Australia has diverse environments, from breathtaking natural wonders to vibrant urban centres. Add to that a rich history, modern lifestyle, and some of the world’s renowned and top-ranking universities, and you have a country that truly has it all. Those looking to call this place home must do their thorough research beforehand.
Let’s explore the best cities to live in in Australia, which offer students and expats alike the ideal blend of opportunity, culture, and lifestyle.
Why Live In Australia?
Australia is a premier destination for folks worldwide with its world-class universities, English-speaking environment, and job opportunities. Living in Australia means being part of a varied society with global perspectives and personal growth. Beyond the classroom, students in the best cities to live in Australia can explore the country’s natural wonders and high quality of life, offering a perfect blend of adventure and comfort.
Source: By Patrick McLachlan
Top 10 Best Places To Live In Australia
Students and expats would find it interesting that many international folks reside in Australia. Australia’s main cities and towns have features that make them different and welcoming for outsiders. Check them out here.
1. Melbourne
Melbourne tops the list of the best places to live in Australia. The land of the beaches, Melbourne is known for its quality of life and the fun it offers its students. Founded in 1835, Melbourne offers many job and business opportunities for students.
It is the second-largest city in Australia and is known for its culture and creativity. Coffee lovers will also enjoy the city, as it is known for the best Melbourne coffee. Plus, you will find most of the extraordinary beaches in Australia in Melbourne.
- Best For: Culture
- Tourist Attractions: Queen Victoria Market, Block Arcade, Melbourne Skydeck
- Average Cost of Living: AU$4,495 – AU$4,500 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: South Yarra & Toorak
- Top Universities: The University of Melbourne, Monash University, La Trobe University
2. Perth
Home to the best educational system and a booming economy, Perth is considered one of Australia’s top places to live. Founded in 1829 by Captain James Stirling, the city offers students warm weather and gorgeous city parks. White-sand beaches, art galleries, and historic neighbourhoods in Perth will surely please you. If you venture out of Perth, you will find beautiful wineries and wildlife.
Perth is well-prepared and developed to cater to growing educational needs, and it attracts students from across the world yearly. No wonder Perth is considered the best city to live in Australia.
- Best For: Climate
- Tourist Attractions: Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Elizabeth Quay, The Bell Tower
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,842 – AU$1,990 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Cottesloe & Subiaco
- Top Universities: University of Western Australia, Curtin University, Murdoch University
3. Adelaide
The beautiful city of Adelaide is considered the best place to live in Australia. Founded in 1836, it is named after Queen Adelaide. Home to the popular and research-intensive University of Adelaide, the city provides ample job opportunities for students.
Adelaide is famous for its low-key, pretty cafes, restaurants, and unbeatable nightlife. People are often attracted to this place because of its chill vibe, beautiful views, and the many cultural celebrations and festivals. Another thing that makes Adelaide one of the best places to live in Australia is its easy access to green spaces such as botanical gardens.
- Best For: Foods & Drinks
- Tourist Attractions: Adelaide Botanic Garden, South Australian Museum, State Library of South Australia
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,987 – AU$1,990 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Norwood & Adelaide Hills
- Top Universities: The University of Adelaide, Flinders University, University of South Australia
4. Sydney
Known for its famous opera house, architectural marvels, and some of the best institutions of knowledge, like the University of Sydney, the city is among the ten best places to live in Australia. For around 45,000 years, Aborigines inhabited the area until Captain Cook discovered the Sydney continent in 1770. It took 18 years to form the first European settlement in 1788. Students seeking a skilled work visa or a working holiday visa will find several options here.
A city with a meagre crime rate, Sydney has over 100 beaches, theatre experiences, and exceptional restaurants. The people of Sydney come from diverse backgrounds, so they can experience different cultures.
- Best For: Job Opportunities
- Tourist Attractions: Sydney Harbour, Queen Victoria Building, Art Gallery of New South Wales
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,806 – AU$3,500 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Paddington & Rose Bay
- Top Universities: The University of Sydney, The University of New South Wales, Macquarie University
5. Brisbane
Brisbane is considered a more affordable city than Melbourne and Sydney. It is developing in various sectors, and its economy is booming daily in the hospitality, health, tourism, and manufacturing sectors.
Brisbane is the third-largest city and one of the best places to live in Australia for students. It offers quality education and affordable tuition fees. The green suburbs balance out the warm weather of the city. People are known for being the warmest, which makes it the ideal place to settle and one of the best places to live in Australia.
