Adelaide

Living in Adelaide

Adelaide CityAdelaide is the capital of South Australia and is Australia’s fifth largest city. It has a population of around 1.29 million people and is situated on the south coast of Australia about 600 km north west of Melbourne. It has a reputation for being calm and relaxed with a feel more like a big town than a city.Adelaide Location

It ranks very well according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2014 Liveability Survey, being placed as the fifth most liveable city in the world; impressive. It’s a lofty position which leaves many who live there bewildered, as some of the comments below will illustrate.

The city centre is divided into North Adelaide and Adelaide by the narrow Torrens River. Then both of these central areas are completely surrounded by green park lands which separate the centre from the suburbs. The city is small and compact and easy to navigate being laid out in a grid like fashion. The heart of the city is Victoria Square.

Adelaide claims to be the “20 minutes city”, meaning you can get anywhere within 20 minutes by car. That’s probably a slight exaggeration, but it is an easy city to get around and there is little by the way of traffic jams.

Adelaide and the surrounding areas are a beach goer’s paradise. The city itself sits on the east of the Gulf St. Vincent and is just 10 km away from those sandy shores. West Beach, Henley Beach, Glenelg Beach and Semaphore Beach are all close by and may well be some of the best metropolitan beaches in Australia.

For even more beach options, jump into the car and head north for about an hour and a half. You can then begin to explore over 700 km of beaches on the York Peninsula. Take your pick, there’s plenty to choose from. If you want to drive your car on a beach, go to North Beach at Wallaroo.

If that’s not enough for you, take a trip out to Kangaroo Island, just a short ferry trip about an hour and a half’s drive south from the city. Enjoy the natural wildlife of the island, kangaroos, penguins, koalas, wallabies, goannas and a lot more.

Oh, and Adelaide is also internationally recognised for its winemaking at vineyards such as those at the Barossa Valley and Coonawarra regions.

Sounds nice doesn’t it?

What’s the weather like?

Adelaide Annual Weather ChartAdelaide’s climate has been described as “Mediterranean” and summers can be extremely hot but what is most notable of all, is how dry it is. It’ll play havoc with your skin.

Summers are really sunny but winter is not so good, being quite cold and dull with a fair bit of rain.

The heat and the dryness do, of course, indicate the dangers of bushfires. Other severe weather would include thunderstorms and gales.

Here’s a map of Adelaide with the location of each of those areas:

Adelaide MapAdelaide can be broken down into five main areas:

Questions about Adelaide?

If you have any question about living in Adelaide, please please feel free to ask them in the comments below. Or if you know this city well, why not tell us what you think of it or maybe even help out by answering some of the questions people have about the area. I’m sure anybody thinking of moving here would be very grateful for any help you can give them.

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{ 1095 comments… add one }
  • Crust October 4, 2021, 8:15 pm |

    Adelaide is nothing like a 20 minute City anymore, more like quadruple that time. Quite a number of traffic jams too.
    Try driving anywhere in peak hour !

    • BobinOz October 5, 2021, 6:42 pm |

      Well that doesn’t surprise me, it would have been around 12 years ago when I wrote the contents on this page. So it looks like those good old days of very little traffic are behind you down in Adelaide. I suspect it was good while it lasted…

  • Ryan December 22, 2020, 2:58 am |

    Hi,

    Im 27 and potentially moving to adelaide on a secondment for work for upto 5 years. What are the best places to rent and get to Port Osborne and also get about the city? Id obviously like good pubs restaurants and night life and im still young professional and would like to experience adelaide? I’ve heard that adelaide is can be quiet slow? Is this a good move for a young person?

    • BobinOz December 23, 2020, 8:32 pm |

      I am afraid I’d have to leave this one to the locals to help you out, my knowledge of Adelaide isn’t great. Hopefully someone will see your comment and advise you, failing that though, it might be worth you skimming through the comments already made here to see what people have been saying about the various suburbs around Adelaide.

    • Danelle February 23, 2021, 9:09 pm |

      Hi Ryan, Adelaide is all about it’s surrounds not so much the city compared to Melbourne and Sydney. I’ve lived in Sydney and much prefer Adelaide! If you’re working near port Adelaide / Osborne any of the coast line would be prefect, from Semaphore down to Glenelg, Semaphore is a laid back community of locals and diverse cultures, grange and Henley are the beaches to been seen at and Glenelg is the busiest. We chose semaphore because we can jump on the expressway and be in the Barossa or explore the Yorke peninsula within and hour. All the best

  • Sameer Roopawalla (Sam) April 30, 2020, 3:04 pm |

    Hi Bob and everyone out here,
    Firstly, thanks Bob. Your blog played an instrumental part in my migration to Australia. I have been in Adelaide for 3 years now and we are having a wonderful time. If anyone needs any advice about Adelaide or a nudge in the right direction, I will be happy to help (or at-least will try to). See you down under 🙂

    • BobinOz May 1, 2020, 5:37 pm |

      Well, I know it’s a bit late now, but welcome to Australia 🙂 And thanks for the kind words, glad to hear my website helped in some way.

      Also, thanks for your offer to help people with advice about Adelaide, that will be useful and I’m sure some will take you up on the offer.

      Enjoy Adelaide, Bob

    • V June 22, 2020, 9:44 pm |

      Hi
      So glad you are enjoying being in Adelaide 🙂
      What areas near to Glenelg would you suggest to move to with a 12 year old?
      (or any other areas)
      Thank you

      • Sameer Roopawalla June 23, 2020, 12:11 am |

        Good question. Glenelg by itself is a premium suburb but If you are looking to be close to it, close to public transport and still maintain that element of style, I would suggest – Morphettville, Camden and Plympton. These are all close to the tram line and have good access to the city. If you are renting and are ok with a smaller place to live in, consider living in the city fringe. There is ample quick transport to get you to Glenelg whenever you want minus the price tag.

  • Joe July 29, 2019, 4:28 pm |

    Hey All,

    I am a 28 year old looking at studying at Uni SA in 2020. I am just wondering where are some areas to live in Adelaide that are not too far from the city but reasonably priced in a share house with easy access to city centre? I have never been to Adelaide.

    Appreciate your help. Thanks.

    • BobinOz July 30, 2019, 7:18 pm |

      I’m pretty sure this specific question has been asked a few times in these comments, I know it’s a bit of a pain, but if you can manage to skim read through them I’m sure you will come across them.

      Probably also worth asking someone at the University directly, they should know where most of the students tend to head to find cheap shared housing close to campus.

    • Christie August 25, 2019, 9:13 pm |

      What Campus will you be on? If it’s Mawson Lakes, you can start looking there. Lots of share houses and other students.

    • Ian Vallely August 26, 2019, 12:45 am |

      Hi Joe, I’ve only recently returned to Adelaide after an extended time away in the UK. I’m pleased to say Adelaide has changed and for the better. In my view it’s fast becoming a university town together with a large contingent of public service employer.
      If you can’t find a place in the city. Then try the areas on the fringe like Norwood, North Adelaide, Bowden, Prospect or Parkside. Mawson Lakes is a good campus with good rail and bus links but about 15kms from the city. Good luck

  • Roslyn July 29, 2019, 2:12 am |

    I am retired and want to live in a quiet residential suburb close enough to Adelaide by public transport. I am familiar with Glenelg and Hahndorf. Can you recommend a lovely area. I want a detached, single storey property with garage and no renovations needed! Thank you

    • BobinOz July 30, 2019, 7:12 pm |

      Well, I can’t make any suggestions, I just don’t know Adelaide well enough. There’s plenty of chat here in these comments about the various suburbs with lots of recommendations, it may well be worth you having a look through.

