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Population surge keeps local agents on their toes

By Mathew Williams
22 January 2026 | 8 minute read
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Regional agents continue to see strong buyer and investor demand, driving competition and price growth, especially in affordable and high-demand areas like Wodonga.

According to the latest data from the Regional Movers Index, Australians moving from capital cities into regional markets continue to outpace those moving to the cities by 36 per cent.

Sydneysiders led the way, accounting for 53 per cent of the net outflow across all state capitals, while former Melbourne residents made up an additional 33 per cent.

 
 

While the Sunshine Coast remained the most popular location for those seeking a lifestyle change, a cooler-climate locale has emerged as an area of rapid growth.

According to the data, the regional Victorian city of Wodonga experienced the largest growth in internal migration inflows, driven by its low base rate from September 2024, recording a 972.7 per cent increase in the September quarter of 2025.

The data further showed that population inflows into Wodonga were evenly split, with city-to-regional migration accounting for 47.6 per cent of the total.

PRD Wodonga sales agent Jake Spargo said the increase in population was evident in the region's property market, as population growth and increased investor interest pushed prices by almost 15 per cent higher in the past 12 months.

“We have seen some pretty dramatic growth over the past 12 months,” Spargo said.

“It has been on the back of a lot of investor activity from out-of-town areas, and people have found that this is a great place to park their money.”

“The market has really been trending up and is showing no signs of slowing down, especially in the more affordable price brackets.”

Spargo said that, with a median price of $620,000, the market had proved competitive, with a mix of first home buyers, buyers looking for a tree change, and investors.

Rents have also seen strong growth in 2025, rising by 5.8 per cent, according to recent Domain data.

He said that Wodonga’s proximity to tourist destinations, transportation links and local developments had played a driving role in its potential for ongoing growth.

“With its location, Wodonga is primed for growth, being in the middle of Sydney and Melbourne.”

“Being a regional hub, it's a hotspot for those looking to get out of the city,” Spargo concluded.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Mathew Williams

Mathew Williams

Born in the rural town of Griffith NSW, Mathew Williams is a graduate journalist who has always had a passion for storytelling. Having graduated from the University of Canberra with a Bachelor of Sports Media in 2023, Mathew recently made the move to Sydney from Canberra to pursue a career in journalism and has joined the Momentum Media team, writing for their real estate brands. Outside of journalism, Mathew is an avid fan of all things sports and regularly attends sporting events across Sydney. Get in touch at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 
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