Live in literal Paradise: The best-named regional Aussie towns to call home

From the orchards of Orange to the shores of Eden, these beautifully-named regional towns offer much more than novelty toponyms.

As affordability pressures persist in the major cities, more buyers are being drawn out to the regions - so why not move somewhere that feels as good to say as it does to live in?

Cotality's latest Home Value Index for September shows regional markets are holding firm, with combined regional dwelling values rising 6.6 per cent over the past year, compared to 4.3 per cent across the capitals.

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Many of these locations are wonderful places to live, with lifestyle appeal, a strong sense of community and in many cases, solid property fundamentals.

Here are seven regional towns where the name is as enjoyable as the postcode.

Orange, NSW - ripe for the picking

Orange is more than a citrus pun - it's one of NSW's most desirable inland cities.

With a thriving food and wine scene, excellent schools, and a strong local economy, it's a magnet for professionals and families seeking a refined regional lifestyle (and famed crisp autumn colours). It was also recently ranked as the top retirement location in Australia for 2025.

According to Cotality, Orange's median dwelling value now sits at $657,863, up 8.4 per cent over the past year.

With its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and proximity to Sydney (about three-and-a-half hours by car), Orange offers a mix of sophistication and country charm that keeps both upgraders and investors keen.

Orange remains a stable market with solid long-term performance and high owner-occupier rates.

Eden, NSW - paradise by name and nature

South of Merimbula on NSW's Sapphire Coast, Eden offers dramatic ocean views, national parks, and a laid-back lifestyle.

It's a favourite among retirees and remote workers who want nature on their doorstep (and an abundant supply of Australia's best oysters).

While not among the fastest-growing markets in 2025, regional NSW values overall have risen 4.4 per cent annually.

With median prices well below Sydney's $1.24 million, Eden offers a literal slice of paradise without the city stress.

Bright, Vic - sunny in name, golden in value

Nestled in Victoria's High Country at the base of the Victorian Alps, Bright is as cheerful as its name suggests.

Renowned for its fiery autumn foliage, tree-lined streets, food and wine, shopping, and outdoor adventures like cycling trails, it's become a year-round drawcard for tourists (and a charming spot for homebuyers looking to escape the city grind).

Cotality groups Bright within the Wodonga-Alpine region, and values there have risen 5.7 per cent over the past year, with a median dwelling value of $648,376.

With limited housing supply and plenty of lifestyle appeal, Bright's outlook seems, well, bright.

Pacific Paradise, Qld - a pocket of coastal calm

There are a few Paradises dotted around Australia, but it's hard not to be sold on Pacific Paradise, a suburb in the northern reach of burgeoning Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast.

This relaxed little pocket offers a quieter slice of coastal life while keeping city-style convenience within reach.

Found between Mudjimba beach and the wetlands reserve and Maroochy golf course, Sunshine Coast suburbs like Pacific Paradise continue to draw in both downsizers and families seeking a laid-back beachside base, without the Noosa price tag.

According to Cotality, regional Queensland dwelling values have surged 9.3 per cent over the past year, with a median value of $764,258.

Emerald, Qld - a regional gem

You'll find this Emerald about 270 kilometres west of Rockhampton in Queensland's Central Highlands.

Established in 1879, the town is named after a lush green hill (not the gem) and is the gateway to one of the largest sapphire-bearing fields in the world.

Cotality data charted the Central Highlands region with dwelling values jumping 15 per cent over the past year to a median of $371,582 - one of the strongest regional growth rates in the country.

There is another regional Emerald - in Victoria's Dandenong Ranges, with a charming village feel, puffing billy steam train, and forested surrounds.

Cotality's latest figures show regional Victoria's median dwelling value is $595,699, up 3.2 per cent over the past year.

Sapphire Beach, NSW - sparkling coastal appeal

If the name doesn't already sell it, the turquoise waters might.

North of Coffs Harbour and South of Woolgoolga, Sapphire Beach is one of those postcard-perfect coastal enclaves where every day feels like a holiday.

According to view.com.au data, Sapphire Beach has a median sale price of $1.15 million with 3.1 per cent growth over the past year.

This local's enclave has benefited from remote workers and retirees chasing an ocean outlook and a decent wave.

Penguin, Tas - small town, big personality

Yes, there's a giant penguin statue. Yes, it's adorable. And yes, the coastal views are genuinely lovely.

This charming coastal town on Tasmania's north-west coast takes its name from a nearby rookery, where you can see little penguins return from the sea each night.

It features penguin statues and a playful community spirit that wins over visitors instantly.

According to Cotality, the Burnie-Ulverstone region (which includes Penguin) had the second-highest annual growth across the state at 4.6 per cent, now with a median dwelling value of $501,188.

With coastal views, affordable homes, and a friendly vibe, Penguin proves that property investing doesn't have to be so serious.