Should You Move To Sydney’s Inner City, Or The Suburbs?

Sydney is one of the world’s most popular places to live and frequently shows up in various global happiness indexes and reports. With a laid-back lifestyle perfectly balanced with fun city living and professional opportunities, it’s one of those places that truly has it all.

If you’ve decided to move to Sydney, the next thing to think about will be whether you want to live in the inner city or one of the outer suburbs.

Both have their pros and cons, which makes it a difficult choice to make – so if you’re still not sure which one to go for, then this is the guide for you.

Key Takeaways

• The decision to live in the inner city or suburbs of Sydney is a common dilemma faced by many, as both options have their own unique advantages and drawbacks.
• Cost of living in the inner city is typically more expensive than the suburbs but has more choice and availability. The suburbs are more affordable but are less dynamic.
• Inner city living offers plenty of transportation options, making it easy to get around. While the suburbs have fewer choices, there are still reliable transport links available.
• Housing in the inner city tends to be more expensive, with less space – but with better access to facilities and the benefits of city living. The suburbs are more affordable and have larger properties.
• The inner city offers a huge array of entertainment, eating, drinking, and cultural opportunities, while the suburbs are more focused on community and the great outdoors.
• Both the inner city and suburbs offer quality education. The city provides more choices with larger classes, while suburbs typically have fewer options, but with smaller classes and more spaces.
• While generally considered safe, the inner city has a higher population, and therefore a higher crime rate when compared to the suburbs.
• The suburbs have better air quality and more outdoor space when compared to the city.

Cost Of Living

The expenses that come with daily life are one of the main drivers when it comes to choosing a place to live. From food and groceries, to transport and rental prices, there’s a lot to balance.

Taking data from Numbeo, the world’s largest cost-of-living database, we can see how things stack up between the suburbs and the inner city.

Inner City

Inner-city living offers the thrill of urban life, with world-class amenities and endless entertainment. But this exciting lifestyle comes with a hefty price tag, including higher rent and expenses for dining, shopping, and daily necessities. For example:

• Cost of a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: AUD $80 – $120 
• Public transportation weekly pass: AUD $60 – $80 
• Average grocery bill for a single person per week: AUD $80 – $120 
• Average electricity bill for a single-person household: AUD $100 – $150 per quarter 

Suburbs

In contrast to inner city living, living in the suburbs is naturally more affordable. You won’t be compromising on the quality of your life, but your proximity to the exciting aspects of living in the city, and even your workplace will be affected. 

Taking the example of Parramatta, we can see that the typical costs are lower than that of being in the inner city.

• Cost of a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: AUD $60 – $80 
• Public transportation weekly pass: AUD $50 – $70 
• Average grocery bill for a single person per week: AUD $60 – $100 
• Average electricity bill for a single-person household: AUD $80 – $120 per quarter 

Transport

Transport is a major consideration for anyone who is relocating. From being able to get to work and school, to being able to travel to hospitals or entertainment hubs, you’re going to want plenty of options for getting around. Sydney boasts a robust public transportation network, but the best routes for you depend on where you choose to live.

Inner city

As you might imagine, Sydney’s inner city is bursting with transport options. The compact urban layout encourages a car-free lifestyle as essential amenities are within walking, biking, or public transport distance.

Public Transport

• Trains: Sydney’s extensive train network covers most of the inner city and suburbs. Also, the City Circle Line provides easy access to major business districts and entertainment hubs.
• Buses: A handy bus network offers flexibility for shorter trips and accesses areas not served by trains.
• Ferries: Sydney’s ferries provide scenic transportation options, connecting various inner-city and waterfront locations. 
• Light Rail: The light rail network is expanding, offering a modern and efficient mode of transport in certain inner-city areas.

Other Options

• Cycling: Dedicated cycle paths and lanes spiderweb across many inner city parts for easy, healthy, and highly affordable transport.
• Walking: The compact nature of the inner city makes it highly walkable, with many amenities within easy reach.

Suburbs

Suburban life provides a peaceful escape with lower rental costs, but commuting can significantly impact finances. Reduced public transport frequency often necessitates car ownership, leading to higher expenditures on fuel, parking, and vehicle upkeep – not to mention increased travel times.

