Finding the best Brisbane suburbs for retirees starts with knowing what really matters; peace, connection, and a place that feels just right for this next chapter of life. With its warm climate, relaxed lifestyle, access to top-notch healthcare, and abundant green spaces, Brisbane offers an unbeatable blend of comfort and convenience for those looking to enjoy their golden years.
If you're thinking of settling into one of Brisbane’s leafy or riverside suburbs, our expert mortgage brokers at Zest Mortgage Solutions can guide you through the home loan process with clarity and confidence. With over 20 years in the industry, our brokers can help you understand your loan options and make informed decisions that align with your retirement goals.
Let’s explore what truly makes a suburb retirement-friendly before diving into our top picks.
What Makes a Suburb Retirement-Friendly?
Not all suburbs offer the same level of comfort, convenience, or serenity that retirees value. Here’s what truly sets the best ones apart:
- Low noise and traffic: Quiet streets bring peace of mind and better sleep.
- Proximity to medical services and shopping: Easy access to essentials means less stress.
- Green spaces and parks: Daily walks and fresh air keep body and mind active.
- Public transport options: Freedom to get around without relying on a car.
- Strong sense of community or village feel: Friendly faces and regular local events make a big difference.
Next, let’s explore the top 15 Brisbane suburbs that tick all these boxes and more for a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.
15 Best Brisbane Suburbs for Retirees
Brisbane has no shortage of tranquil suburbs offering a wealth of lifestyle perks. These 15 spots offer the perfect blend of peace, parks, amenities, and that priceless sense of community that retirees cherish.
#1 Sandgate
A scenic bayside gem, Sandgate offers a peaceful escape with a salty breeze and coastal charm. It’s popular for morning walks along the Shorncliffe Pier and visits to the historic Sandgate Town Hall. The area’s calm streets and sea views create a relaxed pace that appeals to retirees looking for a seaside lifestyle.
- Median House Price: $950,000
- Rental Yield: 3.4%
- Why Retirees Love It: Foreshore walks, coastal atmosphere, friendly community
#2 Hamilton
Hamilton blends prestige with panoramic Brisbane River views. It boasts leafy streets, fine dining at Portside Wharf, and weekend markets at Eat Street Northshore. Despite its luxury vibe, it has quieter pockets perfect for those wanting elegance without the noise.
- Median House Price: $1.6 million
- Rental Yield: 2.6%
- Why Retirees Love It: Beautiful riverfronts, ferry access, fine dining options
#3 Bulimba
Bulimba feels like a self-contained village, with charming Oxford Street cafés, boutique stores, and ferry terminals nearby. It’s great for retirees who want to stay active and social. The cinema, riverside paths, and regular markets keep life vibrant.
- Median House Price: $1.55 million
- Rental Yield: 2.9%
- Why Retirees Love It: Community events, walkable precincts, riverside lifestyle
#4 Eagle Farm
Known more for its racecourse, Eagle Farm surprises with quiet residential pockets. It’s well-connected to Hamilton and Ascot but offers a slower pace. Locals enjoy leafy streets and nearby riverside parks.
- Median House Price: $975,000
- Rental Yield: 3.3%
- Why Retirees Love It: Proximity to lifestyle hubs, peaceful corners, green surrounds
#5 Ashgrove
Ashgrove offers hilly terrain, traditional Queenslander homes, and a tranquil vibe. There are several bushwalk trails nearby, and shopping is easy with local centres sprinkled throughout. The community is tight-knit, with clubs and cafés perfect for meeting people.
- Median House Price: $1.35 million
- Rental Yield: 3.1%
- Why Retirees Love It: Leafy streets, local clubs, bushland access
Looking for trusted mortgage brokers in Brisbane or the wider Queensland region? Zest Mortgage Solutions offers expert guidance on home loans tailored to suit your retirement, downsizing, or lifestyle goals. Call us on (07) 3461 6499 or visit www.zestmortgagesolutions.com.au to get started.
#6 Toowong
Toowong brings convenience and character, thanks to its riverside parks and Toowong Village. Its proximity to the Wesley Hospital makes it a smart choice for those prioritising healthcare. With trains and buses nearby, getting around is effortless.
- Median House Price: $1.25 million
- Rental Yield: 3.4%
- Why Retirees Love It: Excellent medical access, riverside paths, city proximity
#7 Clayfield
A refined suburb with colonial homes and shady streets, Clayfield balances elegance with ease. There are medical clinics, cafés, and proximity to Eagle Junction station. It feels exclusive without being overbearing.
- Median House Price: $1.6 million
- Rental Yield: 2.7%
- Why Retirees Love It: Beautiful homes, strong transport links, quiet community
#8 Bardon
Tucked into the foothills of Mt Coot-tha, Bardon is loved for its peaceful setting and nature. Walking trails, small cafés, and a friendly vibe give it a village-like energy. It’s ideal for retirees seeking quiet with a dash of adventure.
- Median House Price: $1.5 million
- Rental Yield: 2.8%
- Why Retirees Love It: Surrounded by nature, quiet streets, strong local identity
#9 Indooroopilly
With its huge shopping centre and leafy parks, Indooroopilly hits the sweet spot between urban and natural. It's a public transport hub with bus and train lines, and nearby golf courses offer a great leisure option.
