The report was compiled by RP Data for mortgage broker Aussie Home Loans, with the roughly 3800 suburbs across Australia analysed.

Suburbs were ranked by a range of factors including house prices, block size, average number of bedrooms, historic capital gains and proximity to local amenities.

The report revealed Cessnock’s median house price is $264,000 with an average land area of 791 square metres, while Greta’s median house price is $315,500 with an average land area of 1427 square metres.

Regional NSW featured prominently on the top 100 list, with Orange taking out the number one spot.

The criteria for the study is based on surveys conducted by RP Data and Aussie Home Loans late last year, which showed family households very much valued living in a detached home on a large block of land.

The surveys showed the importance of opportunities for capital growth, as were locational aspects such as proximity to schools, health care and shopping facilities.

“The survey shows that families’ priorities have changed over the years, with parents prepared to travel longer distances to work and schools, with the features of the house and affordability now the top priorities for families, not location,” Aussie Home Loans CEO Ian Corfield said.

“With a population of more than 2,628,000 already enjoying our NSW regional towns, it’s encouraging to see some of these beautiful locations recognised.

“It’s particularly heartening considering the work the state government has put in to promoting population growth and employment opportunities in these areas. 

“There’s some great incentives for families considering a metro to regional tree change.”

RP Data’s National Research Director Tim Lawless added that most regional suburbs ranked highly due to a relatively low median house price for three or more bedrooms, good land area, and plentiful schools, healthcare, childcare and retail options.