The small towns that cost less but offer more

Essential workers are the backbone of any community, and in regional NSW, the demand for professionals in education, emergency services, health care, aged care and disability support is especially strong.

“These roles are vital to thriving regional centres and for workers, this translates into job security, choice and momentum,” says Craig Jenkins, acting executive director for Regional Economic Development at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Although a move to the regions has traditionally been viewed as a step sideways or a chance to slow down, Jenkins says this is a common misconception.

“In reality, many essential workers see it as a strategic career pivot — a chance to take on more responsibility, stand out sooner and build experience more quickly than they might in a crowded metropolitan market,” he says.

This was the case for primary-school teacher Emily Fardell, 31, who secured a permanent teaching position in regional NSW right after her graduation.

“During my final year of study, my university sent an email about the NSW Government’s teach.Rural Scholarship,” she recalls. “I applied because I thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to gain a permanent teaching position, which are very rare in Sydney, and to live in a rural city.”

Fardell was awarded the scholarship and quickly placed in Albury, where she has lived and worked since the beginning of 2025. “I’m so glad I got placed in Albury,” the Year 6 teacher says. “The cost of living here is far cheaper, the community feel is fantastic and all the services I need are very close by. The fact there is very little traffic is also a big bonus.”

Where careers take off

Fardell believes it would have potentially taken many years to land a permanent teaching position in Sydney, but taking the position in Albury allowed her to achieve her career goal straight out of university.

According to Jenkins, career advancement is often more accelerated and hands‑on in regional NSW. “Essential workers are more likely to work across a broader scope, step into leadership earlier and be trusted with real decision‑making,” he says. “Many describe the move as a way to fast‑track experience, sharpen their skills and build strong professional credibility earlier in their careers.”

As well as offering greater experience and career growth, Jenkins notes a move to the regions also provides essential workers with increased job stability and immediate financial breathing room.

“Lower housing costs and shorter commutes reduce everyday pressure, allowing workers to save more and redirect spending away from everyday costs, often without sacrificing career progression,” he says.

Fardell’s experience reinforces this assertion, saying that she feels more financially stable in Albury.

“I can afford a two-bedroom apartment with a backyard and still save, which would be impossible in Sydney,” she says.

“I also feel buffered from the cost-of-living crisis as I can afford all the essentials and have funds left over for enjoyment or saving.

“Even with the fuel crisis going on, everything is so close together in Albury that I only fill up once every three weeks. Back in Sydney, it was once a week.”

Room to breathe

Recent data shows that a high number of essential workers are relocating to the Far West, Riverina, Far South Coast, Southern NSW and Orana regions, which Jenkins says is a result of the distinct opportunities offered by each area.

As well as increased career opportunities and improved liveability, these regions also boast individual perks such as strong community ties, connection to nature and proximity to regional centres.

For Fardell, Albury’s more manageable day-to-day pace has been a surprising, albeit welcome, change. “The teachers at my school are very supportive and encourage everyone to leave at a reasonable time,” she says.

“I have also really enjoyed being so close to nature. Albury is filled with so many outdoor activities and is close to so many outdoor activity hubs.”

Help on the ground

As for the practicalities of relocating to regional NSW, government programs like The Welcome Experience can provide essential workers and their families with free on-the-ground support.

Regional‑based staff, known as Local Connectors, help essential workers and their families settle into life in regional NSW, from finding housing and schools to building community connections, while also offering support to partners seeking local employment opportunities.

“They helped me figure out where I would like to live and then attended open houses for me when I could not be in Albury,” Fardell says of her Local Connectors, Lou and Karin.

“Once I was in Albury, Lou put me in contact with a local soccer team I could join,” she adds. “The Welcome Experience has also hosted community events like picnics, pizza nights, park runs and walks for people who have just moved to the area so they can connect.”

Aside from career advancement and financial stability, this sense of connection is one of the greatest benefits offered by regional towns, as well as a greater work-life balance.

“Many essential workers say the biggest change is how easy and intentional life starts to feel [after relocating],” Jenkins notes. “For people in their career‑building years, regional NSW offers space to focus, grow and enjoy life, not as a slowdown, but as a reset with purpose.”

To find out more about making the move, visit nsw.gov.au/makethemove