For generations, the bright lights and bustling streets of Australia’s capital cities have drawn people in search of opportunity, excitement, and a better life.
But in 2024, a growing number of Australians are turning their backs on city living, packing up their lives, and heading for what some are calling the ‘new frontier’: regional Australia.
So, what’s behind this capital city exodus? And is the grass really greener (and cheaper) on the other side?
Let’s take a closer look at the trend, the real savings, and what you need to consider before making a move.
Why are Australians fleeing the cities?
The answer, in a word: money. According to new research from Finder, one in eight Australians have left a capital city in the past three years, with a further 1.5 million expected to follow suit by 2028. The driving force? The relentless squeeze of the cost of living.
After years of interest rate hikes, skyrocketing rents, and grocery bills that seem to climb higher every week, many Aussies are simply ‘sick of scraping by’, says Finder’s money expert Rebecca Pike.
‘If you can continue earning what you were in a capital city, you will be hundreds of dollars better off every month,’ she explains.
‘Banking that difference instead of just breaking even can lead to much greater wealth long-term.’
How much can you really save?
Let’s break it down with some real-life examples:
Rent: Zoe Carney, a teacher who moved from Melbourne to a small town near Mildura, says her rent dropped from $400 a week for a one-bedroom unit in the city to $320 a week for a spacious two-bedroom with a courtyard. That’s an extra $150 in her pocket every week.
Groceries: A 28-year-old who relocated from Sydney to Newcastle now spends around $400 a month on groceries—about a third less than the average single person in Sydney.
Transport: In Newcastle, public transport costs just $80 a month, compared to $200 in Sydney. Fuel and tolls are also significantly cheaper.
Housing: In regional towns, not only is rent lower, but buying or building a home is far more affordable. Teacher Courtney McCrone, who moved back to her hometown of Temora, NSW, says, ‘There’s no way we could afford to build the house we are building, with the space we are going to have, in any capital city.’
Where are people moving?
According to Commonwealth Bank data, the most popular destinations are regional cities and towns, with Queensland’s Sunshine Coast topping the list for nine consecutive quarters. Other hotspots include:
- Gladstone, Fraser Coast, Mackay, Gympie, and Toowoomba (QLD)
- Northern Rivers and Southern Highlands (NSW)
- East Gippsland (VIC)
- Albany, Bunbury, Harvey, Capel, and York (WA)
Regional Australia Institute CEO Liz Ritchie calls these areas ‘the new frontier’, offering not just cheaper housing, but also career opportunities and a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.
Is the move worth it?
While the financial benefits are clear, moving to the regions isn’t for everyone. Rebecca Pike cautions that ‘moving somewhere cheaper might not necessarily equate to a better life’.
If you spend more on travel to visit friends and family, or miss the amenities and buzz of city life, the savings might not feel worth it.
It’s also important to consider:
Employment: Can you keep your current job remotely, or will you need to find new work? Some industries are more region-friendly than others.
Healthcare and Services: Regional areas may have fewer medical facilities, specialists, or public transport options.
Social Connections: Moving away from established networks can be challenging, especially for older Australians.
Lifestyle: While many love the slower pace and sense of community, others may miss the cultural and entertainment options of the city.
Tips for making the move
If you’re considering a regional relocation, here are some tips to help you make the most of it:
- Do Your Research: Visit potential towns, talk to locals, and check out housing, healthcare, and amenities.
- Crunch the Numbers: Factor in all costs, including moving expenses, travel back to the city, and any changes in income.
- Test the Waters: If possible, try a short-term rental before committing to a permanent move.
- Stay Connected: Look for community groups, clubs, or volunteering opportunities to build new social networks.
- Plan for the Future: Consider your long-term needs, especially as you age—proximity to healthcare, family, and support services is key.
The bottom line
For many Australians, the ‘new frontier’ of regional living offers a genuine chance to get ahead financially, enjoy more space, and embrace a different pace of life. But as with any big decision, it pays to weigh up the pros and cons carefully.
Have you made the move from city to country? Are you considering it? We’d love to hear your experiences, tips, and questions in the comments below!
YourLifeChoices is here to help you navigate life’s big decisions—wherever you choose to call home.
Also read: One ‘high-earner’ renter’s shocked as prices soar to $1,200 a week
