Moving countries is a big life decision—and choosing the best area to live in Australia can shape your success, comfort, and happiness for years. For new migrants in 2026, Australia offers world-class cities, welcoming regional hubs, and beautiful places to live in Australia that balance jobs, affordability, lifestyle, and long-term settlement pathways. This guide answers the most common migrant questions upfront: Where should I live? Which city is affordable? Where are jobs and PR pathways strongest? We then dive into 20 hand-picked locations—metros and regions—covering cost of living, jobs, community, transport, education, and why each place stands out as the best area in Australia to live in right now.
Jobs & skills demand (healthcare, IT, construction, education, trades)
Affordability (rent, transport, childcare)
Migrant communities & services
Lifestyle & safety
PR & regional incentives
Education & healthcare access
Sydney is often considered the best area to live in Australia for new migrants who want fast career growth and international exposure. As the country’s financial and business hub, it offers high salaries, strong job demand, and opportunities with global companies—making it the best choice.
Australia’s largest job market
High-paying roles across multiple industries
Strong migrant communities and support services
Excellent public transport and infrastructure
Sydney has consistent demand in:
Finance & Banking
IT & Software
Marketing & Media
Healthcare
Corporate Management
This makes it ideal for skilled migrants looking to build long-term careers.
Sydney is also one of the most beautiful places to live in Australia:
Iconic beaches like Bondi and Manly
Harbour walks and outdoor lifestyle
Food from every culture
Safe, clean, and vibrant city life
Tip: Living in western suburbs like Parramatta or Liverpool can reduce costs.
Professionals in finance, IT, marketing, and management
Migrants aiming for high income and global experience
Those comfortable with a fast-paced city lifestyle
Bottom line: Despite higher costs, Sydney remains one of the best area in Australia to live for ambitious new migrants in 2026.
Parramatta is rapidly emerging as Sydney’s second CBD, making it a smart and practical choice for new migrants who want city access without Sydney’s high costs. With major government investment, growing job opportunities, and excellent transport, it is often seen as a value-driven option within the best area to live in Australia.
Recognised as Sydney’s second business district
Strong infrastructure and ongoing development
Excellent train, bus, and metro connectivity
Easy access to Sydney CBD
Parramatta offers growing employment in:
Healthcare & Medical Services
Government & Public Sector
Education & Training
Corporate Offices & Administration
Many migrants find quality jobs here while benefiting from shorter commutes.
Parramatta offers a balanced lifestyle:
Family-friendly neighborhoods
Expanding dining and nightlife scene
Parks, river walks, and community spaces
Multicultural environment
Families seeking affordability near Sydney
Healthcare and government professionals
Students and new migrants starting out
Bottom line: Parramatta delivers the benefits of city living at a more affordable cost, making it one of the best places to live in Australia for migrants in 2026 who want value, jobs, and connectivity.
3. Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne is widely recognised as one of the best areas to live in Australia, especially for migrants who value a balance between career opportunities and lifestyle. Known for its strong education sector, diverse job market, and cultural richness, Melbourne continues to attract students and skilled professionals from around the world.
Strong demand for skilled migrants
World-class universities and research institutions
Multicultural and migrant-friendly communities
Excellent public transport and healthcare
Melbourne offers steady employment in:
Engineering & Construction
Healthcare & Aged Care
Education & Research
IT & Software Development
Creative and Design Industries
Melbourne stands out for its vibrant urban culture and is counted among the most beautiful places to live in Australia:
Famous café and coffee culture
Art galleries, street art, and live music
Major sporting events and festivals
Green parks and family-friendly suburbs
Tip: Outer suburbs and regional VIC offer better affordability.
International students and graduates
Engineers and healthcare professionals
Creatives and design-focused careers
Families seeking quality education and healthcare
Bottom line: With career stability, cultural depth, and high livability, Melbourne remains one of the best area in Australia to live for new migrants planning long-term settlement.
Clayton is widely regarded as one of the best area in Melbourne to live, especially for new migrants who are students or early-career professionals. Being home to Monash University, it offers excellent education, research opportunities, and a welcoming multicultural environment.
Major education and research hub
Strong demand for healthcare and research roles
Well-connected by train and road
Multicultural and migrant-friendly community
Clayton provides steady opportunities in:
Education & Research
Healthcare & Medical Services
Laboratory & Scientific Roles
Part-time jobs for students
Its proximity to universities and hospitals makes it ideal for skill development.
