Thinking of moving to Australia but not sure which city to call home? Each has its own unique qualities – from Sydney’s sophistication to Perth’s outdoorsy charm. Here’s how to find the best Australian city to live in for your lifestyle.
Australia isn’t a one-size-fits-all destination, which is unsurprising given its vast scale – you could fit the UK inside it nearly 30 times! Offering something for everyone, its cities each have their own rhythm, shaped by climate, culture and community. Some offer world-class dining and fast-paced careers, others a slower lifestyle where the beach becomes part of your daily routine.
If you’ve set your sights on Australia, the next step is deciding which city matches your personality and priorities. Below, we explore five major Australian cities – each with a distinct vibe, lifestyle and property market.
1. Sydney – the city of luxury and ambition
If you’re drawn to glamour and energy, Sydney could be your perfect home. Australia’s most famous city is a place where the good life takes centre stage. Everything here can be world-class – from designer shopping and fine dining to harbour-view homes that make the most of the city’s iconic beauty. Neighbourhoods such as Point Piper, Darling Point and Bellevue Hill are among the most sought-after, offering sparkling views across the harbour and quick access to the central business district.
Property prices reflect the city’s prestige – average home values sit around AUD $1.55m (£764,000), and luxury properties can reach well into the multi-million range.
Beyond the glamour, Sydney also offers one of the strongest job markets in Australia, particularly in finance, tech and creative industries. It’s fast-paced, vibrant and ideal if you enjoy being at the heart of the action.
2. Melbourne – creative, cultured and effortlessly cool
Melbourne often takes the title of Australia’s cultural capital. If your ideal weekend includes live music, art exhibitions and trying new coffee spots, this could be your match. The city’s laneways are packed with independent cafés and street art, while its creative energy gives it a European feel. Neighbourhoods such as Fitzroy, Collingwood and St Kilda are known for their hip cafés, music venues and vibrant nightlife. Melbourne consistently ranks high on global liveability indexes, thanks to its transport links, diverse population and excellent education options.
The property market here is competitive but offers more variety than Sydney. Expect to pay around AUD $952,000 (£469,500) on average for a house in Melbourne.
3. Perth – sunshine, space and outdoor living
If you love the great outdoors, Perth is hard to beat. Western Australia’s capital enjoys over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year – more than any other major Australian city. Residents enjoy easy access to beaches, parks and rivers, as well as world-class wine regions just a short drive away. The lifestyle is relaxed yet active, ideal for those who enjoy surfing, cycling or simply spending time outdoors.
Property prices tend to be lower than on the east coast, with average house prices around AUD $780,000 (£384,500), offering great value for families or anyone seeking space without giving up city amenities.
4. Cairns – tropical tranquillity
For a slower pace and year-round warmth, Cairns delivers a distinctly tropical lifestyle. As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, it’s surrounded by natural beauty and suited to those who prefer flip-flops over formal wear. The city is small, with a population of around 178,000, so traffic jams and stress are rare. The local culture celebrates outdoor living – think swimming, beach barbecues, diving trips and weekend hikes.
Property prices are among the most affordable of the major regional centres, averaging around AUD $712,000 (£351,000). It’s an attractive option for retirees, digital nomads and anyone craving a simpler way of life.
5. Gold Coast – glitz, glamour and surfside living
For those who enjoy a vibrant social scene, the Gold Coast is Australia’s answer to Miami. Just south of Brisbane, it’s famous for its beaches, nightlife and high-rise skyline. The mood is upbeat and lively – perfect if you love being where the action is. Locals split their time between ocean swims, surf sessions and socialising in waterfront bars.
Tourism and property investment drive the local economy, and rental demand remains strong.
Average house prices in the Gold Coast are catching up to Sydney, at around AUD $1.23m (£606,500).
At a glance – comparing Australia’s top cities
| City | Vibe | Average property price (AUD) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Sophisticated and ambitious | $1.55m | Luxury seekers, professionals |
| Melbourne | Creative and cosmopolitan | $952k | Culture lovers, young families |
| Perth | Relaxed and outdoorsy | $780k | Active lifestyles, families |
| Cairns | Laid-back and tropical | $712k | Retirees, nature enthusiasts |
| Gold Coast | Vibrant and glamorous | $1.23m | Beach lovers, socialites, investors |
So, which city is right for you?
Choosing the best Australian city to live in comes down to what you value most. Sydney delivers opportunity and prestige while Melbourne thrives on culture and creativity. Perth offers a healthy dose of sunshine and space, and Cairns invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature. And if your heart beats faster around bright lights and beach bars, the Gold Coast won’t disappoint.
Whichever you choose, remember that Australia’s lifestyle – open, outdoorsy and optimistic – is what draws people from around the world. Take time to explore, get a feel for each place, and you’ll soon discover which city truly feels like home.
