Australia is one of the more progressive and migrant-friendly countries. Its high-quality lifestyle, joyful culture, and incredible employment opportunities make it one of the better destinations to live in. Here, we’ve listed some of Australia‘s best cities to live and work in.
Sydney
There’s nothing quite like the Emerald City of Sydney. It is one of Australia’s largest cities, with a population of over 50,000 people. Generally, the city’s Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House are iconic monuments instantly recognisable to many. Thousands of people flock to Sydney in search of work; whether you are looking for a skilled work visa or a working holiday visa, you have plenty of options. With over 100 beaches, theatre experiences and award-winning restaurants, you’ll never be bored in Sydney. Although the city was nicknamed Sin City in the 20th century due to an increase in gang activity, it is now one of the safer cities in the world, with a meagre crime rate over the past 40 years.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Paddington and Rose Bay, two neighbourhoods known for their quiet streets, tree-lined parks and luxury homes.
Must-see Attractions: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour.
Top 5 Universities: The University of Sydney, The University of New South Wales, The University of Technology Sydney, Macquarie University, and Western Sydney University.
Average Cost of Living: AUD$2,000 – AUD$3,500.
Melbourne
Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia. Expats want to move to Melbourne because it is one of Australia’s most diverse and welcoming cities. There are plenty of job opportunities, but the unemployment rate is low. The city has some of the better universities. Melbourne is an excellent place for new entrepreneurs and recent university graduates planning to start their businesses because of its location and economic benefits. Melbournians are one of the happier people, and they love living in the city. Whether it’s Indian, Mexican, Greek or Thai, you’ll always find a place to satisfy your culinary cravings. Coffee lovers will love Melbourne, as the city is known for its incredible Melbourne coffee.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: South Yarra and Toorak are two neighbourhoods with beautiful parks, quality homes, and convenient shopping.
Must-see Attractions: Royal Melbourne Exhibition Building, Melbourne Arts Centre, Melbourne Museum, Flinders Street Railway Station.
Top 5 Universities: The University of Melbourne, Monash University, The Australian National University, Swinburne University of Technology, La Trobe University. University of Technology, La Trobe University.
Average Cost of Living: A$1800-3000.
Brisbane
Located on the banks of the Brisbane River is Brisbane, the capital of Queensland. Brisbane is Australia’s third most populous city and the most populous city in Queensland. Brisbane is a popular destination for international students due to its quality of education and affordable tuition fees. The city is an excellent choice for job seekers as it welcomes those who want to contribute to the country’s economic growth. The city has many tourist attractions, restaurants that offer mouth-watering cuisines and beautiful destinations where one can get lost in nature.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Indooroopilly and South Brisbane; these neighbourhoods blend modernity with tradition and offer pleasant living conditions and amenities.
Must-see Attractions: Brisbane River, South Bank Park, Brisbane Zoo.
Top 5 Universities: The University of Queensland, Griffith University, Queensland University of Technology, Bond University University of Southern Queensland.
Average Cost of Living: A$1500-2500.
Adelaide
Adelaide is a cosmopolitan city located in the province of South Australia. This park city is the fifth most populous city in the country. The University of Adelaide, one of the country’s more research-intensive universities, is here. It is considered one of the better cities to work in Australia, especially for graduates of Australian universities. Its relatively small size makes getting around the city quicker and easier. You can also spend weekends or holidays attending cultural celebrations and festivals, visiting wine-tasting centres or dining at award-winning restaurants.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Norwood and Adelaide Hills. These neighbourhoods offer a peaceful place to live with beautiful natural scenery.
Must-see Attractions: Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Zoo, Barossa Valley Wine Estate.
Top 5 Universities: The University of Adelaide, Flinders University, University of South Australia, Adelaide Business School, Charles Sturt University. School, Charles Sturt University.
Average Cost of Living: A$1400-2400.
Perth
Perth is a metropolitan city in Western Australia known for its architectural heritage and lifestyle. The city’s fresh and warm environment makes you feel like you’re on holiday. It is currently the fourth most populous city in Australia and one of the safest cities in the country. One of the reasons Perth is one of the better cities to live in Australia is its relatively affordable cost of living. The east coast is mainly known for its education. Generally, the city boasts some of the best schools and universities, giving your children a better education. Food lovers will love Perth as it is home to some of Australia’s better restaurants.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Cottesloe and Subiaco. These neighbourhoods blend modern city amenities with a pleasant residential environment.
