“Just looking out at the sea and the palm trees, this could be the south of France,” says Ed Gregory as he gazes across Exmouth’s serene seafront. Nestled in East Devon, this coastal town has become a haven for retirees, frequently named among the UK’s top retirement spots. However, beneath its idyllic charm lies a growing concern—the town’s ageing population and dwindling numbers of younger inhabitants.
In 2023, plans for 54 retirement flats in Exmouth’s town centre were rejected by the local council. Officials expressed apprehensions over the lack of affordable housing for younger residents and the potential loss of employment land. Currently, the average age in Exmouth stands at 50, nearly a decade above the UK average, highlighting the prevalence of older residents.
This surge in retiree interest has had a direct impact on the housing market, where properties now sell in under 30 days on average. While the older demographic injects vitality during quieter months, business owners worry about the scarcity of young people to sustain long-term economic growth.
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Steve Vernon, owner of The Octagon restaurant on The Esplanade, reflects on the challenge: “The older generation brings in plenty of business, especially in the off-season with teas and coffees. In the evenings, it’s mostly people over 40, and younger faces only appear during the summer.” He adds that recruiting young staff has become increasingly difficult due to unsociable hours combined with rising wages and National Insurance costs.
Ed Gregory and his partner Uni Jakobson, both 74, appreciate Exmouth’s peaceful ambiance which suits their lifestyle perfectly. “We often come on the train and love it here,” says Uni. “It’s got everything for us and isn’t full of young people.” Ed likens the atmosphere to the south of France, complete with Victorian houses and a sweeping beach.
Local 20-year-old Lila Burnett shares a different perspective: “There aren’t many young people in Exmouth, which makes it feel a bit dead sometimes. But I do like living here—it’s better than many other places.” Lila represents the town’s young residents, many of whom find fewer opportunities and social options locally.
The Coastal Beaver café, opened late last year by 37-year-old Mara Jesus, benefits from the year-round patronage of retirees. “Older people definitely help keep business steady, especially in winter,” Mara explains. She notes that university students from Exeter add seasonal diversity, visiting after exams when the weather warms.
Tourism also thrives with day-trippers, particularly seniors arriving by coach during milder months. Regular visitors like Stewart and Susan Clough from Yorkshire praise Exmouth’s charm and recent pedestrianisation efforts that enhance the town’s appeal.
Local resident John Martin, 74, appreciates Exmouth’s accessibility and quiet character, setting it apart from bustling resort towns. “It’s nice and flat, quiet, and perfect for us,” he says.
Despite its allure, the property market presents challenges for younger buyers. Mark Salter of Links Estate Agents highlights Exmouth’s relatively affordable housing compared to neighbouring towns but acknowledges the difficulty first-time buyers face. “A typical three-bed semi costs just over £300,000, and two-bed starter homes are around £260,000. But with reduced buy-to-let investors and second-home owners due to double council tax, the market dynamics are shifting.”
Exmouth’s blend of seaside tranquility and community warmth continues to attract retirees, yet the town’s future may depend on welcoming more young people to sustain its economy and vibrancy.