Seaside retirement continues to attract older Britons as demand for coastal living grows
For many people, retirement is the perfect opportunity to swap busy streets for sea air, coastal walks and a slower pace of life, and the UK’s seaside towns continue to be among the country’s most desirable retirement destinations.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS)* highlight just how popular coastal living remains. Coastal communities have an older population profile than inland areas, with almost one in four adults (24.7%), compared with 20.6% in non-coastal areas. The average age in coastal communities is also higher at 42 compared with 39 inland, reflecting their enduring appeal among retirees.
The benefits of living by the coast extend beyond the scenery. Research from the University of Exeter* has consistently shown that people living closer to the coast report better mental wellbeing and higher life satisfaction, with regular access to blue spaces linked to reduced stress and improved overall health.
For many retirees, the attraction is simple: fresh air, opportunities to stay active, friendly communities and a lifestyle that feels a world away from the pressures of city living.
Joanne Couch, Director of Finance and Operations at My Future Living, said: “Increasingly, we’re seeing people choose renting by the sea as the easiest way to make that move. It removes many of the stresses associated with buying another property, while allowing people to release equity from their previous home, downsize more easily and enjoy the freedom of living independently in a purpose-built retirement community.
Our rental apartments in coastal developments are incredibly popular because they enable residents to enjoy everything seaside living has to offer, while also benefiting from assured tenancies, and a welcoming community.”
For Diederik “Rik” Schmull, now in his early 80s, moving to Homecove House in Westcliff-on-Sea fulfilled a long-held ambition to leave London behind.
Rik rents a two-bedroom retirement apartment through My Future Living after deciding he wanted a quieter lifestyle by the sea.
He said: “I’d always wanted to move out of the city. The air is much cleaner here and I enjoy getting out and about. Living near the sea encourages you to walk more and spend more time outdoors. It’s much more peaceful than London and I’ve never regretted making the move.”
For Stephen Hudson, now in his late 60s, renting a retirement apartment also offered the chance to begin a new chapter. Stephen left London and moved to Rose Court in Littlehampton and rents an apartment through My Future Living.
He said: “I wanted a complete change of scene and somewhere I could enjoy life at a slower pace. Being close to the sea has made a real difference. I enjoy the fresh air, walking along the promenade and being part of a friendly community.”
My Future Living offers retirement rental apartments in a range of popular seaside locations across England, providing independent living for the over-60s in welcoming communities.
For more information and current coastal properties available to rent, visit: www.myfutureliving.co.uk