Canberra is coming into its own as a place for expats as well as young Australian families, students and professionals. Different areas in Canberra offer distinct living experiences, including great places to stay if you love close proximity to nature, urban amenities or a strong community vibe. From Barton to Coombs, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our take on 10 of the best suburbs in Canberra to live in!
#1 Barton
Located right alongside Lake Burley Griffin, Barton is not just the geographical heart of the city but a key lifestyle hub too. It’s one of those areas in Canberra that’s super close to the city centre, so everything feels conveniently within reach. You also get a blend of old and new with historic homes and modern apartments standing side by side.
The vibe here is always lively. Whether it’s a weekday rush or a relaxed weekend, the place pulses with energy. People get around on foot or bike, dipping into little food markets or catching up over drinks at some rooftop bars. There’s also Telopea Park, over a century old, with picnic areas and a playground where kids can just be kids – a pleasant retreat amid the urban buzz.
#2 Braddon
Braddon is one of those Canberra suburbs where you’ll find everyone from young professionals to families and everyone in between. It’s close to the CBD, with Lonsdale Street at the heart of the area, humming with shops where you can find anything from clothes to home décor.
On Sundays, Haig Park turns into a lively village market. Locals and visitors mingle, grabbing fresh produce or just enjoying the vibe. Transport’s a snap too, with a couple of light rail stops that make getting around straightforward.
As for living there, apartments are the main game in Braddon, and they’re in high demand. It’s one of the places in Canberra to stay that has a lot of new construction happening, both commercial spaces and residential spots, which kind of shows you how much people want to be part of this area. It’s got an urban feel but still keeps that sense of community, which is why we think it’s such a draw for so many different people.
#3 Kambah
Kambah is Canberra’s largest suburb – and you’ll even hear some rumours that it’s the biggest suburb in all of Australia! Here you’ll find classic mid-century family houses and also some modern ones that are smaller and newer. It sits just south of Mount Taylor, right in the middle of the Canberra Nature Park, so you’re surrounded by nature.
There’s Kambah Pool, which is a natural swimming area for families (though note that one small section at the northern end is available for nude bathing, and is signposted as such!). Elsewhere, you’ll find playgrounds where kids can burn off some energy, grocery stores that have everything you need for the week, and cafés where you can grab a coffee or hang out. It’s a balanced location with the convenience of the city and the more serene vibe of the countryside, making it another one of the best places to stay in Canberra. This is bushland with all the essentials just around the corner!
#4 Dickson
Dickson is one of those suburbs in Canberra that feels like it has a bit of everything. The wetlands are suitable for a quiet walk, and if you have a dog, the ovals are perfect for letting them run around. There’s also a network of bike trails that are for cycling.
Getting around Dickson is easy. The light rail and bus services are reliable, so you’re well connected to other parts of the city. When it comes to amenities, you won’t be left wanting. There’s an aquatic centre where you can swim and a local library to relax or get some work done. Woolley Street is packed with good Asian restaurants, including Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean and Thai food. In short, Dickson is a suburb in Canberra that’s easy to settle into with everything you need close by.
#5 Amaroo
Amaroo means “beautiful place” in a local Aboriginal language, and it’s one of those suburbs in Canberra that just feels right for families. It’s tucked away about 25 minutes from the city centre, giving you a combination of suburban peace and easy access to urban amenities. The neighbourhood is designed with safety and community in mind, so it’s easy to feel at home here.
The local shopping village is a handy spot with supermarkets for your weekly groceries, plus there are coffee shops to catch up with friends, and eateries for those nights you just don’t feel like cooking. If you love the outdoors, Amaroo is also good for weekend picnics or an easy jog.
Housing here is quite diverse. Whether you want a spacious detached house, a practical townhouse or a modern apartment, there’s something to fit your lifestyle. This mixture makes it a solid choice as a place to stay in Canberra for anyone from young professionals to growing families.
#6 Griffith
Griffith is right in the inner south and considered by many to be one of Canberra’s best suburbs. The streets are lined with trees, and there’s a relaxed café scene and boutique shops to add character to the area. It’s a great area for walking – close enough to go to the Fyshwick Markets and Kingston Foreshore. There are also some top schools around for families who list education as a key priority.
The area around Manuka Oval is technically in Griffith but is referred to by locals simply as Manuka. Along with the sports ground for watching football and cricket matches through the year, there’s a public pool in Manuka that’s a hit during the summer. You’ll also find high-end dining spots and plenty of shopping options.
#7 Kingston
From Barton, crossing the park leads directly into Kingston. This neighbourhood offers an old-town vibe, green streets and a foreshore steeped in both political and industrial tales. Being one of the oldest parts of Canberra, Kingston feels like a slice of history.
The area known as Kingston Foreshore, on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin, is filled with boutique shopping spots, arts precincts and tons of places to grab a bite or a drink. It’s a place where mornings are best spent walking or cycling by the lake. Afterward, you can refuel at one of the local coffee roasters or grab something from an artisanal bakery. Then there’s the Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday. These are a local favourite, offering everything from unique crafts to gourmet foods. It’s a weekly event that pulls everyone from the area together, helping to make Kingston one of the Canberra places that will suit expats staying short-term or even for a lifetime.
#8 Yarralumla
On the west side of Capital Hill and Parliament House is Yarralumla. The streets here are lined with trees and filled with classic Art Deco homes that add character to the area. It’s one of the higher-end neighbourhoods where everything comes with a bit of a price tag. Then again, it’s easy to see why. It’s close to the city centre, and you’ve got all the essentials like schools, shops, and café nearby.
Yarralumla is also known for its ample green spaces. There are plenty of parks around, plus the Royal Canberra Golf Club. And the lake is just a stone’s throw away for water sports – from boating to a simple paddle around. Or you can just chill out with a picnic on the banks.
#9 Forrest
Forrest sits in Canberra’s inner-south and it is Canberra’s most expensive suburb. One particularly high-end street, which straddles Forrest and Red Hill, is Mugga Way, known as the “Golden Mile”. Property prices here are among the highest in the city.
The houses are also something else. Many are large and full of character, with each one sitting on a substantial plot. Forrest is one of the places to stay in Canberra if you’re keen to be in the dress circle of suburban life., with access to some of the best schools, tranquil walking trails at Red Hill, and all your daily needs covered by the nearby Manuka Village.
The streets are named after explorers and governors, adding a layer of history to this area in Canberra. And the proximity to the CBD is a big plus for anyone working in the city but seeking a quieter, grander neighbourhood to call home.
#10 Coombs
Coombs is next to the serene Molonglo River Reserve just a 15-minute drive west of the city centre. Around here, you’ve got walking trails, playgrounds and lots of green parklands.
If you’re looking to buy, Coombs could be a sweet spot to settle down. For one thing, it’s more affordable than many suburbs. There’s a new community vibe – things are fresh and inviting. Also, being so close to the river and having all these natural spaces to explore feels like you’re getting a combination of city convenience and tranquil living. Definitely worth considering if you’re planning to make a move or invest in a property that’s accessible and affordable.
Enjoyed this roundup of some of the best suburbs in Canberra for expats to live? Now see our features on great indoor and outdoor activities in and around the Australian capital.