      Other than that, hopefully someone will see your comment and give you an answer more relevant to you.

    • Reply to Roslyn August 12, 2019, 7:05 pm |

      Try areas in the foothills- Blackwood is lovely or Blackforest on the flat .

      • Roslyn August 12, 2019, 8:16 pm |

        Thank you for the reply and suggestion, I shall indeed explore these areas.

  • Jacqui July 16, 2019, 12:44 am |

    Hi, My boyfriend and I will be moving to Adelaide in September from Canada for 1 year. This will be our first time in Australia and living abroad so any help is really appreciated. We are trying to figure out the best neighbourhood for us to rent an apartment in. We are thinking we either want to be as close to the beach as possible OR closer to the city and around some good food and coffee shops. We will be working right in the middle of the city (I think you call it CBD?) are in our 30s and looking for a bit of relaxation from the city life. Any recommendations or even some tips on living in Adelaide would be really helpful for these two clueless Canadians. Thanks in Advance

    • Jess July 17, 2019, 9:50 pm |

      Glenelg or Brighton – on tram and Train and easily get to city. Or North Adelaide if you want CPD.

      • Jacqueline Derteano July 20, 2019, 10:20 pm |

        Thank you Jess, I will look into these neighbourhoods!

    • Ian V August 26, 2019, 12:52 am |

      I can’t recommend PT Adelaide enough. Close to the sea with historic architecture, cool pubs bars and restaurants. Away from the main streets, it’s quiet and serene. Good train and bus links. About 20-25 mins to the city centre. Ideal for bike rides along the beach and port river.

  • Beth Shu July 3, 2019, 11:32 am |

    Have you or anyone reading this blog ever lived in Morphett Vale, SA? My husband will be working in the Adelaide CBD, but we found it pretty affordable to live a bit further out of the city. What’s Morphett Vale’s reputation like? Thank you so much!

    • Gareth July 3, 2019, 12:48 pm |

      I went to school there. It borders on Hackham West which is NOT a location you would want to bring up kids. Morphett Vale itself has OK spots and not so OK spots. Its located conveniently for bus routes and Colonnades is just down the road for major shopping, and South Road has loads of shopping along it as it is the “BIGGEST” and longest road in South Australia, making it a major traffic route for heavy and commercial vehicles as well as thousands of passenger vehicles. There are a number of public government schools in the area, obviously, and as I didn’t turn out too bad I can recommend Wirreanda High. My suggestion would be if you are planning to commute to the city, find somewhere on the train line down Seaford way, new houses, cheaper and closer to the beach, or Port Noarlunga/Christies Beach.

      • Beth Shu July 3, 2019, 4:47 pm |

        Gareth, Thank you so much for your advice. I really appreciate your response. Yes, we do have two kids 12 and 6 and schools are our priority. My husband is from Melbourne, so we are pretty much clueless about Adelaide. I thought that the areas we need to avoid are in the North of CBD like Elizabeth and Salisbury, but now I know that we need to be aware of some areas South is Adelaide CBD as well.

        We will check out the areas you mention. What do you think of Edwardstown, Findon or Kensington Park? Are they family friendly and easy to commute to CBD? What do you think about living right in the CBD where my husband can walk to work and we only need one car? We did find some townhouses near CBD in our price range. Thank you.

        • Gareth July 4, 2019, 5:23 pm |

          Hi Beth, Adelaide is nothing like Melbourne in its pace and busyness, living there wouldn’t be too bad. Not my cup of tea, I liked living in the hills away from the heat, cars, pollution and people. Inner suburbs are fine though you will find Kilkenny, Nailsworth, Devonpark, Kilburn an avenue of an area I wouldn’t live. Findon is fine, older houses older people generally. Edwardstown you’ll experience traffic snarls most of the time and Kensington Park would be the best of the three options, with the exception of the week when Clipsal is on. North and SOuth are no better nor worse than each other, go beyond the bad pockets north and you get the Barossa, and go south beyond Morphett Vale and you get to the beautiful southern vales.

          • Beth Shu July 4, 2019, 10:15 pm |

            Hi Garett, You’re so right! CBD living is probably not ideal for us. We want our kids to enjoy fresh air and space Adelaide suburbs have to offer. We’ll definitely check out the areas you mentioned. We’re getting excited about the move and look forward to a more peaceful pace of life in Adelaide!

            • Beth Shu July 4, 2019, 10:17 pm |

              Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to my questions. Your advice is so valuable and we really appreciate it!!

  • Ajay May 9, 2019, 2:54 pm |

    Hi,
    I am migrating to Adelaide in coming few months; I am not sure how will be weather condition at that time and where should Iive in Adelaide. I am working in IT profession and I think most jobs is available near CBD, can you please show some light and guide me on this.

    • Gareth May 9, 2019, 5:12 pm |

      Adelaide and metro are a sprawling area, there may be jobs in the city, but to the south and north jobs will be found in the industrial estates. My recommendation would be to find a job first, decide where to live and then arrive, otherwise when you arrive you could be without work for some time.

      • Ajay June 4, 2019, 1:40 pm |

        Hi Gareth,

        Thank you for your reply, yes! I am trying to search jobs but many recruiter are advised me to come here in Australia to find Jobs, they are not entertaining for Skype interview. Also I am bit confuse about migration, should I come alone first and get settle and then call my wife after few months, or going together as my wife also working and she is in mechanical industry. I can see job openings for my job skills but not sure about her industry

        • Gareth June 4, 2019, 3:12 pm |

          My unofficial answer to that would be for you to come first and get established before bringing your wife over. It’s an expensive place to live after living where you are, and finding cheap accommodation and lifestyle, unless you have an established network there will be a shock to your system. If you come at least maybe you can get some one room accommodation and save some money to begin with, work out if you can get a job, find out where you would like to live etc.

          That’s just my thoughts anyway. What VISA are you both migrating over on?

          • Ajay August 26, 2019, 5:45 pm |

            I am coming on 489 SA visa, I’ve decided to land in first week of Jan,2020. I hope its summer time and will get job openings too.

    • Savia July 30, 2019, 4:12 pm |

      Hi Ajay, Have you made your move? I’m awaiting a PR visa to SA. Wanted to know which place you’ve chosen to settle into in Adelaide. I have two kids under 10 with me at the moment and a safe residential area would be our primary necessity. Any sort of advice, suggestions, tips would help.

      • Ajay August 26, 2019, 5:46 pm |

        Hi,
        I am not sure about places, but guess any area near CBD is good to stay. I am flying in Jan 2020, when are you moving?

  • anahi April 3, 2019, 12:09 pm |

    Hi Bob! im choosing between 2 places to study, Adelaide or Hobart. I dont have anyone to ask and im going but myself from overseas. Which one would you choose?
    🙂

    • Gareth April 3, 2019, 1:42 pm |

      Hi Anahi, do you like hot weather and cold weather, or moderate weather and cold weather? Do you like busy congested streets or easy to navigate all day streets. Rental is cheaper in SA than Hobart, but Hobart is easier to get around if you live further out and have a car. I moved from Adelaide to Hobart 18 months ago, great place to live, but work opportunities are harder to come by.

