11 Best Cities to Live in Australia in 2025

11 Best Cities in Australia to Live in 2025: Guide for Indian Expats and Students

Kritika Pandey

10 min read

Updated On Jan 21, 2026

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Discover Australia's premier cities, where vibrant culture, thriving economies, and stunning landscapes unite for an unmatched lifestyle. Looking for the best cities to live in Australia? Scroll through to uncover them all.

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Why Choose the Best Cities in Australia?
11 Best Cities in Australia for Indian Expats and Students
City-Wise Cost and Salary Comparison in Australia
Choose From the Best Cities in Australia to Work, Study, and Settle

Choosing the听best place to live in Australia听is a big hassle for expats or students. Among听the best cities to live听in Australia听are Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane stand out, each with its unique charm and opportunities.听

Australia is generally known for natural wonders and vast landscapes, but what most people don鈥檛 know is that Australia offers high-quality education, strong job prospects (especially in IT, Healthcare, Business), a multicultural environment, safety, and post-study work opportunities transitioning to Permanent Residency.

In this guide, we explore the听most popular cities in Australia听and break down why each ranks as a top contender for the听best city to live in Australia听based on your specific needs.听

Why Choose the Best Cities in Australia?

Choosing the best cities in Australia offers a unique combination of exceptional quality of life, economic opportunities, and cultural diversity. With high rankings in global livability indices and an attractive lifestyle, these cities are ideal for those seeking both career growth and a comfortable living environment.

Top Global Rankings:听Cities like Melbourne and Sydney frequently appear in the top 10 of the Economist Intelligence Unit鈥檚 Global Liveability Index. These rankings reflect the cities' strong healthcare, education, and infrastructure systems.
Robust Economy:听Australia's top cities boast stable and strong economies, with Sydney being a financial hub and Melbourne excelling in creative industries. As of 2023, Sydney鈥檚 GDP per capita was among the highest in the world, reinforcing its economic strength.
Diverse Job Opportunities:听These cities are home to major industries, from technology to healthcare. Melbourne, home to more than half of Australia's top 20 technology companies, has emerged as a leading tech city.
High Standard of Healthcare: Australia鈥檚 healthcare system is renowned globally, with cities like Brisbane offering world-class medical services. Melbourne, for instance, has one of the best public healthcare systems in the world, supported by a strong network of hospitals and clinics.

11 Best Cities in Australia for Indian Expats and Students

Australia is best known for its vibrant cities that offer excellent living standards, job opportunities, and multicultural diversity. Let's explore the 11 best Australia cities based on factors like population diversity, employment, affordability, overall city rankings, and more. The list includes:

1. Sydney, New South Wales听

Sydney is among the well-known places in Australia and also the country鈥檚 largest city. Sydney is known for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

As one of the coolest cities in Australia, Sydney offers a vibrant art scene, beautiful beaches like Bondi and Manly beaches, and plenty of well-known places in Australia to explore. Sydney鈥檚 multicultural vibe, combined with its rich history and modern lifestyle, makes it a popular place in Australia for expats, students, and tourists alike.

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Sydney	240,000 (4.5% of total city population of 5.31 million)
Unemployment Rate in Sydney	4.4-4.5%听
Cultural Participation in Sydney	High-Major festivals like Vivid Sydney and Sydney Festival; hubs like Opera House听
Top Universities in Sydney	University of Sydney, UNSW
Housing Affordability in Sydney	Median houses AUD 1.5-1.9M, apartments AUD 800K听
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Sydney	4 million听

Also Read:听Australia PR for Indians

2. Melbourne, Victoria

Melbourne is known as the cultural capital of Australia and is one of the most visited places in Australia, thanks to its vibrant art scene, coffee culture, and sports events like the Australian Open and Melbourne Cup.

The city consistently ranks as one of the best cities in Australia due to its high standard of living and diverse population. Its hidden laneways, Street Art, and trendy cafes make it one of the coolest cities in Australia, while places like the Royal Botanical Garden and Federation Square are among the must-see famous places in Australia.

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Melbourne	240,000 (4.4% of total city population of 5.46 million)
Unemployment Rate in Melbourne	4.2%
Cultural Participation in Melbourne	Very High - Australia鈥檚 cultural capital; hosts Melbourne International Film Festival, Melbourne Fringe Festival [conversation_history]
Top Universities in Melbourne	University of Melbourne, Monash University, RMIT University
Housing Affordability in Melbourne	Median houses ~AUD 950,000-1M, apartments ~AUD 600,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Melbourne	3.0-3.2 million

Quick Read:听Pros and Cons of Living in Australia in 2026听

3. Brisbane, Queensland听

Brisbane offers a sunny climate along with a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, making it one of the nicest cities in Australia to live.

The capital of Queensland, Brisbane, is a good city in Australia for families and professionals alike, with plenty of parks, waterfront areas, and easy access to famous places in Australia like the Great Barrier Reef and the Gold Coast. South Bank and the Queensland Art Gallery are among the city's key cultural spots.