Must-see Attractions: Perth Zoo, Royal Perth Botanic Gardens, Fremantle Prison Boat.
Tive 5 Universities: The University of Western Australia, Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University, and the University of Nottingham.
Average Cost of Living: A$1600-2800.
Canberra
You might want to live in Australia’s capital city for several reasons. Twenty-five per cent of Canberra‘s residents were born outside of Australia. It is considered one of the safest cities in the country. Thousands of international citizens come to Canberra yearly for education or employment opportunities. It is affordable, especially compared to larger cities like Sydney and Melbourne. While Canberra doesn’t have beautiful beaches like most of the cities on this list, there are plenty of other places to enjoy, such as parks and recreation centres. You’ll find several exciting places here if you’re a history buff.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Around Lake Griffin, South Canberra, North Canberra
Must-see Attractions: Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, National Botanic Gardens, Telstra Tower, National Museum of Australia
Universities: University of Canberra, Australian National University
Average Cost of Living: AU$1700-AU$2000
Hobart
Australia is known for its scenic beauty; however, Tasmania is breathtakingly beautiful. The city boasts pleasant weather, low pollution, affordable rents and a sound transport system, making Hobart one of the more livable cities in Australia. Overall, the city is very safe, and the people are amiable. In addition, as fewer students are studying in Hobart, there is less competition for jobs and housing. International citizens graduating from the University of Tasmania may find applying for permanent residency to live and work in the state easier. You can visit beautiful historical and natural attractions in and around the city.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Battery Point and Sandy Bay have historic buildings and peaceful residential environments.
Must-see Attractions: Hobart Aquarium, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Federation Square.
Universities: The University of Tasmania, Australian Catholic University, Australian International University, Hobart Business School
Average Cost of Living: A$1300-2200.
Gold Coast
It is a famous seaside resort known for its golden sandy beaches, surfing culture and recreational activities.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Surfers Paradise and Mermaid Beach. These neighbourhoods offer easy beach access and plenty of entertainment.
Must-see Attractions: Sea World, Dreamworld, Curangatta Wildlife Sanctuary.
Universities: Bond University, Griffith University Gold Coast Campus, Southern Cross University Gold Coast Campus.
Average Cost of Living: A$1800-3000.
Sunshine Coast
With a pleasant climate, beautiful natural scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities, the Sunshine Coast is an ideal place for relaxation and holidays.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Noosa Heads and Maroochydore, which are favoured for their quiet streets, beautiful parks, and convenient shopping facilities.
Must-see Attractions: Sunshine Coast National Park, Montville, and Noosa Beach.
Top 5 Universities: The University of the Sunshine Coast, Griffith University, Southern Cross University, University of Tasmania, Australia, and Australian Catholic University.
Average Cost of Living: A$1500-2500.
Darwin
The capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin is famous for its tropical climate, abundance of outdoor activities and strong links to Asia.
Recommended Neighbourhoods: Mindil Beach and Palmerston. These neighbourhoods offer peaceful living and convenient amenities.
Must-see Atractions: Darwin Museum, Crocodile Bay, and Darwin Botanic Gardens.
Top 4 Universities: Charles Darwin University, Australian Catholic University, the University of Tasmania, Australia, Australian International University, and the Northern Territory University of Australia
Average Cost of Living: A$1400-2400.
FAQ
Sydney is considered one of Australia’s best places to live due to its beautiful natural environment, rich cultural life and first-class employment opportunities.
Although the cost of living in Melbourne is relatively high, it is well worth it compared to its world-class education, healthcare, and cultural facilities.
Brisbane has a warm and pleasant climate with year-round sunshine, making it an ideal place to live for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Adelaide is home to several world-renowned universities and research institutes, which provide residents with a wealth of high-quality educational resources.
As the economic centre of Western Australia, Perth has a stable job market and a good quality of life, making it an ideal place to pursue a comfortable life.
