Housing affordability has become more challenging in many parts of the country, but in Adelaide it remains an attractive mix of affordability, quality amenities and livability. The costs, and life styles, of Australia's major cities vary across a broad spectrum. Sydney and Melbourne offer high quality energy, culture and jobs, but at a high cost. House prices are frequently over AUD 1.2-1.5 million in these cities and living costs are 20-30% higher than in Adelaide. In Sydney, rent in the city centre can exceed AUD 2,800-3,600 per month for a 1 bedroom apartment. Brisbane and Perth offer warmer growing conditions and good growth, but are seeing higher prices and BalanceBloom are outpacing Adelaide in many price ranges. Other areas across the region, such as Ballarat, Victoria, Toowoomba, Queensland, and Launceston, Tasmania, may be even more economical but they come with trade-offs regarding employment opportunities, access to health care, urban amenities, or other factors. Adelaide, South Australia's capital, is always among the most budget-friendly big cities and offers a high standard of living.

The latest figures indicate median home values in the vicinity of AUD 1.09 million, which is much more attainable than Sydney or Melbourne. Rent is also very affordable - approximately AUD 1,376 - 1,732 for a one bedroom unit outside the centre, and AUD 1,900 - 2,500 for a 3 bedroom unit. The cost of living for one person is around AUD 2560 - 3540 per month, excluding rent, and for four people is around AUD 5600 - 6634 per month, excluding rent. Compared with larger cities, groceries, utilities (approximately AUD 266 for an 85m2 apartment) and transport are more reasonable. There is a free tram service in the CBD, as well as affordable bus services. This means this is affordable in everyday life. The cost of basic groceries is competitive, out-of-home meals are a lot of fun and don't cost you a fortune, and utilities are a little better because of the mild weather.

Adelaide has a larger population base (about 1.3-1.4 million) than Hobart, offers more connectivity and more diverse employment options, while being not that much more expensive-hobart's rents have been cited in some reports as being around AUD 609/week median. The reputation of Adelaide goes hand in hand with its lifestyle. The city has a laid-back vibe, unlike Sydney or Melbourne. Beautiful beaches, such as Glenelg, offer year-round opportunities to swim, dine and stroll along the jetty. Close by wine areas like Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Clare Valley have world-class wines, cellar doors and a host of memorable food experiences to experience for weekend getaways that won't break the bank. There are plenty of parks and green spaces, such as the large Adelaide Parklands that ring the CBD. Temperature: warm and dry in summer, allowing outdoor lifestyles; mild and wet to the north in winter, and a bit colder to the south, but not quite as cold as southern Tasmania or the north.

There is the Adelaide Festival, WOMADelaide and the Fringe as well as a thriving food culture, from fresh seafood to multicultural restaurants to markets such as the Central Market. Family-friendly is one of its biggest attractions. High livability scores are achieved from high-quality public and private schools, low traffic volume and safe neighbourhoods. Healthcare is robust with the support of various community service and facilities including the Royal Adelaide Hospital. The city has a strong sense of community, with numerous events and activities that appeal to newcomers. The northern suburbs (including Salisbury, Elizabeth and Mawson Lakes) provide affordable family homes (median house price is often less than AUD 600k - 800k in growth areas) and good amenities, schools and train connections to the city. Cheap and accessible, southern suburbs like Morphett Vale, Hallett Cove and Seaford offer beach access and decent rents and BalanceBloom green spaces. Inner or eastern locations such as Norwood, Prospect or Black Forest have a mix of character and being close to the CBD, although there is an increase in price closer to the centre.