South Australia’s vibrant capital, Adelaide is known for its outdoor lifestyle, welcoming people and high quality of life. That’s what makes Adelaide a popular destination for UK expats moving to Australia.
With tree lined streets and Victorian parks, Adelaide has a rich history. It is also one of the smallest capitals, giving it a more community-like feel. With access to the coast, as well as all the amenities of a city, Adelaide offers the perfect balance of relaxation, fun and convenience.
If you’re thinking of moving to Adelaide, explore our top 10 areas to live.
1. Unley
Best suited to: Young professionals seeking a vibrant suburb, with an array of stylish and modern bars and eateries, and proximity to Adelaide’s central business district.
Property costs: In the past 12 months the median price of purchasing a property in Unley was around $1,848,000 (AUD) and the median price of renting a property approximately $705 (AUD) per week. House prices are on the rise in Unley, up almost 20% compared to the previous year.
Transport links: Excellent – Unley has direct, frequent trams which can get you to and from Adelaide in as little as 8 minutes. This short commute time makes it an ideal home for those looking to frequently commute into South Australia’s capital.
Lifestyle & recreation: Unley is a trendy, cosmopolitan suburb, known for its array of boutique shops and proximity to Adelaide’s central business district. Unley Road is in the heart of Unley, and is full of trendy cafes, restaurants, cocktail bars, and independent shops, making it a hot spot for socialising. Unley is also home to The Unley Oval, a large multi-purpose venue which is home to the South Australian National Football League.
2. Norwood
Best suited to: Creative and Artistic Individuals and couples wanting to live in the heart of the city, close to Art Galleries, Book Stores, and a variety of cuisines.
Property costs: In the past 12 months, the price to buy a house in Norwood has increased by 15%, with the median house price in the area being $937,500 (AUD) in 2024. The median weekly price of renting a property is approximately $690 (AUD). Norwood has a variety of property types on offer, from luxury 1 bedroom apartments, to large family homes.
Transport links: Good – Norwood has a great public bus service, with reliable buses operating throughout the neighbourhood every 15 minutes, taking around 30 minutes to reach Adelaide CBD. Driving or cycling typically takes under 15 minutes, whilst walking takes around 45 minutes.
Lifestyle & recreation: The Norwood Parade is the heart of Norwood, home to a variety of gourmet food shops, cafes, and boutiques. This area is also home to micro-breweries, gin distilleries, and popular bars, making it a lively area from sunrise to sunset. Norwood is also home to the Hugo Michell Gallery, a contemporary art space which regularly hosts exhibitions featuring both established and emerging contemporary artists.
3. Stirling
Best suited to: Families and Couples seeking a laid-back, semi-rural lifestyle in a safe area with access to great schools and outdoor spaces.
Property costs: In the past 12 months the median price of purchasing a property in Stirling was around $1,430, 000 (AUD) and the median price of renting a property approximately $740 (AUD) per week. As Stirling is located in the Adelaide Hills, the majority of properties for sale or rent are large, free-standing homes, offering extensive outdoor space and stunning panoramic views.
Transport links: Good – Stirling has good transport links into Adelaide, with frequent bus routes operating 7 days a week. These buses can get you into Adelaide in around 30 minutes, and operate from early morning to late at night. You can also drive into Adelaide CBD in around 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Lifestyle & recreation: Stirling is a relaxed, laid back area of Adelaide, with a variety of picturesque walking and hiking trails featuring lakes, forests, and quiet country lanes. Stirling is also known as being home to one of South Australia’s most popular street markets, which takes place on the 4th Sunday of each month offering fresh produce, live family entertainment and locally made products.
4. North Adelaide
Best suited to: Professionals and Students looking to embrace the city lifestyle, with proximity to nearby bars and nightclubs, as well as the central business district and local universities.
Property costs: In the past 12 months the median price of purchasing a property in North Adelaide was around $1,320,000 (AUD) and for renting a property, the median price per week was $715 (AUD). Housing options include grand historic homes, stylish apartments, and townhouses, reflecting the suburb’s rich heritage.
Transport links: Excellent – Being so close to the city centre, North Adelaide benefits from various bus and train routes, which can take you around Adelaide as well as further afield into the surrounding suburbs of Adelaide. North Adelaide is also only a 6 minute walk from Adelaide Railway Station, which offers direct links to Port Adelaide as well as other areas of the City. Journey times into the CBD by public transport or car, typically take under 15 minutes. It is also possible to walk in under 40 minutes.
Lifestyle & recreation: North Adelaide is known for its picturesque, tree-lined streets and historic architecture. O’Connell Street is a key highlight, offering a variety of cafes, restaurants, pubs, and boutique shops. The suburb is home to the Adelaide Oval, a major sports and events venue, and offers plenty of green spaces like the Adelaide Parklands and the North Adelaide Golf Course. Its proximity to universities and the city’s cultural institutions makes it a hub for students and academics alike.
5. Glenelg
Best suited to: Families, young professionals, and retirees who enjoy a beachside lifestyle with a mix of relaxed and vibrant atmospheres.
Property costs: In the past 12 months, the median price of purchasing a property in Glenelg was around $1,530,000 AUD, and the median price for renting a property approximately $705 AUD per week. Glenelg offers a range of housing options from modern apartments with sea views to charming older houses and townhouses.
