Living in Sydney is an expensive proposition with the rents for one-bedroom apartments ranging from $400 to $550 per week and higher if you’re planning to rent in the CBD. Apartments will cost you in excess of $500,000, but million dollar units have also been making their mark in this city. So naturally, you want to get the best bang for your buck by finding other avenues for saving − perhaps by living within close walking distance to everything you need, besides work. The best value for money suburbs in Sydney are unveiled, based on their walking proximity to public transport, shops, cafes and other amenities. Here are some of Sydney’s most walkable suburbs, where it’s easy to live without a car.
CBD Proximate Suburbs
Haymarket, Surry Hills, The Rocks and Ultimo are friendly suburbs for residents to reach a wide variety of amenities on foot − that means no money spent on fuel for driving. They are close to schools, eateries, parks and public transport − taking care of all your lifestyle needs without the expense of a car. Demand for rentals and apartments in these suburbs is particularly high, so be prepared to shell out a little extra to live in these areas. If you’re renting, expect to pay in the range of $500 to $600 per week. Surry Hills has been deemed as a walker’s paradise with numerous bars, restaurants, coffee shops, train lines and bus routes.
Bondi Beach is an excellent choice for people who consider walking a high priority, because of its proximity to a swarm of eateries, shopping areas, bars, schools, beaches and public transport. Bondi Beach is just a few kilometres from the CBD, retaining its popularity with both hipsters and professionals.
Suburbs Beyond the City
Matraville is less than 30 minutes to the CBD and is quickly becoming one of the most popular areas in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs because of its close walking distance to public transport. Surrounded by local schools, beaches and parks, this quiet area offers an eclectic living proposition for residents who don’t want the added expense of a car.
A similar trend is seen in Western Suburbs like Harris Park and Parramatta, beyond the Inner West and Inner City. The cost of housing in these areas has increased over the years, but the value in terms of walkability is far greater.
Meadowbank is another suburb that is deemed extremely walkable with multiple restaurants, cafes and schools just minutes away from each other. Easy walking to large shopping centres, multiple bus routes and a train station has made this a popular suburb with expats and locals alike.
Lifestyle Changes Encouraging Walkable Suburbs
Many Australian families have factored lifestyle changes into their decision of where to live in the city. The days of aspiring to own several cars have long gone. Most Aussies are now content with owning just one car or none at all for the whole family, which is why highly walkable suburbs are on the top of their list. This is due to multiple reasons − rising fuel prices, environmental responsibility, increasing traffic density and a desire to live a healthier lifestyle.