Moving to Sydney

"Look around a lot before you rent because the market is not very efficient. Most landlords are unwilling to make any improvements unless it is at the very high end of the market," remarked one expat who made the move to Sydney.

"Planning to move to Sydney? Here are a few helpful tips: Research visa and work opportunities– Decide what type of visa you need, ahead of time and familiarize yourself with the Australian job market. You will also need to take into account your eligibility and cost of health insurance in the country. Familiarize yourself with the cost of living– Expats in Sydney rent and a portion of their salary is allocated for basic goods. Be aware of the average monthly costs of rent, food, transportation, and more in the area you are moving to. Explore different neighborhoods & neighborhoods locations– Depending on your job and/or family situation if applicable, you need to research and compare different neighborhoods within Sydney. Consider how close you are to shops, parks, schools, and public transportation. Find a place to stay before you arrive– Book accommodation, either in a hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or apartments before your arrival in Sydney. Keep an eye on the weather– Sydney is a big city and the weather in different parts can vary greatly. The Northern Beaches tend to be sunnier and warmer while the city center may get more rainfall. Make sure you choose a wardrobe that can handle both. Take a tour to get to know the city– You can take a guided tour of the city as a great introduction to Sydney. This can be a great way to get to know the city, the culture, and the best places to visit," explained one expat living in Sydney, Australia, Australia.

"If you are looking for a place to live in Sydney, there are a variety of options available. One way to start your search is to check online rental listing websites such as Domain, Real Estate, and Rent.com. They make it easy to narrow your search by desirable areas, price range, and other desired amenities. Additionally, you can contact real estate agents in the area who have extensive knowledge about the different suburbs of Sydney and can offer a range of properties to suit your needs. Word of mouth is a great way to go as well; reach out to friends and colleagues in the area to see if they know of any available rentals. Ultimately, it's all about finding a place that meets your needs while also preventing yourself from getting overwhelmed by the competitive market," explained one expat living in Sydney, Australia, Australia.

"Neighborhood by walking around in it. Looked through the Sydney Morning Herald website for homes; talked to real estate agents," said one expat in Sydney.

"We live in a house and it's typical for most expats. Most live in close-in suburbs on the lower North Shore," remarked one expat who made the move to Sydney.

"Expat homes and apartments in Sydney are typically bright, comfortable, and modern. Many have balconies or terraces that offer great views of the city, harbor, and nearby beaches. While there are older buildings as well, most of the residences have been recently updated with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and repainted walls. There is an abundance of furnished and unfurnished short-term rental options to choose from, allowing expats to find a place that perfectly suits their needs," explained one expat living in Sydney, Australia, Australia.

"The cost of housing in Sydney varies depending on the area, but generally speaking it tends to be quite expensive. Prices range drastically depending on the location, size, and type of housing, ranging from reasonably affordable apartments to luxurious high-end homes. In general, the monthly cost of renting or buying in Sydney is considerably higher than other cities in Australia," said one expat who made the move to Sydney, Australia.

"Housing is more expensive here. They vary a lot but in this area you would pay A$1400-A$1600 for a clean family home. O/w most would be rather shabby," explained one expat living in Sydney, Australia.

"Whether to buy or rent a home in Sydney is a very important decision that requires a great deal of consideration. There are a number of factors that should be taken into account, such as financial capability, the local housing market, proximity to essential services, and desired term of stay. If you have sufficient financial resources and are unsure about the length of stay or you do not plan to stay for a long time, then renting a home would be the most suitable option. However, if you have a clear plan and intend to stay in Sydney in the long run and can afford to commit to a home purchase, then buying a property could be a more lucrative decision. Ultimately, it is important to weigh up all the pros and cons of renting and buying and choose the option that best suits your individual situation," remarked one expat who made the move to Sydney, Australia.

"Wish I had brought good shoes, kids' cotton clothing and rolls of Bounty! Should've left behind the heavy winter coats," remarked one expat in Sydney, Australia.

"When moving to Sydney, it is important to pack items to keep you comfortable and secure. Think about a mixture of items such as clothing suitable for the climate, practical items for your home, and a few special treats. In terms of clothing, make sure to include light and breathable pieces such as shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. As Sydney has a humid climate, a few rain jackets, waterproof shoes, and umbrellas may come in handy. In terms of home items, include basic kitchenware, linens and towels, soap, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and a toolkit. Additionally, don’t forget to pack a few items to make yourself feel cozy and at home in your new city such as artwork, photographs, and books. Finally, don’t forget to include items to explore the city like a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle," said one expat in Sydney, Australia.

"It is considered impolite to not take off your shoes when entering someone's home in Australia. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local sensitivities surrounding Indigenous Australians; it is best to show respect and not use terms or phrases considered to be racist or culturally inappropriate. It is also considered rude to start eating before everybody at the table has been served. Lastly, public drunkenness is not tolerated and can be met with hefty fines," remarked one expat in Sydney, Australia, Australia.

"Well I did once after being asked for feedback told an Australian what I really thought. .....They just can't handle the truth - so I have generally stayed away from that," said one expat in Sydney.

"People move to Sydney for many reasons, such as career opportunities, a favourable climate, beautiful beaches and harbour, exciting entertainment and dining options, vibrant culture and lifestyle, and excellent public transportation and infrastructure. Sydney is also home to world-class educational institutions and hospitals, as well as a vibrant arts and music scene. Additionally, the cost of living in Sydney is much more affordable than in comparable cities around the world, making it a great destination for people of all ages," wrote one expat living in Sydney.

"Healthcare services in Sydney are of a generally high quality and are easily accessible to most people. The city boasts a range of private and public hospitals, plus a number of community and specialist health services, so there is a wide range of choice when it comes to healthcare. Sydney is also home to some of the latest medical technology and the best in health care professionals. In addition, the city’s excellent public transport and infrastructure make going to and from various healthcare locations easy and convenient. Overall, healthcare services in Sydney are greatly beneficial for both its residents and visitors," wrote one expat living in Sydney.

"Medical services in Sydney are of a high standard, offering a full range of medical services, including emergency services, specialist medical care, preventive care, mental health services and primary care. In addition, there is an extensive network of hospitals and medical clinics located across the city, providing ample access to medical services. Many of the hospitals and clinics are affiliated with universities, providing residents with access to the latest medical research and technology. Residents also benefit from a broad range of specialist services, including fertility clinics, as well as specialists in fields such as neurology, orthopedics and obstetrics," remarked one expat in Sydney.

"After living in the Northeastern US and then Texas, coming to Sydney has been a dream for me and my family. My son broke his femur and required emergency surgery, a week stay in the hospital, 8 months of physical therapy and then another surgery, our cost was $40 to rent a chair for the shower. I will never willingly live in the US again," wrote one expat living in Sydney.