Sydney is a city that captivates the hearts of many with its stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and diverse neighborhoods. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast, a family seeking a safe community, or a professional wanting proximity to commercial hubs, Sydney has something for everyone.
But with so many options, finding the right suburb can be a tough task. Here, we’ve done the legwork for you to identify the best suburbs to live in Sydney, tailored to various lifestyles and preferences.
Top Suburbs for Different Lifestyles
Sydney stands out as one of the most desirable cities globally, known for its beautiful landscapes, pleasant weather, and dynamic culture. Whether you’re a local or planning to move to Australia, choosing the right suburb in Sydney is crucial for a fulfilling lifestyle.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best places to live in Sydney in 2024, helping you make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, budget, and needs.
Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Sydney
When looking for a family-friendly suburb, factors such as safety, schools, and recreational amenities are paramount. Here are some of the best suburbs in Sydney for families, complete with median house prices and rents.
Leichhardt
- Median House Price: $1,985,000
- Median House Rent: $900/week
Leichhardt offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. With excellent schools and plenty of parks, it’s an ideal spot for families. The suburb also boasts a vibrant Italian community, adding a rich cultural layer to its appeal.
Dulwich Hill
- Median House Price: $2,230,000
- Median House Rent: $850/week
Dulwich Hill is known for its community feel and excellent schools. It provides ample green spaces and playgrounds, making it perfect for families with young children. The suburb’s charm lies in its mix of heritage homes and modern amenities.
Lane Cove
- Median House Price: $3,200,000
- Median House Rent: $1,050/week
Lane Cove offers a peaceful environment with a strong sense of community. It’s home to some of Sydney’s best schools and is well-connected by public transport. The suburb features numerous parks and recreational facilities, making it ideal for active families.
Curl Curl
- Median House Price: $4,400,000
- Median House Rent: $1,800/week
Located near the beach, Curl Curl provides a relaxed lifestyle with excellent amenities. Families here enjoy the best of both worlds: proximity to the ocean and access to quality schools and parks. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor activities.
Glebe
- Median House Price: $2,850,000
- Median House Rent: $590/week
Glebe is a vibrant suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It offers great schools and a variety of recreational options, including parks and waterfront activities. Glebe’s close proximity to the CBD adds to its appeal for families.
For those interested in the where do middle class live in Sydney, this area represents a quintessential middle-class community with a balanced lifestyle.
Urban and Cultural Hotspots
For those who thrive in a bustling environment with rich cultural offerings and vibrant nightlife, Sydney has several suburbs that stand out. Here are the top picks, including median house prices and rents.
Marrickville
- Median House Price: $1,600,000
- Median House Rent: $750/week
Marrickville is a cultural melting pot known for its eclectic dining options and vibrant arts scene. It’s a suburb that never sleeps, with numerous events and activities happening year-round. The strong sense of community and diverse population make it an exciting place to live.
Surry Hills
- Median House Price: $2,000,000
- Median House Rent: $900/week
Surry Hills is synonymous with trendy cafes, galleries, and boutiques. It’s a hub for young professionals and creatives, offering a lively atmosphere with plenty of cultural and entertainment options. The suburb’s central location ensures easy access to the rest of Sydney.
Newtown
- Median House Price: $1,720,000
- Median House Rent: $900/week
Newtown is famous for its alternative vibe, with a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and street art. It’s a haven for artists and students, thanks to its proximity to the University of Sydney. The vibrant nightlife and cultural diversity make it a standout suburb.
Kensington
- Median House Price: $1,250,000
- Median House Rent: $750/week
Kensington offers a balanced mix of residential charm and urban convenience. It’s close to major universities and has a strong community feel. The suburb is known for its beautiful parks and historic architecture, providing a picturesque setting for its residents.
Ultimo
- Median House Price: $1,850,000
- Median House Rent: $920/week
Ultimo is a dynamic suburb with a youthful energy, largely due to its proximity to educational institutions. It boasts modern apartments, cultural venues, and a range of dining options. The suburb’s central location makes it a prime spot for urban living.
Additionally, for those seeking tranquility within the city, exploring the quietest suburbs in Sydney might reveal hidden gems that balance urban life with peaceful surroundings.