      • BobinOz April 3, 2019, 8:53 pm |

        With Gareth helping you out here, who I know lived in Adelaide for many years and now lives in Hobart, my opinion is pretty irrelevant Anahi, Gareth is the man to listen to.

        That said, I will say something, but I’m also asking you Gareth if you can comment on it. I was thinking that Adelaide is probably more suited if you’re a young student looking to enjoy a bit of nightlife now and then? From what I have heard, Hobart has some fantastic restaurants and entertainment, but it’s probably mostly aimed towards the older generation because of the demographic of that area.

        Maybe I’m talking rubbish, what do you think Gareth?

        Funnily enough, I’ll be in Hobart in just over a week’s time, me and my family having 10 days in Tassie. Really looking forward to it.

        • Gareth April 4, 2019, 8:47 am |

          Hi Bob, actually the restaurant scene and pubs/hotels are all geared towards tourism where the real money is. Salamanca and Battery Point really are lively on weekends, and still healthy through the week days, where as Adelaide, City Of Churches dies off until weekends. Tasmania hosts over 1.2 million people a year in tourism, outweighing the general population significantly, so thats where the economy is targeted. Its a cleaner, safer environment down here, mainly because of the scale of things. My theory is if there are 10 fools in a crowd of 100, and you’re in a city of 1.3 million, you will find less fools in a city with a population of 250,000, if you get my drift. Also we have far more short festivals, markets and events than Adelaide, so theres lots to do, even in winter when Adelaidians become allergic to rain and wind, where as down here its the norm. It really comes down to climate, atmosphere, what you are planning on studying, accommodation and jobs. If you can work out what your pros and cons are, go with the one that makes you happy.

          Bob, look me up when you’re down here, I’ll give you more facts to be able to write about next time the question comes up.

          • BobinOz April 4, 2019, 9:34 pm |

            Interesting. I was guessing a bit with my theories, so it’s good to hear from someone who actually knows. As one of those 1.2 million tourists, me and my small family are looking forward to our visit towards the end of next week. We have been once before, but only spent four days in Hobart before going to Launceston for three days, not long enough by any stretch.

            Looking forward to trying out some of those restaurants and pubs, and I appreciate your offer. I’ve put your email address in my phone, I’ll message you when I’m there. Cheers, Bob

        • Tammy April 26, 2019, 8:03 pm |

          Tassie is beautiful but SA offers mainland comforts. There is a reason why wineries do so well and it’s climate – SA wine is amazing quality and not just one region. Collective work of many. It’s like Spain v Loire valley of Tassie. All good but oh ..the food of Spain. SA food scene is unique.

          • Gareth April 26, 2019, 9:31 pm |

            Ahh Tammy, if only you could live both and measure them together. I lived in SA for 38 years, and it was good growing up, but one of the reasons I left was the climate. Wineries in Victoria are now buying real estate in Tasmania because annual increase in temperature is making it harder to grow the traditional varieties on the main land. If you look at McLaren Vale they are switching to grapes that cope better with the heat. Tassie makes fantastic wines, not many Cabs and Shiraz, but those that do, are sooo good! There are over six growing regions fo wines in Tasmania and all offering different quality and quantities. How ever, whilst we could go toe to toe on wines, one must remember, man can not live on wine alone. I came home from my farm in the Adelaide Hills yesterday which is a dusty barren farm with a 3/4 full dam and everything golden brown, to my home in Huonville, where we have over thirty mls of rain over night, is lush, fresh and green. Man can not live on wine alone, he needs food, ad the rule of thumb is live where there’s water. Tassie food is also unique, surrounded by ocean we have a vast array of affordable seafood at our finger tips, and with plenty of food we have great western meats as well as assorted natural resources. And with the entire country focusing on tourism as their only industry, everyone fights to be the best at the best price!

            SA used to be SA Great, but I’ll stick with good old Tassie for food, opportunity and lifestyle. Thanks for joining the team Tammy 🙂

            • Tammy April 27, 2019, 5:23 pm |

              Tassie is beautiful too. It’s the earthiness we love about SA. Water is so precious in this land of ours. Spanish ruggedness if you will. We can indulge in both offering superb food and wine. We both produce the best beer (Cooper’s and Boags) but don’t tell anyone.

              • BobinOz April 29, 2019, 8:33 pm |

                What was that about Cooper’s and Boags? 🙂

                • Gareth April 29, 2019, 9:39 pm |

                  Move along, nothing to drink here Mr XXXX man!

  • Deepa Gopinath January 8, 2019, 9:43 pm |

    Hi Bob,
    If you had a choice between Adelaide and Cairns- where would you live?

    • BobinOz January 9, 2019, 8:43 pm |

      Good question, pretty much impossible for me to answer though, I’ve only ever spent six days in Adelaide and three days in Cairns. Not really enough for me to be the judge.

      What you really need is to speak to somebody who really has lived in both places to see what they have to say. Hopefully somebody reading your comment here who has done that will be able to help you.

      For what it’s worth, I enjoyed both cities. Cairns is very much geared towards tourism and can get very hot and humid in the summer, with nearby rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef, world heritage listed sites.

      If you read some of the comments made here on this page about Adelaide, you’ll find out what many of the locals think of it. My posts on these cities may also help…

      https://www.bobinoz.com/blog/21139/a-thorough-look-around-cairns-far-north-queensland/
      https://www.bobinoz.com/blog/20350/adelaide-still-one-of-the-most-livable-cities-in-the-world/

      To answer your question though, if it were me, I’d actually probably choose Cairns, or more likely, Port Douglas which is just above it. I’m an old man though, close to retirement, I think it would be a nice place to put my feet up.

      Good luck, Bob

  • James December 16, 2018, 6:59 pm |

    Hi Bob
    Me wife kids aged 10,17 in early stages at looking at migration end of 2019 to Adelaide. Would have to be on my wife’s occupation to gain visa etc but I would be able to get a transfer from my current job over to Adelaide very close to the airport.
    Was looking at Glenelg area as 75% of the reason to do this was to have the beech but reading up on some of the comments and spending a bit of time looking at rentals I’m struggling to get the right location. Bearing in mind my wife cannot drive so would need public transport links.
    Any recommendations from the locals would be much appreciated
    Thanks
    Lee

    • BobinOz December 17, 2018, 7:23 pm |

      Well, I have been to Glenelg once, so I do know that it is at the end of a train line, but that’s all I know.

      As you say, you really need the help of a local to pin down the right location in that area, so hopefully somebody will see your comment who does know the place well and help you out.

      Anybody?

      • Judith December 24, 2018, 10:36 pm |

        Hi Bob, Compliment of the season.We are in a difficult and tight situation.I and my family(5) are on visa 489 sponsored by south australia.My Husband is already in adelaide squatting with a friend and not working yet.As such, trying to secure a two or three bedroom flat for me and kids to join him in two weeks time.Flight ticket bought already.Our major problem is that the rental agencies are demanding for payslips which we don’t have at the moment.We already told them that we will pay for 4 months upfront but they refuse to consider our application. Please advice on the right steps to take.Thank you as i await your response.

