Retirement is here and it’s time to swap the 9 to 5 for a relaxed life at a slower pace before you turn 95. South Africa offers some golden spots for retirees, with plenty of sunshine, affordable living, and beautiful surroundings for you to enjoy your golden years.
South Africa boasts many towns perfect for retirement, but with property prices on the rise, finding an affordable place to settle down is becoming more challenging. Coastal gems like Cape Town and Durban have long been popular due to their beautiful surroundings and sunny weather. However, with the average cost of a home climbing steeply in these areas, many retirees are rethinking their plans.
So, where can you go if you're looking for a retirement spot that offers good weather, a relaxed lifestyle, and won’t break the bank?
If you’ve always dreamed of living by the sea, St Francis Bay is the perfect place to wake up during retirement. This small coastal town, located in the Eastern Cape and a short drive to Gqeberha, offers a relaxed lifestyle with stunning views of the ocean and canals. The town has a small population of about 10 000 permanent residents, many of whom are retirees - making it perfect for those seeking slow and quiet days.
St Francis Bay is great for nature lovers. You can enjoy bird watching, take up fishing or spend your days taking long walks along the beach and spot some whales and dolphins between May and October. Golfers will spend endless days at the town’s 18-hole St Francis Links course, and the canals are perfect for peaceful sunset boat trips.
The weather here is mild all year round. Summers are warm, but not too hot, and winters are cool but rarely freezing. Perfect for retirees who want to avoid extreme temperatures.
Property prices in St Francis Bay vary depending on location. Canal-side homes are a bit pricier, starting around R5 million, while inland properties can be found for between R2.5 to R3 million. Properties in St Francis tend to be a bit bigger, if you're looking for something with a bit of space for family visits.
The town has all the basics—grocery stores, pharmacies, and a good selection of restaurants. There are also medical services nearby in Humansdorp, about 20 minutes away.
In St Francis Bay you’ll find a good number of folks in their golden years here. Nearly 10% of the population is aged 60 and over, so if you’re looking for a quiet spot with neighbors who might also be enjoying retirement, St Francis Bay is a great pick.
Plettenberg Bay, or "Plett" as the locals call it, is one of South Africa’s most scenic spots. Nestled along the famous Garden Route, it’s a peaceful town with stunning beaches, lush forests, and plenty to keep you busy. The town has a population of 64 108 which means it’s busy enough to keep you entertained and quiet enough for you to enjoy some moments of stillness.
Plett is a paradise for active retirees. You can take long beach walks, hike through the Tsitsikama forest, or enjoy whale watching during the season. For those who enjoy golf, the Plettenberg Bay Country Club offers a beautiful course.
The weather here is great for retirees—mild summers and cool winters with very little extreme heat or cold. This makes it comfortable year-round.
While property in Plettenberg Bay tends to be on the pricier side, suprisingly you can still find affordable retirement-friendly homes. Starting from as little as R1.2 million, you can get a one-bedroom house in a secure retirement village to R3 million for something a bit bigger. The town’s growing popularity is reflected in the higher prices, but it's still a worthwhile investment.
Plett has a good selection of shops, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. For specialized medical needs, the nearby town of Knysna offers excellent private healthcare options.
Plettenberg Bay has a nice mix of ages, which keeps it vibrant and full of activities year-round. It's a perfect choice if you’re looking to stay active and engaged in a lively yet laid-back environment.
If you prefer a more rural setting, Howick and the Midlands are perfect for a peaceful retirement. Situated in KwaZulu-Natal, this area is known for its rolling green hills, waterfalls, and fresh air. The town has a diverse population of 50 138. The balance between races and ages allows for a peaceful, relaxed pace of life.
The Midlands Meander offers a variety of craft shops, galleries, and quaint cafés to explore. You can also spend your afternoons at the famous Howick Falls or take slow drives through the countryside to Midmar Dam. For those into gardening or farming, this region is perfect for growing your own veggies!
Howick and the Midlands have cooler weather compared to the coast. Summers are warm but not too humid, while winters can be chilly, with occasional frost. It's great if you enjoy a bit of a cooler climate.
You can find homes in Howick for as low as R1.5 million, making it one of the more affordable retirement options. There are also many retirement villages in the area, offering lock-up-and-go options for retirees.
Howick has all the essentials— grocery stores, pharmacies, and plenty of good doctors nearby. Pietermaritzburg, which is just a short drive away, offers more specialised healthcare and shopping options.
Howick is known for being a retirement-friendly destination. Many people move here for the peace and quiet, and you'll find a solid number of retirees enjoying the country living. With a balanced demographic, Howick gives you that mix of tranquillity and community life—offering the best of both worlds.
Whether it’s the coastal charm of St Francis Bay, the scenic beauty of Plettenberg Bay, or the countryside calm of Howick, South Africa has plenty to offer. Each of these towns provides a slower pace of life, beautiful surroundings, and all the amenities you need to enjoy your golden years to the fullest!
If you're ready to make a move, let Wise Move help you get there. With the top local moving companies ready to offer you the best service at pensioner prices, you'll wish you had moved sooner!
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