Clayton offers a balanced, convenient lifestyle:
Compact suburb with everything nearby
Cafés, shopping centres, and daily essentials
Safe streets and student-friendly atmosphere
Easy access to Melbourne CBD
International students and graduates
Researchers and academics
Healthcare professionals
Migrants seeking affordable Melbourne living
Bottom line: With education, job access, and affordability combined, Clayton stands out as one of the best area in Australia to live for students and young professionals settling in Melbourne.
Brisbane is quickly emerging as the best area to live in Australia for new migrants who want strong job opportunities without the high living costs of Sydney or Melbourne. With major infrastructure developments, healthcare expansion, and population growth, it stands out as a practical and future-ready best area to live in Brisbane.
Rapid economic growth and infrastructure projects
Lower rent and living costs compared to major southern cities
High demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers
Friendly, migrant-welcoming environment
Brisbane offers stable employment in:
Engineering & Construction
Trades & Technical Roles
Healthcare & Aged Care
Education & Public Services
Logistics & Transport
These opportunities make Brisbane especially attractive for migrants planning long-term settlement.
Brisbane delivers a balanced and comfortable lifestyle:
Riverfront living and scenic walkways
Outdoor-focused culture with warm weather
Family-friendly suburbs and parks
Easy access to Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast
It’s often listed among the most beautiful places to live in Australia for families and working professionals.
Tip: Suburbs like Logan, Ipswich, and Moreton Bay offer excellent value for migrants.
Engineers and construction professionals
Skilled tradespeople
Families seeking affordable city life
Migrants wanting work–life balance
Bottom line: With growing jobs, manageable costs, and a relaxed lifestyle, Brisbane is one of the best area in Australia to live for new migrants in 2026.
Logan City is a smart choice for migrants looking for the best area to live in Australia on a budget. Located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, it offers affordable housing, growing infrastructure, and easy access to major job hubs—making it a practical option for settling down.
Excellent connectivity to Brisbane CBD and Gold Coast
Rapid infrastructure and community development
Strong demand for healthcare, retail, and trades
Multicultural and migrant-friendly neighborhoods
Its balance of affordability and access makes Logan City a strong alternative to expensive metro areas.
Logan City delivers a comfortable, family-oriented lifestyle:
Quiet suburban environment
Parks, schools, and shopping centres nearby
Less congestion compared to Brisbane city
Ideal work–life balance
Logan is one of the most affordable areas in South East Queensland, especially for renters.
New migrant families
First-time renters in Australia
Workers commuting to Brisbane or Gold Coast
Those seeking value without sacrificing connectivity
Bottom line: Logan City stands out as one of the best area in Australia to live for migrants prioritizing affordability, space, and long-term stability in 2026.
The Gold Coast is widely regarded as one of the best area to live in Australia for migrants seeking a relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing job opportunities. With tourism, healthcare, construction, and education driving steady employment, it consistently ranks among the best areas to live Gold Coast for both professionals and families.
Growing job market beyond tourism
Strong demand in healthcare and construction
Excellent work-life balance
Popular with new migrants and families
Key sectors offering employment include:
Hospitality & Tourism
Healthcare & Aged Care
Construction & Trades
Education & Training
Remote and online-based work
The city is especially attractive for migrants working remotely or in lifestyle-driven careers.
The Gold Coast is one of the most beautiful places to live in Australia, offering:
World-famous beaches and coastal walks
Active, outdoor-focused lifestyle
Family-friendly suburbs and schools
Relaxed, welcoming community
Note: Costs vary by suburb—areas away from the beachfront are more affordable.
Hospitality and tourism professionals
Healthcare workers and caregivers
Families seeking lifestyle-focused living
Remote workers wanting coastal life
Bottom line: With strong job growth and a beachside lifestyle, the Gold Coast remains one of the best area in Australia to live for migrants in 2026 who value balance, affordability, and quality of life.
The Sunshine Coast is emerging as one of the best area to live in Australia for new migrants who value work–life balance. With major investments in healthcare and infrastructure, the region offers steady job growth without the pressure of big-city living.
Rapid expansion in healthcare and medical services
Regional migration benefits and PR-friendly pathways
Peaceful environment with modern amenities
Strong community feel and family-friendly suburbs
High demand roles include:
Nurses and aged-care professionals
Allied health workers
Support staff and educators
Construction and local services
Considered among the most beautiful places to live in Australia, the Sunshine Coast offers:
Clean beaches and coastal walking tracks
Access to national parks and green spaces
Slower, stress-free lifestyle
Safe neighborhoods for families
Note: Demand is increasing, so housing prices are gradually rising.
Healthcare and allied health professionals
Families seeking calm, coastal living
Migrants preferring regional advantages with quality lifestyle
Bottom line: For migrants wanting balance over hustle, the Sunshine Coast is a strong best area in Australia to live option in 2026.
