There are so many amazing places to live in Australia, but if you’re thinking of moving there, how do you narrow down the choices? Australia offers a diverse range of living environments, from vibrant cityscapes to tranquil coastal towns. No wonder moving to Australia is now a popular choice among expats.
In this guide, we’ll look at location, cost of living and lifestyle preference to help you choose the best area to live in Australia for you.
Here’s what we’ll cover
10 Best Areas to Live in Australia
1. Brisbane
Brisbane offers endless days of sunshine and a wide range of cultural activities. With its relaxed lifestyle and diverse landscapes; one day you could be hiking in the nearby mountains, the next relaxing on a beautiful beach – Brisbane has something for almost anyone! Not only this, but it also has a booming economy, so it could be a good choice for those looking to work in Australia, especially those in tech or healthcare.
Why to live here – Perfect for young professionals and families that seek a balanced life.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 2,500–3,200 per month.
| Pros | Cons |
| Warm climate | Higher levels of humidity and occasional flooding |
| Fast-growing job market | Housing is expensive in the suburbs, but it’s cheaper 10km away. |
| Lots of outdoor activities |
Explore our blog on Where to Live in Brisbane for more information
2. Adelaide
Adelaide offers a relaxed and affordable lifestyle, making it one of the most desirable cities in Australia. It offers excellent accommodation options, without the high prices found in other cities. The city is well-planned and has lots of parks and places to relax and have fun.
Adelaide has a rich cultural scene, with events like the Adelaide Festival and Fringe Festival drawing crowds from all over. The city’s culinary scene is equally impressive, with a wide range of gourmet restaurants, cafés, and local markets.
Why to live here – Perfect for culture lovers and anyone seeking a slower pace.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 2,200–2,800 per month.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable living | Smaller job market |
| Rich cultural scene | Less facilities such as malls and hospitals than other cities |
| Great food and wine | Quiet nightlife |
3. Sydney
Sydney is Australia’s biggest city and is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It has a mix of city life and beaches that are just a short drive away. Job opportunities in Sydney are wide ranging, from finance to the creative arts.
The city is full of cultural and recreational activities. From Darling Harbour to the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney has something for everyone. The dining scene is full of high-end restaurants, trendy cafés, and street food markets. Sydney has many ways to get around the city, including trains, buses, and ferries.
Why to live here – Great for career-oriented people or those who like city life.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 3,500–4,500 per month
| Pros | Cons |
| Vibrant city life | Expensive cost of living |
| Lots of lovely beaches | Heavy traffic, especially in the summer |
| Good job market |
Read more on Areas to Live in Sydney
4. Perth
Perth is known for its beaches and laid-back lifestyle. One of the more remote Australian cities, Perth has a thriving community and a unique charm. The mining and resources sectors are particularly important for the city’s economy, and could offer good career opportunities for expats.
Perth’s natural beauty is one of its main draws. With the Indian Ocean to the west and the Swan River running through the city, there are plenty of opportunities to do water-based activities and relax. Kings Park is a big park in the middle of the city that has great views of the skyline and river. Perth also has many arts and culture activities like festivals, galleries, and theatres.
Why to live here – Very good for families and those who want a peaceful, quiet life with excellent amenities.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 2,400–3,000 per month.
| Pros | Cons |
| Beautiful natural surroundings | More remote than other cities |
| Close community feel | Has little public transport |
| Availability of mining jobs |
For more information, read our blog on Where to Live in Perth
5. Melbourne
Melbourne is known as Australia’s cultural capital because it has many different kinds of art, food, and music. The city is known for its mix of architecture, street art, and cultural festivals. Melbourne’s public transport system, including trams, trains, and buses, makes it easy to get around and explore the city’s many neighbourhoods.
The city has a lot of dining options, from world-class restaurants to quirky cafés and food trucks. Melbourne is also home to a number of universities and educational institutions, making it a great place for students and academics. The city has a strong sports culture, with events like the Australian Open and the Melbourne Cup attracting international attention.
Why to live here – This area is perfect for creative professionals and art lovers.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 3,000–3,800 per month.
| Pros | Cons |
| Vibrant cultural scene | Unpredictable weather |
| Abundant public transport | High cost of living |
| Diverse job market |
6. Canberra
Canberra is the capital of Australia and has a high standard of living. The city is home to many national institutions, such as the Australian War Memorial, National Gallery, and National Museum.
