If you’ve been wondering, what’s the best place to live in Australia in 2023? We’ve got you covered here.
As a country and economy, Australia has been going through continual changes in recent years. The most expensive suburbs in Australia are glitzy and glamorous. But more than ever before, people from all over the world are turning their heads towards the southern hemisphere in search of the dynamic lifestyle and gorgeous nature Australia has to offer.
From new industries to new towns, we’re looking into what the future holds for Aussies in 2023.
What’s the best place to live in Australia in 2023 – top 7 Australian cities in 2023
Whether you like the beach or a more remote location, all the capital cities in Australia have everything!
1. Sydney
Sydney, the largest city in New South Wales, is Australia’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Arguably the most famous city in the country, it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway.
This major city offers all a visitor could wish for – great weather, outdoor events and attractions, amazing locations, and museums – all set against stunning, world-famous beaches.
It’s home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks such as Bondi Beach and Sydney Opera House, known for its world-renowned architecture. The city also features several Asian neighbourhoods, with bustling Chinatown being one of them.
Sydney’s Central Business District is the best place to go for restaurants and bars. The Northern Beaches suburb of Manly is one of the most popular tourist areas in Sydney, and it’s easy to see why. With beautiful beaches and an exciting nightlife scene, this is the perfect place to spend your time in Sydney.
Is it the best place to live in Australia? Perhaps for some who can afford it. But even living on the city fringe proves to be a great option for both professionals, families and older generations.
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What are the advantages of living in Sydney?
- Adventurous city living
- Best for foodies
- Lots of entertainment
What are the negatives of living in Sydney?
- Nerve-wracking traffic
- The monthly cost of living is $2675/ month
- House prices are more than most capital cities ($1634/month)
2. Melbourne
Melbourne is an Australian city with a unique urban landscape. One of the world’s most beautiful waterfront cities, it has a booming food and wine scene, great bars and live music venues, a vibrant street art culture and some of the best beaches in Australia.
As the capital of the second-largest Australian state, Victoria, Melbourne is a highly cosmopolitan city with an energetic mix of people. Hundreds of events take place throughout the year, including major sporting events and festivals like Moomba, as well as smaller events for local communities.
It’s also famous for Queen Victoria Market, the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere. For something a little more intimate we recommend visiting Melbourne’s smaller markets like Camberwell Market which hosts a farmers’ market on Sundays.
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What are the pros of living in Melbourne?
- Great-tasting food spots
- Art, music, festivals for entertainment
- The most liveable cities on Earth
What are the cons of living in Melbourne?
- The monthly cost of living is $2234/ month
- The cost of rent is $693/per month
3. Adelaide
Adelaide is a historic city in South Australia, and many of its old buildings remain intact. Be sure to check out “The Adelaide Festival Centre,” as well as the Torrens River, Botanic Garden and Chinatown.
It is a compact city, with little room for sprawl. Most of the action happens in the centre of town, making it easy to get around using public transportation. The city’s main drag is Rundle Street, a buzzing mix of cafes and bars where locals flock for a drink.
Check out the buzzy eateries at Central Market for some retail therapy followed by lunch or dinner at any one of its many restaurants.
Discover more properties for sale in Adelaide and rental properties in Adelaide on Soho.com.au.
What are the pros of living in Adelaide?
- The monthly cost of living is $1714/month
- Friendly neighbourhoods
- Worth-visiting places
What are the cons of living in Adelaide?
- The cost of rent is $1064/month
- Less convenient
4. Brisbane and Gold Coast
When it comes to the best places to live in Australia, location is everything. If you’re looking for a thriving city with plenty of job opportunities and affordable housing, you might want to consider Brisbane. It is a major urban hub of Australia.
Not only that, Queensland itself is known as the happiest state in Australia thanks to the convenience and nature it offers.
Cultural depth adds depth to any city, and Brisbane has plenty of it. Take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens on Mt. Coot-tha or go for a drive to a nearby winery, get fresh produce at one of the weekend farmers’ markets, hike up Mt. Gravatt Lookout, or check out some street art in New Farm Park.
Discover more properties for sale in Brisbane and rental properties in Brisbane on Soho.com.au.
And if you are tired of city life, Gold Coast is the best place for nomads, featuring beautiful beaches, great nightlife, and outdoor style living.
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What are the advantages of living in Brisbane and the Gold Coast?
- Warmer and comfy weather
- Affordable than Sydney and Melbourne
- Many nearby beaches
What are the disadvantages of living in Brisbane and the Gold Coast?
- High humidity levels in summer
- The monthly cost of living is $2129/month
- The cost of rent is $1068/month
5. Perth
Perth is a bustling city in Western Australia with plenty of things to see and do. You can take a ferry to Rottnest Island for some seaside activities or go up to Kings Park for sweeping views over the city.
For more activities, try Swan Valley wine tours, or have a picnic in South Perth under tall palm trees. There’s so much to enjoy in Perth!
If you’re looking for a more laid-back scene without sacrificing city centre amenities, Maylands is a good bet. This neighbourhood has plenty of vintage shops and cute bakeries and is conveniently located between Fremantle and the Swan River.
It boasts three universities in the QS world university rankings, making Perth the best place for students.
Discover more properties for sale in Perth and rental properties in Perth on Soho.com.au.
What are the advantages of living in Perth?
- Have many nearby beaches
- Surrounded with nature
- Warm weather all year round
What are the disadvantages of living in Perth?
- The monthly cost of living is $2689/ month
- The cost of rent is $1765/month
- The most isolated capital city
6. Canberra
Canberra is an underrated city in the Australian Capital Territory, centrally located between Sydney and Melbourne.
The quiet scenery adds to the charm of its wide boulevards, numerous parks, and lush hillsides. The inhabitants boast a laid-back abode with a great vibe, while they enjoy a cooler climate than the other major cities in Australia.
The practicality of Canberra’s high employment rate means education, health care and other services are readily available. If you’re looking for a place where your money will go farther (and you’ll have enough time to enjoy it), look no further than Canberra!
Further afield in the Northern Territory, you can find some of the best country towns to live in Australia, like Googong.
Discover more properties for sale in City ACT and rental properties in City ACT on Soho.com.au.
Pros of living in Canberra
- High employment rate
- A big city with a small town feel
- Traffic isn’t a nightmare
Cons of living in Canberra
- The monthly cost of living is $2,899/per month
- Cost of rent $2,604/month
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