Perth is widely considered one of the best area to live in Australia for migrants who want strong earnings without the high living costs of the east coast. Backed by booming mining, energy, and construction industries, Perth consistently offers high wages and stable job opportunities—making it a popular best area to live in Perth for skilled workers.
High-paying jobs in mining and resources
Strong demand for skilled migrants
Lower housing costs compared to Sydney and Melbourne
Less congestion and more space
Perth offers excellent prospects in:
Mining & Resources
Energy & Engineering
Construction & Infrastructure
Trades & Technical Roles
FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) positions
These sectors allow migrants to save more while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.
Perth combines city convenience with nature:
Long, uncrowded beaches
Spacious suburban homes
Relaxed, family-friendly environment
Clean air and outdoor-focused living
It’s also counted among the more beautiful places to live in Australia for those who enjoy space and coastal living.
Engineers and technical professionals
Tradespeople and construction workers
FIFO workers seeking high income
Families wanting space and affordability
Bottom line: With high salaries, affordable housing, and a relaxed pace of life, Perth stands out as one of the best area in Australia to live for new migrants in 2026.
Joondalup is one of the most popular northern suburbs of Perth and is often seen as a smart choice when looking for the best area to live in Australia for families and healthcare professionals. With excellent infrastructure, coastal surroundings, and strong employment options, it offers a balanced and comfortable lifestyle.
Home to the major Joondalup Health Campus
Well-regarded public and private schools
Strong public transport links to Perth CBD
Safe, clean, and well-planned suburb
Joondalup provides stable employment in:
Healthcare & Medical Services
Education & Training
Retail & Local Services
Its proximity to Perth also allows easy access to city-based jobs.
Joondalup delivers relaxed coastal living:
Close to beautiful beaches
Family-friendly parks and community spaces
Shopping centres, cafés, and local amenities
Quiet suburban environment with modern facilities
Families seeking space and safety
Healthcare workers and medical professionals
Migrants wanting coastal living without city chaos
Bottom line: Joondalup offers excellent value, making it one of the best area in Australia to live for migrants who want affordability, healthcare jobs, and a calm coastal lifestyle.
11. Adelaide, SA
Adelaide is widely regarded as one of the best area to live in Australia for new migrants who want affordability, stability, and smoother PR pathways. As a designated regional city, it offers migration benefits along with a relaxed lifestyle, making it a smart long-term choice.
Lower cost of living than major capitals
Regional migration incentives for PR
Strong education and healthcare sectors
Less competition and balanced work–life culture
Adelaide has growing demand in:
Information Technology
Healthcare & Aged Care
Education & Research
Engineering & Manufacturing
This makes it a strong best area in Australia to live for skilled migrants and international students.
Adelaide is counted among the most beautiful places to live in Australia:
Famous wine regions like Barossa Valley
Clean beaches and coastal suburbs
Year-round cultural festivals
Calm, family-friendly environment
Students and fresh graduates
Healthcare and IT professionals
Migrants aiming for PR through regional pathways
Families seeking peaceful and affordable living
Bottom line: With low living costs, PR advantages, and high quality of life, Adelaide clearly stands out as one of the best area to live in Australia for new migrants in 2026.
Mount Barker is emerging as one of the best area to live in Australia for migrants who prefer regional living with long-term benefits. Located in the Adelaide Hills, it combines steady development, affordable housing, and strong regional migration incentives—making it a smart option for PR-focused migrants.
Recognised regional area with PR advantages
Rapid residential and infrastructure growth
Easy access to Adelaide city
Peaceful and safe environment
Mount Barker offers a calm, balanced lifestyle and is among the beautiful places to live in Australia for families:
Green surroundings and open spaces
Family-friendly neighborhoods
Strong local community vibe
Less congestion and pollution
Families seeking space and safety
Skilled migrants targeting regional PR pathways
Those who prefer quiet living over city rush
Bottom line: Mount Barker stands out as one of the best regional areas to live in Australia, offering affordability, lifestyle comfort, and strong migration advantages in 2026.
Hobart is emerging as one of the best area to live in Australia for new migrants seeking affordability, lifestyle, and regional migration benefits. As Tasmania’s capital, it offers steady job demand, a close-knit community, and a slower pace of life—making it a strong best area to live in Tasmania in 2026.
Lower cost of living than mainland capitals
Regional migration and PR advantages
Growing demand for skilled workers
Safe, welcoming, and migrant-friendly city
Hobart offers consistent opportunities in:
Healthcare & Aged Care
Hospitality & Tourism
Education & Teaching
Government & Community Services
These sectors make Hobart especially attractive for new migrants looking for stability and work–life balance.
