5 reasons you should move regionally

moving out in a car

When you think about climbing the career ladder, the first thought often involves bustling cities, constant traffic and high rises.

But what if we told you this isn’t your only option? Beyond this, is the more laidback regional areas of Australia and New Zealand. Away from urban landscapes, employment opportunities are definitely not lacking, in fact, they are hubs of opportunities.

If you’re contemplating a job change, and maybe a change of scenery in the process, here are five compelling reasons why moving regionally might just be what you need right now.

Ample job opportunities

Recent data from SEEK reveals a significant rise in job ads in rural and regional areas, making up 27.3% of all ads in Australia. Regional NSW, for instance, saw a remarkable 71% increase in job ads on SEEK compared to February 2020.

With less competition, finding a job becomes more accessible, and regional areas offer a diverse range of opportunities, from agriculture to tourism and healthcare.

Improved work life balance

Escape the chaos of long commutes and hectic city life. Regional areas offer a more relaxed pace, shorter commute times, and a less dense population, contributing to a significantly improved work-life balance.

Imagine a 15-minute commute becoming the norm, giving you more time to spend in nature, with family, and attending local community events.

Lower cost of living

This is one of the most attractive aspects of a regional move. A shorter commute and reduced housing prices translates to a higher standard of living for the average wage earner.

According to Domain’s End of Year Wrap 2023, the median house price in Australia’s capital cities reached $1,084,855, while it was $591,139 regionally, now that’s a difference! A similar story in New Zealand where the median house price in Auckland was $1,015,000 compared to Southland’s $450,000.

Community, connections and networking

The sense of community in regional areas is really strong. The close-knit nature of a regional community can open doors to unique opportunities that may not be available in the big cities.

Your contributions are not only more visible but are also likely to have a more substantial impact, providing a sense of belonging, recognition, and purpose within the community

Embracing change

They say it’s good to try new things, but did you know that getting out of your comfort zone can boost your life satisfaction? In the process you will be learning new things, meeting new people, giving yourself a new perspective and continuously learning and developing.

Before you go:

  1. Ensure you have a job lined up, and explore companies that offer relocation bonuses.
  2. If there’s no relocation bonus, calculate the cost of moving to be financially prepared.
  3. Research the area thoroughly to ensure it aligns with your needs.
  4. Evaluate your support networks, especially if you’re moving to an entirely new area.
  5. Connect with future colleagues online before the move.
  6. Communicate your plans with family and those around you, ensuring a smooth transition.

Ready to make the regional move?

If our compelling case has convinced you to consider relocating to regional Australia or New Zealand, get in touch and we can help you on the journey.

Or if you’re just wanting to see what’s out there, check out our latest jobs and maybe it will spark some inspiration.

Good luck!