Why Regional Living Is the Future for Remote Workers

Two-in-five capital city residents would consider relocating to regional Australia, according to a new study by the Regional Australia Institute (RAI).

For people considering the move, 47 % would continue in their current job on a hybrid or fully remote basis, while almost a third would look for a job in the local community.

“A decade ago, the world was a different place, and many people simply didn’t have the ability to work-from-home. The pandemic proved it can be done successfully, whilst the recent federal election campaign highlighted how valuable this new way of working is to the wider Australian public,” RAI CEO Liz Ritchie said.

Amenity and economic gains were the top drawcards for regional movers:
– 41% citing more affordable housing as an influencing factor
– 39% seeking a cheaper cost of living
– 35% wanting a closer connection to nature
– 31% craving more space
– 29% longing for a stronger sense of community

The study also showed that Millennials (1981-1996) were the most likely to consider a regional move, followed by Gen Z (1997-2009) and Gen X (1965-1980).
Families with children under the age of 18 were more likely to relocate regionally than those without.

Geelong the pick of Australia’s regions
In the 12 months leading up to March 2025, Greater Geelong attracted the highest number of internal migrants, edging past previous leader, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Geelong’s proximity to Melbourne, combined with a coastal lifestyle and growing employment opportunities, makes it an appealing choice for remote workers.

Remote work has unlocked possibilities that were unimaginable just a decade ago. As Australians reassess what they want from life and work, regional living emerges as the answer to both.