- Best For: Nature
- Tourist Attractions: South Bank Parklands, The Brisbane River, City Botanic Gardens
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,849 – AU$2,500 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Indooroopilly & South Brisbane
- Top Universities: The University of Queensland, Griffith University, Queensland University of Technology
6. Canberra
Blessed with intriguing natural wonders and trail-blazing institutions, Canberra is Australia’s best city for students to live in. Canberra is the Inland capital of the nation and is also a top destination for international students. With its pretty tree-lined streets, bushlands, and mix of various cultures, the city is the perfect abode for students and families.
Brisbaneans like to go out in sunny weather for picnics, and people indulge in outdoor activities. Canberra’s civic spirit also distinguishes it from other cities, making it the best place for students to live in Australia.
- Best For: Families
- Tourist Attractions: Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, Lake Burley Griffin
- Average Cost of Living: AU$2,000 – AU&2,355 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: South Canberra & North Canberra
- Top Universities: University of Canberra, Australian National University
7. Hobart
Hobart is considered the most affordable and one of the best cities for students in Australia. Situated on the banks of the Derwent River, Hobart is the second oldest city in the country. Pleasant weather, low pollution, an efficient transportation system, and budget-friendly Hobart student accommodation make it a top choice for students.
It is also popularly called the safest place to live in Australia, with a very low crime rate. Another good thing about Hobart is the rapidly growing employment market, which attracts students worldwide.
- Best For: Affordable Place
- Tourist Attractions: Mount Wellington, Mona Ferry, Mount Nelson Lookout
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,466 – AU$2,200 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Battery Point & Sandy Bay
- Top Universities: The University of Tasmania, Australian International University, Hobart Business School
8. Wellington
Wellington, the best part of Australia to live in, is the epitome of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. The city was named by John Oxley, an explorer who could not cross the Lachlan River because of dense reeds. He then climbed Mount Arthur in 1817 and named the landscape Wellington Valley.
While one searches for the best places to live in Australia, Wellington tops the list with its beauty, vibrancy, and top-ranking universities, among other things. Wellington is also popular for its pretty cafes and restaurants, leafy bylanes, conveniences, and the ever-growing job market suitable for international students.
- Best For: Most Livable
- Tourist Attractions: Old St. Paul’s Church, Wellington Museum, Oriental Bay, Cuba Street
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,115 – AU$2455 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Oriental Bay & Mount Victoria
- Top Universities: University of Auckland, Lincoln University, University of Canterbury
9. Gold Coast
A haven for surfers and explorers, the city of Gold Coast is a dream destination for people across the world. Gold Coast has grown to be one of the most vibrant and best places to live in Australia. The city is well known for the diversity of its international population, world-renowned institutions, and, of course, the most stunning coastlines in the world.
- Best For: Affordable Place
- Tourist Attractions: Sea World, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Snapper Rocks
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,206 – AU$3,000 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Surfers Paradise & Mermaid Beach
- Top Universities: Bond University, Griffith University, Southern Cross University Gold Coast Campus
10. Lismore
First and foremost, Lismore is synonymous with what we call a vibe. Surrounded and adorned by nature’s wonders, the city leads you to a life you always wanted for yourself. Apart from being one of the best places to live in Australia, Lismore has grown to become a favourite destination for international students. With an ideal cost of living and a vibrant lifestyle, Lismore will be as postcard-perfect as you wish.
- Best For: Prime Location
- Tourist Attractions: Lismore Gallery, Lismore Library, Broadway National Park
- Average Cost of Living: AU$1,400 – AU$1,500 per person
- Best Neighbourhoods: Caniaba & East Lismore
- Top Universities: Southern Cross University
Australia is a mix of various cultures, diversity, and heritage, allowing its people to experience different lifestyles. Moving to the other side of the world can be a tiresome job with different questions. However, if you do your homework right, you can find your perfect home away from home. If you plan to attend the best universities in Australia, we hope this blog helps you find the safest and best place to live in Australia.
FAQs
1. Why is Australia a popular destination for students?
Australia is popular for its world-class universities, English-speaking environment, job opportunities, and vibrant multicultural society that fosters global perspectives and personal growth.
2. Which Australian city has the lowest cost of living?
Hobart is known for having the lowest cost of living among the major cities in Australia.
3. Are there job opportunities for students in Australia?
Yes, cities like Sydney and Melbourne offer numerous job opportunities for students, especially those seeking skilled work visas or working holiday visas.
4. What makes Sydney an attractive city for international students?
Sydney is attractive for its top-ranking universities, diverse culture, low crime rate, numerous beaches, and various entertainment options.
5. How can I find accommodation in these Australian cities?
You can find accommodation through university housing services, online rental platforms, or student accommodation providers like UniAcco.
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