Home of kangaroos, sprawling nature, and the Sydney Opera House, Australia is recognized for many things. The country is unique in its beauty, and its more than 25 million residents are known to be warm and kind people. Some of the best places to live in Australia offer stunning scenery and immersion in wildlife like no other.
Of course, there are more reasons than just a love of kangaroos to make Australia your home. The country boasts a booming economy, reasonable cost of living, and high quality of life. And for most citizens, this lifestyle is thanks to the many wonders of the Australian outdoors. Recent research from Washington State University finds that living closer to both green spaces (outdoor areas, parks, forests) and blue spaces (bodies of water) may reduce the risk of experiencing serious psychological distress among older adults.
In 2019, Australia enjoyed average temperatures at a temperate 73°F. With gorgeous beaches, mountains, and outdoor spaces, Australians are able to get up to plenty of outdoor activities all year round. Even if you have a stressful job, escaping to visit forests and other green areas may have an improved ability to cope with job stress, according to another study’s results.
Whether you’re contemplating a move to Australia for work, family or to enjoy the many natural wonders the country has to offer, there are countless cities and towns for you to choose between. And regardless of if you prefer a major metropolis or a calming paradise, you’ll still have your work cut out for you to narrow down a list. To help get you started, StudyFinds searched the internet for 10 expert opinions on the best places to live in Australia. These are the five most recommended options, but be sure to let us know if there’s one we missed!
The List: Best Places to Live in Australia, Per Experts
1. Sydney
Perhaps best known for the iconic image of the Sydney Opera House, the whole city is an Australian gem. “From the sands of Bondi Beach to its iconic harbor, Sydney is famous all over the world,” says Finder. “It is Australia’s largest and oldest city, and is known for its natural beauty and cultural diversity. It combines the hectic pace you’d expect from a major city with some of the most recognizable landmarks on earth.”
“Sydney is a sprawling cosmopolitan city and the economic hub of Australia, which is why many people assume it’s the capital city,” claims A Broken Backpack. “Sydney has the most job opportunities and is a top place for those setting up a new business.”
Beyond the office, there’s still much to do and see in Sydney. “When you aren’t working, you can visit iconic Sydney Harbor (home to the Harbor Bridge and Opera House), soak up the sun on Manly or Bondi beach or shop to your heart’s content – all while sipping delicious coffee,” Expatra says.
2. Melbourne
If Sydney isn’t your speed, you may just fall in love with Melbourne. No matter where you’re from originally, Melbourne has a place for you. “Some of Australia’s cities have a multicultural feel, but none do it quite like Melbourne,” boasts Expatra. “This is thanks in part, to the large immigrant population who have brought their food and cultures from all around the globe.”
“The multicultural city of Melbourne is widely considered to be Australia’s cultural capital with a strong arty vibe, amazing museums and an endless selection of cool bars, eateries and festivals,” MoveHub notes. “The residents of Melbourne come from all over the world, creating many different neighborhoods from the glitzy to the family-oriented.”
Looking for a new job? Melbourne is a great place to find one. “Jobs are plentiful here, with opportunities ranging from entry-level to highly skilled. Foreigners can find employment in all sectors, including hospitality, IT, sales, and healthcare,” says A Broken Backpack. “Furthermore, as a creative, artsy city, the creative industries are thriving, and new startups are constantly emerging.”
3. Adelaide
If you’re a fan of a smaller city that lacks nothing in amenities, Adelaide should be squarely at the top of your list. As Expatra puts it, “the good weather, affordable property prices, wide range of activities, country feel and quality education make Adelaide a great location for families.”
“Its remote location in South Australia creates a unique but lovely blend between metropolitan and country life,” notes A Broken Backpack. “In addition, many beaches, coastal towns, and wine regions are nearby, giving you plenty of fabulous weekend breaks.”
While families tend to gravitate to Adelaide for its safety, comfort, and beauty, the city also has plenty to offer in terms of fun. “You’ll find a varied cultural scene to enjoy, with arts festivals, live music and great restaurants,” MoveHub says. “Chill out at the beautiful Adelaide beaches or travel out to the nearby Barossa Valley vineyards to sample the delicious regional food and wines.”
4. Perth
Sunshine lovers find their home in Perth thanks to its year round warm weather and nature access. “Perth is an easy-going but cosmopolitan city on Australia’s west coast,” MoveHub says. “With gorgeous city parks, a booming economy…life in Perth is sweet.”
So sweet, in fact, that many Perth residents see no need to leave the city’s borders. “Perth may be far away from other Aussie cities, but it has everything you could ever want or need. The city is clean, green, and beautiful, with stunning beaches and nature,” claims A Broken Backpack. “It is particularly popular with those looking for laid-back living as the city’s west coast location gives Perth a relaxed and remote feel.”
And if you like the feeling of space paired with the excitement of the city, Perth is sure to satisfy. “As any city, Perth offers its residents plenty of cultural attractions, culinary options and sporting events without the congestion of larger cities like Sydney and Melbourne,” Expatra says. “The quality of life here is quite high, thanks to the weather, abundance of outdoor activities, and affordable cost of living.”
5. Brisbane
Joggers, sailers, and outdoor lovers of all kinds find their home in Brisbane. “While the urban center of Brisbane is all shiny skyscrapers, the city is also ideally placed for getting into nature,” MoveHub says. “Brisbane residents are an active bunch and love to enjoy their beautiful river, whether they’re jogging alongside it or sailing on it.”
“Although Brisbane is a major urban hub, it has a relaxed, easygoing atmosphere,” adds Finder. “Brisbane’s weather is what attracts many migrants to Australia’s third-largest city. Temperatures are warmer than in Sydney and Melbourne as it sits in the subtropics, and consecutive days of sunshine are more reliable.”
If you have (or plan to have) children joining on your move to Brisbane, the city makes for a great place to have a family. “There are some excellent schools in this city, so it is a great option for families,” notes Money Inc. “There is also an abundance of employment opportunities, which is important for people who are relocating and starting a new life.”
You might also be interested in:
- Best Places to Live in Hawaii
- Best Places to Live in Arizona
- Best Places to Live in America
- Best Places to Live in Canada
Sources:
- MoveHub
- Expatra
- Nomads Nation
- Life From a Bag
- A Broken Backpack
- Money Inc
- Finder
- Moovaz
- Drink Tea & Travel
- Aspire Square
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links.