This NSW town is the top up-and-coming place to buy in Australia in 2026

Sydney’s sky-high property prices have long nudged people to consider life beyond the city limits – and a new relocation trends report suggests that shift is only accelerating.

According to an analysis by removalists Muval, regional and outer-metro suburbs are seeing a huge surge in interest from Australians looking for more space, better value and a lifestyle upgrade. Topping the list of the country’s fastest-rising destinations is NSW’s very own Port Macquarie – specifically Port Macquarie – West – which recorded the biggest increase in inbound relocation demand over the past three years.

The Mid North Coast hub isn’t exactly a secret among holidaymakers, but it’s increasingly becoming a permanent address for sea-changers. With its laid-back coastal lifestyle, gorgeous string of 17 (17!) beaches and easy access to national parks, and a cost of living still lower than many capital-city suburbs, it’s easy to see why more Aussies are making the move to this particular coastal spot. The data suggests the trend isn’t a short-term spike either: enquiries about moving into the area are consistently outpacing those from people looking to leave.

Elsewhere in NSW, inner-city living still has its devotees – but some neighbourhoods are drawing fresh attention. Cooks Hill, in the heart of Newcastle, also ranked among the country’s top ten up-and-coming spots. Known for its heritage terraces, creative scene and proximity to both the beach and the CBD, the suburb is attracting newcomers who want a smaller-city pace without sacrificing culture or cafés.

Overall, the findings paint a pretty clear picture: lifestyle is a major driver of where Australians choose to live, and the WFH revolution means people craving calm can head out of the city a whole lot sooner. Coastal centres like Port Macquarie and buzzy regional cities such as Newcastle are increasingly becoming hubs for work, community and long-term living – not just weekend getaways.

For Sydneysiders dreaming of more space and a slower pace, the message is clear: the next big postcode might be a few hours up the coast.

The top 10 up-and-coming suburbs in Australia:

1. Port Macquarie - West (NSW)
2. Hobart (TAS)
3. Bendigo (VIC)
4. Mickleham - Yuroke (VIC)
5. Newcastle - Cooks Hill (NSW)
6. Greenbank - North Maclean (QLD)
7. Whittlesea (VIC)
8. Wallan (VIC)
9. Rockbank - Mount Cottrell (VIC)
10. Sunbury - South (VIC)

You can check out the full relocation data and methodology (and plan your next move) via the Muval website.

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