Homeowners are staying put like never before, with the number of people moving house at its lowest level in two decades. The latest Muval Index, based on more than 400,000 moving enquiries and surveys of 2,000 residents, reveals that overall relocation activity has dropped sharply nationwide. “Many of the moving companies we partner with have described FY2025 as one of the quietest periods in living memory,” the report says.

While some regions continue to attract steady inflows, the national slowdown reflects a combination of factors — including limited housing availability, higher mortgage rates, and a general reluctance to sell during uncertain market conditions.

The Australian Capital Territory saw the strongest net gain, with 120 move-ins for every 100 residents moving out. Victoria followed with 110 move-ins per 100 out, and Western Australia recorded 101. Tasmania and South Australia were roughly balanced, while the Northern Territory recorded the highest outbound rate, with only 80 arrivals for every 100 departures. New South Wales saw 97 move-ins per 100 out, and Queensland trailed at 95.

Industry experts suggest that low housing turnover may persist well into 2026 unless new housing supply increases substantially. The decline in residential movement has broader implications for the economy, affecting demand for removal services, real estate transactions, and renovation spending.