- Median House Price: $1.35 million
- Rental Yield: 3.2%
- Why Retirees Love It: Excellent shopping, public transport, spacious parks
#10 The Gap
Bordering nature reserves, The Gap feels like a retreat. Locals love the quiet and privacy, plus the abundance of green space for walking and birdwatching. It's a top choice for retirees wanting space and serenity.
- Median House Price: $975,000
- Rental Yield: 3.5%
- Why Retirees Love It: Privacy, greenery, peaceful bushland feel
#11 Taringa
Taringa is a low-key gem with a strong sense of community. It's close to the Wesley Hospital and popular walking paths along the Brisbane River. The suburb's balance of calm living and city access is a win.
- Median House Price: $1.15 million
- Rental Yield: 3.3%
- Why Retirees Love It: Calm atmosphere, great connectivity, medical proximity
#12 Graceville
Graceville offers a riverside lifestyle with lots of charm and character. Locals enjoy leafy streets, boutique cafés, and bike paths perfect for gentle rides. Its village vibe makes everyone feel welcome.
- Median House Price: $1.4 million
- Rental Yield: 2.9%
- Why Retirees Love It: Safe, scenic, walkable and welcoming
#13 Boondall
This northern suburb is peaceful and affordable, with parks and nature reserves close by. It’s great for budget-conscious retirees who don’t want to sacrifice space or lifestyle. The local community centre is a social hub.
- Median House Price: $780,000
- Rental Yield: 3.7%
- Why Retirees Love It: Budget-friendly, nature access, low-key lifestyle
#14 Stafford
An emerging favourite, Stafford blends affordability with growing local amenities. With Newmarket Parklands nearby and new cafes popping up, it’s gaining attention fast. It’s perfect for retirees wanting value and convenience.
- Median House Price: $875,000
- Rental Yield: 3.6%
- Why Retirees Love It: Great value, close to parks, modernising vibe
#15 Carindale
Known for Westfield, but there’s more than shopping here. Carindale features bikeways, libraries, and quiet residential pockets. It's close to Whites Hill Reserve, making it great for those who enjoy the outdoors.
- Median House Price: $1.15 million
- Rental Yield: 3.1%
- Why Retirees Love It: Balanced lifestyle, parks nearby, strong community feel
Sources: Domain Suburb Profiles – Brisbane, realestate.com.au Suburb Profiles, Brisbane City Council – Liveable Brisbane. Note that market values can change frequently, so it’s a good idea to check with your local real estate agent for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Exploring the best Brisbane suburbs for retirees and need help financing your dream home? Our expert mortgage brokers in Brisbane and across the wider Queensland region can guide you through the home loans process with ease and clarity. Contact us on (07) 3461 6499 or visit www.zestmortgagesolutions.com.au to schedule a free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which suburb is best for retirees in Brisbane?
Bardon and Sandgate are top picks due to their peaceful atmosphere, leafy suburbs, and abundance of recreational spaces. These suburbs offer access to parks, affordable housing options, and a strong sense of community, making them ideal for a relaxed suburban lifestyle.
What are the most sought after suburbs in Brisbane?
Bulimba, Hamilton, and Ashgrove are consistently ranked as popular choices due to their vibrant communities, excellent amenities, and access to schools. These affluent suburbs also attract Couples with children, first-time buyers, and retirees thanks to their vibrant dining scene and proximity to the city centre.
What is the most liveable suburb in Brisbane?
According to Brisbane City Council and the Domain Liveable Brisbane rankings, Toowong and Clayfield score highly due to public transport links, educational institutions, and lush parks. These liveable suburbs provide a walkable suburb layout, modern homes, and plenty of options for those chasing a balanced urban lifestyle.
Which side of Brisbane is best to live on?
The southern suburbs, like Carindale and Mount Gravatt East, are a convenient choice for families and retirees alike due to their ample space, educational facilities, and public transport links. Meanwhile, the northern suburbs offer a coastal lifestyle near Brisbane Airport, making them attractive for those seeking a bayside suburb with direct access to beaches.
What is the safest suburb to live in Brisbane?
Areas like Graceville, Kenmore, and Indooroopilly are considered among the safest, with low crime rates and strong community bonds. These family-friendly suburbs also offer beautiful suburbs, plenty of parks, and a calm vibe for retirees prioritising safety and peace.
Where is the best place to live in Queensland for retirees?
Brisbane’s outer suburbs such as Brighton, Boondall, and The Gap are often favoured by retirees for their recreational facilities, lush tree cover, and plenty of cafes. Their affordable options and access to coast make them an attractive option for those wanting a slower pace without sacrificing Lifestyle & recreation.
What types of home loans are available for retirees in Brisbane?
With the help of experienced brokers, retirees in Brisbane can access a wide range of loan products, including reverse mortgages, pensioner home loans, and tailored options for downsizing. Whether you're eyeing a vibrant suburb near cultural attractions or a quiet street with family-friendly amenities, working with a broker ensures you find the right fit in a flexible and supportive real estate market.
Conclusion
Retiring should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether you’re dreaming of quiet mornings in a leafy Brisbane suburb or a relaxed lifestyle by the bay, finding the right place to settle in 2025 is all about choosing what feels right for you.
If you’re considering home loans for your next move, our friendly team of mortgage brokers is here to help. Our Springfield mortgage brokers are ready to assist retirees in Ipswich, Greater Brisbane and across the wider Queensland region with smooth and convenient mortgage process.
Give us a call at (07) 3461 6499 or visit www.zestmortgagesolutions.com.au to book your free consultation today.
