Which is the best city to live in Australia?

Planning to move to Australia? 

Australia is renowned for its quality of life, stunning scenery,and diverse culture, making it a highly sought-after destination for expatriates moving overseas.

If you’re moving for a job opportunity, joining family or simply seeking a new lifestyle, selecting the right city is an important step. Here’s a clear guide to Australia’s best places to live, from bustling cities to relaxed coastal regions.

Overall best cities to live in Australia

1. Sydney

Sydney is Australia’s most populous city and offers an exciting prospect for a new life down under. Whilst you may have to put up with some traffic and a higher cost of living compared to some other Australian locations, there are loads of positives about moving to Sydney. These include:

• Employment: Sydney is one of the leading cities for business in Australia. It acts as a hub for international businesses from all around the globe.
• A city with a beach: Who wouldn't enjoy finishing work and then heading down to the beach for drink or a game of beach volleyball? Sydney is right on the waterfront meaning you get to enjoy the best of both worlds - city and beach life.
• Weather: Sydney benefits from the stereotypical hot & sunny weather you’re probably dreaming of when thinking about relocating to Australia. Thanks to the sea, there are also many pleasant cool breezes to provide relief on those days where temperatures soar.
• Family life: Perhaps surprisingly for such a large city, life in Sydney is very family-orientated, particularly in the suburbs. It actually makes a fantastic place to settle into family life!

Other advantages of living in Sydney include:

• Quality education. Sydney is home to prestigious universities and educational institutions, including the University of Sydney, the University of New South Wales (UNSW), and Macquarie University. The city provides excellent educational opportunities from primary school right through to higher education, making it one of the best places to live in Australia for families. 
• Transportation. Sydney has an extensive transport network, made up of buses, trains, ferries, and light rail. This makes it easy to navigate the city and surrounding areas. The transportation system connects residents to key areas of the city, such as employment hubs, schools, shopping centres, and recreational facilities. 
• Lifestyle. Sydney offers a high quality of life with a laid-back lifestyle. Residents can enjoy a healthy balance of work and leisure, whether relaxing at a beach side cafe, exploring the local markets, or participating in community events. 

Overall, Sydney provides a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, career opportunities, and great lifestyle amenities, making it one of the best places to live in Australia for individuals and families. 

2. Melbourne

Melbourne is the coastal capital of Victoria, an Australian state in the southeast, and it is also the second most populous city in the country. The weather is better suited to Brits as it's generally cooler than other parts of Australia and you won't typically get the soaring highs in the summer months. Other benefits include:

• Sports: If you're into sports then Melbourne is the place for you. Whether you're a tennis enthusiast or your into football - there 
• Things to do: There are endless activities to keep you occupied in Melbourne. Whether you like to explore museums & galleries, see live music, shop till you drop, or amble through nature, you’ll never be bored here!
• Day trips: Melbourne has developed a kind of ‘day trip culture’ of its own. Examples of the exciting day trips on offer include island hopping adventures, hikes through spectacular nature, and wine tasting vineyard trips!

• Culinary delights. Melbourne is renowned for its diverse food scene, offering a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and food markets catering to every palate and budget. From international cuisines to local Australian delights, for food enthusiasts, there is a lot to explore! 
• Sports and recreation.  Melbourne is a sports lover's idea of heaven, hosting major events like the Australian Open, the Melbourne Cup, and the AFL. The city boasts extensive parks, bike paths, and recreational facilities, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle for its residents.
• Historic architecture. The city's rich history is reflected in its architectural landmarks, from Victorian-era buildings in Fitzroy to modern skyscrapers. For expats who are interested in the history of the city, walking tours and heritage sites offer a glimpse into Melbourne's fascinating past and its evolution into the city it is today. 
• Community spirit. Melbourne fosters a strong sense of community within its neighbourhood. Residents are welcoming to expats, surrounded by a supportive and inclusive environment. 
• Quality education. Home to some big names in education, such as the University of Melbourne and Monash University, Melbourne offers excellent educational opportunities all the way through. 

