Gold Coast, Queensland [ Photo taken by author ]
Good day mates! As a digital nomad who has lived in various places across Australia and other countries, I have spent many months in Queensland. I have lived and worked here.
Today, I want to share why this beautiful sunny state might be the best one to live in Australia. So, grab a cuppa and let’s dive into the many reasons why Queensland might be the ultimate place to hang your hat.
1. Best Weather on the East Coast
First off, let’s talk about the weather. Queensland isn’t dubbed the “Sunshine State” for nothing.
With its tropical and subtropical climates, you can expect warm temperatures and clear skies almost all around the year. The showers that do hit us in the monsoon clears up quickly. You’ll never see many days of persistent rain.
Australia is indeed dotted with the largest number of beaches in the world. But the perfect sunny weather in QLD takes the cake. The beaches have a vibe of a perpetual holiday.
While our southern neighbors are shivering in their boots during winter, we’re still tossing prawns on the barbie (Aussie lingo for barbeque) and hitting the beach. A true blessing from Mother Nature!
2. Less Crowded
Queensland is hands-down less overcrowded compared to New South Wales and Victoria. Ever tried finding a parking spot in Sydney or Melbourne? It’s like playing a never-ending game of hide and seek.
Queensland, on the other hand, offers bustling cities like Brisbane without the sardine-can feeling. There’s room to breathe, stretch out, and enjoy life without constantly bumping elbows with strangers. Plus, our traffic jams are more like minor hiccups compared to the gridlocks down south.
3. The Cost of Living
Queensland is quite a bit cheaper than New South Wales and Victoria
Money matters, and in Queensland, your hard-earned dollars stretch further. From groceries to entertainment, the overall cost of living here is noticeably lighter on the wallet. Enjoying a night out or going to that coveted concert in Brisbane is more economic than Sydney or Melbourne. It’s all about getting the same things without the sky-high expenses.
4. Real Estate is Slightly Cheaper
Dreaming of owning a home? In Queensland, that dream is more attainable.
The median house price in Townsville, for instance, is around $450,000 for a 2 bed 2 baths, a steal compared to the national average of $973,400.
Whether you’re after a coastal retreat or a suburban sanctuary, there’s a spot with your name on it.
For the nomads out there, a tiny house is the best and cheapest option. If you love living in different places, you can purchase or get your own tiny house built, and then drive around all over the state. Pay only the land rent wherever you park the mobile home. Tiny houses are now gaining ground all over Australia.
5. People are Friendlier
Queenslanders are a cheerful bunch.
Maybe it’s the sunshine or the laid-back lifestyle in QLD, but folks here greet you with a smile and a “how’s it going?” It’s a place where neighbors can become friends and community spirit thrives better. You’ll feel at home faster.
Not to compare folks from other states, but I’ve seen people in Sydney and Melbourne are just too busy all the time.
6. Good and Cheap Connectivity
Getting around Queensland is a breeze.
- Cities like Brisbane boast extensive public transport networks via the Translink that includes buses, trains and ferries. It now has the Cross River Rail too.
- Translink also covers other smaller cities like Ipswich, Toowoomba, Lockyer Valley, Park Ridge, etc.
- Even in regional areas like Townsville, services like Kinetic Group, formerly Surfside Buslines, ensure you’re connected without breaking the bank.
7. Cheaper Travel Costs for Tourists
Tourists, rejoice! Exploring Queensland doesn’t require a treasure chest of gold. With affordable accommodation options ranging from hostels to five-star resorts, there’s something for every budget.
Plus, with attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and national parks, you get world-class experiences without the hefty price tags.
8. All Kinds of Landscapes
Variety is the spice of life and Queensland serves it up in spades.
- Dive into the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, laze on the pristine beaches of the Hamilton Island, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast or Port Douglas. These are just a few beaches, there are so many more!
- Venture into the rugged beauty of the Outback.
- Fancy a hike? The Glass House Mountains and Daintree Rainforest are calling.
There’s a landscape to match every mood and adventure.
9. Thriving Job Market
Queensland’s economy is as diverse as its landscapes. With strengths in mining, agriculture, transportation, international education, insurance, and banking, there’s a plethora of job opportunities. The state’s robust economy ensures that whether you’re self-employed, a teacher, or a tech guru, there’s a place for you here.
I’m not saying, QLD surpasses NSW or Victoria in job opportunities. But it provides a better share of jobs, when you compare it to the population density of the state.
10. A Rich Cultural Scene
Don’t let the relaxed vibe fool you; Queensland knows how to put on a show.
Brisbane, for instance, is home to the Queensland Cultural Centre, housing the Queensland Museum, Art Gallery, and Performing Arts Centre. Festivals, live music, and theater productions are regular occurrences, ensuring your cultural calendar is always full.
Great Place to Retire
Queensland isn’t just a state; it’s a state of mind.
With its unbeatable weather, affordable living, friendly locals, and diverse landscapes, it’s no wonder more Aussies are packing their bags and heading north.
So, if you’re pondering a move or just a visit, remember that Queensland has it all, and then some. Cheers!