Hobart is among the most beautiful places to live in Australia, known for:
Stunning waterfront and mountain views
Peaceful, clean environment
Rich arts, food, and cultural scene
Short commute times and relaxed living
Tip: Hobart allows migrants to save more while enjoying high quality of life.
Healthcare professionals and educators
Hospitality and tourism workers
Migrants targeting regional PR pathways
Families and individuals preferring calm living
Bottom line: With affordability, natural beauty, and regional benefits, Hobart clearly stands out as one of the best area in Australia to live for new migrants in 2026.
Launceston is a strong choice for migrants looking for a quieter lifestyle with regional migration benefits, making it one of the best regional areas to live in Australia. As Tasmania’s second-largest city, it offers steady job demand, low living costs, and supportive pathways for long-term settlement.
Regional migration incentives and PR-friendly options
Growing demand for skilled workers
Less competition for jobs compared to major cities
Safe, close-knit community atmosphere
Launceston has consistent demand in:
Trades and construction
Aged care and healthcare services
Hospitality and tourism
Education and community services
These sectors make it ideal for migrants seeking stability and work-life balance.
Launceston offers a calm and nature-rich lifestyle:
Scenic riverside views and parks
Short commute times
Clean air and low congestion
Family-friendly neighborhoods
It’s often preferred by those moving away from busy metro cities.
Skilled tradespeople
Aged care and healthcare workers
Families seeking affordable housing
Migrants prioritizing PR pathways and peaceful living
Bottom line: With affordability, regional benefits, and steady job demand, Launceston stands out as a smart and practical option for new migrants planning to settle in Australia in 2026.
Canberra is a strong choice for migrants seeking stability, safety, and long-term settlement. As Australia’s capital city, it offers high average incomes, low unemployment, and excellent public services, making it one of the best area to live in Australia for professionals and families.
Strong and stable job market
High salaries compared to living costs
Low crime rate and clean environment
Excellent schools and healthcare
Canberra has consistent demand in:
Information Technology
Government & Public Service
Policy, Research & Administration
Cybersecurity & Data Roles
These sectors provide long-term job security, especially for skilled migrants.
Canberra offers a calm and organized lifestyle:
Well-planned city with wide roads
Green spaces, parks, and cycling tracks
Family-friendly suburbs
Less congestion compared to major cities
IT and cybersecurity professionals
Government and policy professionals
Families looking for safety and education
Migrants seeking work-life balance
Bottom line: With strong job security and a peaceful lifestyle, Canberra stands out as one of the best area in Australia to live for new migrants in 2026.
Darwin is an excellent option for migrants looking for the best area to live in Australia with strong regional advantages. As the capital of the Northern Territory, it offers consistent demand for skilled workers and attractive migration incentives, making settlement and PR pathways smoother compared to major cities.
High demand for skilled migrants
Regional migration benefits and incentives
Faster PR pathways under regional visas
Less competition in the job market
Darwin has strong demand in:
Healthcare & Aged Care
Construction & Infrastructure
Trades (electricians, plumbers, mechanics)
Government & Defence-related roles
This makes Darwin one of the best regional areas to live in Australia for skilled professionals.
Darwin offers a unique lifestyle among beautiful places to live in Australia:
Tropical climate and outdoor living
Multicultural community and relaxed vibe
Markets, festivals, and waterfront living
Close access to nature and national parks
Tip: Higher utility costs are balanced by lower rent and shorter commute times.
Migrants seeking regional PR advantages
Healthcare workers and tradespeople
Those who enjoy warm weather and relaxed living
Bottom line: With strong job demand, migration benefits, and a laid-back tropical lifestyle, Darwin stands out as a smart best area in Australia to live as a choice for new migrants in 2026.
Cairns is an attractive choice for new migrants looking beyond big cities and is often considered the best area to live in Australia for those seeking regional advantages. With strong demand in tourism and healthcare, along with regional migration incentives, many newcomers see it as the best area to live in Cairns for combining lifestyle with long-term PR opportunities.
Recognised regional area with migration benefits
Regular job openings in tourism and healthcare
Slower pace of life with lower competition
Supportive, close-knit community
Key employment sectors in Cairns include:
Tourism & Hospitality
Healthcare & Aged Care
Education & Community Services
Retail and Local Services
These industries make Cairns suitable for migrants aiming for steady employment in regional Australia.
Cairns is among the most beautiful places to live in Australia, offering:
Tropical climate all year
Easy access to rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef
Outdoor-focused, relaxed lifestyle
Short commute times and less traffic
Affordable housing is a major advantage compared to capital cities.
