Queensland is a state renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse opportunities, making it an attractive destination for many. However, with so many incredible cities and regions across Queensland, selecting the best place to call home within the state can be a daunting task.
To help you make the decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best places to live in Queensland, highlighting what makes each one stand out and why the state remains a popular choice for people moving from both interstate and within Queensland itself. Read on.
10 Best Places to Live in Queensland (Scored)
10. Maryborough
Score: 62/100
Best Months to Visit:
- January for warm weather
- Relish Food & Wine Festival in June
- Mary Poppins Festival in July
- Whale-watching season along the Fraser Coast from July to October
Top Attractions:
- Fraser Island (K’gari) – The world’s largest sand island.
- Maryborough Heritage Walk – A self-guided tour of the city’s historic sites.
- Maryborough Military and Colonial Museum – A must-see for military and colonial history enthusiasts.
Maryborough, a historic town in Queensland, offers a relaxed pace of life and a strong sense of community. With affordable housing and easy access to Fraser Island, it’s one of the good places to live in Queensland for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The town’s intact colonial streets and historic buildings add to its appeal.
The local job market is largely focused on government services, tourism, and agriculture, with fewer opportunities in other sectors. While the humid climate may not suit everyone, Maryborough is ideal for retirees or those looking to settle down in a welcoming, affordable location.
9. Rockhampton
Score: 64/100
Best Months to Visit:
- March to October for ideal temperatures and sunsets
- Summer (December to February) for beaches and waterparks
- Autumn (March to May) for outdoor activities and fishing
- Spring (September to November) for wildlife spotting and festivals
Top Attractions:
- Botanic Gardens – Beautiful gardens with walking trails and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Rockhampton Zoo – Free-entry zoo with a variety of native and exotic animals.
- Mount Archer National Park – Scenic views, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
- Great Keppel Island – A tropical island known for beaches, snorkeling, and diving.
- The Capricorn Caves – Limestone caves with guided tours and adventure experiences.
Rockhampton, known as the beef capital of Australia, offers a unique blend of outback charm and modern living. The city provides solid employment opportunities, particularly in agriculture, with the beef industry and mining being key sectors.
Located near the Capricorn Coast and Great Keppel Island, it offers easy access to nature and a warm climate, making it ideal for those looking to escape colder regions. While its cultural scene is less vibrant and public transport could see improvements, the cost of living remains reasonable, though not the most affordable. Overall, Rockhampton stands out as the best place in Queensland to live for families and couples seeking a balance of city and country living, with plenty of job opportunities and a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle.
8. Toowoomba
Score: 68/100
Best Months to Visit:
- September for Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers
Top Attractions:
- Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers – The city’s biggest annual event, attracting large crowds with flower parades, live music, and gourmet food tours.
- Queens Park and Botanic Gardens – A popular spot with beautiful gardens, walking paths, and picnic areas.
- Cobb & Co Museum – A well-known museum showcasing historic carriages and local heritage.
Toowoomba, known as the Garden City, offers a high quality of life with a lower cost of living compared to larger cities like Brisbane and Sydney. It is home to excellent education options, including some of Queensland’s top schools and the University of Southern Queensland. The city also has a rich cultural scene, with attractions like the Empire Theatre and the annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, drawing visitors from all over Australia.
With over 150 gardens, vibrant parks, and nearby natural reserves, Toowoomba offers a peaceful, nature-filled environment. Its central location in Queensland makes it a convenient base for exploring the state, with close proximity to the Bunyas, the Darling Downs, and the Scenic Rim. The city’s temperate climate, combined with its mix of urban and country charm, makes it one of the best places in Queensland.
7. Bundaberg
Score: 70/100
Best Months to Visit:
- November to March for turtle season
- July to October for Humpback whale season
Top Attractions:
- Bundaberg Rum Distillery – Famous for its rum tours and tastings.
- Mon Repos Turtle Centre – A popular spot for watching sea turtles nesting and hatching.
- Bundaberg Botanic Gardens – A beautiful garden with walking paths, picnic areas, and a museum.
- Hinkler Hall of Aviation – A museum celebrating the life and achievements of aviator Bert Hinkler.
Bundaberg is a family-friendly place with a strong community and mild weather year-round. It offers beautiful beaches like Kellys Beach and Mon Repos, and is close to the southern Great Barrier Reef, perfect for outdoor activities. Known for its rich agricultural soil, Bundaberg is famous as the tomato and macadamia capital of Australia, allowing residents to grow their own food easily.
