Moving to Tasmania

What you need to know

Ever been tempted to move to Tasmania? We don’t blame you. The apple isle is a small, yet mighty island packed full of jovial delights, one-of-a-kind produce and locals that always smile at you in the streets. A place where peak hour traffic and confined apartment living is the exception and vast white beaches, wilderness adventures, and mountain bike trails are the norm.

We have makers, brewers and cobbled markets at all ends of our mysterious state. There are devils, white wallabies, wilderness railways, bygone prisons and architectural delights - with the promise of all of the above in one long weekend if you pack your explorer socks and trade your public transport in for a hatchback.

So, if you’re in the midst of transplanting yourself across the Bass Strait, been tempted by filter-free #Tasmanian photos, or are simply pondering life outside the ‘big city’ then read on. Here at Tas Gas, as the name implies, we know a thing or two about ‘Tas’ and we’ll give you the lowdown on all you need to know before making the move.

What are the property prices like in Tasmania?

Median house prices for greater Hobart properties sit around $545,000 currently. In Launceston, it is $383,500 and in the north-west centres, it's $330,000, providing great value and a fantastic investment opportunity for those coming from an over-inflated mainland property market.

Price aside, if you've been looking up dreamy properties on realestate.com, you’ve probably noticed that in Tasmania you can have your cake and eat it too, and by that we mean you can buy a property here that comes with a backyard sans the astroturf. Your dog/child/cat or new Tasmanian friends (who love a good summer BBQ) will appreciate your new slice of the Tassie pie, and you’ll love having a bit of space for you. Space where you can plant a veggie patch, admire your lawn and lay in your hammock - without your neighbours being a metre away.

Of course, if you like city life we have that too. In inner-city Hobart or Launceston you’ll be able to find modern apartments or slick townhouses with all the conveniences you’re used to if you’re moving from the city, with the added bonus of being able to find a beach, wilderness track or luminary eatery less than an hour away in some cases, and minutes away in most.

Where is the best place to live in Tasmania?

Choices, choices. We are spoilt for choice here in Tasmania when it comes to neighbourhoods to reside in, we almost feel like Oprah. But if you can’t get here to check out open homes, purchasing a home online can be difficult! Is it really a sundrenched living room or is it just a good filter? Gasp. At Tas Gas, we’re based in Launceston, the endearing yet pragmatic northern younger sibling of Hobart. Here we have tree-lined streets, an amazing farmers’ market, peacocks that like a selfie and an abundance of walking trails that often lead to an excellent almond croissant. But, due to our Northern roots we may be a tad biased - thus we will point you in the direction of a wonderful website called homely which will give you many Taswegians thoughts on what suburbs are the bee’s knees and which ones maybe are too good to be true - it happens, even in paradise.

What is the weather like in Tasmania?

Tasmania has a cool, mild climate. While there are four distinct seasons, conditions can be more unpredictable than other states and places in the world. Often, people say Tasmania experiences ‘four seasons in one day’, as a singular day can have sunshine, wind, clear skies and showers. December to March are Tasmania’s warmest months, averaging highs of 17 to 23 degrees Celsius. Daily winter temperatures average 3 to 11 degrees Celsius.

How much does it cost to live in Tasmania?

You might be thinking to yourself that Tasmania sounds great, but is it affordable? Tasmania is experiencing significant economic growth driven largely by booms in tourism and mainlanders making the move to Tassie. This has increased the costs of buying homes and renting. But don’t let that scare you away! Tasmania remains the most affordable state to live in. Tasmanian houses are about 25% cheaper than the national average. Compared to Sydney, Hobart rent prices are 38.91% lower, and groceries are 7.30% cheaper. Looking at Launceston, rent is 60.38% lower than Sydney, and groceries are 14.58% cheaper.

Here is a rough outline of the cost of essential groceries you can come to expect:

• Milk (1L) $1.4
• Rice (White, 1kg) $2.7
• A dozen eggs $5.47
• Loaf of White Bread $2.57
• Beef Steak (1kg) $14.50
• Chicken Fillets (1kg) $10.86
• Apples (1kg) $4.54
• Potatoes (1kg) $4.75

Finding work in Tasmania

There are many opportunities for work in Tasmania, whether you are working remotely from the mainland or starting afresh at a Tasmanian company. The median income for Tasmanian workers is $46,611. The largest employers in Tasmania are the Health Care and Social Services industries, which also includes child and aged care. Retail trade is the second largest employer in the state. There are many opportunities for work in the Education sector, which has risen to be the third biggest employer in Tasmania. There are many other significant employers in Tasmania, including hospitality, IT and administration. Professionals are also sought after in Tasmania, as there is a shortage of skilled employees. With significant increased tourism to the state in recent years, there are more opportunities for work in this industry.

