In this guide, we will explore the 20 best suburbs to stay in Adelaide and why they stand out as the top suburbs in Adelaide for both locals and newcomers.
Top 20 Suburbs in Adelaide To Live
Adelaide, the charming capital of South Australia, is one of the most livable cities in the world. Known for its balance of affordability, lifestyle, and natural beauty, the city offers a mix of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or family looking to settle, knowing the best suburbs in Adelaide is key to finding your perfect community. From beachside neighborhoods to cultural hubs, Adelaide has a suburb for everyone.
If you’re dreaming of a beachside lifestyle, Glenelg is the Adelaide best beach suburb to live in. Famous for its golden sands, sunset views, and buzzing Jetty Road full of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, Glenelg blends relaxation with excitement. Families enjoy safe swimming spots and playgrounds, while students love the lively nightlife and affordable share housing near the beach. Plus, the direct tram connection to the CBD makes it perfect for easy commuting. Housing ranges from modern apartments with ocean views to charming heritage homes, giving you plenty of options to suit your lifestyle.
Norwood is one of the popular suburbs in Adelaide, buzzing with creativity, culture, and community spirit. Just minutes from the CBD, it’s a favorite for students who enjoy trendy cafés and nightlife, while families love its leafy streets and excellent schools. Norwood offers a mix of heritage homes and modern apartments, giving it a unique charm. Its lively Parade shopping strip, regular festivals, and proximity to the city make it one of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide.
Unley consistently ranks among the Adelaide best suburbs for families. Known for its leafy streets, large homes, and excellent schools, it’s a suburb that perfectly balances convenience and tranquility. The area also has vibrant shopping precincts, parks, and a strong community spirit. Families enjoy its safe environment, while professionals appreciate the quick commute to the city.
Henley Beach is one of the Adelaide top suburbs where seaside calm meets modern convenience. With a stunning foreshore lined with trendy cafés, bars, and restaurants, it’s a favorite for families who enjoy a relaxed coastal vibe as well as students seeking a lively yet laid-back environment. The wide sandy beach is ideal for evening walks, swimming, and weekend picnics. Housing here ranges from stylish beachfront apartments to luxury family homes, making it a versatile choice for different lifestyles.
Prospect is one of the best places to live in Adelaide for those who want a stylish, modern lifestyle close to the CBD. Known for its vibrant café scene, weekend markets, and multicultural dining options, Prospect has become a hotspot for young professionals and students seeking both convenience and culture. Families are equally drawn to the area thanks to its leafy parks, excellent schools, and strong community vibe. With ongoing development and upgrades to local amenities, Prospect is truly one of the Adelaide top suburbs on the rise.
Semaphore is one of the Adelaide best beach suburbs for those who prefer a slower, more laid-back lifestyle compared to the buzz of Glenelg. With its wide, sandy beaches, quirky shops, and heritage charm, Semaphore offers a coastal community vibe at a more affordable price point. Families enjoy the spacious playgrounds, safe swimming spots, and community events, while students are drawn to its casual atmosphere, vintage stores, and affordable rentals. It’s the perfect suburb for those who want the beach lifestyle without the crowds.
Burnside is one of the best suburbs in Adelaide if you’re after elegance, space, and a serene lifestyle. Known for its leafy streets, grand homes, and quiet atmosphere, it’s especially popular with established families who value prestige. The suburb is home to Burnside Village, a boutique shopping hub, and several of Adelaide’s top-rated schools, making it a great choice for raising children. With its combination of luxury and convenience, Burnside easily ranks among the Adelaide best suburbs for families.
Mawson Lakes is widely known as one of the best suburbs to live in Adelaide for students, thanks to being home to the University of South Australia campus. It offers a modern lifestyle at an affordable price, with plenty of share houses, apartments, and townhouses to choose from. The suburb is also well-connected with trains and buses that make commuting to the CBD quick and easy.
Beyond student life, families appreciate the welcoming community, green spaces, and walking trails around the picturesque lakes. With shops, cafes, gyms, and recreational facilities nearby, Mawson Lakes combines convenience, affordability, and a lively atmosphere.
Brighton is one of the top suburbs in Adelaide for families who want a peaceful beach lifestyle without the hustle of Glenelg. Known for its wide sandy beaches, safe swimming areas, and scenic coastal walks, Brighton offers a perfect mix of relaxation and convenience. Families appreciate the excellent local schools, parks, and shopping facilities, while students and young professionals enjoy the friendly community vibe and easy access to the city. With a variety of housing options from beachfront homes to modern apartments, Brighton makes seaside living comfortable and accessible.
Goodwood is ideal for those seeking a suburban feel close to the CBD, making it one of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide for young families and professionals. Known for its tree-lined streets, vibrant local markets, and friendly community vibe, Goodwood offers the perfect balance of city convenience and peaceful living. Residents enjoy easy access to cafes, boutique shops, and public transport, while families appreciate nearby parks and quality schools.
