Moving to Adelaide

What to Expect When Moving to Adelaide?

Adelaide offers a unique blend of calm and culture — it’s a city where life feels a little slower, yet full of things to explore. From the city centre surrounded by lush parklands to pristine beaches and the scenic Adelaide Hills, there’s always something to enjoy.

Moving here means more than just changing your address — it’s stepping into a lifestyle where weekends are for wine-country drives, beach walks, or exploring the city’s vibrant markets and festivals.

Here’s why people love living in Adelaide:

• Shorter commutes and easy navigation: Many suburbs are just minutes from work, school, or the city.

• Affordable housing: Compared to Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, your budget goes further. (Costs vary by suburb — Palmers can help you choose wisely.)

• Top universities & schools: University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and other institutions make Adelaide ideal for students and families.

• World-class wine regions: Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Adelaide Hills are right on your doorstep.

• Nature & lifestyle: Beaches, bike paths, hills, and national parks are all within easy reach.

Cost of Living When Moving to Adelaide

If you’re moving to Adelaide from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, you’ll likely notice a significant reduction in everyday costs. Rent, groceries, utilities and transport are generally more affordable.

This makes Adelaide especially attractive for young families, first-home buyers and professionals wanting to stretch their lifestyle further.

Working in Adelaide

Adelaide has a growing job market supported by both established industries and emerging sectors. It is recognised as a hub for defence, technology, renewable energy and education.

Key industries in Adelaide include:

• Defence & aerospace

• Manufacturing

• Health & medical research

• Education

• ICT & technology

• Wine, food and agriculture

• Government & public services

With its affordable living and strong local investment, Adelaide continues to attract talent from across Australia and overseas.

Best Places to Live in Adelaide

Here are some of the most popular suburbs for those moving to Adelaide:

• Glenelg — Beachside living with cafés, dining and great transport links

• Norwood — Trendy, vibrant and close to the CBD

• North Adelaide — Leafy, historic and full of character

• Prospect — Family-friendly with great amenities

• Henley Beach — Coastal lifestyle with a relaxed feel

• Unley — Known for its boutiques, dining and modern homes

• Goodwood — Charming, convenient and community-focused

• Semaphore — Laid-back beach town vibes

• Burnside — One of Adelaide’s most prestigious residential areas

Top Things to Do in Adelaide

Whether you’re moving solo, with a partner or with a family, Adelaide offers plenty to enjoy.

• Explore the iconic Adelaide Central Market

• Relax at Glenelg Beach and stroll the jetty

• Wander through the Adelaide Botanic Garden

• Hike the trails of Morialta Conservation Park

• Spend a day touring the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale

• Discover art, culture and festivals during Mad March

• Visit the Adelaide Zoo – home to giant pandas