        • BobinOz December 27, 2018, 5:33 pm |

          It’s a tough situation, but as I understand it, it is the owners of the houses that have a final say over who they accept as a tenant and who they decline. Keep trying with as many different agencies as you can and if possible, offer even more money in advance.

          Not sure if it’s true, but I have been told that it is illegal for a landlord or rental agency to ask for extra money in advance, but it is okay for a prospective tenant to offer to pay more to improve their own chances.

          That’s all I can suggest I’m afraid, but I do hope that your husband finds work sometime soon because that would definitely help out. Good luck, Bob

          • Judith December 28, 2018, 12:40 am |

            Thank you bob for your swift response.We are on it with different agencies.I believe we will have a positive response soon.

    • Simon January 3, 2019, 7:23 am |

      Hey James,
      Adelaide is enjoying a resurgence thanks to Migration policy. It’s true some move to bigger cities after meeting their visa requirements but many stay. And because of this it’s a really vibrant city. Grey haired Ladies with three quarter length pants having lunch used to be the mainstay. Now it’s very cool – Glenelg beach actually has Australia’s first beach bar. You could spot Sia or Julia Gillard at Port Elliot. Even Julie Bishop was raised there. The airport is first class and if you’re flights cancelled- plenty of shops or only half hour to get anywhere. 20 mins is a myth I’m afraid. The best schools are the ones with the most engaged teachers and that’s both private and public. Many have lost touch and are lazy although many are dedicated. I’d select by asking School about grades, uniform, community and dealing with bullies. The new conservative government is getting education to lift its socks up but still not there. Good schools are often in high socio economic areas – all along beaches from Henley to Marino. Marion is very international and migrant kids work hard at grades. Adelaide has population of 1.3m which considering Manchester has 2m is enough. We moved from Sydney about three years ago to escape the traffic and spent more time as a family. It’s cost us about 30% less in wages (but we have no mortgage thanks to cheaper housing) and we have 100% more time to help our 2 girls get the grades they want for Uni. It’s a very friendly city. Beaches are great both winter and summer. Don’t forget winter woolies as it gets cold June, July August. But always plenty on – festivals st wineries, fruit picking in hills, Oz Asia, yum cha China town. Central Markets, Kangaroo Island, great cinemas. Then come September/October it warms up and very Alfresco dining. Jetty Rd Brighton is a good food lovers place. Anyway – good luck.

      • Simon January 3, 2019, 7:33 am |

        Ps trains are excellent. Public transport nice surprise after Sydney. Seaford line and also a tram lines. Check Adelaide Central Station for map as trains are great. Gawler to Bellevue Hill many places connected.

    • Dee February 17, 2019, 1:32 pm |

      West Beach is a great family location; walking distance to the beach and easy commute (with public transport) to the airport and shopping. It’s in between the two trendy beach locations of Henley and Glenelg. Anywhere north of West Beach, from Henley on up into West Lakes, is also lovely beach location(s), but that adds distance to the airport if that’s the area your wife would be working, or added time to commute into Adelaide. Glenelg is nice as well with easy public access via the tram into Adelaide, but a bit on the touristy side. Hope this helps and I don’t think you can go wrong with any of those locations, but if easy access to the airport, shopping and the beach is your priority then I’d definitely look at West Beach!

  • enrico November 27, 2018, 12:37 am |

    Hi falks!
    I’m planning to move to SA over the next year, so I would like to know what could be an AVERAGE cost of living for a family of four (5-2yo) ?
    I can own easly 55k a year, could be enought for the beginning?

    Thanks all

    • BobinOz November 27, 2018, 9:03 pm |

      Hopefully somebody local can give you more specific advice, I’m here in Brisbane. My view though is that I would think you would be able to get by, but 55k will mean you would need to budget carefully and keep your housing cost down as best as possible.

      I’m sure there are plenty of people in similar situations getting surviving in Adelaide on that money.

      Any locals have any thoughts on that?

    • William July 29, 2019, 8:43 am |

      Hi Bob, I’m currently deciding between Adelaide and Brisbane to do a Hospitality/Cookery TAFE course in. Which city do you reckon would be more fitting for me? Which city would have more job opportunities/growth in the hospitality industry in the foreseeable future?

      • BobinOz July 30, 2019, 6:54 pm |

        Brisbane is the bigger city of the two, and it has, in my opinion, the better weather. It’s subtropical here and mostly warm to hot and very sunny.

        I would think that Brisbane would also offer the most opportunities in hospitality and if you look through a lot of the comments here on this page about Adelaide, a lot of people say it’s not what you know but who you know when it comes to getting a job here.

        I’m guessing you don’t know too many people in Adelaide? 🙂

        I’m not sure you’d have that same problem in Brisbane, so it would be my choice for you in terms of finding work.

        What you really need to do though is look for work opportunities that was suit you through the links on my page Getting a Job or a Sponsorship to see which city has the most to offer.

        Good luck, Bob

  • Neo October 23, 2018, 7:56 pm |

    Dear Bob,

    I am Neo from UK planning to immigrate to Aus by Jan-2019, I need to know which is the best place rent to start with. I think Inner adelaide would be best to start with we are just a family of two and like to be inside the city to start with then make decision accordingly.

    Any thoughts…

    • BobinOz October 24, 2018, 7:30 pm |

      Well I’ve only ever been to Adelaide once, just for a week, but I did stay in inner Adelaide, west if I recall. I think it’s as good a place as any to start. Adelaide isn’t a big city, even so, probably a good idea to be close to the centre to begin with.

      Once you’ve got your bearings and had a good look around, then you can decide where you want to live more permanently. That’s my view, but I don’t know Adelaide very well, so if any locals have a different viewpoint, we love to hear it.

    • Christie November 18, 2018, 4:31 pm |

      Hi Neo,
      renting contracts are normally for a minimum of 12 months, rarely for 6 months. So you might want to start renting a suburb you like. If you like to be in the middle of a city than the CBD is for you, although renting prices will be a bit higher in the city than further out of the city. That said, if you want to be clos but too close check out North Adelaide, Prospect, Unley and Norwood. All are surrounding the CBD but are more suburbian.
      People fform the UK tend to live more in the southern suburbs (at least that is my feeling) and the southern beach suburbs are really nice (Brighton and surroundings). I work and live in Mawson Lakes which is a suburb in the North and the only one that is nice and safe so far north. More north it tends to become more dodgy and you don’t want to live there. The beach suburbs are all recommendable but can be quite expensive, especially Henley and Glenelg. As soon as we get our PR we are looking at buying a house in Semaphore or Largs bay (close to beach in the north). Good luck for your start in Adelaide! It’s a really nice place to live!

      • Clare November 28, 2018, 6:42 am |

        I live in Gawler, which us north and safe!!

  • Amy September 15, 2018, 9:28 am |

    Hi Bob and everyone,
    We are a family of 6 (me, partner and 4 kids ages 18,16,14 and 11) coming from the Uk planning on emigrating to Adelaide in February next year providing I can find work. I am a CAMHs registered nurse with 5 years experience and awaiting to hear on sponsorship from Women’s and children’s hospital Adelaide.
    We are looking at the Glenelg or Brighton areas to live and will initially rent before buying. Can you give me any information on good secondary schools in these areas and the university? Is the Adelaide university easily accessible from Glenelg and Brighton by public transport ?
    Thank you
    Amy

    • BobinOz September 17, 2018, 4:26 pm |

      Hi Amy

      This is one of those questions I will need to leave to the locals, hopefully somebody will see your comment and help you out.