Coastal Living: Best Beachside Suburbs
Sydney’s coastline is home to some of the most sought-after suburbs, offering a perfect blend of beachside living and urban amenities. Here are the top coastal suburbs, along with their median house prices and rents.
Bondi
- Median House Price: $3,700,000
- Median House Rent: $1,400/week
Bondi is one of Sydney’s most iconic suburbs, famous for its stunning beach and vibrant atmosphere. It offers a wide range of activities, from surfing and swimming to dining at chic restaurants. Bondi’s lively community and scenic beauty make it a top choice for beach lovers.
Manly
- Median House Price: $4,580,000
- Median House Rent: $1,400/week
Manly is known for its laid-back lifestyle and excellent surf conditions. The suburb features beautiful coastal walks, outdoor activities, and a variety of cafes and shops. Its harborside location provides a unique combination of beach and city living.
Tamarama
- Median House Price: $2,000,000
- Median House Rent: $2,950/week
Tamarama, often referred to as “Glamarama,” is a small but exclusive beachside suburb. It offers a peaceful and upscale environment with stunning ocean views. The suburb’s proximity to Bondi Beach allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Coogee
- Median House Price: $3,600,000
- Median House Rent: $790/week
Coogee is a family-friendly beach suburb with a relaxed vibe. It features a beautiful beach, coastal walks, and a variety of dining options. Coogee’s community atmosphere and recreational facilities make it a popular choice for families and young professionals alike.
Cronulla
- Median House Price: $3,000,000
- Median House Rent: $1,250/week
Cronulla offers a vibrant beachside lifestyle with excellent surf spots, parks, and outdoor activities. It has a strong community feel and is well-connected by public transport, making it an ideal suburb for those who enjoy an active and social lifestyle.
Best Sydney Suburbs with a Commercial Edge
Suburbs with a Commercial Edge
For professionals seeking proximity to commercial centers and employment opportunities, these suburbs are prime choices. Here are the top commercial suburbs, including median house prices and rents.
North Sydney
- Median House Price: $2,800,000
- Median House Rent: $1,100/week
North Sydney is a bustling business district located just across the Harbour Bridge from the CBD. It offers excellent employment opportunities, modern amenities, and well-connected public transport networks. The suburb is perfect for professionals looking for a shorter commute to work.
Parramatta
- Median House Price: $1,600,000
- Median House Rent: $680/week
Parramatta serves as the economic powerhouse of Western Sydney, with a growing array of shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. The suburb provides ample job opportunities and is well-connected by public transport, making it a convenient choice for professionals.
Paddington
- Median House Price: $3,200,000
- Median House Rent: $850/week
Paddington is a stylish suburb known for its Victorian terraced houses, boutiques, and galleries. It’s close to the CBD and offers a vibrant commercial scene. Paddington’s charm and central location make it an attractive option for those working in the city.
Randwick
- Median House Price: $3,400,000
- Median House Rent: $1,500/week
Randwick offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with excellent schools, parks, and shopping options. Its proximity to the CBD and major hospitals makes it a convenient suburb for healthcare professionals and city workers.
Bondi Junction
- Median House Price: $2,950,000
- Median House Rent: $1,460/week
Bondi Junction is a major commercial hub with a variety of shops, offices, and dining options. It’s well-served by public transport, providing easy access to the CBD and surrounding areas. The suburb’s dynamic environment and amenities make it a top choice for professionals.
Cost of Living and Amenities in Sydney
Housing Prices and Rental Rates
When considering a new place to live, it’s important to understand the housing prices and rental rates in different areas. In Sydney, housing and utilities are generally more expensive, with Sydney being 36% more expensive than Melbourne, for example.
However, there are suburbs within Sydney that offer affordable living options without compromising on liveability. For instance, Dulwich Hill scores 6/10 on affordability.
Those seeking accommodation in this vibrant city can browse apartments for rent in Sydney to find a variety of options that fit different budgets and lifestyles.
