Dreaming of a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by stunning scenery and rich history? Look no further – we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best country towns to live in Queensland, offering the perfect balance of charm and convenience for families, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life.
These Queensland towns are some of the best country towns to live in Australia, with gorgeous mountain views and verdant, lush forests.
If your dream is to buy cheap land for sale in QLD and build a house of your dreams, let’s check out these awesome towns.
Best country towns to live in Queensland
The following are some of the best and most scenic Queensland towns to consider:
1. Maleny (Sunshine Coast Hinterland)
Nestled in the scenic Blackall Range, Maleny is a haven for nature lovers and artisans alike. With its Maleny Dairies, walking trails, and art galleries, this quaint town offers a peaceful retreat.
Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw away from the breathtaking Glass House Mountains National Park.
The Sunshine Coast region has some of the best places to live in Queensland, and here’s why:
- Beautiful landscapes and walking trails
- Artisan culture and local produce
- Proximity to Glass House Mountains National Park
2. Montville (Sunshine Coast Hinterland)
Steeped in history and charm, Montville is home to heritage buildings, unique wares, and panoramic views. A short drive from Tamborine Mountain and Spicers Clovelly Estate, Montville makes for an easy day trip from the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
If you’re looking for cheap farmhouses to rent in QLD, Montville offers lovely choices to live out your tree-change.
- Heritage buildings and unique shopping
- Close to Tamborine Mountain and Spicers Clovelly Estate
- Stunning views of the Sunshine Coast
3. Stanthorpe (Southern Downs)
Located in the heart of Queensland’s Granite Belt, the country town of Stanthorpe offers a rich history and diverse experiences. Surrounded by National Parks, including Girraween National Park, this town is an ideal location for wildlife lovers and wine connoisseurs.
- Granite Belt wineries and rich history
- National Parks like Girraween National Park nearby
- Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and wine lovers
4. Boonah (Scenic Rim)
Boonah is a picturesque town set amongst rolling hills, Lake Moogerah, and Mount Alford. The town’s proximity to Lamington National Park makes it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation.
If you’re looking for the cheapest places to live in Queensland, Boonah might be more affordable for you out of the towns on this list.
- Rolling hills, Lake Moogerah, and Mount Alford
- Outdoor activities and beautiful scenery
- Close to Lamington National Park
5. Maryborough (Fraser Coast)
Maryborough is a historic town boasting heritage-listed buildings and a vibrant community. Visit the Criterion Hotel, a living museum, or explore the nearby picturesque Lockyer Valley.
- Criterion Hotel and living museum
- Short drive to the Lockyer Valley
6. Warwick (Southern Downs)
With its old-world charm, Warwick Art Gallery, and renowned dairy producers, Warwick is a delightful town to call home. Conveniently located near the Gold Coast Hinterland, it also offers easy access to the Southern Downs Steam Railway attraction.
- Local art scene
- Renowned dairy producers and regional cuisine
- Southern Downs Steam Railway and proximity to the Gold Coast Hinterland
7. Yungaburra (Atherton Tablelands)
Yungaburra, situated in the Atherton Tablelands, is a picturesque village with a strong sense of community. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic lakes like Lake Eacham.
Yungaburra is also home to the famous Curtain Fig Tree and the heritage-listed Yungaburra Hotel.
- Lush rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic lakes
- Curtain Fig Tree and Yungaburra Hotel
- Strong sense of community
8. Kenilworth (Sunshine Coast Hinterland)
Kenilworth, nestled in the Upper Mary Valley, is known for its delicious cheese, ice cream, and quaint country charm. The town offers a range of outdoor activities like bushwalking, mountain biking, and horse riding.
Kenilworth is also home to the popular Kenilworth Cheese Factory and a range of boutique accommodation options.
- Delicious local cheese and ice cream
- Outdoor activities like bushwalking and horse riding
- Kenilworth Cheese Factory and boutique accommodation
9. Eumundi (Sunshine Coast)
Eumundi is a vibrant town, famous for its iconic Eumundi Markets, where you can find local produce, artisan crafts, and unique treasures. The town boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries and live music venues, while the nearby Noosa National Park offers stunning beaches and coastal walks.
If you’re on a budget, might not have the cheapest houses for sale in Queensland but they’re definitely more affordable.
- Iconic Eumundi Markets
- Thriving arts scene and live music
- Proximity to Noosa National Park and beaches
10. Childers (Bundaberg Region)
Childers, located in the Bundaberg Region, is a town with a rich history and heritage streetscape. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, fertile farmland, and a thriving agricultural industry. Attractions like the Snakes Downunder Reptile Park and Zoo, and the Flying High Bird Sanctuary make it a great choice for families.
- Thriving agricultural industry
- Family-friendly attractions and activities
What are the best country towns near Brisbane?
These QLD towns are vibrant and accessible but still offer a getaway from the bustle of Brisbane city life.
Canungra
Distance from Brisbane: 100 kilometres
This town is located in the Scenic Rim region and is a popular spot for bushwalking and camping. There are also several wineries in the area.
Mount Nebo
Distance from Brisbane: 30 kilometres
This town is located in the Moreton Bay Region and is known for its views of the Brisbane River Valley. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Mount Nebo Summit Track.
Dayboro
Distance from Brisbane: 45 kilometres
This town is located in the Moreton Bay Region and is known for its historic charm and relaxed atmosphere. There are several cafes and restaurants in the town, as well as a number of walking trails in the surrounding bushland.
Hervey Bay
Distance from Brisbane: 244 kilometres
This town is located on the Fraser Coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, fishing, and whale watching. There are also several national parks in the area, including the Great Sandy National Park.
Check out our round up of cheap houses for sale in Hervey Bay to get an idea of the budget property market.
Find out more about living in Queensland
What is the cost of living in these country towns in Queensland?
The cost of living varies depending on the town, but generally, it is lower than living in larger cities such as Brisbane or the Gold Coast. These towns often offer more affordable housing options and a lower overall cost of living.
Looking to buy on a budget? Check out our round up of cheap houses for sale in Queensland!
Are there job opportunities in these towns?
While job opportunities may be more limited than in larger cities, many country towns offer opportunities in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and small businesses. Additionally, some residents commute to nearby cities for work or run their businesses in these picturesque towns.
How can I find out the value of a property in these towns?
To determine property worth in these country towns, you can request a free property report online or speak with a local real estate agent. They can provide you with current market data and help you understand the value of properties in the area.
