Brisbane has quickly become one of the most sought-after suburbs to live in. Developing rapidly, the suburb attracts individuals and families looking to build their dream homes in thriving, well-connected communities. Whether it’s the proximity to top-rated schools, expansive parks, shopping centres, reliable public transport or the impressive standard of living in areas like South Brisbane and Greater Brisbane, life here offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience and opportunity.
Suburbs and cities are being compared due to Brisbane’s growing influence in the property market. For buyers who are struggling with choices and have no clue what to opt for, you ought to look beyond settlements within major metropolitan cities. Brisbane offers a refreshing alternative that’s far more manageable and welcoming, particularly for families, professionals and first-time homeowners.
Brisbane is full of reasons to make the big move. From a vibrant nightlife perfect for younger residents to its endless outdoor adventures, strong job market and promising career opportunities, the city has something for everyone. Unlike the sky-high costs, congestion and fast-paced lifestyle in the city, Brisbane can be a wiser lifestyle choice.
If you’re considering buying or building in Brisbane, now is a great time to act. With strong growth in the property market and rising demand, Brisbane is being compared to major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne. With time, securing the right property may become challenging; delaying the decision could mean missing out on some of the best opportunities the city has to offer.
Top 10 Best Suburbs in Brisbane
Now that we know why Brisbane is quickly becoming one of Australia’s most desirable places to live, it’s important to take a closer look at the suburbs that define this city. Brisbane isn’t just one area; it’s home to a diverse range of neighbourhoods, each offering its own impressive lifestyle, amenities and charm. The suburbs often ranked among the top places to live in Queensland, attract everyone, from individuals to families and retirees alike.
Queensland’s nature capital, Brisbane, is a modern, sustainable, open-air city with room to breathe. Home to some of the world’s largest sand islands, ancient heritage-listed rainforests and endless opportunities for adventure, it’s a suburb where nature and modern living coexist seamlessly.
While Brisbane summers can be intense, the winters are mild and comfortable, and the city is free from weather extremes common in other parts of Australia. Brisbane’s job market is another enticing appeal, strong across several key industries, including construction, business, government, healthcare, and retail.
Billions are being invested into infrastructure, transportation and urban development projects. The city predicts long-term growth and transformation. From lush family-friendly neighbourhoods to vibrant inner-city communities, Brisbane suburbs are trendy and a growing commercial hub with great value.
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Hawthorne
Hawthorne is an upscale, riverside residential suburb of Brisbane, located roughly 3 to 6 kilometres from the CBD, offering the perfect blend of suburban serenity and city convenience. Hawthorne is known for a village-like charm, characterised by beautiful Queenslander-style homes, multi-level modern residences, and tree-lined streets that reflect a relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle.
Home to popular cinemas, art galleries, bookshops, and eateries, it contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene. Whether you’re after a quiet brunch spot, a boutique shopping experience or a night out at a cosy bar, Hawthorne delivers at all fronts. Accessibility is a major drawcard. The Hawthorne Ferry Terminal offers a scenic and convenient ride to the CBD, South Bank, New Farm and beyond, with all connections possible via the CityCat ride service.
Equipped with modern amenities despite its peaceful, almost country-like atmosphere, residents can enjoy easy access to essential services, the best schools, parks, public transport and riverside walkways, all services contributing to the suburb’s reputation as one of Brisbane’s most livable and prosperous areas, not just in name but also in effect.
Bulimba
Located just 4 kilometres east of the CBD, Bulimba is another suburb in Brisbane, considered one of the most desirable. A beauty along the Brisbane River, Bulimba is a unique combination of heritage and contemporary sophistication. Not only does it feature historic Queensland homes, but modern architect-designed residences; the suburb is a symbol of prestige and lifestyle in Brisbane’s inner east.
At the heart of the city lies Oxford Street, representing Bulimba’s resonant civilisation. This lively precinct is home to an impressive selection of boutique stores, artisanal cafes, award-winning restaurants and bars that scatter across the sidewalks. Bulimba’s social and dining scene ranges from coffee at one corner to an evening film at an atmospheric cineplex just across the river, a European classic in the suburb of Australia.
Families are especially drawn to the area due to its access to quality education and family-focused services. Nearby state schools and several top-performing colleges in neighbouring suburbs offer excellent options for children of all ages. The transport options are a dream; the centre terminal connects residents directly to the Brisbane central business district and the surrounding riverside suburbs.
Though prices are on the premium side, the suburbs’ high livability, increasing property value, strong community spirit and continued capital growth make it a smart and rewarding investment. Homeowners are spoilt for choice, and there’s a home for all.
