Why buyers are heading north to buy Byron Shire property

Why are buyers heading north to buy property?

The most common reason given for Australians relocating in 2024 (41%) was ‘for a better lifestyle’ (2024 Muval Index), highlighting a growing trend toward Aussies seeking a fulfilling and balanced quality of life in a non-city location such as Byron Shire.

The high number of people moving from major cities like Sydney and Melbourne has continued post-covid and throughout 2024, as residents looked for more appealing and affordable property elsewhere, often seeking new opportunities and better work-life balance in regional areas.

In the 5-year intercensal period to 2021, 8,640 people moved into the Byron Shire. While the shire does also attract a large cohort of international migrants drawn to an Australian beachside lifestyle (a 2,282 increase over 5 years according to the 2021 Census), this article will focus on what attracts Australian relocators to the area.  Particularly those heading north, who make up the lion’s share of our new residents.

Over the past several years, the Northern Rivers region, and the Byron Shire in particular, has solidified its reputation as one of Australia’s most desirable lifestyle destinations, not just for tourists but for long-term residents. It’s no surprise that the popular TV show, Seachange was filmed here in Brunswick Heads – and it seems life continues to imitate art. 

The post-COVID landscape accelerated what was once a slow and steady migration north into an enduring trend: with relocators including professionals, families, and retirees from Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne packing their bags (and homes) for their own seachange — and they’re heading north to our slice of paradise.

A lifestyle that sells itself … and sells property

There’s no denying the magnetic appeal of Byron Shire. This region, nestled in Northern New South Wales between the neighbouring Ballina and Tweed Shires, blends pristine beaches (home to world-class surf breaks), lush green hinterland, a vibrant arts culture, and a strong sense of community. For many Australians re-evaluating their lifestyle post-pandemic, Byron offers the perfect trifecta: beauty, balance, and belonging.

Remote work allowed professionals from capital cities to relocate here without sacrificing career progression. Instead of an hour-long commute to the city, buyers can now take morning meetings on the deck of their home with an ocean or hinterland view.  Families have access to a range of primary and secondary schools and sporting clubs, while kids and parents alike enjoy abundant access to nature, away from the rat-race. Meanwhile, semi-retirees, retirees and downsizers find themselves drawn to the health-conscious, community-first ethos of the region, where, despite living life at a more leisurely pace, they can still enjoy access to world-class public and private medical services.

Key buyer markets: Sydney, Canberra & Melbourne

Data from Australia Post’s relocation statistics confirms a trend of migration from metro postcodes in Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne to postcodes within the Byron Shire.  Over a quarter of in-migration to the shire (26%) was from those moving from a greater Sydney postcode, compared to just 18% from neighbouring Ballina and Tweed suburbs combined.  In particular, the following migration patterns have been observed:

• From Sydney suburbs (Eastern Suburbs, Inner West, and Northern Beaches) to Byron Bay, Suffolk Park, Ocean Shores and Bangalow
• From Melbourne suburbs (Northcote, Fitzroy, Brighton, and Richmond) to Mullumbimby and Newrybar
• From Canberra suburbs (Griffith, Deakin, Braddon) to Brunswick Heads and Federal

These buyers are often cashed up, having sold high-value capital city properties, and looking to buy not only a home but to bring about a positive transformation in their daily life. With flexible remote work arrangements becoming more accepted and made possible through video meetings and other technological advances, buyers are looking for locations that offer both serenity and connectivity to community. They are reclaiming a number of hours every week by removing a long commute.

Where Are They Moving?

Let’s look at some of the most sought-after suburbs in the Byron Shire, and what makes them so appealing to our southerner friends:

Byron Bay

The iconic tourism heart of the Shire, Byron Bay continues to draw creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and wellness-focused buyers. Despite the premium price point, with a median house price ranging between $2.8M and $3.4M over the past 12 months, this suburb remains in high demand thanks to its well-known north-facing beaches, shopping, cafes, and proximity to key amenities like Byron Central Hospital. The most populous suburb in the shire, it represents a lifestyle choice as much as a real estate decision, and you’ll Byron Bay it as the most Insta-famous ‘it’ suburb of the shire, with many celebrities owning property here.  Read more about Byron in our suburb profile here.

