Seeking a Tree Change to Central Coast, Hunter or Illawarra?

Across Australia, more people are leaving behind the bustle of the city in search of a slower pace, with bigger backyards and a stronger sense of community.

Coined a ‘tree change’ — the trend is about moving from densely populated cities to regional locations that offer more space, affordability and lifestyle benefits.

For Sydneysiders in particular, the Central Coast, Hunter and Illawarra regions are drawing strong interest. Close enough to commute when the need arises, these areas boast improved transport links, schools and local infrastructure — making them practical for modern living.

It’s no surprise that demand for the tree change is rising, with more flexible working options and a focus on work/life balance, families and professionals are realising they can have the best of both worlds — space and serenity, without losing their ties to the city.

Why More Buyers Are Looking Beyond Sydney for Their First or Next Home

Sydney's housing market is one of the toughest in Australia, with property prices making it increasingly difficult for buyers to gain a foothold. In response, a lot of families are now exploring areas where their budget stretches further.

The move isn’t only about affordability. With flexible work part of everyday life, many buyers want room to grow — larger home designs, backyards for the kids and communities where they feel at home, without sacrificing career prospects.

Population figures confirm the trend, with more people moving to regional NSW year on year. For the majority of first-home buyers and growing families, looking outside of Sydney means finding not only greater value, but also a better balance between work, lifestyle and long-term investment.
 

Central Coast Welcomes Families Seeking Coastal Lifestyle and Community

With beaches, national parks, recreational activities, a close-knit community and an affordable lifestyle, the Central Coast offers the ultimate balance: a laid-back tree or sea change, with the bonus of being a train ride or drive from Sydney. The area’s allure is also driving strong growth, with the population set to increase by more than 20% — from 343,000 in 2021 to 415,000 by 2035.

The Central Coast Regional Plan 2036 provides a vision for the region's future based on health, education, services and high-tech manufacturing along the Northern and Southern Growth Corridors. Infrastructure is also in focus. Enhanced passenger connections make it convenient to travel to Sydney or Newcastle, while coordinated land use planning safeguards agricultural lands and supports agribusiness. The creation of an integrated green network of open spaces and leisure areas highlights the region's focus on liveability, while water and energy efficiency will improve resilience to climate change. 

Together, these developments demonstrate that the Central Coast isn’t just ready to welcome new families — it’s building an adaptable, easily accessible region that balances growth with liveability.

Hunter Region Grows as New Communities and Infrastructure Flourish

As one of New South Wales' fastest-growing areas, the Hunter Valley and Maitland are future-proofing with visions that support sustainable development. Looking ahead, predictions show that the Hunter–Central Coast region as a whole could boast 330,000 residents by 2046. The boom is set to create consistent demand for new homes, making the Hunter the ultimate tree change or sea change destination.

The Hunter Joint Organisation (a collaboration of Hunter Councils), has already committed to major recommendations, including a coordinated transport network, better rail services and the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor to further boost the region's appeal to families and professionals looking to make the move.

Investment is also being made in other innovative ventures. The Newcastle Airport precinct is undergoing redevelopment to make the city more connected to the world, while local planning revolves around affordable and sustainable housing, improved mobile coverage, new cycling and walking facilities, and more. The area is also going for renewable energy and a future in industry, ensuring high employment prospects closer to home.

Hunter and Maitland offer a community that is not just ready to welcome tree changers, they’re setting the foundations for a viable and thriving future through action on cleaner environmental practices, water management and vibrant public spaces. The attraction is obvious: apart from progressive planning, the region presents world-class vineyards, quality schools, a relaxed pace of life with a strong local spirit, expanding job opportunities and much greater affordability compared to Sydney's out-of-reach market.
 

Illawarra Attracts Tree Changers with Beaches, Lifestyle and Opportunity

For those chasing a sea change without Sydney’s price tag, the Illawarra delivers: breathtaking beaches, dynamic neighbourhoods and a standard of living that doesn’t compromise on value.

The Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041 outlines 15 priority precincts that will deliver more than 45,000 jobs. Metro Wollongong to Nowra and Shellharbour are evolving into vibrant urban townships where residents can live, work and access schools, shops and services close to home. Smaller towns are also benefiting, with investment in arts, culture and heritage helping them to prosper while preserving their unique character.

At the same time, the region is broadening its economy to attract businesses and tree changers looking for more than a fantastic lifestyle. Investment is being poured into health, defence, high-technology manufacturing and intelligent technologies, supported by international education and research facilities in Wollongong.

With new transport links, such as the connection to the Western Sydney International Airport, the Illawarra is enhancing accessibility and encouraging tourism. Combined with investments in renewable energy, water management and green spaces, the region is positioning itself as a resilient coastal community ready for the future.
 

Sustainability and Local Investment Support Long-Term Regional Growth

The strength of NSW’s regional growth isn’t only in lifestyle appeal — it’s also underpinned by sustainability initiatives and smart local investment.

Across the Central Coast, Hunter and Illawarra, programs like Greening Our City have added more trees and greener spaces. These initiatives not only improve liveability but also prepare regions for the future.

A further key driver is the supply of housing. The Hunter and Central Coast are at the forefront, with 68% of housing targets already planned to be met by 2029 — ahead of many other areas across the state, according to Hunter Headline.

The shifts align with wider national trends. Experts note sustained migration to regional hubs like the Central Coast, Newcastle and Wollongong reflects the growing appeal of a tree change in any of these regions.
 

What This Means for Buyers Right Now

For today’s buyers, regional living is about more than affordability. These regions are currently on track to reach population thresholds, triggering major infrastructure investment in everything from transport upgrades to new schools and health facilities. By choosing an Eden Brae house and land package in these growth areas, buyers position themselves in zones already planned for long-term liveability and convenience.

At the same time, the motivators go beyond chasing capital growth. More buyers are prioritising value, community and sustainability — looking for locations where they can belong and build for the future. Eden Brae’s thoughtfully designed homes and communities respond to these needs, finding the balance between modern amenities and enduring value.
 

Finding Your Tree Change Home with Eden Brae

The tree change movement isn’t just about leaving the city behind — it’s about moving towards more space, stronger communities and greater lifestyle opportunities.

With Eden Brae, you can make the most of this journey by choosing from a wide range of award-winning house designs, perfectly suited to build on vacant land in some of NSW’s most in-demand regional areas.