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James Cook University researchers say Cairns is a prime example of a regional city where the rental housing crisis is making people who have moved to the city rethink their choice—and they say city planners must act if regional areas want such people to stay.

Rana Dadpour is a Research Fellow at JCU's Cairns Institute. She led a study now published in Australian Planner in which she interviewed people who moved to Cairns between 2016 and 2021.

"The group we looked at were 'amenity migrants.' Unlike economic migrants, amenity migrants are often driven by non-economic factors, including the desire for a better lifestyle. They are typically well-educated, mobile individuals who have the flexibility to choose where they live," said Dr. Dadpour.

She said Cairns exemplifies a prime destination for amenity migrants, but many reported struggles with rental housing affordability, suitability and availability.

"We found many amenity migrants in Cairns face problems in the rental market, often leading to compromises in their living conditions and a sense of frustration and uncertainty. This negatively impacts their sense of belonging and overall life satisfaction," said Dr. Dadpour.

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