Areas and suburbs in Sydney

The best places to live in Sydney

In a vast, sprawling city such as Sydney, deciding where to live as a new expat is not a simple task. Before beginning their search for accommodation, expats should take time to consider their options, keeping lifestyle, family and personal preferences in mind. Proximity to work and (if you have children) school is paramount for avoiding a long commute in the mornings and evenings.

With a diversity of neighbourhoods, Sydney has something to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of our favourites.

City living in Sydney

Sydney is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city and many young expats prefer to live close to the city centre where the action is. That said, space is hard to come by here, and the price of accommodation largely depends on how central it is.

The Rocks

This area is close to the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is a great location with some of Sydney’s best restaurants, bars and nightlife just a hop and a skip away. This part of town is scenic and has a fun, laid-back feel to it. The area is best suited to young professionals who enjoy the buzz of city life, or business executives who want to be located close to the CBD.

Potts Point

Just a few kilometres from the CBD, Potts Point is a lively and central place to live, and apartments here often have stunning views of Sydney Harbour. Residents are right in the middle of town, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and shops, and they have access to good public transport.

Potts Point is conveniently situated and offers plentiful amenities and beautiful views. Unfortunately, this is reflected in the housing prices. Accommodation here is on the pricey side, but for those who can afford it, Potts Point is a great choice.

Newtown

Newtown is a bohemian area of Sydney and is the perfect place for single expats or couples on a budget. It is a colourful and unconventional area with an eclectic host of restaurants, bars, theatres and clubs. The streets are lined with vintage fashion boutiques, music shops, specialist bookshops and antique shops.

Although it looks a little run-down in parts, this is all part of the Newtown charm. It is decidedly cosmopolitan and highly popular with young expats. Newtown has good transport links with quick access to Sydney CBD and southern suburbs.

Paddington

Known for its pretty Victorian terraces, Paddington is a trendy Sydney suburb that is popular with young couples and professionals moving to Sydney, who are drawn to its boutique shops, cafes and galleries, as well as the proximity to the CBD. Known for the Paddington Markets and Five Ways precinct, it exudes charm and sophistication.

Family-friendly areas to live in Sydney

Thanks to Sydney’s glorious weather, sublime beaches and wide open spaces, it’s a fantastic place for expats relocating with children. Expats moving to Sydney with a family will naturally want to consider schooling options before deciding where to live. Keep in mind that many public schools in Australia only offer places to students living within their particular catchment area.

Manly

Suburbs located near the northern beaches of Sydney are popular with expat families, especially those from the UK or New Zealand. Areas like Manly are great for expats with children, as they are close to some stunning beaches, as well as a number of Sydney’s top private and public schools. Public transport links to the city are good in these areas, with regular bus, train and ferry services in operation.

Bondi 

Bondi is Sydney’s iconic beachside suburb, is a perfect choice for those seeking a vibrant, active lifestyle. With its world-famous beach, coastal walks, and lively cafes, Bondi offers a mix of relaxed surf culture and urban convenience. Its diverse community, excellent amenities, and proximity to the city make it a prime relocation choice. Coogee is nearby beach community that is more relaxed than Bondi, and popular with families seeking a quieter and cheaper beach-side home. 

Parramatta

Parramatta is a lively but family-friendly area for those relocating to Sydney with children. Properties here are large and inexpensive compared to many other Sydney suburbs, and there are a number of good schools in the area. There are lots of open spaces to enjoy the outdoors with the family. These suburbs are also well-serviced by several modes of public transport.

Mosman

Situated on Sydney's Lower North Shore, Mosman is an affluent suburb known for its stunning harbour views, spectacular houses, and natural beauty. It boasts attractions like Taronga Zoo, Balmoral Beach, and scenic walking trails. Mosman is popular with families, and has some excellent primary and secondary schools, and there are some prestigious private schools in neighbouring suburbs. 

Neutral Bay

Nestled on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, Neutral Bay is known for its harbourside views, great dining scene, and excellent transport links. The upmarket area is popular with professionals and families seeking a tranquil lifestyle, with leafy roads, charming cafes, and easy access to the city. 

Chatswood

Also on the North Shore, Chatswood is a culturally diverse suburb that is well know for its restaurants and shops - it is home to major retail parks like Westfield and Chatswood Chase. With excellent schools, green spaces, and quick transport links to the CBD, it's an ideal base for families and professionals alike.

Double Bay and Vaucluse

These are two of the more prestigious Sydney suburbs, that offer luxury living for those who can afford it. Double Bay boasts boutique shops, elegant cafes, and harborside charm, while Vaucluse offers expansive waterfront homes, serene parks, and breathtaking coastal views. Both suburbs offer an exclusive lifestyle, combining tranquility with proximity to Sydney’s city centre.