More working adults could choose retirement living as pension age rises, says My Future Living

With the UK State Pension age set to rise from 66 to 67 between April 2026 and March 2028, more people could stay working longer than ever before. Many however don’t realise that moving into a retirement development is an option even while they are still working.

Renting in age-exclusive communities offers flexibility, access to a sociable community, and the chance to enjoy later life without the responsibilities of property ownership. This option isn’t just limited to those who have retired, says My Future Living, the UK’s leading retirement rental provider.

Joanne Couch, Director of Finance and Operations at My Future Living, explains: “Many residents move into retirement apartments to ease the transition into later life. Designed for those over 55, these properties offer a flexible alternative to renting or downsizing, freeing up capital and removing the burden of maintenance, giving people the confidence and freedom to enjoy later life in comfort and security.”

Steve Hudson, in his late sixties, illustrates the flexibility these communities offer. After decades of working in the specialist carpet industry, restoring and fitting high-end pieces for luxury homes around the world, he wanted a fresh start. “I’d worked all my life and as I was getting older, I had a bright idea, I didn’t want to stay in London. I wanted to be by the sea.”

Steve discovered Rose Court in Littlehampton, a development of 29 retirement apartments. “It just felt right,” he says. Now five years later, he still lives there and appreciates the independence and security it provides. “I didn’t want a mortgage or the responsibility of maintaining a home at this stage. Renting just made sense. I can give a month’s notice if I ever want to move. It gives me flexibility.”

Financial clarity has been key. “My state pension essentially covers my rent. I also have a private pension, and I still do some part-time work. I live simply, with no car, no flashy lifestyle, and I know exactly what’s going out each month.”

He has also found a meaningful way to contribute locally, volunteering as shore crew for the RNLI lifeboat station just minutes from his apartment. “I’ve worked all my life and wanted to do something worthwhile. It’s a real team effort with about 50 of us helping save lives. It’s a great social thing too. You’re part of something important.”

While Steve enjoys sailing and volunteering, independence remains important. “I’ve got friends, I walk, I sail. I say hello to people here, but there’s no pressure to socialise and that balance is important,” he says.

Living in a retirement community has also shifted his perceptions. “When you’re younger, you might think there’s a stigma. But this isn’t like that. It’s secure, well kept, and you’ve got your own space and independence.”

It took around six months to fully adjust after London. But now, he feels he has greater control over his life than ever before. “In London, rent and bills can keep going up and up. Here, I can live within my means. I know exactly what’s going out every month.”

For Steve, Rose Court provides exactly what he needs: affordability, flexibility and a calm coastal base for an active life. “It’s ideal for me. I can just lock up and leave whenever I’m travelling. It gives me the freedom to live life my way.”

To find out more about available homes and retirement rental options, visit: www.myfutureliving.co.uk