Canberra: What’s It Truly Like to Live in the City

One of the questions many people who are considering making the move to Canberra is: “what is it truly like to live in the City?” Canberra is a city full of beauty, excellent education opportunities, and a comprehensive public transport system, giving it an edge over other major cities. This guide will provide a comprehensive insight into what it’s like to live in Canberra for all prospective residents.

Location and Weather

Canberra is located in the heart of Australia, making it one of the most geographically convenient cities to live in. Its centre is within three hours’ drive from Sydney and Melbourne, as well as most other cities in NSW and Victoria. With its low latitude and temperate climate, Canberra experiences hot and humid summers and cold winters. Overall, temperatures remain relatively mild throughout the year, with average annual daytime temperatures ranging from 8.1°C to 20.9°C.

Communities and Culture

Canberra is home to a diverse community of over 350,000 people. It is not only home to Australians, but also a significant number of international students, skilled workers, and expatriates. This eclectic mix of cultures allows the city to draw from the best in cultures from around the world, with many special events held throughout the year celebrating its unique identity. As the capital of Australia, the city also draws on a rich political heritage and this translates into various cause-driven annual events.

Standard of Living

Canberra is classified by Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey as one of the highest quality of life cities in Australia and the world. The city is ranked 3rd in Mercer’s 2019 Global Quality of Living Index, beating out Sydney and Melbourne. This high rating can be attributed to a variety of factors including but not limited to low crime rates, excellent healthcare services, and a wide-ranging infrastructure that delivers access to essential services such as education and public transport. It was even recently recognised as the second-best place to live in Australia by Dan Andrews’ recent Australia-wide report card.

In terms of housing affordability, Canberra remains competitive with other major cities. The average house price in Canberra is slightly above $500,000, significantly lower than Sydney’s median of over $1 million. There are also numerous rental homes in the city at competitive rates, making it a viable option for those who choose not to buy or need temporary accommodation, with an Australian study placing Canberra at 9th out of 250 locations for its affordability for renting.

Sports and Recreation

Canberra boasts some of Australia’s best recreational opportunities with dozens of parks, trails, and green spaces throughout the city ready for visitors to explore. There are ample outdoor activities throughout the year with a wide variety of sports clubs and teams ranging from cricket, AFL and soccer to community based activities like tai chi or yoga. There are also recreational centres which feature a number of classes and activities like gymnastics, martial arts and swimming lessons. Canberra is also a haven for shoppers with two of Australia’s hottest shopping destinations: Canberra Centre and Westfield Belconnen.

Conclusion

Overall, Canberra has something for everyone and can provide an excellent standard of living no matter who you are. Its convenient location, diverse communities, top-notch amenities, affordable housing options and warm climate make it ideal for those looking for a new home in Australia. So if you’re considering making the move to Canberra – go for it! You won’t be disappointed!
For more information about Canberra see Visit Canberra, official website for tourism information.

An Insider’s Guide to Canberra: What It’s Truly Like to Live in the City

If you’re planning a trip to Australia’s capital city, Canberra, there’s plenty to see and do. But as a local, I can tell you that there’s so much more to this city than what meets the eye. Here’s an insider’s guide to Canberra, including hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, local history, and unique off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your trip memorable.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

Canberra is home to some of Australia’s most famous landmarks, such as the Parliament House, the National Museum of Australia, and the Australian War Memorial. However, if you’re looking to explore something new, I recommend visiting Mount Ainslie Lookout. You can take a scenic drive or hike to the top of the mountain, which offers panoramic views of the city. Another hidden gem is the National Arboretum, where you can walk among 94 forests of rare and endangered trees from around the world.

Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine

Canberra’s food scene has boomed in recent years, and you’ll find everything from fine dining to food trucks. I highly recommend trying the local cuisine at Pialligo Estate, where you can taste the flavors of the region’s fresh produce and wines. For a more casual experience, head to Brodburger, which serves some of the best burgers and shakes in the city, or Kingsley’s Chicken, a local institution since 1972. And if you’re looking for something sweet, head to Pâtissez, home of the original freak shake.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in the City

Canberra is a melting pot of culture, art, and history, and there’s always something going on. If you’re visiting in March, don’t miss the National Multicultural Festival, a celebration of the city’s diversity through music, food, and performances. You can also explore the city’s art scene by visiting the National Gallery of Australia, the largest art museum in the country. And for a dose of history, head to Lanyon Homestead, where you can explore a living piece of Canberra’s colonial past.

Local History: Uncovering Fascinating Stories

Canberra has a rich and often overlooked history that is waiting to be discovered. One of the most interesting stories is that Walter Burley Griffin, the city’s architect, designed Canberra as a ‘garden city’ with nature and open spaces at its core. Another fascinating fact is that in the early 1900s, a group of women known as the ‘Silent Sentinels’ protested outside the White House for women’s suffrage, and the leader of the group was a Canberran woman named Dora Montefiore.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Experiences

If you’re looking for a unique Canberra experience, try hot air ballooning over the city at dawn. It’s a breathtaking way to see the city from above and something you’ll never forget. Another suggestion is to go stargazing at Mount Stromlo Observatory, where you can learn about the history of astronomy and peer through telescopes at the stars. Finally, for a refreshing adventure, head to the nearby Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, which is filled with native wildlife and hiking trails through rugged terrain.

In conclusion, Canberra is a fascinating city with plenty to offer beyond the typical tourist spots. Use this insider’s guide to explore the hidden gems, sample the local cuisine, immerse yourself in the city’s culture, uncover its rich history, and create unforgettable experiences that will stay with you forever.