Women, Longevity and the Changing Face of Retirement Living in 2026

Women are reshaping retirement living

In 2026, women are no longer just participants in retirement living decisions — they are the primary drivers. According to the PwC–RLC Retirement Census 2024, 63% of retirement village residents are women, a figure that reflects broader demographic, social and economic realities.

Women live longer than men, are more likely to experience periods of living alone later in life, and often carry a greater emotional and financial burden when planning for retirement. These factors are reshaping not only who downsizes, but how and why they do so.

Longevity changes everything

Longevity is both a gift and a challenge. Women in Australia can expect to live several years longer than men, which means retirement planning often spans decades rather than years.

For Ruth (78), widowed and managing declining health, longevity brings a clear priority: certainty. She wants to know that wherever she moves will support her not just now, but as her needs change. Retirement villages with integrated care pathways offer reassurance that she won’t need to move again if her health deteriorates.

This long-term perspective is increasingly common among women downsizers. Rather than choosing based solely on lifestyle today, they are selecting environments that can support independence for as long as possible. Life expectancy | Australian Bureau of Statistics

“For many women, downsizing is less about lifestyle upgrades and more about securing peace of mind for the decades ahead.”

Financial confidence — and caution

Women are also more likely to approach downsizing decisions cautiously. Life events such as divorce, widowhood or time spent out of the workforce can result in smaller superannuation balances and greater sensitivity to ongoing costs.

Claire (68), recently divorced, typifies this reality. While she has equity in her home, she worries about making a decision that could compromise her financial security later in life. Questions about exit fees, ongoing charges, refurbishment costs and pension eligibility weigh heavily.

For women like Claire, transparency is not just helpful — it is essential. Tools and editorial guidance that clearly explain long-term financial outcomes help reduce anxiety and build confidence at a time of significant personal change.

Safety and community take centre stage

Safety concerns play a significant role in women’s downsizing decisions. Living alone in later life can increase feelings of vulnerability, particularly at night or during health emergencies.

Retirement communities offer:

• Secure environments

• Emergency response systems

• Staff presence

• Neighbours close by

But just as important is community. Social isolation is a well-documented risk factor for declining physical and mental health among older women. Retirement villages that actively foster connection through clubs, classes and shared spaces are particularly appealing.

For women like Claire and Ruth, the presence of other residents — and the ease of casual interaction — can be as valuable as any physical amenity.

Lifestyle without the burden

Not all women downsizers are motivated by health or financial pressure. Sue (57), still working and planning several years ahead, represents a growing group of women who see downsizing as a proactive lifestyle choice.

She wants:

• Freedom from home maintenance

• Time for travel and leisure

• Access to wellness facilities

• A community of like-minded residents

For this cohort, retirement villages are not about slowing down — they are about living more fully, without the administrative and physical burden of a large home.

Women and care planning

Care considerations also loom large. With 79% of villages now offering regulated home care, women increasingly view retirement living as a way to maintain control over future support needs.

This is particularly relevant for those without nearby family. Knowing that care can be scaled up within a familiar environment provides reassurance and reduces fear of institutional aged care.

For Anna (55), researching on behalf of her father, this integrated care model is also appealing for mothers later on. Many women in their 50s and 60s are already thinking ahead — not just for parents, but for themselves.

Designing villages with women in mind

The growing dominance of female residents is influencing village design and programming. Developers are increasingly prioritising:

• Well-lit pathways and communal areas

• Strong sightlines and security features

• Wellness and fitness programs

• Creative and social activities

• Smaller, manageable living spaces

These features reflect what women value most: safety, wellbeing, connection and control.

The bigger picture

In 2026, women are not just responding to retirement living trends — they are shaping them. Their longer lifespans, distinct financial realities and strong emphasis on community are driving changes across the sector.

Villages that understand and respond to women’s needs — emotionally, socially and financially — will be best positioned to meet demand in the years ahead.