Planning a big move for your family? Australia should be at the top of your list. As experts in removal services, we understand the ins and outs of what makes a city perfect for families.

From the bustling energy of Sydney to the rich cultural tapestry of Melbourne and the fast-growing opportunities in Brisbane, Australia opens up a world of choices for families ready to make a move. And we’re not just talking about a holiday destination; we’re talking about a place to call home.

What makes Australia the perfect next stop? A smooth transition awaits, with top-notch schools and healthcare. Numerous industries are booming, offering exciting career opportunities. And let’s not forget the unbeatable quality of life—think beaches, parks, and a laid-back lifestyle. Plus, with reliable removal services like ours, the move is as smooth as it gets.

So, are you ready to pack up and find out what life Down Under has to offer? Keep reading to discover the best cities in Australia for families, and make your next move the best one yet.

What makes a city family-friendly?

When it comes to moving your family to a new city, several factors play into making a place truly family-friendly. These are the things that don’t just make a city liveable but make it lovable. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Safety: The peace of mind that comes with low crime rates and effective emergency services can’t be overstated.
• Education: Access to excellent schools is often a deal-breaker for families. Good education is an investment in your children’s future.
• Job Market: A strong job market means more opportunities for parents. Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, or any other field, job availability can significantly ease the transition.
• Lifestyle: Family-friendly parks, recreational activities, and a community atmosphere make everyday life enjoyable.

Remember, a move isn’t just about a new house; it’s about a new life. Choose a city that offers a well-rounded experience for each family member.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into the cities that tick these boxes. Each city has its unique flavour and set of advantages, making them ideal for families looking to make Australia their new home.

Sydney: the city that has it all

Ah, Sydney—the iconic Opera House, the stunning Harbour Bridge, and beaches that will steal your heart. But there’s more to this city than just picture-perfect postcards. Let’s explore what makes Sydney an ideal destination for families planning a move. To learn more about Sydney’s appeal to British expats, check out our guide on the top 5 Australian cities for British expats.

Quick Facts:

• Population: Over 5.3 million
• Average Temperature: 17-24°C
• Key Industries: Finance, Tourism, Technology

Education

Sydney is home to some of Australia’s top-rated schools and universities. The educational landscape is diverse, offering a range of options from public to private institutions.

Safety

The city is known for its low crime rates and well-equipped emergency services. Community policing initiatives further ensure that you and your family can live with peace of mind.

Job Market

With a robust economy, Sydney offers a plethora of job opportunities in various sectors. Whether you’re in finance, healthcare, or tech, you’ll find a vibrant job market waiting for you.

Lifestyle

Sydney is a city where you can hit the beach in the morning and catch a world-class opera in the evening. The public parks are family-friendly, and the cultural scene is rich and varied.

Why Sydney? If you’re looking for a city that offers a mix of urban life, outdoor activities, and excellent career opportunities, Sydney might just be your dream destination.

Melbourne: a cultural paradise

If Sydney is the face of Australia’s glamour, Melbourne is its artistic soul. Renowned for its cultural heritage and vibrant creativity, this city offers a unique blend of diversity and artistic energy. If you’re curious about its trendiest neighbourhoods, don’t miss our guide on Cool places to live in Melbourne.

But what makes it a perfect place for families to settle down?

Quick Facts:

• Population: Around 5.23 million
• Average Temperature: 14-25°C
• Key Industries: Education, Healthcare, Creative Arts

Education

Melbourne houses several prestigious schools and is home to some of Australia’s top universities, making it a haven for academic excellence.

Safety

Safety is a priority in Melbourne. The city has various community programs and a strong police presence to ensure the well-being of its residents.

Job Market

Melbourne’s job market is diverse, with a special focus on the creative arts, education, and healthcare. This gives families multiple avenues for employment.

Lifestyle

Whether it’s the city’s famous coffee culture, its array of art galleries, or its love for Aussie rules football, Melbourne offers a balanced lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

Why Melbourne? If a city steeped in culture, with excellent educational institutions and a strong job market sounds like your family’s dream, Melbourne is calling your name.

Brisbane: the sunny up-and-comer

Say hello to Brisbane, a city that’s fast becoming a hotspot for families seeking a perfect blend of opportunity and lifestyle. With its year-round sunshine and growing industries, Brisbane is a city on the rise. But what makes it tick for families?

