More Australians downsize or relocate for affordability and space
A growing number of families are re-evaluating their housing choices, with many relocating in search of affordability, space, and improved quality of life.
New research from relocation platform Muval, based on over 41,000 family moves, highlights how rising living expenses are influencing where and how families choose to live.
Increasingly, families are making financial trade-offs: 13.9% are downsizing to smaller properties, 14.8% are giving up an extra bathroom, and 25% are moving into homes valued 20% to 50% less than their previous residence. Only 5.3% of family moves involve relocating to a similar home.
However, not all movement reflects cutbacks. Around 35.7% of families are gaining more bedrooms, and 37.4% are upgrading to higher-priced properties — indicating that many remain focused on long-term lifestyle improvements.
The report also reveals shifts in home ownership patterns amid economic uncertainty. While 56.1% of families are moving between owned homes, 16.8% are shifting from ownership to renting. Just 6.3% are transitioning from renting to ownership, while 20.8% continue to rent, changing only their residence.
Despite tighter budgets, many families remain focused on home features that enhance daily living. Ensuites are preferred by 66.5% of movers, 62.4% want walk-in wardrobes, and demand for double garages and alfresco spaces is nearly double that of non-family households.
Regional migration is gaining traction, particularly in Queensland, where 2.48 families move in for every one that leaves. Western Australia is also seeing strong inflows - Perth (1.88) and regional WA (2.15) show growing appeal thanks to affordability and job prospects.
Separate research from Finder supports this trend, showing a clear pattern of cost-driven relocations away from cities.
Greater Sydney is experiencing the highest rate of family outflows, with just 0.31 families moving in for every one leaving. The Sunshine Coast leads the nation as the most popular family relocation destination, with a 3.28 inbound-to-outbound ratio. Movers are primarily coming from Brisbane, Melbourne, and the ACT.
“We’re seeing more and more families move out of high-cost city centres to find a better balance of lifestyle, affordability, and space,” said Muval chief executive James Morrell (pictured). “Remote work and budget pressures are reshaping the housing landscape — and families are leading that shift.”
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