Migrants targeting regional PR pathways
Professionals in hospitality and healthcare
Those who prefer warm weather and relaxed living
Bottom line: Cairns stands out as one of the best area in Australia to live for migrants in 2026 who want regional benefits, affordable living, and a tropical lifestyle.
Townsville is a rising choice for new migrants looking for the best area to live in Australia with lower living costs and stable employment. Backed by defence bases, healthcare expansion, and major infrastructure projects, it offers reliable job opportunities without the pressure of big-city expenses.
Consistent demand for skilled workers
Strong government and defence presence
Regional migration benefits
Relaxed, community-focused environment
Townsville performs well in:
Healthcare & Nursing
Defence & Government Services
Engineering & Construction
Skilled Trades
This makes it one of the best regional areas to live in Australia for practical, long-term settlement.
Townsville offers a calm coastal lifestyle:
Beachfront living along The Strand
Family-friendly suburbs
Warm climate year-round
Less traffic and stress
Tradespeople and engineers
Nurses and healthcare workers
Families seeking affordability
Migrants aiming for regional PR pathways
Bottom line: With low rents, steady jobs, and regional advantages, Townsville stands out as a smart and affordable option for migrants in 2026.
Newcastle is emerging as one of the best area to live in Australia for new migrants who want a relaxed coastal lifestyle without the high cost of Sydney. Located just a few hours from Sydney, it offers strong employment opportunities along with a slower, more affordable way of life.
Well-known university and education hub
Growing demand in healthcare, construction, and education
Coastal city lifestyle at lower living costs
Easy access to Sydney for work or travel
Newcastle has steady demand in:
Healthcare & Aged Care
Education & Research
Construction & Infrastructure
Engineering & Trades
These factors make it attractive for migrants seeking stability and regional advantages.
Newcastle is among the most beautiful places to live in Australia, offering:
Clean beaches and coastal walks
Café culture and local arts scene
Family-friendly suburbs and safe communities
Balanced work-life environment
International students and graduates
Healthcare professionals and teachers
Families seeking coastal living
Migrants wanting regional benefits near Sydney
Bottom line: Newcastle combines job security, affordability, and lifestyle—making it a strong best area in Australia to live choice for migrants in 2026.
Wollongong is a smart choice for new migrants looking for the best area to live in Australia without Sydney’s high costs. Located just south of Sydney, it offers a coastal lifestyle along with regional migration advantages, making it attractive for both settlement and PR pathways.
Close to Sydney for jobs and commuting
Eligible for regional migration benefits
Strong education and healthcare sectors
Growing employment opportunities
Wollongong is home to major employers and institutions, including the University of Wollongong, creating demand in:
Education & Research
Healthcare & Aged Care
Construction & Engineering
Retail and Services
Wollongong is known for being one of the more beautiful places to live in Australia:
Scenic sea cliffs and beaches
Relaxed, low-stress pace of life
Family-friendly neighborhoods
Clean air and open spaces
Students and university staff
Families seeking coastal, peaceful living
Professionals who commute to Sydney
Migrants targeting regional PR benefits
Bottom line: Wollongong combines affordability, lifestyle, and migration advantages—making it one of the best area in Australia to live for new migrants in 2026.
Sydney and Melbourne are ideal for jobs and career growth, while Adelaide, Hobart, and regional Queensland are better for affordability and PR opportunities.
Adelaide, Launceston, and Townsville are among the most affordable cities with low rent and everyday living costs.
Brisbane City is best for jobs and lifestyle, while Logan City is popular for affordable housing and family living.
Tasmania, regional South Australia, Northern Territory, and regional Queensland offer strong migration incentives and PR pathways.
Yes, Perth offers high salaries, affordable housing, and strong demand in mining, construction, and healthcare, making it a top choice.
Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Hobart, Wollongong, and Cairns are considered some of the most beautiful places with great lifestyle benefits.
Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Wollongong are popular due to universities, part-time jobs, and student-friendly suburbs.
Suburbs like Clayton, Footscray, Sunshine, and Werribee are well-connected, multicultural, and relatively affordable.
Yes, regional areas often offer lower living costs, less competition for jobs, and faster PR options compared to major cities.
Migrants should consider job opportunities, cost of living, lifestyle preferences, family needs, and long-term PR goals before choosing a location.
There’s no single answer to the best area to live in Australia—the right choice depends on your career, budget, and PR goals. Big cities deliver opportunity; regional hubs deliver affordability and faster settlement. Many migrants start in a best place to live in Australia regionally, then transition to metros once established.
