Aims (1) To identify factors that older adults find encouraging or discouraging about the prospect of relocation to a retirement village; and (2) to identify the features or facilities often associated with retirement communities that are most appealing to prospective residents. Method Randomly selected community residents (n = 517), aged 55–94 years, from the Australian Capital Territory, completed postal surveys to identify the characteristics associated with retirement villages that influence relocation decisions. Results The provision of outdoor living areas, support in maintaining independence, assisted living facilities and accessibility to medical facilities were identified as factors that would encourage relocation. Luxury services (e.g. heated swimming pools) were indicated as least likely to encourage relocation. Negative perceptions most influential in discouraging relocation reflected a fear of losing independence and privacy. Conclusions Through identifying the expectations of prospective residents, retirement village providers may better tailor facilities to the needs of their target demographic.