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Camp Hill
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to spend your forever in, a comfortable home for your family, or one that screams of a fortunate retirement, Camp Hill is the destination for you. Just 6 kilometres southeast of the Brisbane CBD, this established suburb is known for its leafy streets, elevated blocks and a strong sense of community. Camp Hill is a perfect mix of suburban tranquillity and urban accessibility.
Camp Hill, as the name suggests, is an area built around gently rising hills and scenic landscapes, where several properties overlook sweeping city views and refreshing breezes. Home to nature reserves such as White Hill and Seven Hills Bushland, both of which offer walking trails, picnic areas and elevations perfect for weekend hikes, Camp Hill is a paradise for those who relish outdoor relaxation.
Residents here value a laid-back lifestyle, with locally popular streets filled with cafes, restaurants and stores; there’s access to all basic amenities. The suburb is minutes from Westfield Carindale, one of Brisbane’s largest shopping centres, equipped with major retailers, cinemas, medical services and more.
With designs that take advantage of the suburbs’ elevation, Camp Hill is known for its beautiful post-war designs and Queenslanders constructed on large blocks. It’s a hot topic among potential buyers and builders.
New Farm
Alongside New Farm, on the fringe of Brisbane City, is another heart of the suburb, Fortitude Valley; both are Queensland’s most dynamic and desirable inner-city duos. Located just 2 kilometres east of the Brisbane CBD, New Farm is positioned along the bends of the Brisbane River, drawing in residents, tourists and investors alike all year round.
By ferry, New Farm can be accessed via two CityCat stops at Sydney Street and at New Farm Park. A network of bus routes also runs directly through the suburb, linking it with Fortitude Valley, the city centre and neighbouring suburbs. Travel around New Farm is a scenic cruise along the riverbed into the CBD and suburbs like South Bank and beyond.
For nature lovers, New Farm offers a variety of lush green spaces, including New Farm Park, one of Brisbane’s most iconic parks with rose gardens, large fig trees and river views. This suburb represents premium city life, popular among downsizers, perfect for families and professionals alike.
Teneriffe
Teneriffe represents one of Brisbane’s most successful urban renewal stories, a suburb that has transformed from an industrial mine into one of the city’s most prestigious residential destinations. Located just 2.5 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, Teneriffe offers a mix of aesthetic and rooted heritage, luxury riverside living and vibrant cosmopolitan energy.
Once home to shipping wharves and wool stores, this suburb has evolved into a stylish, high-density residential hub known for its iconic converted woolstore apartments, modern riverfront villas and boutique townhouses. These properties boast high ceilings, exposed brick, timber beams, elaborate eaves on the roof, and a unique architectural flair only found in specific areas. Teneriffe is in heavy demand at all times, and there’s constant capital growth.
Today, Teneriffe is one of Brisbane’s most exclusive suburbs that effortlessly blends heritage and luxury, popular particularly among young professionals, working couples and downsizers seeking a lifestyle without compromise. The suburbs’ riverside location provides scenic walking and cycling tracks along the Brisbane waterfront, connecting seamlessly to various neighbouring suburbs and the CBD. There are local dining and cafe scenes at notable spots scattered throughout the area.
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Paddington
Without a doubt, Paddington is one of the best places to live in Brisbane; its charm and convenience are hard to beat. With its tree-lined avenues, iconic architecture and panoramic views of the city against the picturesque Mount Coot-tha, it’s no surprise that both locals and interstate migrants alike are drawn to this stylish and close-knit community.
Paddington is ideally located only 3 kilometres west of the Brisbane CBD. Its elevated streets offer some of the best panoramic city views, while its relaxed, village-like atmosphere makes it feel worlds away from the hustle of the city. An enviable lifestyle with a thriving culture streaming across stores, galleries, bars and restaurants is what awaits you at Paddington.
The suburb is widely recognised for its tin and timber Queenslanders and workers’ cottages, many of which have been beautifully renovated to incorporate modern comforts. Despite its inner city proximity, Paddington offers plenty of greenery and outdoor space. Transport connectivity is available throughout the city, making Paddington an accessible and family-friendly suburb at an unbeatable cost.
Clayfield
Just 7 kilometres northeast of the CBD, Clayfield offers residents a rare combination of gracious old-world charm and modern-day convenience. As one of Brisbane’s most prestigious and well-established suburbs, Clayfield is a highly sought-after location for investors, professionals and families.
Clayfield boasts excellent connectivity via both public transport and major arterial roads. The train line running through the suburb provides quick access to the CBD and surrounding suburbs. Sandgate Road leads to the suburban retail hub lined with shops, eateries and service centres. Because it is only ten minutes from Brisbane Airport, it is an attractive settlement destination for travellers or frequent flyers.
