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  • Published: 26 April 2024
  • Updated: 21 January 2025

A Guide to Living in Adelaide

If you’re seeking a vibrant, culturally rich, and beautiful city to live in, Adelaide might just be the perfect choice. Known for its parklands, green gardens, and laid-back atmosphere, Adelaide offers a mix of city living and natural charm. With a carefully planned layout, Adelaide’s grid system makes it easy to explore without the fear of getting lost. It is a large city, yet it maintains a relaxed pace compared to bustling metropolises like Sydney or Melbourne, creating a friendly and welcoming environment for everyone.


Why Choose Adelaide?

  • Easy to Navigate: With wide streets and a grid layout, getting around Adelaide is simple and convenient.

  • Relaxed Lifestyle: A slower pace of life with friendly locals makes it an ideal place to study or live.

  • Ample Green Spaces: Enjoy recreational parklands and tree-lined streets that give the city a spacious and peaceful feel.


Top Things to Do in Adelaide

1. Adelaide Fringe Festival

Dubbed the "Festival State," South Australia’s most famous event is the Adelaide Fringe Festival. Held annually in March, this month-long celebration brings comedians, artists, musicians, and street performers to the city. The festival creates an electric atmosphere enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

2. Adelaide Hills

Famous for its food, wine, and friendly locals, Adelaide Hills is a must-visit destination. Try freshly baked goods from Stirling’s bakeries or stroll through Hahndorf, an old German settlement with charming boutiques and restaurants.

3. Kangaroo Island

A short ferry ride from Cape Jervis, Kangaroo Island offers stunning natural beauty and wildlife. Get up close to echidnas, koalas, and wild kangaroos. Don’t miss Seal Bay for sea lions or enjoy caving, sand dune adventures, or swimming at Vivonne Bay.


Average Weekly Costs in Adelaide

Adelaide is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other major Australian cities. Here's an overview:

  • Rent: $135–385

  • Food: $90–135

  • Electricity/Gas: $40–55

  • Transport: $20–35

  • Internet/Phone: $20–40

  • Other Expenses: $50+

  • Total: $350–700


Getting Around Adelaide

Train and Tram

Adelaide offers six train lines and one tram line. The tram runs from the Adelaide Entertainment Centre (AEC) to Glenelg. It’s free to ride between AEC and South Terrace, as well as from Brighton Road to Moseley Square in Glenelg.

Buses

Buses are a convenient option, running every 15 minutes near the city center and every 30–60 minutes in outer suburbs. The City Connector bus service is free and connects the city center to North Adelaide.

Taxi and Uber

Adelaide has multiple taxi ranks, and Uber X has been a popular choice since its launch in 2016, offering safe and affordable rides.


Adelaide’s Suburbs

City Centre

Enjoy a mix of culture and modern amenities with cafes, restaurants, historic libraries, art galleries, and bustling markets. The botanic garden is also a must-visit spot.

North Adelaide

This historic area, located just across the River Torrens, features stunning views, bridges, and the city’s largest sporting ground. It also boasts a wide variety of dining options.

Inner East

Known for trendy cafes and boutique hotels, this area is perfect for foodies and those looking for hip, stylish spots.

Inner West

At the end of the free tram line, the Inner West offers a diverse community, entertainment hubs, and countless dining options.

Inner South

The Inner South is perfect for a leisurely Sunday, with brunch cafes, classic cinemas, and a wide selection of dinner spots.


Start Your Journey to Adelaide with IDP

Ready to explore life in Adelaide? IDP is here to guide you every step of the way. Our expert counselors provide:

  • Personalized Assistance: Find the right course and university in Adelaide.

  • End-to-End Support: From application to visa assistance, we’ll make the process seamless.

  • Free Services: Enjoy expert guidance without any extra costs!

👉 Contact IDP today and start your adventure in Adelaide!

Why Choose IDP for Studying in the AUS

✔ IDP has 5 major branches in major Australian cities.

✔ IDP represents all universities in Australia and New Zealand, as well as many language institutes.

✔ IDP guides courses from level, language courses, vocational, universities, and scholarship information.

✔ IDP helps with application, follow-up, visa submission and accommodation consultant, free of charge.

✔ IDP is the official co-owner of the IELTS test and is an IELTS test center in Thailand.

✔ IDP has sent more than 500,000 students to study around the world and has been in operation for more than 50 years.

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