Orange is one of NSW’s most popular regional cities, known for its beautiful countryside, food and wine scene, and relaxed lifestyle. What makes Orange unique is how easily country living blends with a more modern and cosmopolitan way of life.
“It’s still a town where farmers pull up with dogs on the back of the ute and tradies fill the front bar,” says Will Miller of Sale Street Real Estate. “But alongside that, you’ll find downsizers driving luxury cars, and stylish locals enjoying long lunches at award-winning restaurants and wineries.”
In Orange, these two worlds often come together. It’s not unusual to see farmers enjoying a European car or a cocktail, while some of the town’s most stylish residents are chatting about the weather and the next rainfall at the local pub.
A City Lifestyle Without the City Rush
For Charlie and Kayla Henley, this balance was one of the reasons they chose to move from Sydney to Orange seven years ago.
The couple quickly found that moving to a regional city didn’t mean giving up the things they enjoyed about city life.
“Everything we loved about city living is available here: wonderful food and coffee, great shopping, galleries, wineries, events and live shows,” Kayla says.
For Charlie, the move also opened up professional opportunities he had previously associated with Sydney.
“I had always envisioned climbing the corporate law ladder, and moving to a regional area felt like stepping away from that path,” he says. “I never expected that within three years of joining my firm, I would be offered an equity partnership.”
Their experience highlights one of Orange’s biggest attractions — the ability to enjoy a slower pace of life without necessarily giving up career opportunities, entertainment or a strong food and dining culture.
What to See and Do in Orange
There is plenty to explore in and around Orange, whether you enjoy nature, food, wine or the arts.
Just minutes from the CBD, Gaanha Bula (Mount Canobolas) and Lake Canobolas provide easy access to the outdoors. They are popular spots for walking, relaxing and enjoying the surrounding countryside.
Back in town, the Orange Regional Museum and Orange Regional Gallery showcase the history, culture and creativity of the Central West.
Food is also a major part of the Orange lifestyle. Orange Food Week, one of Australia’s longest-running regional food festivals, has become an important part of the city’s identity.
The surrounding wineries offer more than traditional wine tastings, with visitors able to enjoy experiences such as winemaking activities and cooking classes.
Why Orange Continues to Stand Out
Orange offers a combination that can be difficult to find elsewhere — the relaxed atmosphere and community feel of a country town with many of the conveniences and experiences associated with city living.
With quality food and wine, nature, culture, shopping, events and growing professional opportunities, Orange continues to attract people looking for a lifestyle change without giving up the things they enjoy about city living.
For those considering a move away from Sydney or other major cities, Orange is a regional destination worth putting on the list.
