Pros and cons of moving to Adelaide

Relocating to any city has its ups and downs, and you’ll find that moving to Adelaide is no different. That said, the city remains popular, and its pros far outweigh its cons.

Here are a few of the perks and pitfalls of moving to the South Australian capital.

Accommodation in Adelaide

+ PRO: Cheaper areas not too far from the city

Although Adelaide has more than a million inhabitants, few people live in the city centre. Most live in the eastern suburbs or on the coast, where it is often surprisingly cheaper than inland neighbourhoods. These areas are still close enough to Adelaide’s city centre to be reachable by bus or tram in less than an hour. Popular areas include Medindie, Walkerville, and Brompton, each offering distinct lifestyles from family-friendly environments to bustling, artistic atmospheres.

Learn more about the best Areas and Suburbs in Adelaide.

- CON: Accommodation is expensive

It is no longer a secret: Australia is an expensive country to live in, and accommodation is a big part of this cost. Rental prices in Adelaide are constantly on the rise, with the median price now among the highest in the country. This means you’ll need a good salary to cover the cost of accommodation. While money goes much further here than in larger Australian cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, it’s by no means a cheap place to live.

For more information, see our guide on Accommodation in Adelaide.

Food in Adelaide

+ PRO: Heaps of eateries

Whether you enjoy pub grub, spicy dishes, or healthy food, you will surely find a favourite spot in Adelaide. There is an abundance of restaurants, food trucks, and other good eateries in Adelaide’s city centre and its various neighbourhoods. Areas like the CBD and suburbs like Torrensville are particularly known for their bustling dining scenes, offering everything from traditional Australian fare to international cuisines.

Find out about Shopping, Activities, Attractions and Events in Adelaide.

- CON: Pricey meals

Eating out in Adelaide can be a pricey endeavour – whether dining at a fancy restaurant, in a food court, or even just grabbing a takeaway sandwich, restaurant bills tend to sting. However, food costs here are still generally lower than those in cities like Sydney, making it a little easier on the wallet if you’re used to Australia’s more expensive capitals.

Working in Adelaide

+ PRO: Good work-life balance

Although salaries in Australia may not be as high as in other locations around the world, the country is well known for its good work-life balance. Working in Adelaide gives you a chance to truly enjoy your stay in Australia in a more laid-back environment. Industries like technology, healthcare, and education are expanding, providing plenty of opportunities if you’re in one of these sectors.

Find out more about Working in Adelaide and see how you can achieve a fulfilling work-life balance.

- CON: Tricky to find a first position in Adelaide

If you’re fresh off the plane, you’ll need determination and dedication to get the holy grail that is your first Australian job. Because most employers prefer to hire local jobseekers or those with experience in an Australian-based company, getting a foot in the door becomes a bit difficult. 

Once expats get that first position, they often keep it for the long term, knowing how complicated it was to get it in the first place and loathe to go through the process again. The South Australian Government has introduced initiatives like the General Skilled Migration Program to help streamline this process, but patience and perseverance remain essential.

Travelling in Adelaide

+ PRO: Many options for road trips

Travelling in Adelaide opens up endless possibilities for scenic road trips. You could take the Epicurean Way through some of Australia’s finest wine regions, like the Barossa Valley, or discover the rugged natural scenery of the Southern Ocean Drive, which leads you to the stunning Kangaroo Island. There’s also the Ocean to Outback Road Trip that takes you through the Flinders Ranges into the true Australian Outback. 

The views are second to none, and it’s a great way to soak up South Australia’s natural beauty.

- CON: Domestic flights are pricey

Travelling interstate is unfortunately expensive from Adelaide. Although there are many flights available, prices tend to rise sharply as the departure date nears, which can be a hassle if you’re booking at the last minute.

+ PRO: Good public transport system

Getting around Adelaide by public transport is quite convenient. Whether you hop on the tram from Glenelg all the way to North Adelaide or catch one of the many buses and trains to the suburbs, the system is well developed. 

Recent improvements like the new high-frequency bus services have enhanced coverage, especially in regions like the Adelaide Hills.

Check out more about Getting Around in Adelaide to make your travel easier and hassle-free.

- CON: Frequency of public transport

Despite the improvements, waiting times for public transport can still be an issue, particularly during off-peak hours. Buses might run as infrequently as once an hour, and sometimes you might need to use a combination of buses, trams, and trains just to reach your destination.

Entertainment in Adelaide

+ PRO: Activities for every type

There’s plenty to see and do in Adelaide. If you’re into hiking, surfing, or stand-up paddleboarding, there’s something for the sporty and adventurous. Cheese and wine tasting are popular pastimes for foodies, while the cultural district and a wide array of shows in the city centre cater to those who love a bit of art and culture. 

+ PRO: Great selection of local beers, ciders and wines

Adelaide is the perfect spot for sipping great local beers, ciders, and wines. The region is surrounded by vineyards and breweries offering unique tasting experiences, often with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly practices. This makes a leisurely trip around the state of South Australia a delight, especially for those who appreciate artisanal beverages.