But, that’s not to say that you’ll be marooned. Here are some of the best-connected suburbs in Sydney:

• Bondi: Known for its iconic beach, Bondi is also highly connected with train, bus, and ferry connections to the city centre.
• Hornsby and Castle Hill: Good train connections to the city but can experience peak-hour traffic congestion.
• Ryde: Found on the Parramatta River, with plenty of ferry and bus options.
• Bankstown and Hurstville: Strong train and bus networks, but also have traffic congestion during peak times.
• Liverpool: Found in the southwestern side of Sydney, Liverpool residents can take advantage of multiple transportation options including trains, buses, and light rail.
• Campbelltown: Also found in the southwest, Campbelltown is well-connected with trains, buses, and light rail access.

For more information on Sydney suburbs take a look at our detailed guide on the best suburbs to live in Sydney.

Housing

Sydney’s housing options are plentiful, with a dynamic market that’s shaped by contrasting lifestyles and property types. From the high-rise apartments of the CBD to the sprawling houses of the suburbs, your individual circumstances, preferences, needs and budgets will factor into your choice.

Inner City

The Sydney CBD is famous for its amazing skyline, where apartments are the predominant type of housing. While urban apartments tend to be smaller than suburban homes due to space constraints, they often offer a wealth of modern conveniences such as swimming pools, fitness centres, and outdoor terraces. 

Coupled with the vibrant atmosphere of city living, including abundant shopping, dining, and entertainment, urban homes can be incredibly appealing. However, renters should be prepared for higher costs.

Suburbs

Suburbs usually feature a mix of detached houses, townhouses, and low-rise apartments that often come with larger yards or private gardens – making them a popular choice for families and retirees. They also have lower rental prices, but come with larger commuting times to the CBD and entertainment centres.

Typical Property Prices

Property prices in Sydney are highly dynamic and are always changing. The figures below are estimates based on the latest data and market trends but are always liable to rapid changes. We recommend you look at property portals such as Domain.au to stay on top of things. 

Lifestyle And Entertainment

If you’re moving to Sydney for a better life, you’ve made the right choice. Whether you like city buzz or relaxed rural action, you’re bound to find something you like. But, choosing whether you live near the inner city or in the suburbs will dictate the kind of activities you have available.

Inner City

Sydney is the beating heart of NSW and is a melting pot of cultures and opportunities that offer a range of experiences.

• Culture: From world-class performances at the Sydney Opera House, and the stunning Art Gallery of New South Wales, to nights out on Oxford Street, there’s something for everyone. No matter where you’re from, or what you’re into, Sydney has it covered.
• Dining and shopping: Food fans love exploring Sydney’s inner city which has a superb range of restaurants, cafes, and food markets that serve cuisine from around the world. Then there are the high-end fashion boutiques, independent designers, and bustling shopping centres which cater to every taste and budget.
• Cultural diversity: The inner city acts as a hub for year-round cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions, including the Sydney Festival, Vivid Sydney, Good Food Month, and a whole lot more.

For a full calendar of what to do in Sydney, take a look at The City of Sydney’s Event Guide.

Suburbs

Even though the CBD is where the action is, that’s not to say that the suburbs have nothing. If you’re not a city person and prefer the outdoors, then the suburbs are where you’ll want to be. Here are a few examples:

• Cronulla, which has numerous beaches which are perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing – as well as the Royal National Park for hiking and bushwalking.
• Manly, where you can ride around on ferries, explore the Manly Corso with its shops, cafes and restaurants, and the North Head Sanctuary for amazing views of the harbour.
• Bondi, with the world-famous Bondi Beach for seaside fun, and a bunch of trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
• Dee Why, with peaceful beaches, and a great range of local dining and drinking establishments.
• Coogee, is renowned for its pristine beach, scenic coastal walk, and lively mix of boutique and casual dining or drinking.

Education

As a highly developed city, Sydney is no slouch when it comes to education. A lot of money has been invested over the years to create new schooling opportunities and improve those that already exist. But, as you might imagine, your location will have an impact on what you’ll end up with.

