If you’re dreaming of more sunshine, easier living, and maybe a bit more space, up north could be calling your name. People from all over Australia and around the world are relocating to Queensland, and it’s not hard to see why. From buzzing Brisbane and the laid-back Gold Coast to weekends at the Great Barrier Reef, life up here has a different rhythm.
In this guide, we explore why people are moving, what it really costs, and what you need to consider.
So, what’s all the fuss about? The state has been the go-to spot for people chasing a different pace of life, and the reasons stack up quickly.
For many people, it begins with the weather. This part of the country is known for its warm summers, mild winters, and numerous sunny days, making it a popular destination. For anyone used to grey skies down south, the thought of swapping them for year-round sunshine is pretty tempting.
The Queensland lifestyle is all about choice. You might dive into the buzz of Brisbane, spend your mornings surfing on the Sunshine Coast, or slow things down in a small inland town. Café culture, coastal walks, and weekend camping trips are all part of the package, and it’s not hard to see the appeal.
While housing prices have been rising across the state, many areas are still more affordable than in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. For families, that often means the chance to get a bigger house, maybe even with a backyard, or to move closer to the beach without stretching the budget too far.
The local job market in 2025 is seeing steady growth in industries like health, tourism, construction, and mining. For skilled workers moving from interstate or overseas, there are plenty of job prospects waiting.
And of course, there’s the sheer size of the region. This state is massive, with more open space and lower population density compared to the southern capitals. For anyone craving a bigger block, quieter streets, or just more room to spread out, it ticks the box.
The northern state continues to be a popular destination for people leaving other parts of Australia, and Victorians make up a big chunk of that movement.
Many of these movers are heading north for the lifestyle, climate, and housing opportunities. Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, and other coastal regions are among the more popular choices. These migration trends are being driven by affordability, lifestyle shifts, and post-pandemic remote work opportunities.
You might want to take a look at our Sydney to Queensland migration guide, which explores why so many Aussies are leaving Sydney for a better lifestyle up north.
One of the first things most people want to know is how much it actually costs to live there. The good news is that for many movers, it often works out cheaper than staying put in Sydney or Melbourne, especially when it comes to housing.
Brisbane and the Gold Coast have both seen price rises, but they still come in lower than the southern capitals, while regional areas are often far more affordable again. For families looking to stretch their money further, that can make a big difference.
If you’re trying to figure out what your paycheque needs to look like, take a look at our guide on how much you need to earn to live comfortably in Brisbane or on the Gold Coast.
Day-to-day costs like groceries, utilities, and transport aren’t dramatically different from the rest of the country, but what really helps is the lifestyle.
Life up here is made for the outdoors, which means a lot of your entertainment is free. Instead of paying for activities every weekend, you might spend your days at the beach, exploring the rainforest, or hiking local trails. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about getting more out of the lifestyle without spending as much.
So while living here isn’t necessarily “cheap,” it does offer good value. You get more space, more sunshine, and more opportunities to enjoy life without constantly reaching for your wallet.
Once you’ve decided on moving to Queensland, the big question becomes: where exactly should you live? Each region has its own flavour, so it really depends on the kind of lifestyle you’re chasing.
Brisbane is the obvious choice for many. It’s a capital city that feels big enough to have everything you need, including jobs, schools, culture, and nightlife, but small enough to feel friendly and manageable.
Families love the leafy suburbs, while professionals enjoy the growing opportunities across different industries. Suburbs like Paddington, Carindale, and Chermside are popular for different lifestyles. It’s also a transport hub with major rail, bus, and airport links, handy for commuters or regular travellers.
If you want to dive deeper, check out our Brisbane relocation guide & moving house checklist for suburb insights, moving reminders, and local tips.
If the beach is non-negotiable, the Gold Coast is hard to beat. It’s famous for its surf breaks, buzzing nightlife, and year-round sunshine, but there’s more to it than that.
It’s a place where you can finish work and be in the ocean within minutes, which is a huge lifestyle perk. Beyond its famous beaches and nightlife, the Gold Coast has become a family-friendly and entrepreneurial hotspot.
Over the past few years, it’s evolved with new schools, green spaces, and community precincts popping up all over. Suburbs like Burleigh Heads, Palm Beach, and Robina are popular for their mix of cafés and parks.
The Sunshine Coast is ideal if you want slower mornings, coastal walks, and top-notch public schools. Towns like Noosa, Maroochydore, and Caloundra combine lifestyle appeal with access to healthcare, education, and essential services. It’s also become popular for remote workers due to fast internet rollout and co-working hubs.
This is the gateway to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, and the lifestyle reflects that. Life moves more slowly up here, with tourism playing a big role in the economy and plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature at its best.
It’s a great option for those working in hospitality, tourism, or the public sector. You’ll find affordable housing in Cairns, not to mention stunning scenery, and a growing food and culture scene. Suburbs like Edge Hill, Whitfield, and Trinity Beach are growing in popularity, thanks to their leafy streets and strong sense of community.
Often overlooked, Toowoomba offers wide streets, great schools, and a strong local economy, especially in agriculture, education, and health. It’s ideal for families who want regional living without giving up urban conveniences. It also offers great value for homebuyers and is often ranked among the best towns to live in across the state. Toowoomba is a great pick for those seeking space, schools, and affordability.
Here’s a simple checklist to help you plan your move without feeling overwhelmed:
If you’re considering a move to Queensland from overseas, there’s certainly a little bit more to think about ahead of time: visas, finding a job, getting settled, schools, etc.
When it comes to work and career, the Sunshine State welcomes skilled professionals from all over the world, and there are plenty of opportunities waiting. In recent years, thousands of skilled migrants have found new and exciting roles across a range of occupations, from healthcare and IT to engineering and construction. Meaning, if you have experience in one of these areas, there’s a good chance you’ll find work that suits you.
There are also a few practical things to plan before you arrive. Make sure you have the right visa, like a Skilled Nominated (190) visa. Check Migration Queensland for details. Sort out healthcare through Medicare if eligible, and consider private cover.
Open a bank account early, organise your accommodation, and get a Tax File Number (TFN) to handle your finances.
For first-home buyers, the state government offers grants and stamp duty concessions. See Queensland Revenue for info.
Tackling these basics makes settling in smoother, so you can enjoy everything the region has to offer.
Yes, in most cases. Housing is usually the biggest saving, as rent and home prices are lower across much of the state. Even Brisbane and the Gold Coast, while more expensive than they used to be, still come in under Sydney and Melbourne. Regional areas like Toowoomba or Bundaberg are even more affordable, especially if you’re after more space.
It really depends on your priorities. The Sunshine Coast is popular for its schools and outdoorsy lifestyle. Brisbane offers great access to jobs, healthcare and education. Toowoomba is growing fast with families who want space and affordability, while parts of the Gold Coast like Coomera and Varsity Lakes are also becoming firm favourites.
Start with job boards like Seek, Indeed, or QLD Government Jobs. If you’re in a specific industry, like healthcare or trades, check specialised listings too.
Overseas movers should look at Migration Queensland’s skilled occupation list. And don’t forget LinkedIn. Connecting with local recruiters before you land can give you a head start.
Moving to Queensland is a big decision, but it could be one of the most rewarding changes you make, especially if you take the time to plan it well. From finding a job or settling into a new community to enjoying the beaches, sunshine, and relaxed lifestyle, there’s a lot to look forward to.
If you’re curious about costs, see our breakdown of the Brisbane removalists' hourly rate to help with your budget.
And when it comes to getting your belongings there safely, book trusted Queensland removalists with Upmove and make your move easier from day one.
Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