      Can anybody help with this?

    • Joanne October 14, 2018, 9:21 am |

      Hi Amy!

      It really depends whether you’d like them to be in private or public school. For private you have Immanuel College and Sacred Heart College then as for public, there’s Brighton Secondary School.

      In terms of university, Flinders University is definitely a lot closer to Glenelg/Brighton. Again, it really depends what course your child would like to take.

    • Sooly October 23, 2018, 1:02 am |

      Generally any coastal suburbs from largs bay in the north to seacliff in the south offer a great lifestyle with a good mix of schooling both public and private and do also offer easy public transport to the city and surrounding areas and are well catered for with an array of shopping malls to satisfy most people the climate is Mediterranean but tends to be a tad cooler in winter and warmer in summer hope it helps oh and the health system is great so working there should be good for you ,good luck

  • Dan S July 26, 2018, 9:04 pm |

    Hi Bob,

    I’m currently living in Netherlands with my wife and 5y old daughter but applied for residency some time ago after receiving a SA state sponsorship. We’ve already completed the medical checks almost 3 months ago so are eagerly waiting for the visas to popup in the mail (based on other’s experience in these matters).

    I guess my 2 questions are these:
    1. Which would be our best choice for a quiet neighborhood, not far from center nor too expensive?
    2. Given my state sponsorship (IT industry), are there any job centers I could contact before actually moving to SA? I’m afraid I’ll have a hard time finding accommodation without a job offer.

    Thank you very much for any advice or reference you might have for us and have a wonderful week Bob!

    • BobinOz July 27, 2018, 7:53 pm |

      These are questions I will need to leave the locals I’m afraid, I have no idea. It would certainly be worth you looking through the comments already made though, there’s lots of talk about both the suburbs and the job situation in Adelaide.

      Hopefully though someone will see your comment and help you out.

      • Nicci August 23, 2018, 6:31 pm |

        Hi

        Could anyone tell me what the work opportunities are like for Business or Systems Analysts? We are looking to move soon and have been looking at SA.
        Also if anyone could tell us what areas are good for families with regards to activities, kayaking, surf schools, gymnastics etc.
        Many thanks

        • BobinOz August 24, 2018, 6:38 pm |

          Hopefully somebody with local knowledge will help you out with this, but in the meantime, my page Getting a Job or a Sponsorship can help you search.

          I just had a look, there were a few jobs for system analysts, but they mostly seem to be for government or the Army.

        • Storm boy January 6, 2019, 10:31 pm |

          https://indaily.com.au/news/2018/12/20/sas-jobless-rate-falls/

          Getting a job in a new country is hard. There all options. The big mining firms like Santos, Olympic Dam (BHP) as well as Adelaide Brighton. The pharmaceutical industries also are growing ( or start your own using government incentives) Adelaide Airport recruits, lots of top restaurants and hotels needing staff. Sustainability projects are huge, yes Elon Musks Battery but also the electric car. Defence industry, Port Adelaide not often mentioned but importing and exporting requires skill. Call centres popping up everywhere. Healthcare is excellent and lots of jobs needing to be filled. Don’t be afraid to try Country SA like Port Lincoln Storm boy country or even Flinders. Trying your luck towards Melbourne too places like Robe, Coonawarra, Riverland all need nurses, new pharmacists and teachers. Education, social services and paramedics/ police in demand. Less well known is movie industry- lots of films made in SA. And actors . Mel Gibson is one.Antony La Puglia . Sports industry also is on rise. Cricket (new Oval) AFL Soccer Adelaide United. Lots of grass root coaches needed across State. Many probably won’t know AFL but you can’t miss the Port /Crows divide when you decide which side. Bakery industry is also huge – Balfours are one company who may recruiting. Haighs chocolate company may be another. Hope these options help you feel more secure about such a big move.

    • Scott July 29, 2018, 8:39 pm |

      Hello

      Generally speaking the eastern suburbs are the most expensive, and with reason. Low crime rates most places and higher household incomes, manager type people and university educated. Very leafy and green aside from summer. All suburbs in the Unley area are also nice, just not as expensive and you can be close to train and tram, and it’s flat enough area to cycle to the city.
      Western suburbs closer to the beach obviously, and you can see from the website Adelaide is known as the 20 minute city…that is unless you are driving in peak hour traffic, then it takes a little longer. North side suburbs from the CBD past North Adelaide fairly average with lower economic conditions. If you don’t need to be near the beach essentially I would choose Unley area.
      Unley area has some reasonable shopping centers, organic markets, ovals and parks, coffee shops, mostly safe areas.

  • charlotte May 29, 2018, 4:07 pm |

    By the way, this is an amazing website. Totally showing it to my friends

  • charlotte May 29, 2018, 4:04 pm |

    I am needing to reference this website for an assessment and I just needed to know your last name, Bob. Thanks!

    • Gareth May 29, 2018, 6:16 pm |

      Inoz
      ?

      • BobinOz May 29, 2018, 9:20 pm |

        Ha ha, Gareth, you beat me to it, that’s what I was going to say.

        Charlotte, glad to hear you like my website, hope you have millions of friends 🙂 anyway, my last name is Kiernan. Hope your assessment goes well.

  • Poonam April 1, 2018, 5:31 am |

    Hi Bob we r moving to Adelaide from India with family in few months I want to know a reasonable fees school for my kids and best area in reasonable rates to live.I also want to know that how much weight we can carry with us in fight for family move

    • BobinOz April 2, 2018, 7:07 pm |

      Please see my answer to Bhakti below, and it’s also worth looking at the comments already made here as there is much talk about the schools and the suburbs. You would need to speak to the airline to find out what the weight limit is on your baggage.

    • Mathew July 19, 2018, 10:25 am |

      I just bought a house with a 5 minute walk to the beach for less than $330,000. Great beach too with the southern expressway only around the corner as well as two major shopping centres within 15 minutes of my place. Future boom suburbs of Christie’s and O’Sullivans beach are going to get more and more expensive over time. Same distance to the beach in Brighton or Seacliff will see you pay close to $800,000 for a smaller property

      • BobinOz July 19, 2018, 8:20 pm |

        Sounds like a bargain and just a couple of days ago I saw a headline in the news (Google it for more) that said “Adelaide house price growth expected to top the nation”. So I reckon you’ve got a solid investment as well as living the dream.

        Good on ya!

  • Bhakti March 30, 2018, 12:45 am |

    Hi,
    I’m planning to move to Adelaide from Canberra in a few months, and I’m looking at buying a property in Northfield suburb. I have a few friends who has given positive feedback about this suburb, but I need more detailed information before making a decision to buy.

    My budget is $400k and I want to know if Northfield is worth investing or not. Also I will be moving with a 9 year old which means I prefer close proximity to State Primary School and public transport.

    Do you have recommendations for any better suburbs than Northfield in a similar budget and closest to Primary school, public transport and shops.

    I have also been told there are a few dodgy suburbs to avoid especially for families with young kids.

    Your suggestion/feedback will be highly appreciated.

    Thank you

    • BobinOz April 2, 2018, 6:33 pm |

      I will have to leave this one to the locals, I just don’t know Adelaide well enough to help. My page called Which Suburb? can help you research it though, there are some useful links including one about crime statistics.

