Cradled by eucalyptus-covered hills and designed with symmetry and space, Canberra is a city that quietly impresses. Yes, Canberra is one of Australia's most liveable cities—and some might say it's the most underrated. But is it also the most expensive? We answer that question at the end.
Canberra's charm lies in its contrasts: nature meets nation, calm meets culture.
Lakeside leisure – Lake Burley Griffin and Lake Ginninderra offer kayaking, cycling, or simply walking off a long brunch.
Braddon buzz – Artisan coffee, craft beer, boutique shops, and a very local vibe.
A city within a park – Over 70% of Canberra is green space; perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or sunset strolls.
National treasures – From the National Gallery to Questacon, it's all within 15 minutes.
Seasonal beauty – Crisp winters, blossom-filled springs, golden autumns, and hot, dry summers.
Living in Canberra feels a bit like having your cake and eating it too: space to breathe, yet everything nearby.
Housing – From leafy family homes in Weston Creek to sleek townhouses in Gungahlin, there's plenty of choice.
Safe and walkable – Most suburbs have local shops, parks, and schools within walking or cycling distance.
Diverse and welcoming – A melting pot of students, public servants, diplomats, and creatives.
Top-tier education – Home to ANU, UC, and strong public and private schools.
Reliable transport – Buses, light rail from Gungahlin to Civic, and well-designed roads make commuting easy.
Canberra is well-equipped when it comes to services that support comfortable, modern living:
Technology infrastructure – Fast NBN coverage, widespread mobile reception, numerous coworking hubs, and smart city features in key precincts.
Cleaning and home services – Eco-conscious domestic cleaning, office cleaning contracts, carpet and window specialists, and end-of-lease cleaning are readily available and professionally delivered.
Waste and recycling – Weekly bin collection, optional green waste bins, soft plastic recycling drop-offs, and e-waste events are managed effectively by the ACT Government.
Healthcare access – Calvary Public and Private, Canberra Hospital, and a strong network of GP clinics and after-hours services.
Library and civic amenities – ACT Library branches in every major town centre, active community halls, and youth centres offering classes, workshops, and support services.
Pet and garden care – Dog grooming, pet-sitting services, mobile vets, lawn maintenance, and landscaping firms are widely available across suburbs.
There’s always something on, indoors or outdoors:
Cycle the Lake Burley Griffin loop or rent a kayak
Visit the National Museum, Portrait Gallery, or Parliament House
Attend Floriade or Enlighten Festival
Hike Mt Ainslie or Namadgi National Park
Explore the Canberra Centre or Fyshwick Markets
Eat at Italian & Sons, Raku, or XO
Discover hidden laneway bars in NewActon
"We moved here thinking it would be too quiet—but now we wouldn't leave. You get the best of city services with none of the chaos," says Jay, who runs a boutique design studio in Belconnen. "Weekends are bushwalks, markets, kids' sport, and a cheeky wine at Pialligo Estate. It's easy living."
Not quite—but it's close. Sydney still leads for home prices, but when you factor in higher-than-average costs for petrol, childcare, utilities, and even groceries, Canberra can outpace other capitals. Rent has also surged post-2020.
So, is Canberra the most expensive city in Australia? Not officially, but it ranks high depending on your spending style.
Whether you're wandering through its open-air sculpture trails, visiting its world-class museums, or sipping single origin coffee under a tree-lined boulevard, Canberra offers a lifestyle that’s smart, scenic, and quietly confident.
Is Canberra the most expensive city in Australia? That depends on your wallet—but for many, the lifestyle makes it worth every cent.
Is Canberra more expensive than Melbourne?
Canberra's daily costs (rent, fuel, childcare) can be higher than Melbourne's, but property prices in Melbourne are still steeper overall.
What services are easily accessible in Canberra?
Tech infrastructure, cleaning, recycling, and healthcare are top-notch, with reliable delivery and council support.
Is Canberra good for remote workers?
Absolutely. Fast internet, coworking spaces, low traffic, and quality coffee make it ideal for working from home or flexibly.
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From leafy family homes in Weston Creek to sleek townhouses in Gungahlin, there's plenty of choice. Many new residents also appreciate the availability of Commercial Cleaning Services in Canberra, which makes settling into a home or managing rentals far easier.