The coastal town of Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast in Queensland. Photo: iStock
Two Queensland towns have been named in the top five places to retire in Australia and buyers of leisure won’t need to break the bank to make the sea or tree change to these destinations.
An inaugural study by AMP-backed fintech company Citro analysed key factors including affordability, access to quality health care and a range of lifestyle options to determine the best 30 places for retirees to put down roots.
Ingham in Queensland’s north was ranked number two, behind Armidale in New South Wales and ahead of Maryborough, Victoria.
Queensland’s Hervey Bay came in at number four and Belconnen, ACT, was in fifth spot.
The report rated Ingham highly for its combination of culture, history, foodie scene and proximity to the big smoke of Townsville, which is 114km from the ‘Little Italy’ of north Queensland.
The study found Hervey Bay offered an affordable lifestyle in a scenic location with pristine beaches, without sacrificing amenities or access to the city.
Citro managing director, Ash Frenken. Picture: Supplied
Citro’s managing director, Ash Frenken said the regional areas that did well in the analysis offered more than just coastal, hinterland or a rural environment.
“While these characteristics are clearly important for retirees, it’s essential the areas also offer a minimum level of social and retail amenity, as well as health care,” he said.
“We’ve identified the kind of places that make it easy for more Australians to enjoy retirement to the fullest.
“We also ensured that a ‘day in the life’ of each location offered something for everyone – whether you’re into nature, sports, crafting, the foodie scene, socialising, volunteering or quieter pursuits.”
The Citro research found Ingham to have a median home price of $235,000 and a median rent of $392 per week.
Hervey Bay was more expensive with homes on average selling for $637,000 and renting for $578 per week.
With that in mind, here’s what retirees can buy in both locations.
INGHAM
Bargain
Address: 3/68 Davidson St, Ingham
Price: $180,000
This two-bedroom unit in the heart of Ingham has polished timber floors and airconditioning throughout.
There is an open plan living, dining and kitchen space flowing out to a front balcony and built-in robes in the bedrooms.
Downstairs there is carparking and storage.
The unit at 3/68 Davidson St, Ingham. Picture: realestate.com.au
Mid-market
Address: 1 George St, Ingham
Price: $230,000
This cute-as-a-button lowset home is on the high bank of a creek in a cul-de-sac close to town and schools.
The house is fully airconditioned and has timber floors throughout.
It has three bedrooms, one bathroom and a single lockup garage.
The home at 1 George St, Ingham. Picture: realestate.com.au
Splurge
Address: 72 Hawkins Creek Rd, Hawkins Creek
Price: $649,000
This gorgeous Queenslander is set on a 6,762sq m block with a huge shed.
The home has timber floors, high ceilings, three verandas, three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Downstairs there is a lockable parking space, carport and entertaining area.
The acreage property at 72 Hawkins Creek Rd, Hawkins Creek. Picture: realestate.com.au
HERVEY BAY
Bargain
Address: 36/70 Main St, Pialba
Price: Offers over $345,000
This centrally-located unit is walking distance to all major amenities and the beach.
Situated in the Ocean Breeze Apartments complex, the second-level unit has an open plan living and kitchen space, a balcony, two bedrooms, a bathroom and a European laundry.
The unit at 36/70 Main St, Pialba. Picture: realestate.com.au
Mid-market
Address: 40/80 Moolyyir St, Urangan
Price: $695,000
This four-bedroom property is walking distance to the beach and is in a gated community with pool, sauna and barbecue area.
Spread across three levels, the home has four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a double lockup garage.
There is a bedroom with ensuite on the ground floor, open plan living and kitchen, balcony and two bedrooms on the second floor, and a main bedroom with walk-in robe and ensuite on the top floor.
The home at 40/80 Moolyyir St, Urangan. Picture: realestate.com.au
Splurge
Address: 509/569 Esplanade, Urangan
Price: $1.75m
This penthouse apartment has stunning ocean views and an expansive rooftop terrace with outdoor spa bath and powder room.
The property has spacious open plan living areas, a modern kitchen with butler’s pantry, high ceilings, a huge balcony, three bedrooms and three bathrooms.
The apartment is in the popular Oaks Resort & Spa complex with two swimming pools, gym, day spa and onsite management.
The penthouse at 509/569 Esplanade, Urangan. Picture: realestate.com.au
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