As retirement approaches, many Australians are rethinking what life after full-time work should look like. Enter lifestyle communities—a fast-growing alternative to traditional retirement villages. These purpose-built communities are reshaping the way over-50s live, socialise and enjoy their golden years. But what exactly is a lifestyle community, and why are so many Australians making the move?
In this guide, we break down what lifestyle communities offer, who they’re designed for, and how they compare to other senior living options across Australia.
What Are Lifestyle Communities?
Lifestyle communities are residential developments designed for active Australians over 50, offering low-maintenance living, shared amenities and a strong focus on social engagement. Unlike aged care or retirement villages, these communities cater to independent, self-funded individuals looking for a lifestyle upgrade, not medical support.
You typically own your home but lease the land it sits on—a model known as land lease living. This approach can offer lower entry prices and access to premium amenities without the ongoing costs of full ownership.
Key Features of Lifestyle Communities
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Gated, secure neighbourhoods with a resort-style feel
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Purpose-built homes, often single-storey and low-maintenance
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Clubhouses, gyms, pools, walking trails, and BBQ areas
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Community-organised events, hobby groups, and travel programs
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No stamp duty on home purchase
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Lower ongoing maintenance costs
Lifestyle communities aren’t just about a place to live—they’re about how you want to live.
Why Lifestyle Communities Are Gaining Popularity in Australia
Several factors are driving the growing demand for lifestyle communities across Australia, especially in coastal and semi-rural regions.
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Downsizing freedom: Sell the family home, unlock equity and live with fewer responsibilities
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Community connection: Isolation is a concern as we age. These villages foster strong social bonds
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Amenity access: Residents enjoy facilities usually found in holiday resorts
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Lock-up-and-leave convenience: Ideal for those who love to travel
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Financial model: No council rates and reduced utility costs in many communities
This combination of lifestyle, affordability and security is drawing many Australians to make the switch.
Lifestyle Communities vs Retirement Villages: What’s the Difference?
Though often confused, lifestyle communities and retirement villages operate under very different models in Australia.
Ownership model
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Lifestyle communities: You own your home and lease the land
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Retirement villages: Often leasehold or loan-lease with exit fees
Fees and flexibility
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Lifestyle communities typically have lower ongoing fees and no exit fees
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Retirement villages may include deferred management fees and restrictions on resale
Target market
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Lifestyle communities focus on active, independent over-50s
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Retirement villages may offer support services and aged care
Regulations
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Retirement villages are regulated under each state’s Retirement Villages Act
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Lifestyle communities fall under residential land lease legislation
For those seeking independence and community without entering aged care, lifestyle communities are often the better fit.
Popular Lifestyle Community Locations in Australia
Demand for lifestyle communities is growing in regional and coastal areas, where land is more available and the pace of life is relaxed. Some hotspots include:
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Victoria: Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Bendigo
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Queensland: Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast Hinterland, Toowoomba
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New South Wales: Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Port Macquarie
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South Australia: Adelaide Hills, Victor Harbor
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Western Australia: Mandurah, Bunbury
Developers like Lifestyle Communities, Ingenia, and Palm Lake Resort are leading the way, offering thoughtfully designed homes and a sense of belonging.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Lifestyle Community
Before downsizing into a lifestyle community, it’s important to ask the right questions:
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What’s included in the weekly site fee?
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Are pets allowed?
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Can family or grandkids stay overnight?
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How does resale work?
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Are there future price increases or restrictions?
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What services are nearby (shopping, medical, transport)?
Visiting the community, attending open days, and speaking with current residents can give you deeper insight into whether it fits your lifestyle goals.
The Financial Side of Lifestyle Communities
A major drawcard for many buyers is the financial model of lifestyle communities. Here’s how it typically works:
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You buy the home (usually priced from $400k–$800k)
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You lease the land beneath it, paying a weekly site fee
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No stamp duty is payable on the home purchase
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You may be eligible for rent assistance if on a pension
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You retain 100% of capital gains if you sell
This model offers greater clarity around costs and lets residents preserve more of their assets compared to traditional retirement options.
FAQs About Lifestyle Communities
Are lifestyle communities the same as retirement villages?
No. Lifestyle communities target independent over-50s and usually have a simpler financial structure, while retirement villages often involve care services and deferred fees.
Can I still work and live in a lifestyle community?
Yes. Most communities welcome working residents or part-time professionals, provided they meet the age requirements.
What happens if I need aged care later?
You’ll likely need to move to a facility that provides care, as lifestyle communities are not equipped for high-level medical support.
Are lifestyle communities suitable for singles?
Absolutely. Many residents are singles, and these communities are designed to support connection and shared interests.
Can I buy into a lifestyle community with super or pension funds?
Yes, provided you meet eligibility and the community’s financial requirements. It’s always best to get independent financial advice before making a decision.
Final Thoughts
Lifestyle communities are reshaping the retirement landscape in Australia. They offer a vibrant, secure and low-maintenance alternative to traditional living, combining freedom with connection. Whether you’re looking to downsize, travel more or simply live in a place that feels like a permanent holiday, these communities could be the next smart step in your journey.
As always, it pays to visit a few locations, talk to residents, and get legal and financial advice before making the leap. But if you’re after a modern retirement with more lifestyle and less hassle, this may just be the perfect fit.
