Far from retirees moving to the regions to seek a quieter post-work life, it is millennials leading the charge.

Half of those moving out of capital cities into regional areas are aged 24 to 40, chasing better bang for their property buck and fast-tracking their careers in a ­vibrant jobs market.

New data from the Regional Movers Index finds the number of people moving to regional areas rose 16.6 per cent to reach a five-year high in the March quarter, almost doubling pre-pandemic levels. There has been a steady climb since 2018, accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Gold Coast continues to be the favoured destination for those leaving capital cities, attracting 11 per cent of all movers in the 12 months to March.

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