Where to Live in Australia? Find the Best State for Your Migration Goals
Choosing the best Australian state to live in is one of the most crucial decisions you should consider before moving to Australia. With six states and two territories, each with its own benefits, you must carefully consider the best places to live in Australia. Ensuring your chosen state fits your lifestyle, job aspirations, and settlement plans can be challenging.
In this post, we’ll look at the critical factors you should consider before picking where to reside in Australia—and how to make the best decision!
What Makes a State the “Best” Place to Live?
The concept of the best Australian state to live in varies from person to person. Migrants’ interests vary; some seek job opportunities, while others prioritise lifestyle, cost, or community.
Below are some of the most significant aspects you should consider in deciding the best places to live in Australia.
Key Aspects You Should Consider in Choosing the Best Australian State to Live in
1. Employment Opportunities
Each Australian state has different in-demand industries. For example:
- New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria provide greater business, financial, and information technology opportunities.
- Western Australia (WA) and Queensland (QLD) excel in mining, engineering, and healthcare.
- South Australia (SA) is becoming more welcoming to skilled migrants through its regional migration streams.
Also, ensure to check the Skilled Occupation List for each state regularly. This list, which may change according to the job market, outlines the occupations in high demand in each state. It’s important to keep an eye on this list as it could affect your migration plan and the opportunities available to you in your chosen state.
Read more: 15 In Demand IT Jobs in Australia – Updated
2. Cost of living
Some cities are far cheaper than others. Sydney and Melbourne, while appealing, are also among the priciest. Cities like Adelaide and Hobart have more affordable living costs.
Tips: try to compare or calculate your expected earnings and living costs. That way, you can find the best places to live in Australia!
3. Climate and Lifestyle
Australia has a diverse climate, ranging from tropical to moderate to cool, which might affect your daily life. Here is some key information you should know:
- Queensland is sunny and humid, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Melbourne and Tasmania are cooler compared to other Australian states.
- Adelaide and Perth have warm, dry summers and mild winters, which might suit you if you’re into warmer weather.
So, ask yourself, would you like a coastal lifestyle, cooler temperatures, or a slower rural pace?
4. Education Option
If you are migrating to Australia with your family or intend to study, access to quality education is important.
Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra are home to some of Australia’s finest institutions and educational systems.
Smaller states, such as South Australia and Tasmania, offer excellent education in a less competitive environment, sometimes at a lower cost.
Some states also provide state nominations to overseas graduates who complete their studies locally. State nominations are a form of sponsorship from a particular state government, which can significantly increase your chances of obtaining Australian permanent residency through the Skilled Visa. This could be a crucial factor in your decision-making process when choosing the best state to live in Australia.
Read more: 485 to 190 Visa: Best PR Pathway for International Students!
5. Migration Pathways and State Nominations
Each state has its own requirements for skilled migration programs, such as Subclass 190 and 491. Some states are more beneficial and tend to have faster processing times than others. For example:
- Regional states (e.g., South Australia, Tasmania, and Western Australia) frequently have lower point standards, greater occupational flexibility, and faster invitations.
- Meanwhile, big cities like Sydney and Melbourne may have tougher competition or demand more points due to their popularity.
If you’re seeking a Permanent Residency, consider this aspect carefully!
6. Cultural Diversity and Supportive Communities
A welcoming community can significantly influence how quickly you can settle in.
Sydney and Melbourne, being the largest cities in Australia, are highly multicultural, with established ethnic groups, diverse houses of worship, and numerous cultural activities.
Regional regions may offer a more intimate and gentle pace, but fewer migrant networks, depending on one’s background.
So, consider whether you prefer a close-knit neighbourhood or a larger, multicultural environment.
Read more: Reason to Live and Work in Australian Regional Area – Complete Information
Tips for Choosing the Best Australian State to Live In
Choosing the best Australian state to live in is more than just choosing the biggest city or the most well-known destination. It’s about matching your goals, profession, lifestyle, and migration path.
Here are some final, practical tips to help you decide:
1. Begin With Your Visa Goals
Each Australian state provides different opportunities for migrants, for example:
- If you want to obtain a Permanent Residency (PR) through state nomination, consider regional states such as South Australia, Tasmania, or Western Australia, which typically have lower point limits and more flexible standards.
- If you already hold a student or temporary visa, certain states, such as Victoria and Queensland, offer graduate options after completing local study.
2. Match your skills to the job market
Research which Australian state requires your skills.
If you work in IT, finance, or business, metro areas like New South Wales and Victoria have more corporate opportunities.
If you work in trades, construction, healthcare, or agriculture, regional states may provide greater job prospects and incentives to migrants.
3. Consider long-term lifestyle needs
Consider whether you are:
- A student or single seeking opportunities and networking.
- A young family looking for affordable housing and safety.
- A talented professional seeking PR opportunities and a decent work-life balance.
- A nature enthusiast or retiree seeking tranquillity and beauty.
Your best Australian state not only allows you to work but also to enjoy your life.
4. Test the Waters with a Short-Term Stay
If you are doubtful, consider the following:
- Studying in your shortlisted state.
- Arriving on a Working Holiday Visa or Visitor Visa first to explore.
- Talking with migrants who have settled in your chosen place.
A short-term stay might provide valuable insight into whether the state meets your expectations.
So, what is the best Australian state to live in?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “What is the best Australian state to live in?”
The key is matching your goals, job, and lifestyle with what each state offers. With proper planning and the right knowledge, you can choose a state that welcomes you and helps you thrive.
If you need professional advice or assistance in migrating to Australia, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our Registered Migration Agent. We’re here to guide you:
We’re here to help you!
ONEderland Consulting is always here to help you achieve your best Australian dream! We are experts in complex cases, and Australian visa cancellation is one of them. We have a 98% success rate and are one of Australia’s most highly recommended migration agents. Read our 4.9* score customer reviews.
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Take the first step and get in touch with us. Our team members are honest, accountable, and professional. Contact us through email at [email protected] or via phone at 1300 827 159. Alternatively, you may book your consultation online, and our 100% Money-Back Guarantee Program backs it.
