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Your Expat Community in Sydney

  • Connect with fellow expats in Sydney

  • Join exciting events and groups for expats

  • Get information in our expat guides

  • Exchange tips about expat life in Sydney

  • Serhat Ahmed

    Without experience of having lived abroad, I thought it would be hard to get to know other expats. But not with InterNations.

Moving to Sydney? Here’s what you need to know

Whether you’re moving to Sydney for work, study, or simply a change of scenery, you’ll find a city that offers the balance of modern living and natural beauty. With its expanding expat community, strong job market, and laid-back lifestyle, Sydney attracts people worldwide.

But what is life in Sydney really like? By exploring the pros and cons and answering the most frequently asked questions, we hope to give you an understanding of what to expect when you make the move. Plus, you can use this chance to meet our welcoming community of international people and check out our upcoming events!

An amazing community is waiting for you!

Meet international people at local events

Socialize, enjoy hobbies, and make friends

Get info, and feel at home abroad!

Why you'll love InterNations in Sydney

41,159
members in Sydney
32
monthly events
26
interest-based groups
39
event hosts

and countless possibilities for fun and friendship!

The pros & cons of life in Sydney

From iconic beaches to a dynamic arts scene, Sydney has something for everyone.

However, like any major city, there are challenges to navigate. For example, the cost of living is high, particularly when it comes to housing. And healthcare costs can be a concern for some.

In our annual Expat Insider survey, we ask expats to rate various factors of life abroad. Based on these results, and other sources, let’s have a closer look at the pros and cons of expat life in Sydney.

Pros of living in Sydney

High overall satisfaction: In our 2024 Expat Insider survey, three-quarters of expats shared they were happy with life in Sydney (75% vs. 68% globally).

Multicultural environment: According to 2021 census data, over a third of Great Sydney’s population are foreign-born. So, you’ll certainly not feel like the odd one out as an expat in this diverse city! In our own 2024 survey, an above-average share of expats also said they feel welcome in Sydney (73% vs. 63% globally).

Strong work opportunities: Sydney ranked 6th in our 2024 Working Abroad Index. Expats especially appreciate the favorable job market (3rd), their personal career prospects (4th), and the fair pay (5th).

Favorable climate: With mean temperatures across the year ranging from around 14° to 22°C, Sydney offers a pleasant subtropical climate that is also highly rated by expats (11th globally).

Sports opportunities: An active and outdoor lifestyle is common in Sydney, with the famous barbie (Australian slang for barbecue) just one example for a popular activity under the clear sky. Expats especially highlight the opportunities for recreational sports, ranking Sydney 2nd worldwide.

High quality education: With a choice of public, private, and international schools as well as numerous world-class universities, Sydney offers an excellent education system.

Cons of living in Sydney

High cost of living: Sydney only just escaped the bottom 10 of the 2024 Personal Finance Index in our Expat Insider survey. Close to two-thirds of expats (65%) find the high costs a significant downside (vs. 39% globally). In the Mercer Cost of Living City Ranking, Sydney regularly places as the most expensive city in the Pacific region, too.

Housing issues: In our 2024 survey, seven in ten expats in Sydney rated the affordability of housing badly (70% vs. 47% globally). Australia in general and Sydney in particular have been facing a worsening housing crisis in recent years. Use websites like Domain.com.au and Realestate.com.au to help you with your search.

Healthcare: Unless you’re from New Zealand or a permanent resident in Australia, you’ll most likely not be eligible for public healthcare and need to get private health insurance. Consequently, expats ranked Sydney in the bottom 10 for the affordability of healthcare in 2024.

Distance from home: Australia’s remote location and the consequential distance from family was the most cited concern expats in Sydney had before moving there. Travel opportunities aren’t great, either, with Sydney placing the bottom 10 for this factor.

Visa regulations: Australia has complex and at times restrictive visa regulations, with some visa categories even subject to annual limits.

Limited transportation: Once you leave the city center, public transportation options can be limited, and you may need a car after all.

Good job opportunities, high quality of life, and easy-going people. But I have to say that it is far from other countries, and it can be hard to find a partner. (British expat in Sydney)
Opinion

Join Our Exciting Events in Sydney

Whether you’ve just arrived in Sydney or have been living here for a while, we know that connecting with others and making new friends is an essential part of settling in. Our InterNations events provide the perfect opportunity to meet fellow expats, share your experiences, and discover what makes Sydney such an amazing place to live.

Join us for great conversations, joyful company, and new connections that could turn into life-long friendships!

