Retire in Reading, England
Last updated on Apr 16, 2024
Summary: Reading, UK is an attractive destination for retirees due to its close proximity to London, its vibrant cultural scene, and its excellent transport links. Retirees can enjoy a variety of activities in Reading, from visiting the historic Abbey Ruins to exploring the Thames Valley. There are several retirement communities in Reading, offering a range of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of buying a nice 2 bedroom home in Reading is typically around $400,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $500,000 USD. The weather in Reading is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summer months.
What is it like to retire in Reading?
"Reading and its surroundings offer a variety of activities for retirees. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries living in the area. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Reading Museum, the Reading Abbey Ruins, and the Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as walking and cycling along the River Thames, visiting the nearby countryside, and exploring the local parks. For those looking for a bit of nightlife, there are plenty of pubs, restaurants, and bars to choose from," said one retiree in living in Reading, England.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Overseas retirees suggest that you research the cost of living and any other expenses in your destination. This will help you to know how much of a nest egg you need and what to budget for in order to make the most of your retirement. Research the healthcare system and determine if you need to purchase medical insurance, and also consider the local climate. Consider the cultural aspects and language of your destination, and consider whether you will need to take any language classes. It is also important to budget for taxes, as different countries have different tax rules. Finally, look into the visas and residency requirements for your new place of residence," said one retiree in Reading.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Reading?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Reading is the cost of living. The cost of housing, food, and other necessities can be quite high, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a fixed income. Additionally, the area can be quite crowded, making it difficult to find a quiet place to relax and enjoy retirement. Furthermore, the weather in Reading can be unpredictable, with cold winters and wet summers, making it difficult to plan outdoor activities. Finally, the public transportation system in Reading can be unreliable, making it difficult to get around without a car," explained a retiree in Reading.

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Reading?
"Retiring in Reading offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is home to a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, theatres, and music venues to explore. Reading also boasts a wide range of outdoor activities, from walking and cycling along the River Thames to exploring the nearby countryside. The city is well-connected, with easy access to London and other major cities, making it a great base for exploring the rest of the UK. Additionally, Reading is a great place to retire due to its low cost of living and excellent healthcare system," said a person in Reading.
What are healthcare services like in Reading?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Reading. They wrote:
"Reading offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust provides a range of acute and specialist services, including emergency care, maternity services, and cancer care. The trust also runs a number of community services, such as district nursing, health visiting, and community mental health services. In addition, there are a number of private healthcare providers in the area, offering a range of services including GP services, dentistry, and optometry," said a retiree who moved to Reading, England.
How do I meet people in Reading?
When we asked people living in Reading about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats living in Reading can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, book clubs, language classes, and art classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and farmers markets. Additionally, expats can join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending church services, volunteering, or joining a local gym," explained one retiree living in Reading.
What is life like in Reading?
When we asked people living in Reading what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Reading is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads due to its convenient location and excellent transport links. The city offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, from its vibrant nightlife to its historic sites and parks. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, from the Reading Festival to the Reading Fringe Festival. The city also has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, as well as plenty of shopping opportunities. The cost of living in Reading is relatively low, making it an affordable place to live. Additionally, the city is home to a number of coworking spaces, making it an ideal place for digital nomads to work and network," said a retiree who moved to Reading, England.

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.
What do I need to know before retiring in Reading?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Reading, they said:
"Reading is a great place to retire for expats looking for a peaceful and picturesque town. It is located in the Thames Valley, close to London and Oxford, and is well connected by road and rail. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Reading is slightly higher than the UK average, but there are plenty of affordable housing options. The town is home to a diverse range of cultural attractions, including the Reading Museum, the Hexagon Theatre, and the Reading Festival. Expats should also be aware that the weather in Reading can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers. Finally, expats should make sure to research the local healthcare system and find out what services are available to them," explained one retiree living in Reading.
What type of recreational activities are there in Reading?
"Reading has a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The Rivermead Leisure Complex is a popular spot for swimming, with a 25-metre pool, a leisure pool, and a gym. The Rivermead also has a climbing wall, a sports hall, and a squash court. For those looking for outdoor activities, Prospect Park is a great option, with its large lake, tennis courts, and a children's play area. The park also has a café and a miniature railway. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the Forbury Gardens is a great spot for a picnic or a stroll. The gardens also have a bandstand, a café, and a children's play area. For those looking for a more active experience, the Reading Climbing Centre offers a range of climbing walls and bouldering walls. Finally, the Reading Skate Park is a great spot for skateboarders and BMX riders," said one member in Reading.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Reading?
"Reading is home to a variety of shops and supermarkets that cater to the needs of expats. For groceries, expats can visit the large Tesco Extra store located at the Reading Retail Park, which offers a wide selection of international foods. For other shopping, expats can visit the Oracle Shopping Centre, which houses a variety of high street stores, as well as the Broad Street Mall, which offers a range of independent shops. Additionally, expats can visit the Reading Farmers' Market, which takes place every Thursday and offers fresh, locally-sourced produce," said one retiree in living in Reading, England.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.