Canberra holds its own as one of Australia’s most liveable cities—leafy, wellplanned, culturally vibrant. Yes, Canberra is one of ACT’s most charming spots, offering quality of life with a serene yet dynamic pace of life.
A beautifullydesigned capital built around Lake Burley Griffin, with stunning views and treelined avenues.
A highincome, highly educated population: in June 2024 Canberra had roughly 474,000 people, with lower unemployment and higher tertiary qualifications than the national average.
Worldclass museums and galleries in the Parliamentary Triangle, plus lively arts and festival scenes.
Distinct precinct vibes—from the hip cafés of Braddon to elegant streets of Yarralumla, creative buzz in Kingston, and leafy tranquillity in Narrabundah.
Excellent public infrastructure: consistent electricity, high-speed internet (including NBN in most areas), reliable waste management, and professional cleaning services.
Yes—here’s what locals say:
Housing is more affordable than some other capitals, though innerSouth suburbs like Deakin and Yarralumla carry premium values.
Most areas feel safe, with suburbs such as Forde, O’Malley and Yarralumla consistently ranking among Canberra’s safest.
Neighbourhoods are walkable, green and connected—many with bike paths, parks, local shops and good public transport.
Schools and services are accessible, transport is reliable, and the city is easy to get around.
Facilities include robust electricity services, clean water supply, efficient waste collection, internet access, and support from ACT Government's public services.
Lake Burley Griffin loop—walk or cycle the lakeside paths, including trips via Kingston and Manuka foreshore.
Inner-city café crawl: start in Braddon (Lonsdale Street), move to Kingston and end with brunch in Manuka.
Visit Australian National Museum, National Gallery and Floriade in spring.
Explore walks through Mount Ainslie lookout, Black Mountain, or the green oases of Weston Creek.
Browse antiques in Fyshwick, sample dumplings in Dickson, or enjoy the Old Bus Depot Markets in Kingston.
As someone who runs a small creative studio in Braddon, I’ve spent many a sunny Sunday walking Lonsdale Street with my laptop in my bag, café stops to fuel brainstorming—and chatting with neighbours who’ve lived here for decades. It’s a community that hums with purpose, yet lets weekends stretch late over lakeside wine, or catching the sunset from Red Hill.
People often say Canberra feels both calm and engaged—locals value safety, space, and connection. Every time I hear someone say “Turner, O’Connor, Kingston”—I nod, because those names come up over beers with friends, as places where residents know each other and streets feel peaceful.
Young, dynamic, and very walkable—just 2 kms from the CBD. Cafés, galleries and nightlife on leafy grid streets.
Median age is just 30; 45% employed in professional jobs. Renters dominate the housing mix (60% units/apartments).
Inner South gems with lakefront walks, heritage cottages and modern apartments. Perfect for weekend markets, foreshore dining and proximity to the Parliamentary Triangle.
The “Garden City” suburbs: mature trees, large plots, classical architecture. Often cited as Canberra’s most prestigious areas.
Very high home ownership and strong local pride—with well-maintained services like reliable electricity, fast broadband, and professional waste and cleaning support.
Leafy, lowrise innernorth suburbs with quiet streets, quick bike rides to the city and easy local shops. Great for professionals wanting calm but connected living.
Garden suburb in the Inner South close to Manuka, Kingston, and the airport. Known for its gorgeous treelined streets and strong community feel.
A major district in the northwest, combining apartments by Lake Ginninderra and houses in Emu Ridge and Ginninderra Heights. Suitable for families and professionals seeking affordability plus amenities.
For young professionals, Braddon, Dickson, O’Connor, Turner, Kingston and Belconnen rank high for convenience, transport, cafes and green space.
For families, Narrabundah, Weston Creek, Belconnen, and Gungahlin get strong recommendation—good schools, amenities, parks, and community spirit.
For those wanting prestige and leafy streets, Yarralumla, Forrest, Deakin, Griffith are often ranked best overall, with low crime and strong social cohesion.
Whether you’re after lakeside brunches, leafy garden streets or buzzy cafe culture, Canberra has a suburb to suit your rhythm. Braddon feels alive with energy, Narrabundah oozes tranquillity, and Yarralumla delivers prestige—yet it’s all part of the same city spirit. The best suburb to live in Canberra depends on what matters most: café access, green space, schools or safety. Take a weekend driving the leafy avenues of Inner South, or stroll from CBD into O’Connor or Turner, and feel it for yourself.
Canberra Times – Suburbs with the most energy-efficient homes
Energy.gov.au – Tips to save on hot water and laundry energy
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"With advances in energy-efficient washing machines and dryers, it’s now easier than ever to reduce laundry electricity and gas costs in Canberra. Smart tech allows businesses and homes to monitor usage and optimise every wash cycle."