localr4

If you are considering moving to Walcha for a tree change, I would strongly recommend spending some extended time there first.

Yes, property prices can be cheap, but don’t assume that means living costs are cheaper. I found heating a house, car maintenance, groceries, insurance and coffee significantly expensive. You may have a lower mortgage, but your day-to-day expenses will be significantly higher.

Walcha is isolated so you will need a car to travel to Armidale or Tamworth.

Customer service is lacking. I buy one or two coffees every day, and despite regularly going to the same cafés, I never had anyone greet me by my name, remember my order or even make effort to have a basic conversation.

After moving to Armidale, the contrast was incredible. Within a week, two cafés knew my name, my usual order, and had conversations.

I also wouldn’t assume that living in a small country town means you’ll automatically have friendly or supportive neighbours. I lived in one house for several years. My neighbours would wave, but there was very little interaction beyond that.

For me, the lack of neighbourly connections and lack of a sense of community contributed to me feeling unsafe and isolated while living in Walcha. I missed having neighbours who checked in on each other and created that feeling of looking out for one another.

If you’re attracted to Walcha because of the cheaper houses, look beyond the purchase price. Consider the actual cost of living and, just as importantly, whether the community and lifestyle will suit you.