Inner City

Just like with the entertainment and cultural density, the inner city has a great deal of educational options, made up of both public and private options with notable institutions including Sydney Grammar School and Sydney Girls High School.

The inner city also has a high density of universities and tertiary education providers, and while competition for elite schools can be high, there are plenty of cultural, sporting, and artistic institutions available.

However, the inner-city educational opportunities aren’t without their challenges. The increasing cost of living has forced families to move to the suburbs, where prices are lower, and spaces more plentiful

Suburbs

Sydney’s suburbs generally provide more traditional schooling options, with areas like Epping, St Ives, Killara, Turramurra, and North Rocks especially recognised for their strong public school systems. 

The benefits of schools in the suburbs are that they are typically more community-oriented, have lower prices and competition for entry is lower. And with a lower cost of living across the board, parents are more able to afford extracurricular activities and private tutoring.

Schools by type

The choice between inner city and suburban living for education depends on your priorities, such as proximity to work, access to preferred schools, lifestyle preferences, and budget. Here’s a broad overview of the different education stages.

Early Childhood – Both the inner city and the suburbs have a good range of early learning options, with a few differences. Inner city areas usually have more facilities but still have spacing issues. Conversely, suburban childcare options are lower but have more spaces with lower prices.

High Schools – There is a good balance of high schools between the inner city and the suburbs. Inner-city secondary education typically offers more extracurricular opportunities which reflect the city’s dynamic atmosphere, while the suburbs focus more on community togetherness and outdoor pursuits.

Higher Education – Sydney is a major hub for higher education, with the city boasting world-renowned universities, including the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales. The suburbs also pull their weight, with campuses located in Macquarie Park and Parramatta. 

If you’re seeking higher education in Sydney, then our Graduate’s Moving Guide To Sydney is sure to help you out.

Crime And Safety

Sydney and its suburbs are generally regarded as safe and have even placed fourth in an annual global study, as reported by TimeOut. However, it’s fair to assume that those levels will differ depending on where you are. Please keep in mind that crime stats can fluctuate over time and that no area is 100% safe  – so once you have a suburb or two in mind, do some further research to inform your choice.

Inner City

While the inner city offers a fun and energetic lifestyle, it also experiences higher crime rates in certain areas. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), crime rates in inner-city Sydney are generally higher than the national average, which is linked to a higher population density, more nightlife activity, and various socioeconomic factors. 

Suburbs

The suburbs typically have lower crime rates, adding to the reasons why they are so preferred by families and those looking for a quieter and more laid-back way of life. 

Suburbs like Lindfield, Wahroonga, Beaumont Hills, and Bella Vista are often used as examples of suburban safety. ABS data typically indicates lower crime rates in these areas compared to the inner city.

This safety is likely compounded by a stronger community spirit, with neighbourhood watch programs, and fewer opportunities for rowdy nightlife.

Community And Social Life

Whether you’re living in the inner city or the suburbs, you won’t have to go far to find a place where you’ll feel welcome. As a world-class city, Sydney has everything a person needs to fulfil social and community needs. 

Inner City

Sydney’s inner city is a true cultural melting pot, with a population made up of people from diverse backgrounds. This naturally creates a dynamic social scene, with countless opportunities for networking and finding like-minded friends. The lifestyle typically revolves around restaurants, bars, festivals, and other cultural events. 

People living in the inner city often benefit from a rich choice of social clubs, interest groups, and community events that are aimed at different passions and backgrounds. However, the rushed nature of living in the inner city can put neighbourhoods into silos, and the higher costs of living can affect which events or socials you take part in.

Suburbs

As mentioned above in other contexts, Sydney’s suburbs are strongly characterised by their sense of strong community, with areas such as Glenhaven, Pymble, Oatley, Concord, and Lane Cove being known for their tight-knit neighbourhoods and family-oriented lifestyles. 

People living in these areas, and others like them, frequently take part in community events, school activities, and local clubs.  The slower pace of life in the suburbs encourages deeper connections among neighbours, with events focusing on parks, playgrounds, local sporting clubs, and other outdoor organisations.

