Moving to Northern Territory

What to Expect When Moving to the Northern Territory?

When moving to Australia’s Northern Territory, you can expect a warm welcome and incredible living options. The Northern Territory’s capital, Darwin, offers several beaches and art galleries and acts as a gateway to the incredible Kakadu National Park. With over 100 nationalities living in the Northern Territory, moving to the NT is a popular option for those moving both internationally and from within Australia and offers a diverse and rewarding living style.

Climate in the Northern Territory

Those moving to the Northern Territory will discover two distinct climates. The northern part of the state has a tropical monsoon climate with a wet season and a dry season. Those moving to the Northern Territory should be aware that the wet season in the NT is also cyclone season so should take due precautions. The wet season, however, also boasts brilliant balmy evenings and cooling tropical rainstorms as well as fantastic lightning displays.

The dry season in the NT offers sunny days and cool evenings with temperatures of around 32 degrees and a low humidity level. Many people move to the Northern Territory to enjoy this good weather whilst the southern parts of Australia are experiencing winter. The central area has a typical desert climate with maximum winter temperatures of around 25 degrees and temperatures of around 20-35 degrees October to March

Cost of Living When Moving to the NT

The cost of living when moving to the Northern Territory can vary depending on where in the state you will be living. Those moving to the north of the NT will typically find elevated houses with large outdoor living areas and swimming pools whilst the south is home to more traditional ground-level houses with shady verandas. Due to these varieties of housing options, house prices when moving to the Northern Territory can vary greatly. When comparing housing costs between Darwin and Sydney, for example, Darwin has on average much lower rental costs with slightly higher basic utility costs.
Transport and leisure costs also work out as cheaper when moving to the NT compared to Canberra or Sydney. The lower population numbers in the Northern Territory compared to other states can mean that you may pay higher prices for some goods but this will vary depending on where in the NT you will be moving to.

Working in the Northern Territory

Those moving to the Northern Territory for work will find a thriving business scene. Some key sectors when moving to the NT for work include agribusiness, education and training, mining and energy, oil and gas, the Australian Space Agency and tourism.

With a thriving international airport and close proximity to the Asian markets, the Northern Territory is in a prime position to connect to the world’s markets and a brilliant business destination. Those working in the NT, particularly in Darwin, can also expect to receive generous wages compared to elsewhere in Australia.

Best Places to Live in the Northern Territory

These are some of the most popular places to live for those looking to move to Australia’s Northern Territory.

1. Stuart Park
2. Wulagi
3. Humpty Doo
4. Rosebery
5. Larrakeyah
6. Anula

Top Things to Do in the Northern Territory

Check out our list of top things to do for those moving to the Northern Territory.

1. Meet Aboriginal artists and discover their work in art festivals held across the NT
2. Discover the incredible waterfalls of Litchfield National Park and swim beneath them
3. Explore the Tjoritja and West MacDonnell Ranges near to Alice Springs and take a dip in their many beautiful swimming holes before discovering a colony of rock wallabies and camping under the stars
4. Take a wander through Darwin Botanical Gardens
5. Ride in an airboat through the NT’s mangroves and spot some crocodiles in the wild
6. Check out the Parap Market on a Saturday for live music, fresh food and handmade crafts
7. Take in a film at the famous Deckchair Cinema just off the Darwin Harbour