    • Kavi July 2, 2018, 12:08 pm |

      Northfield is a fairly good suburb. If you are with around $400K try exploring around Magill, Campbelltown, Mawson Lakes, or somewhere towards the South. Avoid Elizabeth and Northwards from Salisbury at all costs. Good Luck!
      Source: Lived in Adelaide for 3 years, originally from Sri Lanka

  • Cory February 24, 2018, 9:02 pm |

    Lived in Adelaide for 3 months. No jobs, too dry, cold wet winters. Moved to queensland, much better.

    • BobinOz February 26, 2018, 6:37 pm |

      What are you going to do with all of your jumpers and coats? 🙂

    • Scott March 7, 2018, 3:41 pm |

      Hahahaha.

      At least you did not get stuck there for multiple years while working 15 hour per week trying to save up and leave the place.

    • Radelaide March 24, 2018, 9:47 pm |

      I’m sad you had that experience. Winter is colder than Qld but much better than Victors for example. It’s Mediterranean rather than tropical. Summers are amazing because the rain stays away. I think this site offers great info but the Adelaide content is outdated. It’s only with migration new bars and food venues are popping up. Brisbane and Adelaide are my favourite by far .. http://www.glamadelaide.com.au/

  • Nona January 19, 2018, 7:32 pm |

    Hi. My husband & I are planning to move to Adelaide in a couple of months. My husband is a Network Engineer with 10 years of experince. My main concern is whether he’ll be able to find a decent job in a certain scope of time since What I’ve heard of Adelaid were all based on the matter that job opportunities are not as rewarding as expected to be.
    So, I’de appreciate further comments accordingly.

    • BobinOz January 19, 2018, 11:25 pm |

      There have been many many comments already made here about how difficult it is for new migrants to find work here in Adelaide when they arrive. You are right to be concerned.

      There really are no guarantees that you will find a job within a certain amount of time, and many people end up taking any kind of job, not a job in their chosen profession.

      Please skim through these comments here to see what I mean. Also, check out the following page…

      https://www.bobinoz.com/blog/17033/whats-it-really-like-trying-to-find-a-job-in-australia-2015/

  • Peter January 11, 2018, 11:09 pm |

    Great city

    • Ross March 27, 2018, 11:19 am |

      Whilst Adelaide lacks corporate jobs – it offers what many people are migrating for – better quality of life. Hoping new government will get rid of old guard stopping progress and continue to make her blossom. Beaches South are well worth visiting on realestate.com.au.. Hallett Cove, Moana, Sellicks. http://www.adelaidereview.com.au
      Money to be made by doing it yourself . Good schools Immanuel, Pulteney or St Johns Grammar – private. State schools need a shake up but Gilles St, Seacliff primary are noted with great teachers. Star of Sea Henley and Seaview High are making changes too. Brighton High has good drama facilities and Adelaide High ranks well nationally.

  • Raja January 6, 2018, 11:03 pm |

    Hi Bob,
    This is Raja from Germany. I have solid offer to work as research scientist in SA University.
    I am from india but living last a years in Cologne in Germany (which is an awesome city). My wife if German and we have a 15month old baby. I have a good contract and I have a good feeling about moving to Adelaide. Who ever I talked to or wherever I read about Adelaide, I mostly heard and read how great it’s for family and kids. My wife is still little concerned about moving. Regarding kindergarten place, health Insurence and housing. Could give me some suggestions about these things and also good areas to live close by the university? This could be great

  • Enamul Kabir November 29, 2017, 1:35 pm |

    Hi,
    My occupation is Project coordinator. I’m thinking of moving to Adelaide by July, 2018 from Bangladesh. I’m a little worried about getting a job there as I will turn 43 by then. Can anybody come up with a suggestion for me about how best possibly I could settle in there?

    Regards, Enam

    • BobinOz December 1, 2017, 3:50 pm |

      I can’t specifically help you, but I think you have every right to be worried about getting a job here, most people say they are very hard to come by in Adelaide.

      Best place to do your research though is via the links on my page Getting a Job or a Sponsorship.

      Maybe a local will see your comment and have more suggestions.

      Good luck, Bob

    • Naser February 16, 2018, 8:46 pm |

      My situation is exactly the same like yours. I, wife with 2 kids, am planning to move to adelaide at the end of the July 18. My whats up and cell phone no is +8801704133834 or +8801924607399. Lets share our thoughts to be feeling easy there!

  • Andy November 13, 2017, 10:21 pm |

    I just wanted to contribute slightly as we moved to Adelaide three years ago and this website (thanks Bob and family) was the main point of reference and very useful for some of the intricacies of Aussie life (though I’m still getting used to the Bottle-o rather than Tesc-o and the SA ‘pint’).

    Adelaide is absolutely a big country town – by which it is relaxed, friendly and the traffic is minimal unless you’re in peak hour and the tram works are running a bit late in the morning. Don’t come here if you’re expecting a party town for 12/12 months of the year – you’ll be disappointed – however, the Fringe Festival is second to none in Feb/March, the Adelaide 500 is worth a watch and as Bob says the beaches stretch for miles – stay away from Glenelg and you’ll likely get a good couple of hundred metres of beautiful white sand to enjoy…. for hundreds of kilometres north or south. For the rest of the year head to the wineries, the botanical gardens or the links golf courses.

    For living: anywhere Inner East, Inner North or CBD if you want to stick with the 20 minute city, good pubs/ restaurants. Further out and the traffic is starting to build. Some places have a bad reputation…. if you’re coming to earn an honest living then pretty much anywhere has good, solid neighbourhoods, decent people and great parklands. The cultural mix is amazing and the CBD Chinatown is IMHO better than Manchester/Notts/London for food and selection.

    • BobinOz November 14, 2017, 8:26 pm |

      Hi Andy

      Great roundup of Adelaide, thanks for taking the time to do it. Glad to hear I helped you in some way in your journey to move to this country.

      I’ve only visited Adelaide once, that was six years ago, actually almost 7, I really liked it. I’m thinking it’s about time I made a second visit, and I’m glad you mentioned the Fringe Festival, because I would definitely like to see some of that. I think we are already working on different plans for our holidays next year, but maybe I’ll check it out in 2019.

      Thanks again, Bob

    • Eric January 4, 2018, 10:42 pm |

      I’ve lived in Adelaide all my life.
      The pace and lifestyle IS relaxed compared to other states in OZ but I haven’t felt I’ve missed out on things in life.
      With the demise of the OZ car manufacturing industry South Australia is in a transition process to different employment directions.
      Andy forgot to mention the Guitar festival (self explanatory) and Womadelaide a world music festival in his things to do list. Note most wineries have free tastings at the cellar door. I defy anybody to not come home with a few bottles under the arm.
      Another point to note is housing prices are still in the affordable area unlike the eastern states particularly NSW.
      A note about the metropolitan beaches ….. There are sharks in the Gulf but regular patrols by planes and helicopter throughout the summertime daylight hours negate the potential danger. The water temperature ranges from North sea like in winter to comfortably warm in late summer.
      Cheers

      • BobinOz January 5, 2018, 8:14 pm |

        Of course, yes, Womadelaide, when I first saw the name I loved it. Back in the day I was a big Genesis fan and the original Womad Festival was started by Peter Gabriel back in the 80s.