Clayfield features generous blocks and historic homes that have been immaculately preserved or renovated, blending traditional architecture with contemporary living features. Offering a sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle, the suburb has access to high-end boutiques and designer stores, gourmet grocers and speciality food outlets. Not just that, one of Clayfield’s promising features is its access to elite private and public schools, making it a top choice for families.
Alderley
Alderley is more than just a beautiful place to live. While its leafy streets and promising ecosystem certainly add to its charm, this thriving northern suburb offers so much more, especially for families or individuals looking to balance convenience with a hectic lifestyle. Alderley gives you the feeling of being far away from the city, barely sacrificing easy access to it.
Ranked as one of Brisbane’s most livable suburbs, this area is a peaceful mix of residential living and urban accessibility. The suburb features lush green streets with spacious footpaths, a variety of modern townhouses and post-war character homes. With low crime rates and a strong sense of community, Alderley is ideal for families and solo dwellers.
The suburb is well-equipped with transport necessities, like the Alderley train station with regular services into the CBD via the Ferny Grove Line. Alderley is home to a growing number of local cafes, boutique stores and family-run businesses. It is a welcoming community with access to schools and childcare facilities, which makes it attractive for young families.
Ashgrove
Ashgrove best captures Brisbane’s iconic suburban lifestyle, offering a seamless mix of historic architecture, excellent local amenities and a strong sense of community. Just 5 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD, Ashgrove is an established suburb that combines tranquillity with efficiency, an ideal place for families and working professionals.
One of Ashgrove’s standout features is its distinct style of housing. The suburb is known for its Ashgrovian Queenslanders, a unique architectural variation of the traditional Queenslander, developed during the 1920s and the 1930s. These homes include asymmetrical facades, decorative roofs, wide front verandahs and classic timber construction.
Ashgrove has a thriving cafe and dining scene with a growing number of boutique coffee shops, artisan bakeries, and family-friendly eateries. This suburb is the kind of place where community thrives and lifestyle flourishes. Ashgrove continues to be one of Brisbane’s most desirable inner suburbs, offering character, comfort and connectivity in equal measure.
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Chermside
Chermside is a vibrant, rapidly growing suburb located approximately 9 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. Known as one of Brisbane’s key urban centres, Chermside combines city-style convenience with suburban practicality, offering excellent shopping, public transport, health care and recreation all in one dynamic neighbourhood.
At the heart of the suburb is Westfield Chermside, one of Queensland’s largest shopping centres, featuring over 480+ retail stores, a wide variety of restaurants and cafes, entertainment and medical services. Chermside offers a frequent and efficient bus interchange, well-connected to several centres, including the CBD, QUT Kelvin Grove, RBWH, and more.
Chermside has a diverse range of housing options, ideal for professionals, downsizers or investors. While prices have increased in recent years, Chermside remains more affordable than many inner-city suburbs, offering great value for buyers seeking convenience and growth potential.
Choosing the Best Suburb in Brisbane
Brisbane stands as a prime example of remarkable transformation. Only a decade ago, few could have predicted it would rival the property markets of Melbourne and Sydney. Fast forward to today, and Brisbane has firmly established itself as one of the most sought-after residential markets in the country. Suburbs across the city are now in high demand with buyers eager to secure their place in the thriving metropolis.
Brisbane offers a wide selection of affordable and expensive blue-chip properties, ensuring a home for all. What makes Brisbane appealing is its diverse range, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or a seasoned property owner searching for the next best opportunity, considering Brisbane won’t end in regret.
Choosing the right suburb depends on your personal goals, lifestyle preferences, and budget. Families might prefer a leafy, well-established suburb with excellent schools and community infrastructure, while professionals or downsizers may gravitate toward inner-city capitals close to transport, dining, and entertainment.
Whether you’re drawn to the elegant riverfront neighbourhoods, peaceful green streets, or the buzzing energy of Brisbane’s inner city, your next chapter starts with the decision to explore. With demand rising and prime opportunities still available, now is the time to act. Brisbane’s bright future is unfolding, and your ideal home could be waiting. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Australia’s most livable and dynamic cities.
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FAQs
What is the cheapest suburb to live in Brisbane?
While prices fluctuate depending on the type of home, materials, and location, the most affordable suburbs in Brisbane include Logan Central, Woodridge, Goodna, and Bellbird Park.
What is the median house price in Brisbane?
Prices vary largely across specific areas, but the median house price in Brisbane is approximately $1,062,000, while the median price for all dwellings, including units, is around $970,000.
Why choose Brisbane suburbs to live in?
Brisbane suburbs are the perfect blend of urban charm and city convenience. Not only are these suburbs well-equipped with amenities, but they also come with the benefits of tranquillity. The area offers a laid-back lifestyle and affordable housing while cancelling out the congestion that comes with city living.