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Brisbane	80,000 (2.9% of total city population of 2.75 million)听
Unemployment Rate in Brisbane	4.3%
Cultural Participation in Brisbane	Medium - Hosts Brisbane Festival, Queensland Gallery of Modern Art [conversation_history]
Top Universities in Brisbane	University of Queensland (UQ), Queensland University of Technology
Housing Affordability in Brisbane	Median houses ~AUD 850,000, apartments ~AUD 550,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Brisbane	1.7 million

Explore:听10 Best Regional Areas in Australia

4. Perth, Western Australia

Perth, on Australia's West Coast, is known for its beaches, parks and proximity to well-known places in Australia like Rottnest Island. With a relaxed yet cosmopolitan atmosphere, Perth is one of the best Australian cities for those who enjoy nature without giving up urban amenities.

Kings Park and the Swan River are among the popular recreational areas, while Fremantle offers a historical touch. This nice city in Australia is known for its high quality of life and sunny weather

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Perth	110,000 (4.6% of total city population of 2.39 million) abs+2
Unemployment Rate in Perth	4.0%
Cultural Participation in Perth	Medium - Hosts Fringe World Festival, Perth International Arts Festival听
Top Universities in Perth	University of Western Australia, Curtin University
Housing Affordability in Perth	Median houses AUD 750,000, apartments AUD 500,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Perth	1.0 million

Check Out:听7 Best Student Cities in Australia

5. Adelaide, South Australia听

Adelaide offers a quieter and more laid-back culture. The city is famous for its festivals and wineries. Known as one of the good cities in Australia for families and retirees, Adelaide is also home to famous places in Australia, like the Barossa Valley and Adelaide Hills.

Adelaide鈥檚 cultural offerings include the Adelaide Fringe and the Art Gallery of South Australia, which highlights its contribution to its reputation as one of the best Australian cities for art and cultural lovers.

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Adelaide	60,000 (3.7% of total city population of 1.62 million)
Unemployment Rate in Adelaide	4.5%听
Cultural Participation in Adelaide	High - Hosts Adelaide Festival, WOMADelaide, Adelaide Fringe听
Top Universities in Adelaide	University of Adelaide, Flinders University
Housing Affordability in Adelaide	Median houses AUD 700,000, apartments AUD 450,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Adelaide	500,000听

Also Read:听Top 6 Easiest States to Get PR in Australia听

6. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory听

Canberra, which is Australia's capital city, is known for its national museums, monuments, and government institutions, making it one of the most well-known places in Australia. Though often overlooked, it is one of the best cities in Australia for quality of life, with beautiful parks, a strong job market, and top educational institutions. Canberra鈥檚 attractions include the Australian War Memorial and the National Gallery of Australia, which makes it a popular place in Australia for both tourists and locals

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Canberra	~35,000 (7.2% of total city population of 488,541)听
Unemployment Rate in Canberra	3.8%
Cultural Participation in Canberra	High-Hosts National Gallery of Australia, Enlighten Festival听
Top Universities in Canberra	Australian National University (ANU), University of Canberra
Housing Affordability in Canberra	Median houses ~AUD 950,000, apartments ~AUD 550,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Canberra	300,000

Suggested Read:听How to Get PR in Australia After Study听

7. Gold Coast, Queensland听

Famous for its stunning beaches and surf culture, the Gold Coast is one of the most famous places in Australia for tourists and beach lovers.

With its theme parks, shopping, and nightlife, it is the coolest city in Australia that attracts both holidaymakers and those looking to settle down in a good city in Australia. The nearby hinterland and rainforests add to the natural beauty of this best city in Australia for those who enjoy outdoor activities

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Gold Coast	35,000 (4.6% of total city population of 762,000)听
Unemployment Rate in Gold Coast	4.1%
Cultural Participation in Gold Coast	Medium - Hosts Gold Coast Film Festival, Beach Festival [conversation_history]
Top Universities in Gold Coast	Bond University, Griffith University
Housing Affordability in Gold Coast	Median houses ~AUD 850,000, apartments ~AUD 500,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Gold Coast	1.3 million

Also Explore:听Why Choose Australia Over Other Countries to Study听

8. Hobart, Tasmania

Forward the capital of Tasmania is one of the nicest cities in Australia for those looking for a slower pace and natural beauty destinations. Surrounded by mountains and the sea, this city is home to well known places in Australia like Mount Wellington and the Museum of Old and New Art MONA. Its rich colonial history art scenes and access to wilderness make it a popular place in Australia for both locals and visitors.

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Hobart	6,000 (1.8% of total city population of 330,000)
Unemployment Rate in Hobart	4.6%
Cultural Participation in Hobart	High - Hosts MONA FOMA, Dark Mofo, Taste of Tasmania听
Top Universities in Hobart	University of Tasmania
Housing Affordability in Hobart	Median houses AUD 650,000, apartments AUD 480,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Hobart	300,000

Also Explore:听Why Australia Offers the Ultimate Work-Life Balance?