Whichever job path you decide to take, it is important to research employment opportunities. Use online recruitment sites, or reach out to any connections you have already living and working in Tasmania.

All this talk about moving is making me hungry. Where do the locals eat in Tasmania?

We feel you! Lucky for you, we are spoilt for choice here in Tassie. Here’s a list of our favourite places from the North and South of the state.

Where to eat in Launceston

Stillwater

Within the four walls of an old flour mill steeped in history (and a ghost tale or two) is award-winning Stillwater restaurant.

Beautifully perched against the river's edge, Stillwater definitely errs on the upscale side, bringing a flair to evening dining options available in the city. Choose from a generous array of bar snacks, or indulge in small and large plates – each brimming with flavour and a sense of splendour without the ego. We recommend nothing less than a three-course meal, paired with Tasmanian wines of course. Offering a relaxed and generous fare during the day, this is a spot worth making a regular of.

Saint John Craft Beer Bar

If you find yourself wandering through Launceston’s CBD in the evening, you may start to wonder where all the people are. Chances are, they are probably at Saint John for knock-offs, kick-ons or just a casual brew. This bar is Launceston’s answer to a cosy, trendy beer bar that looks like it’s been transplanted directly from a Melbourne laneway.

Food-wise, casual eats have never been better. Order one of their signature burgers over the bar and choose from fillings of fried chicken, beef, pork, or even something vegan. Wash it down with one of the 14 on tap beers or choose from an extensive array of wine, craft ciders, bottled beer and top-shelf spirits.

Timbre

Timbre is a true crowd-pleaser. No matter your palette, you’ll feel right at home here with dishes like the fan favourite grilled cheese with house-made soda bread and not one but three cheeses *drool*. Chef Matt Adams and his team have perfected the art of a comforting yet confronting menu that encourages you to try something a bit out of the ordinary. Their roasted chicken with salsa verde and almond puree is pretty much the best bits of your grandma’s Sunday roast, deconstructed and re-imagined. Set amongst a vineyard you can indulge in a $55 or $75 set course that will tick all your boxes - guaranteed.

Where to eat in Hobart

Fico

Guided from Italian beginnings, you can expect a generosity of service, large shared tables, and unexpected twists at Fico. Each dish is a pleasure for the eyes and the palate. You can expect an experience for the senses here with carefully curated plates full of flavour, flair and variety.

Bar Wa Izakaya

A welcoming, casual bar with a truly immersive experience from the Japanese speaking lesson audio you’ll hear in the bathroom all the way to the authentic Japanese dining experience made for sharing. Enjoy mouth-watering karaage (fried chicken) and incredible dumplings all topped off with your choice of Japanese sake, a beer or a cocktail!

Da Angelo’s

Da Angelo Ristorante is a quaint restaurant in the heart of Hobart’s most popular, and arguably, most picturesque suburb - Battery Point. Family-owned, they have been producing fine Italian cuisine since the eatery was established in 1994. Priding themselves on the freshest ingredients sourced locally in Tasmania, you can expect fresh pasta made daily, moreish pizzas and, in true Italian fashion, you are likely to have one of the owners Angelo or Marco check in with you throughout the night.

Lastly, not every home is connected to gas in Tasmania - we know, bummer!

The pipelines in Tasmania are relatively new compared to those on the mainland, and unfortunately, it can be incredibly costly to install gas if you choose to purchase a home that isn’t on our existing pipeline. So, if you’re used to the creature comforts of instantaneous heat, we highly recommend you check the pipeline when searching for properties on your list of lust-worthy suburbs, to ensure you are able to connect to natural gas without the worry. Trust us, you’ll enjoy your first Tasmanian winter more connected to natural gas!

Our friendly team at Tas Gas are not only providers of Natural Gas, we’re locals who want to see our state thrive. We know how draining it can be to move, whether it be from one neighbourhood to another or interstate, so we are here to help with more than just connection. If you’re contemplating moving, in the midst of property hunting or you’re already on your way, get in touch. We’d love to discuss how we can make your move that little bit easier.

P.S. Do invest in a puffer jacket too. It’s the local’s uniform for 6 months of the year. Fun fact: they call it a Tassie Tuxedo.