Moving to Victoria is a big decision.
It’s exciting, sure, but also a little daunting.
You’re not just packing boxes.
You’re changing your whole environment, leaving behind routines, and stepping into something completely new.
Whether you’re chasing better work opportunities, a lifestyle upgrade, or just need a change of pace, this move comes with real questions.
How much will it cost?
What should you expect?
And how do you make the entire process less chaotic?
This guide breaks it all down so you’re not left guessing.
From budgeting and planning to finding the right help when it matters most, here’s everything you need to make the move to Victoria smoother and more manageable.
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Why People Are Moving to Victoria
First of all, Victoria isn’t just a destination. For many, it’s a fresh start.
From the buzzing streets of Melbourne to the peaceful charm of regional towns like Ballarat or Geelong, Victoria offers a lifestyle that strikes the right balance between opportunity and livability.
The job market is strong across industries like tech, healthcare, construction, and education, especially in and around Melbourne.
But it’s not just about work.
Victoria’s renowned for its café culture, vibrant arts scene, world-class education, and easy access to nature.
For families, that means better schools, safer suburbs, and more space.
For young professionals, it’s the energy and culture of a major city without the chaos of Sydney’s pace.
Many are also drawn by the cost of living. While housing in Melbourne has risen, it’s still more affordable than Sydney in many suburbs.
And regional Victoria offers even greater value, especially for those working remotely.
At its core, the move to Victoria is often about reclaiming lifestyle, trading traffic for time, stress for space, and routine for something that feels more rewarding.
Melbourne welcomed over 139,000 new interstate migrants between 2020 and 2023, the highest of any Australian city during that period
What to Expect from Life in Victoria: Climate, Cost & Culture
Now, before you pack your bags and book a removalist, let’s talk about what life in Victoria actually looks like.
Because yes, it’s not just about moving your stuff, it’s about starting a whole new chapter.
And to do that with confidence, you need to know the climate, cost of living, and lifestyle you’re stepping into.
Climate: Be Ready for “Four Seasons in a Day”
If you’re moving from Sydney or other parts of Australia, Victoria’s weather might surprise you, especially in Melbourne.
Victoria is known for its temperate oceanic climate, which means it has relatively mild winters and warm to hot summers.
But what really stands out is the unpredictability.
Locals often joke that you can experience four seasons in one day. And they’re not wrong.
- In Melbourne, winter temperatures range from 6°C to 14°C, while summers can climb as high as 35°C.
- Head out to regional areas like Mildura, and you’ll find it hotter and drier.
- In contrast, coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay enjoy much milder and more humid conditions year-round.
So yes, pack both your sunscreen and your umbrella.
Cost of Living: Higher Than Average, But Worth It?
Victoria isn’t the cheapest state to live in, especially Melbourne, but it offers a lifestyle that many believe is worth the price tag.
Here’s what you might expect to spend:
- Rent: The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Melbourne is around AU$2,548 per month. Of course, it varies: inner suburbs are more expensive, while outer suburbs or regional areas are generally more affordable.
- Utilities: You’re looking at about AU$1,280 per year for electricity. Add gas, water, and internet to that, and you’re up for a few hundred more monthly.
- Fuel: Petrol prices in Victoria average around AU$1.85 per litre, fairly standard for most metro areas across Australia.
- Groceries: Aussies now spend around AU$213.64 per week on groceries per household that’s an 11.5% jump compared to last year. It adds up fast, so smart shopping becomes important.
Yes, it’s not cheap. But for many, the access to culture, nature, and career opportunities makes the trade-off worth it.
Culture, Nature & Lifestyle: Why People Love Living in Victoria
What makes Victoria truly special isn’t just the cost of living or the weather, it’s the lifestyle.
You’ll find:
The Great Ocean Road, one of the most breathtaking coastal drives in the world, with cliffs, beaches, and landmarks like the Twelve Apostles.
Yarra Valley, a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies. Spend your weekends wine tasting, picking fresh produce, or dining at award-winning restaurants.
Phillip Island, a family favourite with beaches, wildlife parks, and the famous penguin parade.
Daylesford, perfect for a weekend getaway with hot springs, spas, and peaceful scenery.
Victoria mixes city life with nature, culture, and community.
Whether you love live music, hiking trails, fine dining, or quiet suburbs, you’ll find your fit here.
Approximate Interstate Moving Cost from Sydney
| Home Size | Melbourne |
|---|---|
| 1–2 Bedroom Unit/Apartment | $1,800–$2,500 |
| 2–3 Bedroom House/Unit | $2,500–$3,500 |
| 3–4 Bedroom House | $3,500–$4,800 |
| 4–5 Bedroom House | $4,500–$6,000 |
| 5+ Bedroom House | $6,000–$8,000 |
A Few Challenges to Keep in Mind When Moving to Victoria
First of all, no move is completely stress-free and moving to an entirely new state like Victoria comes with its own set of hurdles.
1. Finding the Right Suburb
With so many great places to live from inner-city Melbourne to coastal towns and regional gems choosing where to settle can be overwhelming.
Each area offers something different in terms of lifestyle, cost, and community vibe. And let’s face it, unless you’ve visited or done some serious research, it’s hard to know what’s best for you.
2. Adjusting to the Cost of Living
While some parts of Victoria are more affordable than Sydney, others (like inner Melbourne) can be just as pricey.
It’s important to budget for housing, transport, utilities, and everyday expenses, especially if you’re moving without a job lined up.
3. Managing the Long-Distance Move
Packing everything up and coordinating a long-distance interstate move is no small task.
Whether it’s planning the logistics, dealing with delays, or simply the stress of watching your life get packed into boxes, this part of the move can feel overwhelming fast.
But the good news? Knowing these challenges in advance means you can plan ahead and avoid most of the common mistakes people make.
Need a Hand with Your Move to Victoria?
Moving interstate isn’t just stressful, it’s one of the biggest logistical challenges most people ever face.
One wrong move can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
That’s exactly why smart movers call Six Brothers Removalists.
We don’t show up with guesswork, we show up with a plan.
Backed by years of experience, trained professionals, and a reputation built on thousands of successful moves from Sydney to Victoria.
We handle the packing, the heavy lifting, the transport, and the setup while you stay focused on your fresh start.
No delays. No damages. No excuses.
Just a smooth, seamless move handled by people who know exactly what they’re doing.
If you’re ready to stop worrying and start settling in, we’re here and we’ll take care of everything.