9. Darwin, Northern Territory

Darwin is one of the coolest cities in Australia due to its tropical climate and laid-back lifestyle. As a gateway to famous places in Australia like Kakadu National Park and Lichfield National Park, Darwin is a good city in Australia for adventurers and natural lovers.

Its multicultural population, waterfront attractions, and lively markets make it a nice city in Australia to experience the true Outback lifestyle and urban comforts.

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Darwin	9,000 (6.5% of total city population of 138,000)听
Unemployment Rate in Darwin	4.3%
Cultural Participation in Darwin	Medium - Hosts Darwin Festival, National Indigenous Music Awards听
Top Universities in Darwin	Charles Darwin University
Housing Affordability in Darwin	Median houses ~AUD 550,000, apartments ~AUD 380,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Darwin	190,000

Check Out:听Step By Step Australia PR Process from India听

10. Newcastle, New South Wales

Newcastle is an underrated gem among the best cities in Australia offering beautiful beaches a rich maritime history and a vibrant art scene. Known for its relaxed lifestyle Newcastle is a good city in Australia for those who want coastal living without the high cost of Sydney.

Its proximity to the Hunter Valley Wine region and national parks also makes it a popular place in Australia for nature enthusiasts

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Wollongong	10,000 (3.1% of total city population of 322,000)
Unemployment Rate in Wollongong	4.9%
Cultural Participation in Wollongong	Medium - Hosts Viva la Gong, Wollongong Writers Festival听
Top Universities in Wollongong	University of Wollongong
Housing Affordability in Wollongong	Median houses ~AUD 800,000, apartments ~AUD 480,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Wollongong	130,000

Quick Read:听Australia Visa Fees 2026: Student, Tourist, Work, PR Visa Fees & More听

11. Wollongong, New South Wales

Wollongong is a smaller coastal city in Australia, however it ranks as one of the nicest cities in Australia for those seeking a balance of nature and city life. Just south of Sydney it is home to stunning beaches, scenic Cliffs, and a welcoming community.

Easy access to the Royal National Park and the Seacliff Bridge makes it a good city in Australia for road trips and outdoor adventures and is quite popular among students and young professionals.

Particular Details	Details
Indian Population in Wollongong	10,500 (3.2% of total city population of 322,000)听
Unemployment Rate in Wollongong	4.9%
Cultural Participation in Wollongong	Medium - Viva la Gong, Wollongong Writers Festival听
Top Universities in Wollongong	University of Wollongong
Housing Affordability in Wollongong	Median houses ~AUD 820,000, apartments ~AUD 490,000
Annual Tourist Arrivals to Wollongong	135,000

Also Read:听Australia Travel Visa Requirements From India: All You Need to Know听

City-Wise Cost and Salary Comparison in Australia

Finding out the expenses of a country you are going to live in against your earnings will help you budget better. Here is a quick cost comparison featuring average take-home pay versus the essential costs in Australia鈥檚 major hubs.听

City	Avg. Monthly Salary (After Tax)	Cost of Living (Single Person)	Avg. Rent (1 BR in Center)
Sydney	AUD 6,800	AUD 1,950	AUD 3,000 - 3,700
Melbourne	AUD 6,300	AUD 1,750	AUD 2,400 - 2,900听
Brisbane	AUD 6,100	AUD 1,600	AUD 2,200 - 2,600听
Perth	AUD 6,500	AUD 1,550	AUD 2,100 - 2,500听
Adelaide	AUD 5,800	AUD 1,500	AUD 1,900 - 2,300听

Choose From the Best Cities in Australia to Work, Study, and Settle

The best cities in Australia offer a perfect balance of cultural vibrancy, educational opportunities, housing options, and more, making them ideal for living, working, and studying in Australia. Whether you are seeking urban excitement or peaceful coastal living, each city offers its unique charm and opportunities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best city to live in Australia as a foreigner?

Sydney is often considered the best place for foreigners to settle in Australia, with over 42% of its population born overseas. Its diverse cultural landscape and job opportunities make it an attractive destination for migrants. Additionally, Sydney is consistently ranked among the world's top cities for livability.

Which is the best city to live in in Australia for international students?

Melbourne is ranked as the best city to live in Australia for International Students, the reason being its vibrant social life, prestigious universities like the University of Melbourne, and part-time opportunities in hospitality and retail.

Which Australian city offers the best career growth for professionals?

For professionals in finance, marketing, and corporate law, Sydney is a good choice. But, for professionals in Engineering or specialised technical fields, Perth offers high salaries relative to the cost of living.

Is Brisbane better than Sydney for families?

Many families find Brisbane better than Sydney because building the dream Australian house with a backyard is more affordable there than in Sydney. Also, Brisbane provides high-quality healthcare and schools.

What is the most famous city in Australia for expats?

Sydney is most famous among expats because of iconic landmarks such as the Opera House and its status as a global gateway, though Melbourne is a very close second in the race.

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