Renting in Retirement in Bournemouth
Posted 27th June 2025
Retiring to the South Coast
Retiring to Bournemouth can be a great decision if you’re looking for a coastal town with a mild climate, vibrant community, and good amenities.
Moving to the seaside has always been a popular choice for many retirees. According to Age Co nearly three in four adults actively plan to, or are considering, relocating when they retire, with seaside settings among the most favoured destinations.
Additionally, data from the 2021 Census also shows that coastal towns continue to attract retirees, with almost a quarter of their populations now over the age of 65.
The health and well-being benefits of living by the sea are well documented, with research from the University of Exeter showing people living near the coast report better mental health and overall life satisfaction compared to those inland.
Knowing where to settle in retirement can be a difficult decision, but for those craving fresh air, sea views and a more peaceful pace of life, the coast proves hard to resist.
What are the benefits to Renting in Retirement in Bournemouth? Here’s a breakdown of what to consider if you’re thinking of moving to Bournemouth in Retirement:
✅ Why Retire to Bournemouth?
1. Coastal Lifestyle
- Seven miles of sandy, Blue Flag beaches with opportunities for swimming, water sports, and cliff walks—great for well-being and outdoor living
- A warmer-than-average climate compared to much of the UK.
- A strong events and culture scene, includin, art, music, and beachside bars like Sobo Beach in Southbourne
2. Healthcare Access
- Well-served by NHS and private healthcare facilities.
- Royal Bournemouth Hospital is the main provider, with community GP practices throughout the area.
3. Activities & Community
- Lots of clubs, societies, and events aimed at retirees.
- Good arts scene (Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, theatres, museums).
- Golf, bowling greens, walking groups, and social clubs.
4. Transport & Accessibility
- Excellent transport links: trains to London (~2 hours), good local bus services.
- Strong cycling infrastructure
- Bournemouth International Airport offers flights to Europe.
5. Property Options
- Good mix of retirement developments near the coast.
- Prices can be higher near the beach but more affordable in surrounding suburbs (like Ferndown or Boscombe).
🏡 Popular Areas for Retirees near Bournemouth
| Area | Why It’s Popular |
| Ferndown | Quieter than central Bournemouth, excellent amenities |
| Boscombe | Regenerating area, more affordable housing |
| Christchurch | Historic town vibe, slower pace, very popular |
| Poole | Close by, good amenities, beautiful harbour views |
| Dorchester | Cultural county town of Dorset, historic market town |
| Blandford Forum | Stunning architecture with a market place |
⚠️ Things to Consider
- Tourism: Can get busy in summer.
- Cost of Living: Not the cheapest on the south coast, especially for coastal property.
- Council Tax: Varies by borough (Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole).
📝 Next Steps
- Visit first – Spend a few weeks in different parts of Bournemouth to get a feel for daily life.
- Check local services – Look at proximity to GPs, shops, public transport.
- Talk to our letting agents – Ask about retirement-specific properties and communities.
- Join local forums/groups – Try Facebook groups or sites like Nextdoor to connect with locals.
Would you like help comparing Bournemouth with other UK retirement locations? Contact our friendly lettings team today!
01823 793 420
