Retirement is a major life shift, and for many, moving into a retirement village is part of that next chapter.
In Melbourne, where city culture meets leafy suburbs and coastal escapes, there’s no shortage of lifestyle options. But choosing the right setup is about more than just finding a new place to live. It’s about finding the right environment for this stage of life, and knowing what to expect.
There’s a reason Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities. It’s rich in arts, culture, community and green spaces. There’s great healthcare, reliable public transport and a huge variety of retirement options, whether you’re after an inner-city apartment with access to everything or a peaceful village on the fringe of the Yarra Valley.
Melbourne also has one of the largest populations of over-55s in Australia, meaning retirement living is well established here. You’ll find a huge diversity of villages, from modern resort-style developments to smaller, community-focused setups.
Moving into a retirement village isn’t the same as buying a regular home. It often comes with different legal structures, contracts and ongoing fees. In Victoria, the Retirement Villages Act 1986 outlines the rights and responsibilities of both residents and operators, so it’s important to understand what’s involved before signing anything.
You can also visit Consumer Affairs Victoria’s retirement villages page for more detailed guidance on contracts, fees and your legal protections.
Here are a few key things to consider:
Melbourne’s retirement villages often have a strong focus on lifestyle, with many offering boutique living, fitness centres, wellness retreats, gardens, cafes and group activities that foster a real sense of community. Some newer developments lean into luxury resort vibes, while others offer simple, down-to-earth living in tight-knit neighbourhoods.
Another point of difference is access. Unlike more remote regional areas, Melbourne’s suburbs offer great connectivity, so it’s easier to stay active and involved, whether it’s popping into the city, heading to the coast or joining a local group or club.
And of course, Melbourne’s diverse culture shines through. You’ll find villages that cater to different languages, cultural groups and lifestyles, helping you feel right at home.
Melbourne’s suburbs and surrounding regions each bring their own unique flavour to retirement living. If you’re still narrowing down the right location, this guide to the best suburbs in Melbourne for lifestyle and liveability can give you a broader perspective across family-friendly, investment-savvy and peaceful pockets.
Melbourne’s suburbs and surrounding regions each bring their own unique flavour to retirement living. Whether you’re after coastal calm, city convenience, or peaceful greenery, these locations are popular choices for retirees:
Known for its beautiful coastline, wineries and relaxed vibe, the Mornington Peninsula is perfect for retirees wanting beachside calm without sacrificing community. It offers plenty of parks, walking trails and local markets. Retirement villages here tend to offer spacious homes and access to coastal leisure activities.
For those who want to be near the water but still close to the city, these bayside suburbs combine beach life with café culture and cultural festivals. Retirees here enjoy walking along the foreshore, visiting arts events and tapping into a lively community feel.
This well-established eastern suburb is a hub for healthcare and shopping, with strong public transport links to the city. It’s popular with retirees who want convenience and access to diverse cultural communities, plus parks and community centres.
If you prefer a greener, more peaceful environment, Eltham offers leafy streets, artistic communities and plenty of open spaces. It’s a great choice for those who value peace and green space but want to remain connected to Melbourne’s urban heart.
A bit further out, these regional towns appeal to retirees seeking a slower pace, heritage charm and country living with good local healthcare and community activities. They also tend to offer more affordable housing and large retirement villages with extensive facilities.
From beachside villages to peaceful country spots, here are five communities that offer something a little different.
This one’s all about relaxed, coastal living. The village is just minutes from the beach and packed with lifestyle perks like a clubhouse, pool and walking trails.
Why people love it: Beautiful location, active community, close to markets and wineries
Something to keep in mind: A little more expensive and a bit of a drive into the city
Bayside location, full of charm, this village offers supported living with a real sense of independence. You get the best of both worlds: care when you need it and freedom when you don’t.
Why people love it: Great bayside location, supportive environment, vibrant social calendar
Something to keep in mind: It’s a higher care model, so it may not suit those after low-maintenance, fully independent living
A friendly, mid-range option for retirees who love a strong sense of community. It’s quiet, well-kept and known for its welcoming vibe.
Why people love it: Affordable, peaceful, good access to shops and public transport
Something to keep in mind: Facilities are more modest compared to luxury villages
Modern, stylish and geared toward active over-50s, this community has great shared spaces, walking tracks and a packed calendar of social events.
Why people love it: Sleek design, vibrant lifestyle, perfect for downsizers
Something to keep in mind: Not a traditional aged care or retirement setup, so more suitable for independent living
Moving into a retirement village is a big decision, but when the time feels right, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or just starting to explore your options, you can find and book the best Melbourne removalists with experience with Upmove.
If you’re after more structure during the move, our Melbourne relocation checklist can help keep things stress-free from packing to settlement.
It's free and easy to create a request on Upmove.
Describe, add photos and the dimensions of your shipment in your listing — anything that you think will make a difference, will make a difference.
Our platform will reach out to moving companies relevant to your delivery specification in your area.
Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
Compare prices and get to know movers before accepting their quote by reading previous customer feedback on our platform.
Pick your preferred moving company and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen moving company on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your moving company takes care of your booking.
Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