Table 1: Sydney Median Property Prices
| Property Type | Monthly Change | Quarterly Change | Annual Change | Median Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All | +1.3% | +3% | -10.7% | $1,031,138 |
| Houses | +1.3% | +3.2% | -12% | $1,253,759 |
| Units | +1.2% | +2.3% | -7.2% | $787,427 |
Table 2: Sydney Rental Market
| Property Type | Avg. Rent | Δ Quarter | Δ 12 Month | Δ 3 Years (pa) | Δ 7 Years (pa) | Δ 10 Years (pa) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Houses | $1,037.08 | 2.40% | 13.40% | 16.10% | 4.90% | 4.60% |
| 3 br Houses | $969.49 | 0.70% | 13.60% | 12.50% | 4.20% | 3.70% |
| All Units | $694.61 | 2.20% | 13.30% | 15.00% | 4.50% | 4.00% |
| 2 br Units | $716.37 | 2.10% | 14.00% | 15.00% | 4.50% | 3.90% |
| Combined | $833.72 | 2.30% | 13.40% | 15.30% | 4.60% | 4.20% |
Access to Schools and Education
Good access to the best schools in Sydney and other educational facilities is vital when choosing a residential area. Many of Sydney’s suburbs have an impressive range of schools.
Dulwich Hill, for example, scores 7/10 on the availability of schools. It’s essential to research which areas offer the level of education that meets your needs and preferences.
Table 3: Sydney Suburbs – Access to Schools and Overall Livability Scores
| Rank | Suburb | Overall Score | Access to Schools |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alexandria | 82/100 | 8/10 |
| 2 | Crows Nest | 79/100 | 8/10 |
| 3 | Newtown | 77/100 | 7/10 |
| 4 | Surry Hills | 74/100 | 7/10 |
| 5 | Leichhardt | 72/100 | 7/10 |
| 6 | Chatswood | 69/100 | 8/10 |
| 7 | Marrickville | 67/100 | 7/10 |
| 8 | Balmain | 65/100 | 6/10 |
| 9 | Lane Cove | 63/100 | 7/10 |
| 10 | Dulwich Hill | 62/100 | 7/10 |
Best Shopping and Dining Suburbs in Sydney
Shopping and dining options are significant factors when choosing a suburb. Sydney boasts a variety of areas that offer excellent shopping and dining experiences. Here are some top suburbs for these amenities:
| Suburb | Median House Price | Median Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Dulwich Hill | $1,675,000 | $850/week |
| Paddington | $2,800,000 | $1,500/week |
| Newtown | $1,800,000 | $900/week |
| Balmain | $2,300,000 | $1,200/week |
| Surry Hills | $2,300,000 | $1,100/week |
When looking for a desirable place to live, shopping and dining options play an essential role in your decision. Sydney has a myriad of shopping and dining destinations, from small cafes to world-class restaurants and retail outlets.
For a suburb that offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, consider Dulwich Hill, which scores 6/10 on its dining and entertainment offerings.
Public Transport and Commuting in Sydney
As you evaluate different areas, it’s important to consider the availability of public transport and commuting options. Sydney offers a range of transport services such as buses, trains, and ferries. Amenities and connectivity are crucial factors affecting liveability.
Suburbs with excellent public transport, like Dulwich Hill, receive an 8/10 score for public transport, making commuting easier and more efficient.
Before finalising your decision, be sure to compare different areas in Sydney, taking into account factors such as housing prices, schools, shopping and dining options, and public transport accessibility. It’s vital to find a place that not only matches your budget but also enhances your overall quality of life.
Sydney Renting Insights: Alongside this article, you’ll find it beneficial to read our in-depth analysis on Where is best to rent in Sydney? for a deeper understanding of the local rental market.
FAQs on What are the Best Residential Areas to Live in Sydney?
What is the safest place to live in Sydney?
According to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR), the top safest council areas in Sydney include Hunters Hill, Mosman, Upper Lachlan Shire, and Hornsby. These areas are known for their low crime rates and tranquil environments.
What is the best liveable suburb in Sydney?
Parramatta – North ranks as Sydney’s most liveable suburb, as per McCrindle Research. This ranking is based on factors such as community, employability, amenity, and affordability. Sydney is also the fourth most liveable city in the world.
Where do the rich live in Sydney?
The suburb of Double Bay (postcode 2028) is the top area for Sydney’s wealthy, with an average taxable income of $266,381, which is nearly four times the national average. This information highlights the suburb’s affluent status in Sydney’s east.
What is the fastest growing suburb in Sydney?
Blacktown is recognized as the fastest growing suburb in Sydney and the second fastest across Australia, according to a recent report. The area’s popularity is attributed to its larger land sizes and affordable homes, attracting a rapidly expanding population.