Transport links: Good – Glenelg is well-connected to Adelaide’s Central Business District (CBD) via the Glenelg tram, with commutes typically around 25-30 minutes. Several bus routes also provide access to the city and surrounding areas.
Lifestyle & recreation: Glenelg is Adelaide’s premier seaside destination, known for its sandy beaches, jetty, and relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Jetty Road is a popular spot, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Families enjoy the coastal playgrounds, while water sports enthusiasts have access to activities like sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
6. Prospect
Best suited to: Professionals, young families, and creatives looking for a trendy inner-suburban lifestyle with proximity to the city.
Property costs: Over the past 12 months, the median price for buying a home in Prospect has been about $1,200,000 AUD, while renting a property costs around $595 AUD per week. The area is known for its character-filled bungalows, renovated cottages, and new apartment developments.
Transport links: Excellent – Prospect is situated just 6 km from the Adelaide CBD, with a variety of bus routes providing easy access to the city, and driving typically taking less than 15 minutes.
Lifestyle & recreation: Prospect is a suburb with a rich cultural vibe, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and the historic Palace Nova Cinema. The Prospect Road precinct offers an array of dining options and local art installations. The suburb also boasts green spaces like Prospect Oval and a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere.
7. Hyde Park
Best suited to: Families, couples, and professionals seeking a luxury lifestyle in an upscale, leafy neighbourhood.
Property costs: The median price for purchasing a property in Hyde Park over the last year was around $2,387,500 AUD, while renting typically costs $695 AUD per week. Hyde Park features heritage homes, elegant villas, and modern luxury homes, making it one of the more exclusive addresses in Adelaide.
Transport links: Excellent – Hyde Park is just 5 km from Adelaide’s CBD, accessible via numerous bus routes and by car, taking around 15 minutes. It is also possible to walk from Hyde Park to Adelaide CBD in around 45 minutes.
Lifestyle & recreation: Known for its tree-lined streets and historic architecture, Hyde Park offers a sophisticated lifestyle. King William Road is the heart of the suburb, offering fine dining, boutique fashion stores, and stylish cafes. The area is popular among those who appreciate the blend of modern convenience with old-world charm.
8. Burnside
Best suited to: Families, retirees, and those seeking a quiet lifestyle with access to nature and parks.
Property costs: The median property purchase price in Burnside over the past year is approximately $1,505,000 AUD, with rental costs averaging around $780 AUD per week. Burnside offers spacious homes, often with large gardens, as well as some newer townhouse developments.
Transport links: Good – Burnside is about 8 km from the Adelaide CBD. A variety of bus routes provide access to the city, with journey times of around 30 – 45 minutes. Driving typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
Lifestyle & recreation: Known for its peaceful, leafy streets and proximity to the Adelaide Hills, Burnside offers a serene lifestyle. The Burnside Village shopping centre is a local hub, providing high-end shopping and dining. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate nearby parks like Hazelwood Park, home to Burnside Swimming Centre and various walking trails.
9. Semaphore
Best suited to: Families, young couples, and those who appreciate a laid-back, coastal lifestyle with a community feel.
Property costs: In the last 12 months, the median price of purchasing a property in Semaphore was around $860,000 AUD, with rentals costing around $685 AUD per week. Housing options range from character homes and cottages to modern apartments with beach views.
Transport links: Fair – Semaphore is approximately 14 km from Adelaide’s CBD, with bus routes connecting the area to the city. Bus journeys typically take between 45 minutes to an hour, whilst driving takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Lifestyle & recreation: Semaphore is known for its laid-back, coastal charm. Semaphore Road is lined with cafes, boutique shops, while the beachfront is popular for swimming, kite flying, and long walks along the jetty. The Semaphore amusement park and summer events, like the Semaphore Music Festival, add to its appeal for families.
10. Walkerville
Best suited to: Families, professionals, and retirees looking for a neighbourhood close to the city with a quiet, suburban atmosphere.
Property costs: The median price for purchasing a property in Walkerville over the last 12 months was around $1,480,000 AUD, with rental prices averaging $700 AUD per week. Walkerville features a range of stylish modern homes and charming historic houses.
Transport links: Excellent – Walkerville is situated only 5 km from the Adelaide CBD, making it one of the more convenient suburbs for commuting. Buses run frequently, with journey times of around 25 minutes, whilst driving takes about 10-15 minutes to reach the city centre.
Lifestyle & recreation: Walkerville is known for its riverside parks, leafy streets, and proximity to the Linear Park walking and cycling trails along the Torrens River. The Walkerville Terrace precinct offers cafes, boutique shops, and amenities. It’s a highly desirable suburb for those who want a peaceful, village-like feel without sacrificing access to the city.
While we’ve covered our top 10 suburbs to live in Adelaide, there are plenty more to explore. Make sure to do your research to find the area that’s right for you.
For help with all other aspects of your move to Adelaide, get in touch.
We offer a wide range of relocation and removals services, for a stress-free experience. You can also explore our range of guides and resources such as our blog on Living and Working in Adelaide.
Sources
All property stats from https://www.realestate.com.au/, accurate as of October 2024.