Quick Facts:

• Population: Approximately 2.5 million
• Average Temperature: 20-30°C
• Key Industries: Technology, Renewable Energy, Tourism

Education

The city is known for its focus on STEM education and offers an array of public and private schools that incorporate outdoor learning, given its sunny climate.

Safety

Community safety programs and a responsive police force make Brisbane a secure place to raise a family.

Job Market

With emerging industries like technology and renewable energy, Brisbane provides a fertile ground for career growth, especially for those looking to make a mark in these fields.

Lifestyle

Outdoor activities are the lifeblood of Brisbane. From kayaking on the Brisbane River to hiking in nearby national parks, there’s never a dull moment.

Why Brisbane? If your family thrives in the great outdoors and you’re keen on tapping into a growing job market, Brisbane could be your next home.

Perth: the isolated beauty

Perth often flies under the radar when it comes to popular Australian cities, but that’s precisely what makes it a hidden gem. With its pristine beaches and laid-back lifestyle, Perth offers a tranquil setting for families. Let’s delve into what this city has to offer.

Quick Facts:

• Population: About 2.5 million
• Average Temperature: 18-25°C
• Key Industries: Mining, Healthcare, Education

Education

Perth offers a variety of educational options, from excellent public schools to esteemed private institutions. The focus here is on a well-rounded education that includes plenty of outdoor activities.

Safety

Perth is one of Australia’s safest cities, with community-based programs that aim to maintain a secure and friendly environment for families.

Job Market

The city has a stable job market, primarily driven by the mining industry. However, healthcare and education are also significant employers.

Lifestyle

Life in Perth is far from the hustle and bustle, offering a calm atmosphere that’s perfect for families. The beaches are less crowded, and there’s a strong sense of community among the residents.

Why Perth? If a peaceful, family-friendly environment with diverse job opportunities is what you’re looking for, Perth might be your ideal destination.

Adelaide: the affordable choice

Often dubbed the “20-minute city” due to its easy commutes, Adelaide is a city that offers a relaxed pace of life without compromising on amenities. What sets it apart is its affordability, making it a great choice for families on a budget. Let’s find out more.

Quick Facts:

• Population: Around 1.5 million
• Average Temperature: 16-28°C
• Key Industries: Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education

Education

With a range of both public and private schools that focus on holistic development, Adelaide is a city that takes education seriously.

Safety

Adelaide prides itself on being a safe city with numerous community programs aimed at ensuring a secure environment for its residents.

Job Market

The job market in Adelaide is particularly strong in manufacturing, but there are also growing opportunities in healthcare and education.

Lifestyle

What Adelaide lacks in hustle and bustle, it makes up for in green spaces, wineries, and a rich cultural scene, providing a balanced lifestyle.

Why Adelaide? If you’re after a city that offers a high quality of life without breaking the bank, Adelaide should be on your shortlist.

Canberra: the intellectual hub

If you’re seeking a city that offers top-tier education and a range of intellectual pursuits, look no further than Canberra. As Australia’s capital, it’s a city where education and governance take center stage. Here’s what Canberra has to offer to families considering a move.

Quick Facts:

• Population: About 472,000
• Average Temperature: 6-19°C
• Key Industries: Government, Education, Information Technology

Education

Canberra boasts some of the country’s best schools and higher education institutions. The focus here is not just academic excellence but also on creating future leaders.

Safety

With its low crime rate and excellent public services, Canberra is a safe and secure environment to raise a family.

Job Market

Being the political center of Australia, government jobs are plentiful. However, the education and IT sectors also offer robust career opportunities.

Lifestyle

Canberra offers a mix of outdoor and cultural activities, from visiting national museums to exploring the Australian bushland.

Why Canberra? If top-notch education and stable employment are your priorities, Canberra is worth serious consideration.

Hobart: the scenic escape

Often overlooked, Hobart is a city that offers an exceptional quality of life, especially for families who love nature. Nestled on the island of Tasmania, Hobart provides a scenic backdrop for a peaceful family life. Let’s delve into what this beautiful city has to offer.

Quick Facts:

• Population: Around 240,000
• Average Temperature: 9-17°C
• Key Industries: Tourism, Agriculture, Healthcare

Education

Hobart offers a mix of public and private schools with a focus on community engagement and outdoor activities, making education a hands-on experience.