        I’ve never been to one, which is a pity, but hopefully one day I will give Womadelaide a try. My wife, of course, would prefer to visit those wineries 🙂

  • Princy October 30, 2017, 10:20 pm |

    Hey Could you pleade suggest whicj area is most suitable to live with family with job requirement as a manufacturer, nearby high elemenyary school and child care too.

    • BobinOz October 31, 2017, 6:15 pm |

      Not sure there’s much manufacturing going on in Adelaide and the moment, so I think your best bet would be to try and find work first and then decide on your where to live based on that.

      My page Getting a Job or a Sponsorship can help you look for work.

  • Ashley Rees October 20, 2017, 7:26 pm |

    Hi there,
    I have worked in the homelessness sector for approx. 6 years, I will also become a a qualified social worker in June 2018 (which is on the skilled list along with listing homelessness as experience in that sector). I will be 31yrs old once qualified and considering wanting to emigrate by the time I am 33years old with my partner who will then be 30 years old. We have no children at present (plan is once I am 35). Adelaide has caught my attention in terms of what we would want from an area to live. Social work jobs appear to be fetching in approx. $90,000 a year so I am wondering if this would be enough to live comfortably in Adeliade?

    My partner has a Domestic/Commercial Cleaning Business (Windows, gutters, paving, rendering, fascia’s and in store big cleans) in the UK and I am wondering how it would be for him to find work in Adelaide? We are open to other places if work would be easier to obtain for him. He also has a tyre fitter qualification. He is also considering completing a skilled qualification before we apply such as welding.

    Do you think we could live on my $90,000 until he could secure work and of course have some savings? The hope is also that a family member will run his business so that would still be a small income but we have to wait to see with that.

    Kind regards

    Ashley

    • Gareth October 20, 2017, 8:53 pm |

      $90,000 a year is probably $35k above the average wage in Adelaide and you should be very comfortable. I operate a commercial cleaning business, it’s a tight market and I’ve now moved interstate. I’m breaking up the business and would be a good starting point for your partner to get a foot in the door.

      • Not trolling Gary October 22, 2017, 11:37 pm |

        Hi Gary

        No pun intended but I recall your comments about being unemployed here is just for lazy people ??? Guess Adelaide not all what it’s cracked up to be after all?

        • Gareth October 23, 2017, 7:42 am |

          We’ve had a three year plan to move and it’s finally come to fruition. Adelaide is still a town of opportunity, but after 37 years it’s time for a change and set ourselves up for retirement. If I were to chose between the high crime rate and burgeoning population explosion of Victoria, the corruption and high cost of living in Sydney and the challenges of employment and an inept government in SA, I’d still take SA without a doubt.

          I’ve a friend who just came from Queensland to set up a business and in the space of two weeks has a $200k p/a turn over just from knocking on business doors.

          • Josh October 28, 2017, 4:36 am |

            The original poster mentioned they work in homelessness, this is certainly a growth area in adelaide, and gareth, if adelaide was a place of opportunity, why are you moving away ?

            • Gareth October 28, 2017, 7:54 am |

              Again, as previously mentioned, it’s about moving into a different stage in our lives, wanting more balance, more adventure, different opportunities. I had lived in Adelaide 38 years and didn’t plan on being a one town kinda guy. We still have our business there, it funds our lifestyle and over the past week many opportunities have come at me based in Adelaide or from Adelaide connections. I would still chose Adelaide over Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane if I was in the position to do so. Rest assured, I haven’t moved to any of those places.

              • Ozimandias October 28, 2017, 8:12 pm |

                from an kutsider’s view, Adelaide has for many years entertained socialists at the expense of enormous opportunity to become an energy behemoth.

                It is an example of what happens when the populace yields to a malevolent centralised politically driven power structure.

                Downtown Adelaide in summer is fearsome. Yet, despite being in possession of cheap energy resources, we see the elected government consistently directed efforts to enslave the populace with nigh impossibly expensive energy, to the point that there are power failures in summer,

                • Ozimandias October 28, 2017, 8:21 pm |

                  Adelaide has the archetypal socialist government. In my own field, I was offered a job not long ago for $250 per hour. I know in my bones, this level of remuneration is to harm the South Australian taxpayer and to compensate for decisions by people who are in entrenched positions in government, rather than from the perspective of a good deal for the employeee and a good deal for society.

                  I see South Australia as a more obvious crucible of the mentality that is hell bent on indebting and crippling the West.

                  It has nice streets and a pretty good quality of life, but summer is a case of being baked if you are a pedestrian.

    • Paul Bartlett June 10, 2018, 8:21 am |

      The NDIS is starting to take root in Adelaide and lots of allied health jobs are being created including social work. Loot for job advertisements in the disability sector.

  • Basil October 4, 2017, 8:34 am |

    Hi, I am planning to move to Adelaide from Sydney next year. I work as a Business Analyst/Consultant and am hoping to get a transfer to Adelaide. My wife would be looking for an HR/admin role, she is currently working 3 days in Sydney. Kids are 10 years (currently year 5) and 4 years (currently in playschool).
    The reasons for the move are to get away from the busy hustle and bustle of Sydney, reduced commute time to work, and opportunity to buy a house (Sydney has priced us out, or I do not see value in spending such large amounts for an house). I have been to Adelaide multiple times for work and always liked the organised streets and clam lifestyle. We also plan to visit the city to see how it feels from a family, kids growing up perspective.
    I am looking for a suburb with good primary and secondary schools (preferably public), hospital, and general shopping close by. Not too far from the CBD, preferably with public transportation. Being near a beach is not a requirement, though wouldn’t hurt. We live in Waitara/Horsnby (north shore) in Sydney, everything is close by here. Any suggestions on similar suburbs would be appreciated.

    • Ozimandias October 4, 2017, 10:31 pm |

      Hornsby is well out from the centre of Sydney. Big hills. Somewhat leafy, a shopping strip right on the train station, with a typical large mall. Quite Asian. I liked the banh mi near the station, but not much to say about the place otherwise fondly. OK gym down past the station. Sardinesville on the train there from Central Station on the morning train. Can’t say I blame you for wanting out.
      Adelaide is not something I am really familiar with to live in, only visit. Glenelg struck me as pleasant. Trams are a welcome sight. You probably want to go to the Aussie suburbs forums and surf there, cognisant of people who are shilling for their suburb and the fact you can’t see that person in public to get an instant assessment as to whether they are giving a fair assessment to your needs. The playing field online is a bit different! Good luck. On your side is there isn’t much to choose from suburbanise in Adelaide. It is well planned, the streets wide and grid-like in arrangement. Against you is the oppressive thermal beatdown in summer that makes walking for any distance impossible. This now comes with Australia’s worst energy prices (despite clear access to some of the world’s richest cheap energy resources) and not only that, power failure in summer. Choose carefully.

    • Gareth October 5, 2017, 7:16 am |

      Lots of areas to choose from, East coast Somerton Park up to Henley and Grange. Eastern leafy foothills from Cambelltown through to Glen Osmond, or up the freeway to Aldgate, Stirling and Bridgewater. South of the city through Unley, Goodwood. Lots of options really. Also, where some people may complain about the price of power, sensible usage and the installation of a Tesla battery or like will over ride that problem, and the money you will save with less travel time to and from work in fuel and parking will quickly pay that off. Every city has it’s pro’s and con’s, if you’ve done thr research you won’t find anything new being thrown at you here.