Mullumbimby

The second most populous suburb in the shire, Mullumbimby is a vibrant mix of old-school hippy charm and new-age creatives - often referred to as the ‘biggest little town in Australia’.  Surrounded by lush, green and very picturesque countryside it’s filled with character with tropical architecture and a palm-tree lined main street. Mullum is popular among younger families and creative professionals looking to buy property in the shire, but who have been priced out other areas closer to the beach.  This is a well-serviced address with a sense of community, culture, and charm and lots to offer for young families.  Don’t miss the famous Mullumbimby Farmers Market and the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

The Brunswick River runs through Mullumbimby, which is also known as the gateway to the World Heritage-listed hinterland and rainforest that characterises the far North Coast of NSW.  

> View all Mullumbimby homes for sale here..

Suffolk Park

Just minutes south of Byron Bay, Suffolk Park offers a quieter, more residential feel while still being close to the action and the beach. It appeals particularly to families and those looking for more space and privacy. With Tallow Beach on its doorstep and a growing café culture, it combines lifestyle and practicality.

Read more about Suffolk Park in our suburb profile here.

Bangalow

For those seeking hinterland charm with a strong sense of community, Bangalow is a favourite address. Beautiful heritage homes, artisan markets, and an easy 15-minute drive to all the amenity of Byron Bay make Bangalow a property hotspot for Sydney and Melbourne relocators wanting to buy a home away from the bustling tourist areas. Whilst Bangalow offers a slower pace it still delivers sophistication. Read more in our Bangalow suburb profile here.

Brunswick Heads

Coastal, relaxed, and quietly stylish, Brunswick Heads has become a favourite with those seeking a beachside lifestyle without the crowds of Byron Bay. We have found Canberra buyers in particular being drawn to the small-town feel and natural beauty of Bruns.  We love it here, and we know you will too - that’s why our office is centrally located in Brunswick Heads – come and say hi, and we will show you around town.

> Check out all property now selling in Brunswick Heads here. 

Ocean Shores

A 5-minute drive north from Brunswick Heads is a gem of a coastal residential suburb, home to a number of elevated properties capturing sea breezes and beautiful views toward the Pacific Ocean. There’s a lot to love about living in Ocean Shores, including proximity to the beach, loads of amenity including supermarket, sports fields, nature reserves and walking tracks, as well as the Ocean Shores Country Club golf course and the Ocean Shores Tavern.

Ocean Shores is truly one of the best family-friendly places to buy property on the north coast, with its own primary school and easy access to the unspolit beaches of nearby South Golden Beach and New Brighton.  Our retiree buyers tell us they get comfort knowing that it is just 13 minutes to Byron Central Hospital. Two creeks meander through Ocean Shores, Marshalls Creek and Yelgun Creek.  

> Check out all homes for sale in Ocean Shores here.

Strong Market Growth & Appeal

Property prices in Byron Shire have risen sharply over the last five years, driven largely by demand from these southern buyers. While growth has cooled slightly from the pandemic-fuelled boom, the market fundamentals remain strong: limited supply, exceptional lifestyle appeal, and ongoing migration underpinning continued demand.

Median house prices in Byron Bay and the surrounding areas remain among the highest in regional Australia. However, buyers view these purchases as long-term investments — not just in property, but in health, wellbeing, and a more fulfilling way of life.

West Sydney relocator loves the Byron Hinterland

One of Gary’s recent clients told him,

“after years in Sydney, we wanted more space, a better lifestyle for our young kids, and the ability to work from home with views like these. Moving to Bangalow has truly changed our lives.”

– Anna & Lachlan H, recent buyers from Inner West Sydney

Why experienced local agents matter

For buyers from outside the northern NSW region, the support of a knowledgeable local agent is invaluable. Understanding nuances like where the best schools are, where to buy for the best views or surf beaches or hikes, which areas were affected by recent floods, as well as the unique local community dynamics which would suit your desired lifestyle, is essential to talk to those in the know when making a sea change.

That’s why it pays to work with an agency that’s deeply embedded in the Byron community. As the longest-running agency in the area, our team not only understands the real estate landscape, but we live it every day — as locals, neighbours, and contributors to the community.  Talk to Todd and the team today about what you’re looking for in your next home or community.

Planning your move? 

Whether you’re in the early stages of considering a seachange or actively looking for your next home, Byron Shire Real Estate can help you find a lifestyle you can’t put a price on. With a mix of beach and hinterland options, family-friendly suburbs, and stylish coastal enclaves, there’s something here for every kind of buyer.

We welcome you to get in touch for a confidential conversation about your property goals, or to request an instant appraisal to understand your purchasing power.

Wondering if you should make the move to a better lifestyle for your family?  Byron might be closer than you think!

> Get in touch with the sales team

> Browse all property for sale here

> Discover the suburbs of Byron Shire, including property & demographic research