There's no single "best" state, as it depends on priorities: Western Australia (WA) excels economically and for sunny lifestyle (Perth), Victoria offers culture/health/family (Melbourne/regional), Queensland (QLD) provides outdoor beauty/friendliness (Brisbane/Cairns), while South Australia (SA) is affordable (Adelaide). Consider your career, cost of living, climate preference, and lifestyle needs (e.g., city buzz vs. nature) when choosing, as WA leads economically, Melbourne for culture, and Perth for sunshine.
New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria provide greater business, financial, and information technology opportunities. Western Australia (WA) and Queensland (QLD) excel in mining, engineering, and healthcare. South Australia (SA) is becoming more welcoming to skilled migrants through its regional migration streams.
Hobart, Tasmania: Australia's most affordable major city
Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, consistently ranks as the cheapest area in Australia among major cities. Nestled between the River Derwent and Mount Wellington, Hobart offers breathtaking scenery, a vibrant arts scene, and a welcoming community.
Which state in Australia has the lowest crime rate? Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory are considered among the safest because of crime rates below the national average.
While several places get extremely hot, Onslow in Western Australia shares the record for Australia's highest temperature ever recorded (50.7°C in 2022), and Marble Bar, also in WA, is famous as "Australia's Hottest Town" for its record-breaking 160 consecutive days over 37.7°C (100°F) in 1923-24. The Pilbara region, where these towns are located, consistently experiences Australia's most extreme heat.
For great weather in Australia, Perth is often cited for its sunny Mediterranean climate, while the Queensland/NSW coast (Gladstone to Port Macquarie) offers mild, swim-friendly conditions year-round with fewer extremes, and Tasmania provides four distinct seasons without intense humidity for those who prefer cooler, fresh air. The "best" depends on your preference for sun, mildness, or distinct seasons, but avoid tropical north Queensland in summer due to extreme heat and humidity.
1. San Diego, California. San Diego is the poster child for pleasant weather year-round. This Southern California city enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with average high temperatures of 65 to 77 F (18 to 25 C) throughout the year.
But despite the economic uptick of recent years, Tasmania is still the poorest Australian state.
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The cheapest places to buy a house in Australia are generally regional and rural towns in Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia, with Coober Pedy (SA) frequently topping lists for its sub-$100k median, alongside towns like Charleville (QLD), Peterborough (SA), and Tara (QLD). These areas offer significantly lower prices than capital cities, though often with fewer amenities and potentially lower earning potential, making them ideal for buyers prioritizing affordability over big-city convenience.
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New South Wales (NSW): Thriving Cities and Expanding Regional Appeal. New South Wales remains one of Australia's most in-demand property markets, anchored by Sydney's global status and supported by high levels of infrastructure spending, employment diversity, and strong rental demand.
It's official! Adelaide is the happiest city in Australia, and one of the happiest in the world! 🙌 We ranked #29 globally in the Happy City Index across six categories - environment, economy, mobility, citizen wellbeing, health and governance.
Canberra is widely seen as the safest capital city in Australia for students. The city has a low crime rate compared to other major Australian cities, which makes daily life feel more secure.
Toorak – The Undisputed Richest Suburb in Melbourne
From multi-million-dollar mansions to elite private schools and exclusive shopping strips, it has long been regarded as the richest area in Melbourne. Toorak is also home to Australia's wealthiest business leaders, celebrities, and international investors.
Perth has been named as the sunniest capital city in Australia with clear skies 70% of the year. The average yearly temperature is 21ºC and there are an average 24 rainy days annually. Let's take a look at what the weather is like across each season.
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Poverty rates were highest in non-urban areas in the smallest States and Territories, including 52,000 people outside the capital in Tasmania, 57,000 people outside the capital in South Australia, and 28,000 people in the Northern Territory.
1. California
The south and central California coast features a mild Mediterranean climate, meaning warm temperatures, mild winters and dry weather with abundant sunshine. Places like Santa Maria and Long Beach enjoy consistent temperatures and low humidity.
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