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Whether you’re looking for your next vacation destination or your next home, the cities in Australia have a lot to offer. Our vast and varied landscape means that each city offers something new and unique: choose from rural countrysides to vibrant urban areas and everything in between.
But aside from fun activities and great views, Australia also has some of the most livable cities in the world. Join us as we take a look at some of Australia’s best and biggest cities – and find out which city tops our list and snags the title of ‘best city in Australia’.
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Note: For cost of living, we used Mercer’s 2019 cost of living survey which ranks cities around the globe based on how expensive it is to live there. The higher the ranking, the more expensive the city. If the ranking isn’t indicated, it means that the city is not in Mercer’s top 200 most expensive cities in the world.
10. Darwin, Northern Territory
Population: 148,564
Climate: Tropical savanna
Cost of living: Not on list
Attractions: Mindil Beach, Crocosaurus Cove, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
Two words can describe Darwin: laidback and hot. Located near the great Australian Outback at the northern tip of Australia, Darwin is great for nature lovers and those who want some peace and quiet.
9. Cairns, Queensland
Population: 152,729
Climate: Tropical
Cost of living: Not on list
Attractions: The Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Kuranda Rainforestation Nature Park
What do you get when you combine a beach destination with a party town? Cairns is a great place to go scuba diving, swimming, and partying. Plus, it has a few must-see natural wonders!
8. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Population: 457,563
Climate: Tropical
Cost of living: 96th
Attractions: Parliament House, National Museum of Australia, Lake Burley Griffin
Although some people say the nation’s capital is ‘boring’, it’s actually a great place to move to, especially for families. It also has one of the highest quality-of-living ratings in all of Australia.
7. Perth, Western Australia
Population: 2,059,484
Climate: Mediterranean
Cost of living: 87th
Attractions: Cottesloe Beach, Perth Zoo, Kings Park and Botanic Garden
All the way on the other side of Australia, Perth promises warm weather and lots of sun. Enjoy the great outdoors at its many gorgeous beaches…or take advantage of its proximity to exotic Asian destinations.
6. Hobart, Tasmania
Population: 232,606
Climate: Temperate/oceanic
Cost of living: Not on list
Attractions: Mount Wellington, Museum of Old and New Art, Salamanca Market
Budget-conscious people will love Hobart, one of the cheapest places to live in Australia. You’ll still get the stunning beaches and lively communities our country is known for – just at a lower price tag.
5. Gold Coast, Queensland
Population: 569,997
Climate: Humid subtropical
Cost of living: Not on list
Attractions: Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Surfers Paradise Beach
For the most beautiful beaches and the wildest parties, Gold Coast is the place to go. Often the top choice for “schoolies”, there’s no lack of sun, sand, and social events here.
4. Adelaide, South Australia
Population: 1,345,777
Climate: Mediterranean
Cost of living: 109th
Attractions: Adelaide Central Market, Cleland Wildlife Park, North Terrace
The coastal city of Adelaide combines the convenience of a big city with the vibe of a small town. Even though it’s a little bit quieter than Sydney or Melbourne, there’s still lots of fun things to check out, like the Adelaide Fringe Festival.
3. Brisbane, Queensland
Population: 2,462,637
Climate: Humid subtropical
Cost of living: 103rd
Attractions: Story Bridge, The Cultural Precinct, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
If you want that city life without that city price, Brisbane (the 3rd biggest city in Australia) should be at the top of your list. An added plus for music lovers: Brisbane is one of the music capitals of the world.
2. Sydney, New South Wales
Population: 5,230,330
Climate: Humid subtropical
Cost of living: 50th
Attractions: Sydney Harbour Bridge/Opera House, Bondi Beach, Darling Harbour
The biggest and most populated city in Australia, Sydney should be on your bucket list. Check out its iconic attractions, experience its vibrant nightlife, and take advantage of the incredible public transportation system.
1. Melbourne, Victoria
Population: 5,000,000
Climate: Temperate oceanic
Cost of living: 79th
Attractions: Yarra River, Queen Victoria Market, Federation Square
Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital and hands down one of the best places to visit. Catering to a younger and more artsy crowd, there are tons of bars, event spaces, and festivals to check out in Melbourne.
The Best Places To Live & Visit
Tourists and residents alike love Australia for its breathtaking landscapes, unlimited opportunities, and high quality of living. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in at least one of Australia’s great cities.
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