What's it Like Living in Brisbane?

In the heart of Queensland’s southeast lies its dynamic capital city: Brisbane. Boasting a vibrant cultural scene, some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country, as well as a relaxed lifestyle, Brisbane has earned its reputation as one of the most desirable cities to call home.

From its sun-drenched coastline to its thriving city centre, Brisbane has that perfect blend of cosmopolitan sophistication and laid-back charm. Whether you're drawn to its bustling streets or the tranquillity of its leafy suburbs, in Brisbane you’ll always find a place to call home.

Ready to learn more about what Brisbane life could be like for you? Let’s explore some of the distinct Brisbane suburbs, annual attractions and festivities, and find out how you can build the home of your dreams while taking advantage of all that Brisbane offers.

Is Brisbane a Nice Place to Live?

Ask the locals and you’ll likely hear the same thing over and over: Brisbane has the best of everything right on its doorstep. Not only is it a fantastic place to live and work, but there are world-class amenities, a welcoming community and a superb quality of life here. With its enviable climate that sees more than 250 days of sunshine annually, Brisbane makes it so easy to get outside and enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

Its diverse suburbs cater to a wide range of lifestyles, from busy inner city precincts to peaceful suburban enclaves. Then there’s the appeal of Brisbane’s strong economy and thriving job market, with ample employment opportunities drawing plenty of people away from the traditional hubs of Sydney and Melbourne.

Don’t forget about the sprawling green spaces, including parks, riverside promenades, well-paved bike paths and nearby nature reserves. With an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, a great job market and cultural diversity, it’s no wonder that Brisbane consistently ranks among Australia’s most desirable places to live.

Is it Expensive to Live in Brisbane?

While the cost of living can depend on things like lifestyle preferences, whether you want a house or apartment, as well as proximity to schools and universities, Brisbane is generally seen as one of the more affordable capital cities in Australia. Compared to places like Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane is much more cost-effective for everyday living, including housing, public transport and daily expenses.

For a single person, the average cost to live comfortably in Brisbane typically ranges from $400 to $750 per week, taking into account factors such as rent, utilities, groceries and other activities. However, affordability is relative and it will obviously depend on your personal preferences and current financial situation. The good news is that Brisbane’s lower cost of living should make it an attractive option for those who want a balance of quality of life and financial stability.

What are the Main Shopping Centres?

There are some fantastic shopping facilities in and around Brisbane, and best of all you don’t necessarily need to travel into the CBD to take advantage of them. Here are a few of the most popular shopping centres in Brisbane:

Queen Street Mall, CBD

Queen Street Mall is undoubtedly Brisbane’s premier shopping destination, with locals and tourists alike flocking to this bustling and diverse retail space. Spanning several blocks in the heart of the city, it’s a pedestrian-friendly mall that’s home to a massive array of shops, boutiques, department stores, cafes, restaurants and entertainment spaces. From high-end fashion brands to local chocolate-makers, here you’ll be able to explore a wealth of shopping options while enjoying street performances, outdoor dining and cultural events.

Westfield Chermside

As the second-largest shopping centre in the country, Westfield Chermside is known for its sprawling square footage and comprehensive retail experience – so it’ll please shoppers of all tastes and preferences. Located in the northern suburbs, Chermside is an expansive shopping centre with all the major retailers you expect, as well as specialty boutiques and international brands. There’s ample parking on-site and buses travels direct to Westfield Chermside, so you can quite easily spend all day here.

James Street, Fortitude Valley

James Street, Brisbane's premier shopping haven, offers a unique blend of luxury and laid-back charm. Nestled amidst tree-lined streets, its European ambiance beckons with a treasure trove of designer finds. From a multitude of trendy cafes and gourmet restaurants to a curated selection of high-end boutiques and artisan homeware stores, James Street caters to the discerning shopper seeking one-of-a-kind pieces.

Westfield Carindale 

For an effortlessly accessible shopping adventure on Brisbane's east side, head to Westfield Carindale. This dynamic shopping center boasts convenient on-site parking and public transport options, ensuring a smooth arrival. Once inside, explore over 450 specialty stores catering to every taste and budget. From fashionistas seeking the latest trends, to homeware enthusiasts searching for the perfect finishing touches, Westfield Carindale offers something for everyone, making it the perfect destination for a fun day out with family and friends.

Pros and Cons of Living in Brisbane

If you’re thinking about starting the next chapter of your life in beautiful Brisbane, you may be weighing up the advantages and drawbacks of such a big move. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:

PRO: Vibrant dining scene

Brisbane has spectacular culinary options with an abundance of restaurants and cafes that create food from all four corners of the globe. Popular spots like Alchemy Restaurant and Bar along the Brisbane River and Gerard’s Bistro in Fortitude Valley draw both savvy food lovers with their innovative menus.

PRO: Plenty of nature-based activities

Thanks to its subtropical climate and close proximity to plenty of natural attractions, Brisbane is the perfect jumping-off spot for outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking and lazy beach days.

CON: Humid summers (and lack of winter)

By the same token, this subtropical climate generally means hot and humid summers, which isn’t always comfortable for those who are used to the cooler climes of the southern states.

