Where to live in Sydney

Like most major cities, Sydney is divided up into sections and each area can vary hugely in terms of desirability and affordability. When it comes to finding a place to live, there are countless options, ranging from beachy neighbourhoods in the Eastern Suburbs, to ‘hipster’ options in the Inner West. Roughly summarised, the main areas are:

  • City Centre (easy for work, high end apartments, fun nightlife in the likes of Surry Hills and Paddington)
  • The Eastern Suburbs (think amazing beaches, outdoor lifestyle and a young, international demographic)
  • Northern Beaches (Quieter version of the Eastern Suburbs – beautiful, settled, residential. Expat outpost at Manly)
  • Inner West (up-and-coming gentrification makes this quirky area home to an individual crowd. Gigs, coffee, vintage stores).

Check out this excellent guide to Sydney’s best neighborhoods to live in, here.

When you arrive a good start is to stay with a friend or family member, which help you decide where you want to live in Sydney or alternatively, there are lots of options for backpacker hostels.

Many new arrivals to Sydney based themselves in the East, in places like Bondi Junction, Randwick and Coogee. These areas are close to the beaches and are well placed for getting in to the city.

Some good websites to look online for accommodation in Sydney are DomainFlatmates.com and Gumtree but also, the local clubs and societies are great to follow on Facebook, for useful posts about accommodation and jobs.