3. Brisbane 

Australia’s third most populous city is Brisbane, the capital of Queensland. If you love the heat then you'll be a fan of Brisbane. Summer temperatures can get high and if you're not used to the heat you may find it slightly uncomfortable. Perks of moving to Brisbane include:

• Warm winters: Whilst summers can be a bit sticky, you don't have to worry about cold winters! With an average of over 280 days of sunshine annually, you can kiss goodbye to cold, grey winters. There's a reason it's located next to the Sunshine Coast!
• Beach lifestyle: What better way to spend endless sunny days than visiting some of the most beautiful beaches in the country? Brisbane is known for being perfectly situated amongst some of Australia’s most gorgeous beaches, so you’ll be spoilt for choice!
• Lower cost of living: In Brisbane, you'll find much lower prices than you ever would in Melbourne or Sydney, especially when it comes to property.

Here are some additional advantages to living in Brisbane:

• Cultural diversity. Brisbane embraces cultural diversity with various festivals, markets, and regular events celebrating its multicultural community. Areas of the city like Chinatown and Fortitude Valley showcase diverse cuisines, arts, and traditions for residents to enjoy. 
• Quality education. Brisbane is home to prestigious universities and educational institutions such as the University of Queensland (UQ) and Queensland University of Technology (QUT). These institutions attract students and academic professionals from all over the world. 
• Community spirit. Brisbane is known to have a friendly and welcoming community spirit. Residents benefit from a strong sense of community, with local initiatives, volunteering opportunities, and neighbourhood gatherings enhancing social connections and support networks. 

The best place to live in Australia for families

1. Perth

Perth sits on the west coast of Australia and offers a great option for Brits in terms of climate. It typically mirrors a Mediterranean climate. Hot summers and cooler Winters. However you won't often see grey skies in Perth. It has the highest average daily sunshine hours in Australia! Other perks include:

• Fast growing economy: Perth offers a lot of opportunities especially in the world of tech. It's proximity to Asia means it's quickly becoming a hub for business.
• Surrounded by nature: Perth boasts lots of lovely city parks but also a plethora of nature activities in the surrounding areas. These include hiking, wildflower walking, mountain biking, whale watching and more!
• Beautiful beaches: When you're not working you can head to some of the beautiful, pristine beaches Perth has to offer.

2. Adelaide

The best place to live in Australia for retirees

Sunshine Coast

Positioned north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast is widely regarded as one of the best places to live in Australia for retirees. It lies within stunning coastlines and countryside, where outdoor activities like golfing, fishing, and hiking are popular. 

Excellent healthcare facilities and diverse retirement village options cater to varying lifestyle preferences among the Sunshine Coast's natural beauty and community spirit, making it stand out as one of the best places to live in Australia for those who are looking to retire. 

The best place to live in Australia for young people

Canberra

Serving as Australia's capital city, Canberra combines excellent career opportunities, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures, cementing its status as one of the best places to live in Australia for young adults.

The city's planned-out layout features many green spaces and boasts low crime rates, fostering a strong sense of community among residents. 

Canberra also offers a diverse culinary scene, while job opportunities arise most commonly in the public service, education, and research sectors. Affordable living also contributes to Canberra's appeal for young people, making it the ideal choice for those who are looking for a fulfilling and balanced life in Australia. 

Relocating to Australia soon? Consider these health tips

Whether you're relocating for work, study, or simply seeking a change of scenery, prioritising your health is crucial for a smooth transition. Here are some top health tips to consider before and after your move to the land down under:

1. Understand the healthcare system of Australia and arrange a health insurance that covers all your medical needs.

2. Australia is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including some species that can pose health risks to humans. Be mindful of your surroundings and take precautions when exploring natural areas, such as national parks and beaches.

3. Ensure that your vaccinations are up-to-date before moving to Australia, as certain vaccines may be required for entry into the country.

4. Building a relationship with a trusted healthcare professional can provide peace of mind and ensure continuity of care for your health needs.

Moving to Australia?

Whether you are moving to Australia from the UK or Europe, it is a significant step that involves careful planning and preparation. Choosing a reputable removal company that specialises in removals to Australia is essential. They will be familiar with the specific requirements and challenges of moving to Australia, including Australian customs laws. Understanding these regulations is important to avoid any delays or issues with bringing your belongings into the country.