    • Basil October 5, 2017, 3:29 pm |

      Thanks both for the response. My hope is that I would be able to find a less crowded suburb with all facilities as the one I am currently in, closer to the CBD, at a much more affordably price point. The research is on, hopefully will be able to make the move.

      • Josh October 7, 2017, 8:03 pm |

        if you already have a job then that’s a huge advantage, but make sure it’s secure as many people have left adelaide because no work

    • Scott October 8, 2017, 8:28 am |

      Hello Basil
      I live in Adelaide with no children although have allot of family in Sydney, also my age and who have very high mortgages. The price over there is astronomical compared to other cities, especially Adelaide, and it is a very family friendly area.
      I would like to suggest this website for you to view, here you can see average household income, mortgages people pay, rental prices, people with education, average age, and so on in a map form or even analysis data for most council regions. It gives a great overview. The website is http://atlas.id.com.au/ and you can click on Burnside for example (Wealthy eastern suburbs area), and click on median mortgage payments and the map with show you the colored areas or analysis shows you the figures. All the best.

    • Scott October 8, 2017, 8:32 am |

      Also forgot to mention, that website has population density and the colored areas too, so you can specifically see what areas are high and low, and if your current council area in on there in Sydney you can do a direct comparison without all the guess work.

      • Basil October 8, 2017, 10:34 am |

        Thanks Scott for the website reference. I’ll have a look. Thanks.

  • Pol August 21, 2017, 9:24 pm |

    Hey!
    I’m Pol 26, and I’m from Spain, Barcelona actually.
    I’m really looking forward to move to Australia and live there some time, I need to change my daily habits.
    I’m a computer science engineer and I have 3 years of meaningful experience under my belt, but still I’m a bit worried about the fact that I might not get a job in there with the money I have saved (Around 4k€)

    What are the best options to come? What visa and what are the next steps after the visa?
    What city do you recommend for someone who has been living in Barcelona and in Budapest?

    Thanks!

    • BobinOz August 22, 2017, 9:22 pm |

      Well, I can’t give advice on what kind of visa to get on how to go about it, you would need to see a MARA migration agent about that, for more information see Would I Qualify?

      As for jobs in Adelaide, you are right to be worried, they are very hard to get, especially for new migrants. Have a good skim through the comments made here already about that to get an idea of what you will be up against. Also, my page Getting a Job or a Sponsorship will help you do some research.

  • Warnika August 21, 2017, 3:48 pm |

    I am from Sri Lanka and plan to move adelaide by 489 visa category.
    please let me know about job finding details, children’s schools and living cost?which area is prefer to live in adelaide ?????day care centres and other needs.

    • BobinOz August 21, 2017, 6:12 pm |

      Have a look around my website, I’ve written about all of those subjects at great length. Please take a look at the sub-menu links under my Migration Advice link in the main menu above to access this kind of information.

  • Ash August 15, 2017, 6:35 pm |

    Hi,
    My partner and I are relocating to Adelaide and I’m hoping to get some suggestions for suburbs to focus on for rental searches. I’ve been recommended some general areas like ‘inner west’ or ‘southern suburbs’ but could really use some specific suburbs to plug into Realestate.com and the like.

    Here’s what we’d like in a rental (roughly in order of priorities)
    – $400-$500 per week
    – 2+ beds
    – small backyard/courtyard garden for indoor/outdoor cat
    – cycling distance (within about 8ks) of Adelaide uni
    – prefer walking distance to tram/train line (not bus)
    – walking distance to a nice coffee/brunch spot
    – close to cocktail bars/restaurants (walk or short uber)
    – would love an early 20th century house that’s been renovated but am guessing these come at a premium outside our price range

    I’ve scrolled thru previous posts up til about feb but haven’t found quite what I was after in terms of recommendations – if there’s a better way I should be searching the posts please let me know.

    • BobinOz August 16, 2017, 8:50 pm |

      I don’t know Adelaide well enough to help you here, but I think your budget is very good and as you are only required 2 beds, I think you would be able to meet all of your criteria.

      Hopefully someone local will give you more information, but I would suggest staying as close to the city as possible to have easy access to everything you want.

      I have a couple of other pages that will help you with your search, they are Cost of Buying or Renting a House in Australia and Which Suburb?

      On the first of those mentioned pages, which has a link to real estate.com, I put in your budget, chose Adelaide 5000 with the surrounded suburbs ticked and set it at a minimum of two bedrooms and a maximum of four. Got quite a good selection, about 80 properties in all. I’m sure plenty of those would be close enough to the university for you.

      Hope that helps a bit.

      • Ash August 20, 2017, 11:47 am |

        Thanks Bob – some really great pointers here 🙂

    • Josh August 20, 2017, 11:44 am |

      Hi Ash,

      Goodwood, Forrestville and Clarence Park are perfect for you as they are on train and tram (light rail) lines and have older housing stock (stone cottages, villas) with cafes on Goodwood Road, and good cycle ways to the city

      • Ash August 20, 2017, 11:49 am |

        Thank you Josh – this is a great help 🙂

  • Priyan August 13, 2017, 9:23 pm |

    Hi all,
    We are from Sri Lanka planning to move to Adelaide in December this year under 489 visa. Our daughter who will be 17 years by then needs to get admitted to Grade 11. Is it possible to seek admission to a Public High School when we arrive in December? Is it possible to apply from here as it looks like many schools close their applications by October this year.
    Thanks in advance.

    • Paul T August 14, 2017, 6:46 am |

      Hi Priyan
      I am pretty confident that you will not have too many problems enrolling your daughter. You will need to decide where in Adelaide and it’s suburbs, you are going to live first, as you don’t want your daughter having to get up early each day to catch multiple buses or trains to school? Most suburbs have a local public school, and you should be able to email them for enrollment advice once you have somewhere to live, sorted out?
      Regards
      Paul

      • Priyan August 14, 2017, 10:21 pm |

        Many thanks, Paul. Relieved to hear that. Will email and check on the enrolment process and plan our move accordingly.
        Regards,
        Priyan

        • Paul T August 15, 2017, 8:06 am |

          Hi Priyan
          Depending on what you do for a living, it’s probably better to live in one of the suburbs closer to the Central Businesses District (CBD) which is the main heart of the city bounded by the four terraces (North, South, East and West terrace) though you will find buying a house or renting more expensive. There are many apartments within the cityitself, with new ones being built right now. Alternatively the further you move away from the city centre, the cheaper properties will become, but may be offset by the cost of commuting each day, assuming you work somewhere in the CBD?
          Just some further food for though? A good online map of Adelaide and it’s surrounds should help, and I have identified some possible suburbs in my previous posts to others
          Best of luck with your move.
          Cheers, Paul

    • MD August 30, 2017, 11:29 pm |

      Don’t go to Adelaide unless you are planning to go into aged care.

  • Archit Bhutani August 11, 2017, 5:48 pm |

    Hey Bob,

    Very informative blogs about Australian cities. I have received my 489SS visa from Adelaide and planning to come by October end. Wanted to know what could be the best areas for renting an accommodation for a single applicant and what could be the estimated weekly expenses including bills (just an estimate)

    Appreciate your help

    Best,
    Archit

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