In today’s competitive job market, a strong LinkedIn presence and a compelling personal pitch are essential for professional growth. This exclusive event is designed to help participants optimize thei
May 16, 2025, 10:30 AM
115 attendees
Friday Night Expat Social Drinks! Looking to kick off your weekend with some fun and new connections? Join us for our Friday Night Expat Social Drinks, where you can relax, unwind, and meet fellow
May 24, 2025, 10:00 AM
7 attendees
New in Sydney? New to InterNations? Our Newcomers’ Events are smaller, lovely get-togethers, especially organized for members who are new in our community. At Zeta Bar, sink into a leather sofa and
Join Us for a Fun and Casual Friday Night Out! 🌍 Expats, Locals, and New Friends Welcome! Looking for a great way to unwind and connect with fellow expats? Don’t miss our Friday Night Drinks & Min

Want to see all the upcoming events in Sydney?

Frequently asked questions about living in Sydney

In this section, we cover everything from visa information to daily essentials like cost of living, safety, transportation, healthcare, and accommodation. We even provide tips on how to make friends.

Is Sydney good for expats?

Sydney can be a fantastic place for expats. It’s a multicultural city with plenty of job opportunities, beautiful beaches, and a high standard of living.

The expat community is diverse, with many internationals, making it an exciting place to live. However, especially the high cost of living and the distance from home can be a challenge.

Where do most expats live in Sydney?

Areas like the Inner West (Newtown, Marrickville), Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Coogee), and the North Shore (Chatswood, Neutral Bay) are popular. They offer good public transportation links, amenities, and a mix of residential options, making them especially convenient for newcomers.

Can you live in Sydney without a car?

You can live in Sydney without a car. The public transportation system, including trains, buses, and ferries, is extensive and reliable, especially in and around the city center. Many people, even locals, rely on public transportation or bikes to get around. You’ll find it easy to get to most places without the hassle of parking or traffic.

However, public transportation is less available in the outer suburbs. So if you’re moving there or plan to frequently travel outside of the city, you might want to invest in a car after all.

How to become an expat in Australia?

For you to be able to move to Australia, you will need to get a visa first. Which visa depends on your situation and your reason for coming to Australia (work, study, join family, etc.).

Skilled workers, for example, may apply for a skilled migration visa if they meet certain qualifications and work experience. Check the Australian government’s official immigration website for the most accurate and up-to-date info.

Is it expensive to live in Sydney?

Living in Sydney can be rather expensive. Housing is the biggest cost, especially if you’re looking in central areas. Groceries, dining out, and utilities can add up as well.

However, if you’re able to find a job that pays well, and you’re strategic about where you live and what you spend, it’s manageable.

In a month, you can expect to spend roughly the following:

Local currencyUSD

Studio apartment

2,400–4,000 AUD

1,500–2,550 USD

Small family home

4,000–7,000 AUD

2,550–4,500 USD

Utilities

300–500 AUD

190–320 USD

Mobile phone & internet

100–150 AUD

60–95 USD

Groceries

350–500 AUD

225–320 USD

Meal at a restaurant

25–60 AUD

15–40 USD

Public transportation

210 AUD

135 USD

Health insurance

150–200 AUD

95–130 USD

School fees (private)

15,000– 45,000 AUD

9,500–29,000 USD

I can deal with the weather and laid-back lifestyle, but the cost-of-living is too much, housing and most goods and services are relatively expensive. (Dutch male expat in Sydney)
Opinion

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Meet other expats like you in Sydney

Our Global Partners

Pursue your hobbies with amazing new friends

New to Sydney and looking for a group to share your interests? Look no further than our InterNations groups, the perfect place to connect and share experiences, challenges, and the excitement that Sydney has to offer.

From outdoor adventures with the Escape the City Group to exploring Sydney’s food scene with the DinnerNations Group, our groups offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy your hobbies — or try something new — together with like-minded people!

Share your hobbies and interests with expats in Sydney

Enjoy the international experience with InterNations

We’re not just in Berlin! InterNations has lively communities in 420 cities around the globe.

So if you’re thinking about relocating or are simply in the mood for a nice night out while traveling, InterNations is your go-to platform. As a member, you’re welcome to join events in any of our InterNations Communities worldwide.

  • Serhat Ahmed

    Without experience of having lived abroad, I thought it would be hard to get to know other expats. But not with InterNations.

  • Lotta Koskinen

    When I first attended the Sydney Bar night I was really nervous. But everyone welcomed me and I quickly felt as part of the community.

Our Global Partners

Other Communities in Australia

Like-Minded Expatriates in Sydney

Australia Guide Topics

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