PRO: Affordable cost of living

Compared to other major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane boasts a significantly lower cost of living. This affordability has been a major draw for students, families, and professionals considering moving to Brisbane in recent years.

PRO: Thriving live music scene

Brisbane has one of the country’s best live music scenes, with plenty of historic venues around town that host acts from all over the world. Iconic venues like The Tivoli and The Triffid are always showcasing top-notch performances. Plus, Brisbane is where internationally famous acts like Powderfinger, Savage Garden, Regurgitator and The Veronicas started out!

CON: Fewer public transport options compared to other capital cities

While Brisbane has a decent public transport network with buses, trains, ferries and even a Brisbane Airport rail link, it doesn’t necessarily have the same level of convenience nor as many services as other major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

PRO: Close to amazing beaches and coastline

While the Brisbane CBD often feels like you’re in an inland city, it’s just a quick drive to find some of Queensland’s most beautiful beaches and coastal destinations, including the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. 

Best Suburbs in Brisbane to Live

When it comes to moving to Brisbane, students love to congregate in the inner suburbs and Brisbane CBD, while young families and retirees are setting up their lives in more relaxed suburbs that still offer incredible amenities. Depending on what you are looking for in a neighbourhood, you might like some of these top Brisbane suburbs:

Brighton

Approximately 20km from the CBD, Brighton is a serene, laid-back and family-friendly suburb. Loved for its splendid natural landscapes, pristine beaches and numerous parks, Brighton is something of an idyllic haven for families who want a close-knit community. Plus, its closeness to popular coastal spots in Redcliffe like Scarborough Beach makes it a stunning coastal retreat that’s still flying under the radar. You can check out our nearby display home to start imagining what Brighton life might be like for you.

New Farm

Tucked into the banks of the Brisbane River, New Farm perfectly balances cosmopolitan living with all the charm of its natural surrounds. From its iconic Powerhouse arts precinct to the lush expanse of New Farm Park, locals here get to enjoy a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and fun activities. With a phenomenal culinary scene that includes acclaimed eateries like New Farm Deli and the Sixes and Sevens gastropub, it’s understandably one of the most sought-after suburbs in sunny Queensland.

Kelvin Grove

If you are torn between living in the city versus the suburbs, Kelvin Grove may be the perfect balance between the two. Just a short trip into the city (7-minute drive or a quick bus ride), it’s home to world-class universities like the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), amazing cafes and restaurants, some sprawling green spaces and of course friendly neighbouring suburbs like Paddington and Red Hill.

Moving to Brisbane From Other States

Over the past few years, many interstate Australians have been drawn to the Brisbane lifestyle – so much so that they’ve sold their homes in Sydney and Melbourne to move north.

There are a few important things you should know when moving into a new house in Brisbane from another state or territory – such as how to connect your utilities when moving – so let’s take a closer look.

Moving to Brisbane from Sydney

• Travel time from Sydney to Brisbane: 9.5-hour drive; 1.5-hour flight
• Average cost of removalists: $3,768.00 on average for a 3-bedroom home
• Average house price: $899,474 in Brisbane, compared to $1,595,310 in Sydney
• Biggest difference to expect: Much more affordable cost of living in Brisbane

Moving to Brisbane from Melbourne

• Travel time from Melbourne to Brisbane: 19-hour drive; 2-hour flight
• Average cost of removalists: $4,479.00 on average for a 3-bedroom home
• Average house price: $899,474 in Brisbane, compared to $1,040,000 in Melbourne
• Biggest difference to expect: Lots of sunshine and barely any cold days

Brisbane’s Climate

During summer (December to February), temperatures can soar in Brisbane, with averages around 26–30°C during the day, accompanied by the occasional shower or thunderstorm. Autumn (March to May) brings milder temperatures and less humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Winter (June to August) is all about mild, dry weather, with temperatures averaging 11–22°C, occasionally dropping lower overnight. Spring (September to November) sees temperatures rising alongside blooming flora and clear skies.

Things to See and Do Around Brisbane

Catch live performances – whether you’re into stage plays, musical theatre or live music – at the famous Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC). Then take a leisurely stroll finishing off with a picnic at the picturesque South Bank Parklands, which has a stunning riverside setting with a man-made beach, lagoon, gardens and plenty of eateries.

If you’re in the mood for a hearty dose of laughter, indulge yourself at the annual Brisbane Comedy Festival which welcomes a lineup of hilarious comedians from around the globe. Alternatively, you might be keen on planning a few day trips to the stunning Moreton Bay or the majestic Glass House Mountains.

And for sports enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like making the pilgrimage to Suncorp Stadium for a footy match that promises an electrifying experience for fans of all ages. In other words, here in Brisbane you’ll always find something amazing to see and do.

Your New Life in Brisbane Starts Now

Start enjoying your new Brisbane lifestyle by speaking to Brighton Homes today, Queensland’s premier home builder for over 30 years. Explore our range of house and land packages and visit our display homes scattered across South East Queensland. Or if you’re already in the perfect Brisbane suburb and want to transform your current home, take advantage of our knockdown rebuild services.
It’s time to start your new chapter in thriving Brisbane city with Brighton Homes. Contact us today to learn more and get started on your dream home journey.