What’s the secret to a long life? Hitting your daily step count, sipping on green juice (with a splash of Champagne for balance), and nailing that work-life juggle are great starts. But it turns out where you live could be the key to long-term success. A 2024 report revealed that Australians outlive citizens in all other English-speaking countries by an average of one to four years. That’s up to 35,040 extra hours to explore the coolest places, eat at the best restaurants and see the most magnificent exhibitions – though we suggest ticking them off while your eyes, legs and teeth are still in prime condition.
Interested to find out which Australian postcodes have the longest life expectancy? New research has pinpointed exactly where you’re most likely – statistically speaking – to live to 100, and it might just have you considering a sea change. The longevity experts at Simply Nootropics pulled ABS data across five key lifestyle factors, including alcohol intake, diet, physical activity, smoking and BMI. They then combined this data with records of Australians aged 85 years or older in every postcode to calculate an overall longevity score for each region.
Australia’s last remaining borough of Queenscliffe on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula came out on top as the best place to live if you want to make it to 100, with 6.49 per cent of the population aged over 85. With its charming 19th-century feel, this seaside gem makes healthy living effortless. Locals can get their daily dose of vitamin C with a scenic beach stroll and stock up on fresh produce from specialty shops or the Sunday community market.
Victoria dominated the rankings with more top ten entries than any other state, including the shires of Buloke, Hindmarsh and West Wimmera. Surprisingly, the lifestyle data reveals that it’s never too late to adopt healthy habits, with Victorian residents aged 65-plus outshining younger generations in their healthy habits. The ABS data found that Victorians have almost doubled their activity levels since 2017, jumping from 16.8 per cent to 25 per cent (or 35 per cent for the 65-plus age group). The state also boasts the lowest alcohol consumption in the nation and only 7.3 per cent of those aged 65 or older smoke or vape.
South Australia’s coastal town of Victor Harbour came in as the second hotspot for living to 100, with 5.44 per cent of its population being older than 85. Overall, the longevity data revealed a clear trend favouring rural and seaside areas, with not a single city ranking in the top ten. We can’t ignore the fact that these locations likely attract retirees who crave a more peaceful, coastal lifestyle. But then again, perhaps that laid-back lifestyle is the secret to a longer, healthier life.
The top Australian postcodes for living to 100:
- Queenscliffe, VIC
- Victor Harbor, SA
- Narembeen, WA
- Orroroo Carrieton, SA
- Claremont, WA
- Buloke, VIC
- Hindmarsh, VIC
- West Wimmera, VIC
- Hunters Hill, NSW
- Weddin, NSW