Domain has recently highlighted regional centres to its readers and at the heart of the message is affordable real estate. 

The Sydney median house price of $1,021,968 will now buy at least two homes with cash left over, and sometimes three, in other areas.

“And they’d be much better quality residences, generally newer and bigger, close to work with the maximum commute of about 10 minutes and with plenty of coffee shops, restaurants, good schools and excellent medical services nearby,” says Rod Kendall, Wagga Wagga mayor and spokesman for Evocities, the organisation of Dubbo and like regional cities encouraging Sydneysiders to make the move, and with a $10,000 relocation grant thrown in.

“People are moving not just because of affordability but also liveability.

“The biggest hurdle they face is just their own preconceptions of what our cities are like.

“They’re not hick villages in the middle of nowhere; they look more like a suburb of Sydney with all the facilities and job opportunities, but few of the hassles.”

Domain Group chief economist Dr Andrew Wilson says many people are looking towards pastures greener, with affordability the major driver.

“There’s such a big price differential,” he said.

“Together with low interest rates and the perception of good value, as well as good price growth in most, they can look very attractive.”

People often arrive as tourists to see the open plains zoo, and then start looking at property in the Evocity of Dubbo, astonished by the value on offer, Ray White agent Katie Harley says.

“Dubbo has fantastic health and education services and a great lifestyle,” she said.

“There’s lots to do, the river is beautiful, there are loads of sporting and community groups, and homes are very well priced.”

Orange, Mudgee, Maitland, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Nowra, Wagga and Tamworth were also highlighted. 

Domain is owned by Fairfax Media.