Safety

The city enjoys a low crime rate and has community programs that aim to maintain a family-friendly environment.

Job Market

Tourism and agriculture are the main drivers of Hobart’s economy, but healthcare is also an emerging sector providing various employment opportunities.

Lifestyle

Hobart offers an outdoor lifestyle that’s second to none, from hiking in the Tasmanian wilderness to sailing along the Derwent River.

Why Hobart? Hobart is your dream destination if your family is drawn to nature and a quieter pace of life.

Cost comparison: where does your wallet say?

After exploring the individual cities, it’s crucial to consider one more factor—your budget. Here’s a quick table comparing the average cost of living across the cities we’ve discussed:

City	Updated Average Monthly Rent	Average Monthly Grocery Bill	Entertainment Costs
Sydney	approx. $2,427	$864	High
Melbourne	$2,500	$598	Moderate
Brisbane	Ranges from $2,600 to $5,200	$510	Moderate
Perth	approx. $2,266	$650	Low
Adelaide	$1,600	$590	Low
Canberra	approx. $2,990	$604	Moderate
Hobart	$1,500	$770	Low

Key Takeaways:

• Canberra tops the list: Despite its high rent, grocery expenses in Canberra are moderate, making it an expensive but balanced option.
• Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive in terms of rent: These cities demand a high cost of living, with Sydney also having the highest average grocery bills. Melbourne offers a somewhat more balanced scenario with moderate grocery and entertainment expenses.
• Wide range in Brisbane: Brisbane offers a variable rent range, potentially making it either more or less expensive than other cities. However, it does have the lowest average grocery costs among the cities listed.
• Budget-friendly Adelaide and Hobart: These two cities stand out for their lower rent costs. While Hobart has relatively high grocery expenses, Adelaide offers a balanced low-cost option.
• Low entertainment costs in Perth: Perth distinguishes itself with low entertainment costs and a moderate cost of living otherwise.

Why Cost Matters? The average Australian spends around $864 a month on groceries. Budgeting is a crucial part of any move. Knowing the cost of living helps you make an informed decision and ensures a smooth transition for your family.

Expert tips: making the big move

So you’ve zeroed in on a city that ticks all your boxes—great! But before you start packing, here are our expert tips to ensure a seamless transition for your family.

Visas

Make sure you understand the visa requirements for your family. Some cities have specific programs to attract skilled workers, so look out for those.

Schools

Research schools well in advance and, if possible, schedule visits to your shortlisted options. Education is a significant factor, so choose wisely.

Healthcare

Check out the healthcare facilities in your chosen city. Knowing where the nearest hospital or clinic is can be a lifesaver—literally.

Settling In

The first few weeks are crucial. Explore your new city, attend community events, and try to establish a routine as soon as possible.

Removal Services

As specialists in this area, we can’t stress enough the importance of a reliable removal service to make your move hassle-free. Make sure to book in advance!

Why Preparation is Key A well-planned move minimizes stress and sets the foundation for a happy life in your new Australian home.

Conclusion: your Australian dream awaits!

So which city comes out on top as the best place to live in Australia for families? The answer depends on your priorities.

If you want a bustling urban hub with plenty of job opportunities, Sydney and Melbourne have it all. Brisbane offers similar big city benefits but with more affordable living costs.

For those seeking a heavy focus on education, Canberra and Melbourne have renowned schools and universities. Hobart provides a scenic small-town feel while still having quality educational institutions.

In terms of lifestyle, Perth, Adelaide, and Hobart promise more relaxed living with abundant outdoor activities. Brisbane also boasts sunshine and an active way of life.

Safety is a priority for all the cities, thanks to community programs, policing initiatives, and emergency infrastructure. Healthcare facilities are top-notch across the board as well.

As illustrated, each major city has unique advantages that cater to different family needs and preferences. While Sydney may win on aggregate livability factors, you have to weigh affordability, jobs, education, lifestyle, and personal priorities.

With years of experience helping families move to Australia, and with knowledge of the logistics, paperwork, and regulations involved in moving belongings from one country to another, TMS can help you.

Reach out for a consultation today to discuss your Australia move in detail. Our team is excited to help turn this dream into reality for your family!