How is the Cost of Living in Canberra?
Canberra, Australia, is the capital of the nation. It is a vibrant city, full of parks, natural beauty, and the activity of Parliament Hill. Known for its well-planned streets and home to significant establishments, such as the Australian War Memorial, Old Parliament House, and the National Library of Australia, Canberra is a great city to live in.
But what does it cost to live there? Is it an expensive place to move to, or are there affordable housing options? Read on for more details about the cost of living in Canberra.
Overview of the Cost of Living in Canberra
Canberra is seen as one of Australia’s more expensive places to live, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable housing. Like anywhere else, you can find expensive homes and neighborhoods, or cheaper ones.
The average price of a detached house in the city ranges from $400,000 to $700,000, depending on the area. Apartments, meanwhile, cost an average of $250,000. Rent prices vary, but generally range from $200 to $500 per week, depending on where you want to live.
When it comes to groceries, prices are generally slightly higher than other regions. However, much of that cost can be offset by keeping an eye out for sales and promotions, shopping at discount stores when possible and making the most of any store loyalty programs you may be eligible for.
Canberra also has a relatively high cost of transportation. Public transportation is limited and there is no Uber service; instead, there are taxi companies available for hire. A 25-minute taxi ride can cost up to $30 or more depending on traffic. On the other hand, you may look into carpooling services as well as demand-response van service from ACTION buses.
Fortunately, Canberra also offers several discounts to encourage people to use public transportation: seniors receive a 40% discount on their fare, while students and persons with disabilities are eligible for a 50% discount with qualifying ID.
Utilities costs in Canberra are reasonably priced. For electricity, you can expect to pay around $220 monthly for a two bedroom apartment. For gas, carbon tax accounts for between 10-20% of your gas bill; money which goes directly toward environmentally-sustainable initiatives in the state. As for water, most areas in Canberra have no water bills – instead, much of the water comes from a series of large dams.
The Advantages of Living in Canberra
Despite its higher costs, living in Capital Hill has several advantages. The area has a great quality of life and the fact that visitors have free access to many national attractions and monuments, such as Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial, adds an extra bonus.
In addition, Canberra has a growing economy. Since it’s the capital city of Australia, many businesses have set up corporate offices here. This helps to generate job opportunities and keeps the city’s unemployment rate relatively low at 5%.
Canberra also has plenty of leisure activities for entertainment. Additionally, there are several stages for musical performances, art galleries and its surrounding small towns provide weekend getaway spots to explore the local wineries and sample its cuisine.
Finally, while it may be expensive to move to the city initially, relocating to Canberra can be quite lucrative in the long term due to its economy and job opportunities – as well as its generally high wages (which often command higher salaries than other areas in Australia).
Conclusion: Is Canberra Worth It?
Overall, when deciding whether or not to move to Canberra consider your budget before making a decision. Although Canberra’s cost of living is not the most affordable in Australia if you get a great salary and need access to world class entertainment and cultural experiences then it might be worth shelling out a little bit extra for the pluses of living in in the city life.
For those seeking information about Canberra’s cost of living further information can found in this Demographia Cost of Living Survey, which provides an overview of prices for housing, transportation, groceries and utilities across the city.
Insider’s Guide to Canberra: Exploring Local Gems, Food Culture, Festivals, History, and Beyond
As Australia’s capital city, Canberra boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and historical significance. Known for its diverse range of museums, galleries, and monuments, Canberra is often overlooked as a tourist destination. But, beyond the surface lies a city brimming with hidden gems, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. In this insider’s guide, I’ll take you on a journey to discover some of Canberra’s best-kept secrets.
Exploring Local Gems
While the major attractions such as Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Gallery of Australia are must-visit destinations, Canberra is also home to a range of lesser-known spots that are worth exploring. Visit Tripod Rock in the Namadgi National Park, take a hike around Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, or go on a guided tour of the Mount Ainslie Summit. These off-the-beaten-track destinations will give you a local’s perspective on Canberra’s natural wonders.
Food Culture and Dining Spots
Canberra’s food culture is diverse and delicious. For a unique dining experience, head to Lonsdale Street in Braddon, where you’ll find street art, coffee shops, and some of the city’s best restaurants. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the Pialligo Estate Smokehouse, where the meats are smoked onsite and come straight from the surrounding farmland. Alternatively, grab a burger at Grease Monkey, a popular spot that’s an ode to American diner culture.
Cultural Experiences and Festivals
Canberra is home to some of Australia’s biggest cultural festivals, including the Floriade Spring Festival and the Enlighten Festival. Floriade brings together more than one million blooms, and it’s a great time to visit Canberra. The Enlighten Festival is another highlight, with light installations, live music, and pop-up food vendors. Additionally, for a unique cultural experience, head to the National Museum of Australia, which showcases the country’s rich Indigenous culture and history.
Local History and Captivating Stories
Canberrans are proud of their city’s rich history, and many buildings here have significant historical value. Tour the Old Parliament House or visit the nearby Australian National Botanic Gardens, where you’ll find species of rare Australian plants. Additionally, the National Film and Sound Archive showcases the country’s audiovisual history and offers a glimpse into it’s cultural past.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
For a truly unique experience, visit the Mount Stromlo Observatory, where you can stargaze, attend astronomy talks, or take part in a guided nature walk. For an adrenaline rush, try rock climbing in the city’s indoor climbing facilities. Finally, if time permits, take a day trip to the historic town of Braidwood, located south-west of Canberra, where you’ll find beautiful scenery and a fascinating, historic township.
In conclusion, Canberra is a vibrant, exciting city, and you can easily enjoy all of its attractions while living on a budget. Whether you’re here for a week or just a quick day trip, there’s so much to explore here that will leave you wanting more. This insider’s guide will help you discover Canberra’s hidden wonders and get a taste of its unique culture. Come see for yourself why visitors often leave with a newfound appreciation for Australia’s capital city.
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