Moving to the nation’s capital? Here we pick out Canberra’s most lifestyle-centric suburbs.
Whether you’re looking to be immersed in nature, culture or Canberra’s flourishing food scene, these are nine of the best suburbs in the nation’s capital to lay down roots.
Kingston
Crossing the park from Barton, trendy Kingston remains one of the city’s most coveted postcodes. Known for its leafy streets and bustling foreshore, the suburb combines political and industrial history (it’s one of the oldest suburbs in Canberra) with cultural delights, including shopping spots, arts precincts and a plethora of restaurants and bars. Mornings are spent walking or cycling along the lake then refuelling at one of its coffee roasters or artisanal bakeries. The famed Old Bus Depot Markets are held here each Sunday.
Barton
Nestled on the banks of Lake Burley Griffin, Barton is often considered Canberra’s most lifestyle-rich neighbourhood. Minutes from the city centre, its historic homes and government buildings sit along brand-new apartments. The suburb hums with activity both during the week and at weekends when locals flock to foodie markets and fine-dining institutions. Barton is also home to picturesque Telopea Park, one of the oldest parks in Canberra, with picnic spots and a playground for kids.
Braddon
Dubbed Canberra’s ‘hipster’ capital, Braddon remains a strong pick among young professionals and the fashionable set. Walking distance to the CBD, it’s known as a hotspot for food and wine, and hosts a line-up of independent fashion, homeware and design stores along Lonsdale Street. There are weekly village farmers’ markets each Sunday at Haig Park and easy public transport links via two light rail stops. The property scene is comprised of in-demand apartments, with much commercial and residential development underway.
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Hawker
Roughly 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre, Hawker borders Pinnacle Nature Reserve, and is prized by those wanting to get closer to the great outdoors. Here residents can make the most of popular walking trails and abundant native wildlife, while still benefiting from everyday amenities such as supermarkets, cafes and buses to the city centre. Families move in for the local schools, which cater to all ages from kinder to Year 12, and fantastic sporting facilities for an active lifestyle.
Forrest
Located in Canberra’s inner-south, the prestigious neighbourhood of Forrest is home to the Diplomatic precinct and Canberra’s “Golden Mile” on Mugga Way. This is a suburb of record-breaking property, where character-filled homes comprise large blocks and grand proportions. Residents can enjoy a dress-circle lifestyle with access to esteemed schools, the walking trails of Red Hill and everyday essentials at Manuka Village.
Yarralumla
Adjacent to Capital Hill, the sough-after suburb of Yarralumla is characterised by its beautiful, leafy streetscapes punctuated by classic art deco homes. This premier suburb has a price tag to match, tightly held thanks to its proximity to the city, quality schools, shopping and cafes. It’s recognised for its plentiful green spaces and pretty parks, flanked by Lake Burley Griffin, giving locals endless opportunities for boating, paddling and picnicking by the water’s edge.
Red Hill
Red Hill remains much-loved for its grand, character homes and rambling green spaces. The suburb is just 5km from the CBD, and frames superb views from its namesake lookout and walking trails. Red Hill is home to excellent schools and beautiful parks, while shopping is taken care of with the supermarkets and boutiques of Manuka just a short drive away.
Amaroo
Considered one of the top spots to raise a family, Amaroo offers a vibrant neighbourly atmosphere. It has myriad green spaces, quiet and safe streets and a convenient shopping village with supermarkets, coffee shops and eateries. Lying roughly 25 minutes north of the city, residents have access to a good school, excellent sporting facilities and lovely playgrounds all contributing to the strong community spirit. Houses here are spacious and private, sitting on large blocks with backyards.
Lyons
Nestled in the Woden Valley district, less than 10 minutes form central Canberra, Lyons is a hilly suburb bound by Okey Hill Nature Reserve. It’s desired among everyone from empty nesters to young families for its convenient location, popular walking trails capturing scenic views and strong sense of belonging. Residents have easy access to local shops at Lyons Place, family-run cafes and Westfield Woden in easy reach.
*All statistics sourced from Core Logic, Realestate.com.au and Domain.
Doing your research on the best suburbs to live in Canberra and looking for more helpful property advice? Head straight to your friend in property, The Sitch. From Home Design advice and Home Tour inspo, to property advice, we've got you covered.
By Ellie Schneider
Posted 29 Sep 21
