What’s the best city to live in Australia?
I know this topic has been explored a lot, but I’m looking for some personal insights beyond the research I’ve done and articles I’ve read.
I’m planning to move from Alberta, Canada to Australia later this year, but I’m struggling to choose the right city. About me: I’m a 22-year-old female. I’m particularly drawn to warm, humid weather year-round, and I value access to parks, beaches, and public facilities, along with a reasonable cost of living and safety. I have about 260k Canadian saved up, so I can live comfortably for a while before finding a job, though affordability is still key.
I’ve traveled to Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, and the Gold Coast. My favorite was the Gold Coast for its relaxed vibe, beautiful beaches, and good public infrastructure, although the cost of living was a downside. I also liked Brisbane, but I found it a bit too corporate and lacking the beach atmosphere I desire. Cairns offered the hot, tropical weather I love, but I found the city itself rather dull. As for Sydney, it was too busy, expensive, and, in my opinion, overrated.
I’m now considering Perth, Adelaide, and Newcastle. I’ve heard that both Perth and Adelaide can be quite dry, with Perth being a bit hotter. While Adelaide is more affordable, Perth seems more spacious but is quite distant from other places. Both cities have nice beaches and good public amenities, from what I’ve seen. On the other hand, Newcastle is more humid, has lovely beaches, and is relatively affordable, but I’d love to hear personal experiences about living there.
I’m not really into nightlife; I’d rather join a morning running group than go to a bar at night. I prefer a laid-back atmosphere—think shorts and sandals instead of suits and heavy makeup—but I still enjoy the energy of a big city. Given my preferences regarding weather, housing affordability, job opportunities, and safety, what city do you think would be the best fit? Is there anything else I should consider?
It sounds like you’re weighing a lot of options for your move to Australia, and I understand how overwhelming that can be! Based on what you’ve shared, I would recommend looking into Newcastle a little more closely, as it seems to align well with your preferences.
Newcastle:
– Weather: Newcastle has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, which fits your preference for hotter weather. The coastal location ensures you can enjoy the beach year-round.
– Beaches and Parks: You’ll find beautiful beaches like Merewether and Bar Beach, along with plenty of parks for running and outdoor activities. There’s a lovely coastal walk that connects several beaches, perfect for early morning runs.
– Cost of Living: Newcastle tends to have a lower cost of living compared to Sydney and even the Gold Coast. Housing is more affordable, which could allow you to live comfortably as you settle and look for work.
– Vibe: The laid-back vibe of Newcastle is appealing to many, with a friendly community feel and less of the corporate hustle typical in bigger cities. You can easily find groups for running and outdoor activities.
Adelaide:
– If you’re considering Adelaide, keep in mind that it does offer a lower cost of living and some nice beach areas like Glenelg. However, as you mentioned, it can be quite dry, which might not align with your preference for humidity.
Perth:
– Perth is a fantastic city with stunning beaches and plenty of outdoor activities, but the weather can be very dry, as you’ve identified. It’s great if you enjoy a slightly more laid-back lifestyle and can tolerate the distances from other major cities, but it can feel isolated at times.
Brisbane and Gold Coast:
– Given that you enjoyed the Gold Coast but found it a bit pricey, you might also consider a balance between Brisbane and Gold Coast. Brisbane has a vibrant city feel without being overwhelming like Sydney, and it’s close enough to the Gold Coast for beach days.
I’d suggest visiting Newcastle if you haven’t already, as experiencing it in person can give you a better feel for the community and lifestyle. Also, consider the job market in your field, as different cities may have more opportunities depending on your interests. Finally, make sure to look at local groups on social media or other platforms to connect with like-minded individuals before and after your move, which can help make the transition smoother. Good luck with your plans!