Canberra has good education and healthcare facilities, low crime rates, and a good quality of life. The city’s layout is spacious, with plenty of parks, nature reserves, and bike paths, providing residents with a healthy and active lifestyle. Canberra’s economy depends on the government, and there are many jobs in government and related fields.
Why to live here – Canberra is good for families and government employees.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 2,800-3,500 per month.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent education and healthcare | Quiet nightlife |
| The level of crime is low | High cost of living |
| Small-town feel |
7. Lismore
Lismore is a place that combines urban and rural life. Located near both rainforests and the coast, the town has a strong sense of community and is known for its artistic and cultural activities. Lismore has lots of galleries, theatres, and music festivals that attract people from all over the area.
Lismore also has many parks, nature reserves, and outdoor activities. The nearby beaches are good places to surf, swim, and relax. Lismore is also home to a number of educational institutions, including Southern Cross University, which makes it a good place for students and academics.
Why to live here – Perfect for nature lovers and artists.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 2,000-2,600 per month.
| Pros | Cons |
| Close to nature | Job opportunities can be limited |
| Community feel | Occasional flooding |
| Regular cultural activities |
8. Wellington
Wellington, in New South Wales, is a small town with a close community. It is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is peaceful and has nice natural places like parks, gardens.
Wellington’s community is welcoming and supportive, with local events and activities that bring residents together. The town is perfect for retirees or anyone who wants a more relaxed environment. Even though job opportunities are limited, the town’s affordability and peaceful atmosphere make it a good choice for many people.
Why to live here – Good for retirees and those seeking a quiet atmosphere.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 1,800–2,400 monthly.
| Pros | Cons |
| Peaceful lifestyle | Limited amenities |
| Close-knit community | Fewer job opportunities |
| Affordable living |
9. Hobart
Located on the island of Tasmania, Hobart is a beautiful city that combines natural beauty with historical charm. Mount Wellington and the Derwent River offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Hobart is famous for its arts and delicious food, making it a popular place for culture.
Battery Point and Salamanca Place are filled with beautifully preserved buildings and bustling markets. Hobart is a good choice for people who want a high quality of life without the high costs. The city’s relaxed pace and friendly community make it a good place to call home.
Why to live here – Ideal for someone seeking a home combining history and natural beauty.
Average Cost of Living – AUD 2,200–2,800 monthly.
| Pros | Cons |
| Stunning views | Colder weather |
| Low cost of living | Fewer job opportunities |
| Historic district |
10. Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, fun nightlife, and outdoor activities. This coastal city is a popular place for surfers, beach lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The Gold Coast is a place where people can relax and have fun, with a wide range of restaurants, shops and cultural activities.
Not only does the Gold Coast boast beautiful beaches, it also has green forests, and national parks that are great for exploring. It also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. While the area can be tourist-heavy, the benefits of living in such a beautiful and dynamic place are undeniable.
Why to live here – Perfect for beach lovers and those looking for fun!
Average Cost of Living – AUD 2,600–3,000 monthly.
| Pros | Cons |
| Beautiful beaches | Can be crowded |
| Lively night scene | High cost of living |
| Lots of outdoor activities |
Conclusion
In conclusion, it all depends on your lifestyle and the career choices you’ve made regarding where in Australia you want to live. Every city and town has advantages, from the busy city beats of Sydney to the quiet shores of Tasmania.
Deciding where to live in Australia is a personal choice; consider your priorities, lifestyle and job opportunities in order to help make your decision.
How John Mason Can Help
Once you’ve decided where in Australia you’d like to live, we can help you figure out the rest!. Moving to Australia from the UK doesn’t need to be stressful; get in touch with our team or get an instant quote for your move.
You can also read more about relocating to Australia below:
FAQs
Brits are spread out across Australia, but some popular choices include:
- Perth: Offers a sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle.
- Brisbane: Similar weather to Perth, with a more affordable cost of living and a growing job market.
- Sydney: A vibrant international city with iconic landmarks and plenty of career opportunities. However, Sydney can be expensive.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer! It depends on what you value most. Here’s a quick breakdown of some popular options:
- Melbourne: Cultural hub with a great coffee scene and a variety of festivals.
- Adelaide: Known for its food and wine scene, with a relaxed and affordable lifestyle.
- Brisbane: Sunshine capital of Australia, offering a blend of city life and easy access to nature.
Consider your priorities (career, climate, family needs) to narrow it down.
Generally, Adelaide and Hobart tend to be more affordable options when compared to larger cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
