Britons retiring in the near future might be looking to relocate somewhere for a better quality of life. For some, this may mean heading to the coast, for others it could be closer to family members.
There are some places in the UK typically hailed by retirees, including Southwold in Suffolk which has traditionally been opted for due to its seaside location, traditional pier and quaint and upmarket town centre.
However, data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed this isn’t actually the top hotspot for retirees at all.
The latest survey, conducted in 2019, used the percentage of people over 65 in each local authority across the nation.
In doing so, the data showed it is actually North Norfolk, rather than Suffolk, which has the highest number of retirees living there.
According to the data, around 33 percent of its residents are over 65.
This was then followed by Rother, with 31 percent, and East Devon with 30 percent.
Other regions which appear to be popular with over 65s include East Lindsey, Tendring, New Forest, Dorset, Arun, South Lakeland and the Isle of Wight.
According to experts from Pensionbee.com, there are some key assets which can help make a location ideal for retirement.
This is perhaps why some of the listed regions are so highly populated with retirees.
Among these important features are reasonable house prices, good access to healthcare, decent transport links, local amenities such as shops and attractions, as well as safety.
Getting outdoors is also important, which is why areas with nearby countryside or coastal regions are often popular for those looking to relocate in later life.
The experts suggest a high percentage of parks and green space, as well as good walkability, are of utmost appeal.
However, the Pensionbee experts also point out that not all of the regions listed by the ONS will have the ability to promise a great quality of life for those in their later years.
Instead, they compiled their own list of hotspots deemed the “best” places to retire by comparing house prices, crime rates, and local amenities in October 2020.
Plymouth was ranked as the top hotspot for retirement, thanks to its average house price of just over £170,000.
This is coupled with a low crime rate, and plenty of entertainment venues, as well as its coastal location.
Plymouth was followed by Southampton and Nottingham.
Southampton scored highly thanks to its coastal location, as well as its close proximity to the South Downs.
However, the cost of property saw the region missing out on the top spot.
Meanwhile, though inland, Nottingham is highlighted for its affordability and array of cafes and bars.
Other cities listed by the experts include Cardiff, Derby, Liverpool, Leicester, Bristol, Wolverhampton and Manchester.