Nestled in the picturesque Adelaide Hills, Stirling is one of the best places to live in Adelaide for families who love peace, greenery, and a slower pace of life. Known for its cool climate, leafy streets, and charming artisan shops, Stirling offers a perfect blend of nature and convenience. Families appreciate the excellent schools, community events, and nearby parks, while those who enjoy weekend drives or nature walks will love the surrounding hills and trails. Its unique hillside charm makes Stirling a serene retreat not far from the city, ideal for those looking to escape the urban rush without sacrificing accessibility.
Walkerville is one of the Adelaide top suburbs known for its elegance, leafy streets, and family-friendly atmosphere. Popular among affluent families and professionals, this suburb offers prestigious schools, spacious homes, and boutique shopping. Its close proximity to the CBD ensures a quick commute, making it ideal for those who want suburban peace without sacrificing city convenience. Walkerville combines refined living with a strong community feel, making it one of the best suburbs in Adelaide for families seeking comfort and style.
West Beach is a hidden gem among Adelaide best suburbs to live, offering a relaxed coastal lifestyle without the high price tag of Henley or Glenelg. Its wide sandy beaches, calm waters, and family-friendly parks make it perfect for kids, while students and young professionals appreciate the affordable housing options and easy access to the city. West Beach balances lifestyle and budget, making it one of the best suburbs in Adelaide for those seeking seaside living without overspending.
Mitcham is one of the Adelaide best suburbs for families, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. Its tree-lined streets, leafy parks, and strong community vibe make it ideal for families looking for a safe and welcoming neighborhood. The suburb is known for its high-quality schools and a mix of heritage homes alongside modern properties, giving residents a variety of housing options. Mitcham combines tranquility with accessibility, making it one of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide for those who value both lifestyle and comfort.
North Adelaide is one of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide for those seeking a mix of luxury, convenience, and charm. Just a stone’s throw from the CBD, this suburb is known for its elegant heritage homes, leafy streets, and boutique shopping. Food lovers will enjoy its renowned restaurants and cafés, while families appreciate the excellent schools and parks. North Adelaide offers the perfect balance of city accessibility and peaceful suburban living, making it a top choice for professionals, families, and anyone looking for premium lifestyle amenities.
Port Adelaide is an up-and-coming suburb that perfectly blends history, culture, and affordability. Known for its vibrant arts scene, waterfront attractions, and heritage architecture, it’s one of the popular suburbs in Adelaide for students and young professionals looking for great value. The suburb offers a mix of modern apartments and affordable family homes, making it an attractive choice for those wanting to experience city life without breaking the bank. Its proximity to the CBD, public transport options, and growing café and creative hubs add to its appeal, making it a suburb on the rise.
Kensington is one of the best places to live in Adelaide, known for its leafy streets, historic cottages, and relaxed suburban charm. It’s perfect for families who want a safe, community-focused neighborhood while staying close to schools, parks, and local shopping strips. Students and young professionals also enjoy the easy access to the city and quiet, picturesque surroundings.
Nestled in the scenic Adelaide Hills, Hahndorf is a charming suburb with a distinctive German heritage vibe. Known for its cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and historic buildings, it’s one of the best suburbs in Adelaide for families who want a peaceful, rural lifestyle without sacrificing culture and community. The area is perfect for those who enjoy local wineries, farmers’ markets, and scenic walking trails. Schools are nearby, and the strong sense of community makes it ideal for settling down.
Blackwood is one of the Adelaide best suburbs to live, especially for families who enjoy a lifestyle close to nature. Nestled near lush reserves and scenic walking trails, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city hustle while still providing easy access to quality schools, shopping centers, and everyday amenities. Its leafy streets and community vibe make it a favorite for those seeking balance between suburban tranquility and convenience.
Tea Tree Gully is one of the top suburbs in Adelaide for families and anyone seeking a peaceful suburban lifestyle. Known for its spacious homes, wide streets, and excellent schools, it combines comfort, safety, and community spirit. Residents enjoy local parks, shopping centers, and recreational facilities, making it perfect for both families and students who prefer a quieter environment without being too far from the city. Its affordability and family-friendly amenities make Tea Tree Gully one of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide for long-term living.
The best suburbs in Adelaide strike the perfect balance between affordability, lifestyle, and accessibility. From Adelaide best beach suburbs like Glenelg and Brighton to leafy family havens like Burnside and Unley, each suburb offers a unique living experience.
If you’re an international student or planning to move for work, consider connecting with a migration consultant in Australia to understand your settlement options. Many of these suburbs are also ranked among the best places for expats to live, making Adelaide not just a student-friendly city but one of the best places to live in Australia overall.
Unley, Burnside, and Mitcham are often considered the Adelaide best suburbs for families thanks to their schools, parks, and community feel.
Q2. Which Adelaide best beach suburbs are good for students?
Glenelg, Henley Beach, and Semaphore are excellent for students seeking both lifestyle and convenience.
Q3. Are there affordable suburbs in Adelaide for students?
Yes, Mawson Lakes, Port Adelaide, and West Beach are some of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide for affordability.
Q4. Which are the most popular suburbs in Adelaide right now?
Glenelg, Norwood, Prospect, and Brighton are some of the popular suburbs in Adelaide with strong demand.
Q5. What are the best places to live in Adelaide near the city?
Goodwood, North Adelaide, and Norwood are the best suburbs in Adelaide close to the CBD.