The city also boasts attractions such as the Bundaberg Rum Distillery, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, and the Hinkler Hall of Aviation. With its proximity to Brisbane, just an hour’s flight or four-hour drive, Bundaberg offers a small-town feel with easy access to the amenities of a larger city.
6. Mackay
Score: 73/100
Best Months to Visit:
- The cooler months of April to September for cool weather.
Top Attractions:
- Bluewater Lagoon – for family-friendly water fun, pools, and slides.
- Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens – ideal for scenic walks and diverse plant displays.
Mackay is known for its robust economy, driven by mining and agriculture, providing ample job opportunities. It also offers reliable healthcare, supported by the Mackay Base Hospital and multiple medical centres, as well as quality schools such as Mackay State High School and Whitsunday Anglican School. With a tropical climate, Mackay enjoys hot summers and mild winters, ideal for those who love warm weather.
It’s one of the fastest-growing regions in Queensland, offering a relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle and a lower cost of living than bigger cities. With its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and access to natural attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and Eungella National Park, Mackay is perfect for outdoor lovers. The city also has a vibrant community and a rich cultural heritage, particularly as the heart of Australia’s South Sea Islander community.
5. Townsville
Score: 76/100
Best Months to Visit:
- From May to September for cooler weather and beaches.
Top Attractions:
- Magnetic Island – A popular island for beaches, hiking, and wildlife.
- Reef HQ Aquarium – Australia’s largest living coral reef aquarium.
- Castle Hill – A landmark offering panoramic views of the city and coastline.
- The Strand – A beachfront area with parks, restaurants, and swimming lagoons.
Townsville is one of the best places to live in Queensland, thanks to its strong economy, vibrant community, and stunning natural attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island. The city is home to top-rated schools such as Townsville Grammar and James Cook University, as well as excellent healthcare with the Townsville University Hospital and numerous private clinics. With its tropical climate, Townsville enjoys hot, humid summers, mild winters, and around 300 sunny days each year, making it perfect for sun lovers.
However, Townsville does come with a few drawbacks. Public transportation options are limited, and some areas experience higher crime rates. Additionally, newcomers may find it challenging to secure a job quickly, due to the competitive job market. Even with these challenges, Townsville’s economic opportunities, vibrant community, and stunning surroundings make it a compelling place for those in search of a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
4. Cairns
Score: 78/100
Best Months to Visit:
- From May to October, when you can avoid the wet season, tropical cyclones, and stinger season.
Top Attractions:
- Great Barrier Reef – Snorkeling and diving in one of the world’s most famous marine environments.
- Cairns Esplanade – A scenic area with walking tracks, lagoon-style pools, and views of the Coral Sea.
- Daintree Rainforest – A UNESCO World Heritage site offering eco-tours, wildlife spotting, and lush landscapes.
- Whitsunday Islands – Known for stunning beaches and snorkeling opportunities.
- Lady Elliot Island – A small island perfect for snorkeling, diving, and exploring marine life.
- Cairns Night Markets – A vibrant market offering local crafts, food, and souvenirs.
- Barron Falls – A spectacular waterfall located in the nearby Barron Gorge National Park.
Cairns is one best place to live Queensland because of its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, residents can enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, hiking to waterfalls, and exploring tropical islands. The city is perfect for those who love adventure and nature.
With a strong tourism industry, Cairns offers job opportunities, especially for those interested in nature and adventure tourism. The city has a relaxed vibe, and nearby spots like Port Douglas and Mission Beach offer beautiful beaches and markets, making it a great place to live for anyone who enjoys a laid-back lifestyle.
3. Gold Coast
Score: 80/100
Best Months to Visit:
- April to June for warm weather
- July to September for whale watching.
Top Attractions:
- Surfers Paradise – Famous beach with surf, shopping, and nightlife.
- Dreamworld – A large theme park with rides, shows, and wildlife.
- Sea World – Marine Park with animal shows, exhibits, and rides.
- Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – A popular spot for wildlife encounters and nature walks.
Gold Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and active lifestyle. With around 300 sunny days a year, you can enjoy the city’s white sandy beaches and outdoor activities like water sports, bushwalking, and exploring the rainforest. It is also famous for being the “theme park capital of Australia,” with the largest collection of theme parks in the Southern Hemisphere, making it a fun place to live.
In addition, the Gold Coast is renowned for its lively dining scene, great nightlife, and friendly neighbourhoods. The city is diverse, with plenty of markets, street food, and local shops. Furthermore, with low crime rates, safe communities, and its close location to Brisbane and Byron Bay, the Gold Coast offers a relaxed yet exciting lifestyle, making it one of the best places to live in Queensland for young adults.