For more information, we suggest you take a look at The City Of Sydney’s Community Groups page, which has a list of different organisations to explore.

Environment And Quality Of Life

What’s the point of convenient amenities and affordable living if the air quality is poor, and green spaces scarce? While suburbs often excel in environmental factors, inner-city living doesn’t always mean sacrificing a healthy environment. 

Inner City

Sydney’s inner city is typically known as an urban landscape, lined with high-rise buildings, busy streets and a constant flow of traffic. While it offers a high level of access to amenities, employment opportunities and entertainment options, it’s not without downsides. 

Noise pollution from pedestrians and traffic can be an issue for some, and when compared to the suburbs, green spaces are limited. However, the inner city does have the Royal Botanic Gardens and Centennial Park.

Air quality, on the other hand, remains a constant concern due to industrial activities and the volume of vehicular traffic. While these can’t be avoided in a busy city, there are ongoing efforts to reduce these in the years to come.

Despite the urban environment, the inner city offers easy access to some of Sydney’s most iconic beaches, such as Bondi, Coogee, and Manly.

Suburbs

In stark contrast to the inner city, Sydney’s suburbs have a stronger connection to nature. Areas such as Davidson, Dural, Annangrove, Kenthurst, and Terry Hills are well-known for their leafy streets, spacious homes, and green spaces. 

Sydney suburbs typically enjoy better air quality due to a lower population density, and more controlled traffic levels. And, as residents have easier access to larger parks, reserves, and outdoor recreational activities, their lifestyles can be considered healthier.

Many suburbs also offer beautiful beaches, such as those in the Northern Beaches area (Manly, Dee Why, Bondi) and the Southern Beaches (Cronulla). Then there are the surrounding national parks including The Royal National Park, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, and the Blue Mountains National Park, which offer hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

To Sum Up

Ultimately, the decision to live in the inner city or suburbs is a personal one. Your budget, lifestyle, and preference for urban excitement or suburban tranquillity will determine your ideal neighbourhood.

In the city, you’ll get more choice, more availability, and more excitement – but with a higher cost of living and potentially more hassle. Or, if you’re thinking about the suburbs, you’ll have to contend with higher transport distances, and slightly less availability for childcare and education – with the advantages of cheaper living, and more green space.

For more on Sydney, check out our Sydney Moving Guides, which cover everything you need to know about this amazing city, and how to make your relocation an easy one. For more information on Sydney suburbs take a look at our detailed guide on the best suburbs to live in Sydney.

Book Your Hassle-Free Sydney Removals

At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong. Sydney is an amazing place to live in both instances and if you’re thinking of making the move, talk to us. Our removalists Sydney experts are among the best in the country and will do everything they can to give your new life the start it deserves.

Sydney Suburbs To Consider

Thinking Of Heading To The Sydney Suburbs? Here are some to think about, with links to how ZOOM can get you to or from there.

• Removalists Parramatta: A popular hub with excellent transport links and a thriving job market.
• Removalists Bondi: A coastal suburb in Eastern Sydney, known for iconic beaches and a mix of trendy cafes, shops, and outdoor activities.
• Removalists Blacktown: It has evolved over the years, is very diverse, has good transport links and amenities.
• Removalists Epping: A well-connected suburb with leafy streets, excellent schools, diverse community, and convenient access to both the Sydney CBD.
• Removalists Castle Hill: A developing suburb offering established homes, modern amenities and great transport links.
• Removalists Campbelltown: A family-friendly environment with affordable housing options.
• Removalists Blacktown: Boasting a diverse community and a good choice of housing options.
• Removalists Penrith: Surrounded by natural beauty, with a good balance of urban and suburban living.
• Removalists Liverpool: A multicultural area with a strong sense of community.
• Removalists Mosman: A harbourside suburb known for its beautiful views, walking trails, dining scenes, and family-friendly attractions like Taronga Zoo.
• Removalists Hornsby: Located in Sydney’s Upper North Shore, it offers residential comfort, commercial convenience and natural beauty.

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