Why Bendigo is the New Hotspot for Tree-Changers

It’s official — Greater Bendigo has become one of Victoria’s most popular destinations for Aussies chasing a tree change. According to fresh data from CommBank and the Regional Australia Institute (RAI), more and more people are packing up city life and making the move to this vibrant regional city.

Once known mainly as a big country town, Bendigo is now the leading local government area (LGA) in Victoria for regional migration, according to the latest Regional Movers Index. And it’s not just locals from nearby towns making the switch — plenty of Melburnians are heading up the highway too.

Bendigo's Boom: A City on the Rise

During the final months of 2024, Greater Bendigo recorded the highest growth in capital-to-regional migration across Victoria, up by an impressive 63.2 per cent. Nationally, it ranked second, with a huge 278.7 per cent increase compared to the year before.

So, what’s behind Bendigo’s surge in popularity? According to Brent Mason, Sales Director at Ray White Bendigo, the answer is simple: affordability, great infrastructure, and a brilliant lifestyle.

He says that the shift towards remote working after COVID, combined with today’s soaring cost of living, has made places like Bendigo more appealing than ever.

"COVID changed our mindset on working from home. It showed us that many people can actually thrive in that environment," Mr Mason said.
"And with Bendigo just an hour and 40 minutes by train to Melbourne, it’s easy enough to head to the office when you need to."

Since then, the town has gone from strength to strength, attracting families, professionals, and retirees alike.

A Great Place to Live, Work and Play

Bendigo isn’t just about beautiful old homes and affordable living — though those are big drawcards. It’s also a safe place, ideal for raising children, with a proud sporting culture, excellent schools, and a massive modern hospital.

The brand-new airport, offering direct flights to Sydney, has boosted business activity too, making Bendigo even more connected than before.

And when it comes to housing, buyers get a lot more bang for their buck compared to Melbourne.

"You can get a really nice house here for around $600,000," Mr Mason said.
"In Melbourne, that wouldn’t even buy you a front door!"

Plus, Bendigo’s rich history means there are plenty of charming old properties — some even with historic gold mine shafts in the backyard!

A Booming Small Business Scene

Beyond homes and lifestyle perks, Bendigo is thriving with a strong small business culture. The town has long supported entrepreneurs and start-ups, and today it’s buzzing with fresh energy from a mix of different cultures moving in.

Even CommBank has taken notice, recently opening a new business banking centre right in the heart of the CBD.

Mike Vacy-Lyle, CommBank’s Group Executive for Business Banking, says Bendigo’s mix of history, scenery, and economic diversity makes it a smart place for businesses and families alike.

"In recent years, Bendigo has experienced a population gold rush that’s only expected to continue," he said.
"The area's close proximity to Melbourne means you don’t have to sacrifice city conveniences to enjoy country living."

Sectors like health, manufacturing, professional services, transport and agriculture are all seeing solid growth, putting Bendigo in a strong position for the future.

More Homes on the Way

To keep up with the demand, the government is investing heavily in housing. Through the Big Housing Build initiative, around 160 new homes are set to be developed in Flora Hill, adding much-needed affordable and social housing to the area.

A Bright Future for Bendigo

With its thriving arts scene, top-notch national parks and wineries, strong education and healthcare services, and booming economy, Bendigo is ticking all the right boxes for people looking for a fresh start.

For anyone dreaming of a better work-life balance without giving up on career opportunities or lifestyle, Bendigo just might be the perfect place to call home.