2. Sunshine Coast
Score: 85/100
Best Months to Visit:
- July to October for swimming with humpback whales.
- October to November (Spring) for comfortable weather, low rainfall, and fewer crowds.
Top Attractions:
- Australia Zoo – Famous wildlife park, especially for Steve Irwin
- Noosa National Park – Scenic walks and wildlife spotting
- Rainbow Beach Horseback Ride – Unique horseback ride along the beach
- Noosa River Cruise – Relaxing sunset cruise
- Learn to Surf at Coolum – Surfing lessons in a prime beach location
- Mooloolaba Beach – Popular for beaches, dining, and shopping
- Skydive Noosa – Thrilling skydiving with coastal views
- Eumundi Markets – Popular arts and craft market
- Glass House Mountains Hike – Scenic hiking with great views
- The Ginger Factory – Family-friendly tours and activities
Sunshine Coast is another one of the best places to live in Queensland, also known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests, and outdoor activities. With 52 km of coastline and over 30 beaches, it’s an ideal destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. In addition to its natural beauty, the region offers a thriving economy with growing job opportunities in sectors like technology, professional services, and manufacturing.
Moreover, the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympics will further boost job growth in the area, providing exciting prospects for residents. Alongside its economic growth, the Sunshine Coast hosts over 1,800 local events each year, adding to the vibrant café culture and offering plenty of entertainment. With affordable homeownership options, the Sunshine Coast truly offers a perfect balance of work and leisure.
1. Brisbane
Score: 90/100
Best Months to Visit:
- During Autumn (March-May) and Spring (September-November).
Top Attractions:
- South Bank Parklands – A riverside area with gardens, dining, and Streets Beach
- QAGOMA – Art galleries showcasing Australian and international art
- City Botanic Gardens – A peaceful garden by the river, perfect for walks and picnics
- Mount Coot-tha Lookout – Offers stunning views of Brisbane and Moreton Bay
Brisbane is the best place to live in Queensland, Australia. As the capital of Queensland, Brisbane offers the perfect blend of city life and natural beauty. The cost of living in Brisbane is more affordable compared to cities like Sydney and Melbourne, with a wide range of Brisbane accommodation options available. Brisbane also boasts a lively cultural scene, featuring arts, festivals, and a growing restaurant scene, making it an exciting city to call home. The city’s friendly community adds to its welcoming atmosphere.
In addition, Brisbane is known for its green spaces, with over 2,000 parks and a strong focus on sustainability. Natural attractions like Mount Coot-tha, with its scenic views and hiking trails, and the peaceful Roma Street Parkland, make it easy to enjoy the outdoors. With its mix of urban living and access to nature, Brisbane offers a balanced and enjoyable lifestyle.
Once you’ve identified the best place to live in Queensland for families and yourself, you can begin searching for your new home. Visit uhomes.com to explore the best accommodation options in Queensland, Australia.
Conclusion
To sum up this article, Queensland offers some of the best places to live in Australia, with a diverse range of cities and towns that cater to different lifestyles. From the vibrant urban energy of Brisbane to the relaxed coastal charm of the Sunshine Coast and the natural beauty of Cairns and the Gold Coast, Queensland provides a perfect blend of economic opportunities, outdoor living, and a high quality of life. Whether you’re seeking a bustling city environment or a laid-back coastal retreat, the top 10 best places to live in Queensland offer something for everyone, making each an ideal place to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How affordable is it to live in Queensland?
Suburbs like Pimpama, Narangba, Redland Bay, and Coomera are known for their great amenities and quality of life, making them some of the nicest places to live in Queensland, Australia that can be your alternative.
Where is the most affordable place to live in Queensland?
There are many affordable places to live in Queensland, mainly in some towns and suburbs of cities like Darling Downs, Central Highlands, Rockhampton, Bruce Highway, and Sunshine Coast. The average house rent is under $500 per week.
What is the most liveable city in Queensland?
Brisbane is considered as the top of the most liveable cities in Queensland and even in Australia. As the capital of QSL, Brisbane boasts famous education resources, for example, the University of Queensland, well-functioned social infrastructure and healthcare systems, and security living with a lower crime rate than the other cities in Queensland.
What is the safest suburb in Queensland to live in?
Upper Kedron, Bardon, The Gap, Albion and Breakfast Creek, and Kuraby are ranked as the safest suburbs in Queensland to live in, with relatively lower crime rates.
Where do most people live in Queensland
Most people live in the Southeast of Queensland. Over 70% of the population of this state choose to live in cities in Queensland like risbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.
