Best suburbs to live in Canberra in 2026

Canberra's suburb choices divide broadly into the inner-established areas within 5 kilometres of the city centre, the middle ring that offers the traditional suburb experience, and the growth corridors of Gungahlin and Molonglo that offer newer housing at lower entry prices.

Braddon

The inner-north suburb that has become Canberra's most vibrant precinct — the restaurant strip on Lonsdale Street, the proximity to the Civic light rail stop, and the mix of older residential properties and new apartments make Braddon the most in-demand inner suburb for young professionals. Median apartment price: $620,000.

Kingston

The lakeside suburb with the heritage Kingston Foreshore precinct, ferry terminal, and proximity to Parliament House makes it the choice for public service professionals who want walking and cycling access to the national institutions. Median house: $1.1 million.

Belconnen

The Town Centre's lake frontage, the University of Canberra, and the Westfield shopping centre create a complete suburb environment at prices meaningfully below the inner-south. Median house: $750,000. The lakeside apartments offer excellent value for first-home buyers or renters at $400-$500 per week for two bedrooms.

Gungahlin

The growth corridor in the ACT's north has the newest housing stock, the best new school facilities, and direct light rail access to the city that has made it increasingly attractive for young families. Median house: $750,000; new estates from $650,000.

Woden

The established town centre 8 kilometres south of Civic combines the healthcare employment of the Canberra Hospital with affordable housing and the town centre redevelopment that has been transforming Woden's retail and commercial core. Median house: $800,000.

This article was compiled by AI from the sources linked above and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.