The trend of retiring in relaxed coastal or rural areas is changing. Many baby boomers are now opting for city life instead. More retirees are moving to apartments closer to their families rather than seeking the classic sea or tree change.
Recent data shows that downsizers make up nearly 40% of apartment sales in Sydney, a significant rise from just 5% in 2020. This shift highlights a growing desire among retirees to be near their adult children and grandchildren.
Liz and Ian Ramsay experienced this firsthand. After relocating from Sydney to Terrigal for a quieter lifestyle, they found themselves missing the city and their family connections. “We thought we could keep the same friends and do the same things,” Liz said. “But it wasn’t easy to visit family on the weekends—we were spending too much time stuck in traffic.” They decided to return to the city just 18 months later.
As they searched for a new home, they sought a modern, single-level apartment but struggled with outdated options. Now, they are looking forward to moving to the Highforest community in West Pennant Hills, which is still under construction and expected to be completed in 2028. Their new three-bedroom apartment offers the perfect mix of comfort and access to family.
Having a 40-square-meter balcony provides a space for family gatherings, which is vital for Liz, who cherishes the chance to build strong family ties. “This is the first family I’ve ever had,” she shares. “I lost one of my sons at 32, so I want to stay close to my other kids and grandkids.” Liz helps her daughter by picking up her grandchildren from school and spending quality time with them, further highlighting the importance of family in her life.
Warwick Bible, Mirvac’s General Manager, notes this trend is not unique to the Ramsays. Many retirees express a strong wish to remain near their loved ones. He points out that the uptick in demand for low-maintenance, family-friendly apartments reflects this shift. In fact, around 40% of apartment sales now involve downsizers, showing a clear change in housing preferences.
The Highforest development focuses on creating community-friendly spaces by including walking trails, parks, and playgrounds. These features make it appealing, not just for older adults but also for families and first-home buyers. “A decade ago, it was rare to see playgrounds around apartments,” Bible observes. “Now, families and empty nesters seek these facilities.”
With the Highforest project set to deliver 165 homes and a variety of apartment options, it will be a significant addition to the neighborhood. The development is just a 25-minute drive from downtown Sydney, offering city conveniences with a suburban feel.
Mirvac plans to launch two more apartment buildings this September, responding to the demand for diverse housing options. They are committed to creating welcoming spaces that foster community and connect generations.
The growing trend of staying close to family is particularly resonant as many retirees find joy in being involved in their grandchildren’s lives. As society evolves, so do our homes and how we choose to live in them.
