needs. This decision will shape your lifestyle, wellbeing, and overall happiness in your retirement years, so it’s worth taking the time to carefully consider each aspect. Balancing factors like amenities, financial considerations, access to healthcare, safety, and proximity to loved ones will help ensure that your chosen location truly supports the life you are trying to build for yourself.

Ultimately, choosing a retirement location is an investment in your future wellbeing and happiness. By focusing on what matters most to you, you can find a place that aligns with your vision for a rewarding retirement.

How to choose a place to retire

If you are looking for a retirement property in the UK but are unsure of where to start, Autumna can help. Simply head over to our directory and select ‘Retirement Living.’

Select the area of the country where you want to live, and we will generate a list of retirement communities in that area.

You can also fill out our form and receive a more personalised list of suggestions. Alternatively, our friendly advice team will be on hand seven days a week to help you on 01892 335 330.