Albury’s affordability and investment attract rising number of metro movers
Albury has recorded a 16-fold increase in net migration from capitals in the year to June 2025, according to the Regional Australia Institute’s June Quarter Regional Movers Index (RMI).
The national index shows regional centres continue to attract residents from capital cities, with 26 per cent more people relocating to the regions than the reverse. Albury was among the country’s top-performing destinations, alongside Townsville and Bendigo, reflecting the continued appeal of regional living.
AlburyCity’s Team Leader Economic Development Jayne Maloney said the figures highlight Albury’s growing reputation as a place of choice for families, professionals and businesses.
“We’re seeing more people choose Albury for its affordability, liveability and opportunity. At the same time, our own data shows this growth is being matched by investment in new housing, commercial property and services to support our expanding community.”
During the past financial year, construction activity in Albury grew steadily:
- Residential construction certificates increased 7.6 per cent, from 484 to 521, with a total value of $97.7 million.
- Non-residential construction certificates doubled from 34 to 68, valued at $60.7 million.
- Albury’s Gross Regional Product rose to $5.26 billion as at July 2024, a 4.58 per cent increase on the previous year.
Albury’s housing affordability remains a key drawcard for new residents:
- The city’s median dwelling price in Q2 2025 was $600,000, less than half of Sydney’s ($1.19 million) and well below Melbourne’s ($824,000).
- The median vacant land price was $210,000, providing opportunities for new builds.
- A tight rental vacancy rate of 1.0 per cent, below the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s benchmark of 3.0 per cent, indicates strong demand and rapid occupancy.
Health Care and Social Assistance remains Albury’s largest employment sector, accounting for 21.6 per cent of jobs, followed by construction, and education and training.
Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said Albury’s mix of lifestyle and economic strength sets it apart from many other centres.
“Albury is large enough to offer excellent education, health care, cultural and employment opportunities, but small enough to retain its sense of community, ease of access and lifestyle appeal. Albury is a city on the rise.”
You can locate and view the Regional Australia Institute’s June Quarter Regional Movers Index (RMI) here.