26 Jun 2015
Our guide will help you explore some of the pros and cons of living in Australia’s most famous city and answer some commonly asked questions from individuals considering relocating there. As international removals specialists with extensive experience in moving people to and from Sydney, we’re here to help.
A city known for its vibrant culture and endless sunshine, Sydney attracts thousands of newcomers each and every year. But that doesn’t mean that it’s right for everyone - let’s put the spotlight on Sydney and take a look at everything you might need to know before moving there.
Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales, sitting on Australia’s eastern coast, and is one the world’s most popular cities. With British settlers first arriving in Sydney in 1788, the city has now transformed into a major global multicultural and economic force. Famed for its attractions such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, the harbour, and the abundance of restaurants and nightlife, it's no wonder that Sydney is the seventh most liveable city in the world. While Sydney is regarded as a modern metropolis, you are never far from nature. There are many large parks and nature reserves in and around the city. The Blue Mountains sit on Sydney’s doorstep and are an absolute must-visit.
For all these reasons and many more, lots of people across the world find Sydney a desirable place to live or make it their aim to move there. But you’ll need to read on if you want to decide whether or not moving to Sydney is the right move for you.
Firstly, if you are moving to Australia then it's essential that you apply for the correct visa. It's also important that you take an initial trip to the city before moving and explore as much as you can. Take time to speak to locals and ask for advice. Many of the districts around the city offer a unique atmosphere, so it's important you find the one that feels right to you. It's very easy to get caught up in the idea of moving to Sydney, however, it is important to remain realistic when moving there. It is a very different culture to the UK so it is important that you give it time to feel settled and prepare yourself for the change.
Just like anywhere in the world, there are pros and cons when it comes to living in Sydney. The lifestyle available in this part of the world will massively appeal to some while not to others. To make things simple for you, we’ve put together a helpful list of the pros and cons of living in the area.
Vibrant City Life: Those who relocate to Sydney are pleased to discover the dynamic lifestyle on offer, complete with an endless list of cultural events, and festivals, as well as a thriving art scene. From Vivid Sydney to the Sydney Festival, there’s no shortage of exciting events showcasing the city’s creative spirit.
Natural Beauty: Offering more than one hundred beaches (including the world-famous Bondi Beach and Manly Beach), there’s no shortage of scenic beauty in Sydney. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, walking and much more.
Robust Economy: Sydney serves as Australia’s financial hub and offers a strong job market, making it attractive to newcomers. Sectors like technology, finance and creative industries are particularly booming in the city.
High Cost of Living: Like many big cities, Sydney is well known for its high living expenses. Housing prices in the city are the main contributing factor. As of October 2024, the median house value in Sydney was over $ 1.47 million AUS.
Limited Housing Market: For those trying to find affordable accommodation in Sydney, it can be a real challenge. Due to the high demand and limited supply, Sydney is known for a very competitive housing market, both for rentals and purchased homes.
Traffic: Rush hour can be a pain in Sydney, though this is true of any urban area that is popular. Congested streets are not uncommon, but public transportation can help with this issue.
Assuming that the lifestyle on offer in Sydney aligns with what you’re looking for, yes - Sydney is a nice place to live. It consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities for all the reasons we’ve already explored, as well as excellent public amenities. If you’re looking for a vibrant cosmopolitan area with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, Sydney would be a great place for you to live.
Getting around Sydney is not a hard task considering its size, thanks to the many transportation methods available in and around the city. Catching the Monorail, rail links, and various hop-on/hop-off ferries and buses makes going to work and seeing everything the city has to offer a simple task.
Sydney is a multicultural city, with many Sydneysiders coming from Canada, the UK, China, New Zealand, and India. What makes it a great place to live are the different elements of these cultures that appear throughout the city whilst not losing touch with its Australian roots. In Sydney, you are constantly discovering new and exciting things to do each week. Plus, having the Blue Mountains on your back doorstep is not a bad thing.
By talking with one of our international relocation specialists, we can help you plan out your move to Sydney, leaving no stone unturned. Whether you require just a few items from your property to be moved or the entire contents of your house, we can help create the perfect solution for you. Sydney is vast, with many districts so it's important you check potential traffic routes to and from work for example.
