Downsizers are looking beyond the traditional over-50s hotspots in search of lifestyle, security and better long-term value in regional centres.
Instead of looking for a sea change in a large coastal city, many downsizers are drawn to regional locations that strike a balance between long-term value and lifestyle.
Toowoomba, for example, is now one of Queensland’s strongest regional growth centres, especially when it comes to residents moving from capital cities.
According to the Regional Australia Institute’s March 2026 Regional Movers Index, Toowoomba had a 236.4% annual increase in capital-to-regional migration, the strongest in the country.
“People are realising they don't have to choose between lifestyle and convenience anymore,” says Jenny Rickwood, Sales Manager at GemLife Cotswold Hills, a new over-50s community in Toowoomba.
“Regional cities like Toowoomba offer space, value and a genuine sense of community, while still delivering excellent healthcare, shopping and entertainment. For many buyers it means enjoying the benefits of city living without the pace and congestion.”
Over-50s buyers are increasingly drawn to quieter pace and long-term value of Queensland's regional cities.
What makes Toowoomba so appealing for downsizers
Ms Rickwood says Toowoomba appeals to over-50s because it combines city convenience with country charm.
“People love the four distinct seasons, beautiful gardens, thriving cafe culture and relaxed pace of life,” she says
Data from .id shows that Toowoomba had an estimated population of 186,276 in 2025, with a population density of 14.36 persons per square kilometre, offering a much less crowded lifestyle compared to a city like Brisbane, which has a density of 178.8 persons per square kilometre.
Despite its lower density, Toowoomba residents still have access to all the amenities of a major city.
There are several private and public hospitals, with a new $1.3 billion hospital under construction, as well as a regional airport that offers direct flights to all Australian capital cities.
This is combined with the region’s cultural attractions and natural beauty, from historic villages in Crows Nest and Pittsworth, to hiking trails in Mount Kingsthorpe Bushland Park.
Despite Toowoomba’s growth and significant amenity, it still offers over-50s real value when it comes to downsizing, with PropTrack’s June 2026 Home Price Index showing the city had a median house price of $892,272.
Compared to Brisbane’s $1,224,000 median, Toowoomba offers buyers a more attainable entry point without sacrificing city life and convenience.
Toowoomba is becoming an increasingly attractive option for downsizers looking for city living. Illustrated is GemLife Cotswold Hills Country Club.
Inside a new generation of over‑50s communities
Recognising the growing demand from downsizers, GemLife chose Toowoomba for one of its newest over-50s communities: GemLife Cotswold Hills.
Located less than 10 kilometres away from Toowoomba’s city centre and even closer to retail precincts like Bridge Street Plaza and Wilsonton Shopping Centre, Cotswold Hills is set in a semi-rural area and surrounded by open green spaces.
According to Ms Rickwood, who is moving into one of GemLife Cotswold Hills’ homes herself, what sets the community apart is the lifestyle it offers buyers.
“Our buyers aren't looking to slow down – they're looking for the freedom to do more,” she explains.
“GemLife is designed for independent homeowners who want a low-maintenance lifestyle, beautiful homes and a welcoming community of like-minded people.”
At the heart of that lifestyle is the $15 million Country Club.
“When I talk to buyers about the ballroom, private cinema, ten-pin bowling alley, beauty salon, games room and library, you can see their eyes light up,” says Ms Rickwood.
“But what makes it special isn't just the facilities themselves – it's the lifestyle they'll create. The Country Club will be where friendships are formed, hobbies are discovered and people come together to enjoy everything this next chapter has to offer.”
GemLife Cotswold Hill's community facilities offer residents the space to connect and enjoy the outdoors.
How the land lease model can help downsizers stay in control
For many downsizers, the land lease model provides greater financial flexibility while allowing them to retain home ownership.
At GemLife Cotswold Hills, residents own their home while leasing the land beneath it through a weekly site fee which covers the cost of running and maintaining the resort and its community facilities.
Homeowners also retain any capital gains, and do not pay stamp duty or deferred management fees.
“The land lease model is about giving people more freedom and financial clarity,” says Ms Rickwood.
“Many of our buyers are looking to unlock equity from their family home and put it towards the things that matter most to them, whether that's travel, helping family, pursuing new interests or simply enjoying a more comfortable lifestyle.”
As sales manager, Ms Rickwood has heard many stories from buyers who found the land lease model and GemLife Cotswold Hills particularly appealing.
One couple she spoke to, Trevor and Dimitra, were drawn to both the quality of the homes and energy-efficient features and the opportunity to be part of a new community from the very beginning.
“Dimitra is already planning to start a knitting and craft group, while Trevor is looking forward to volunteering behind the bar and dusting off his lawn bowls skills,” says Ms Rickwood.
Another couple, Keren and Keith, chose Toowoomba as they wanted to be closer to family, and chose GemLife Cotswold Hills because of how convenient it is.
“They loved the quality inclusions in their new home and the fact they could simply move in and start enjoying life,” says Ms Rickwood.
For over-50s like those Ms Rickwood has talked to, their stories reflect a broader shift in how many Australians are approaching retirement.
“What both couples have in common is that they don't see this as downsizing,” explains Ms Rickwood.
“They see it as creating more freedom, more connection and more opportunities to enjoy life on their terms.”