Best Places to Live Near Brisbane’s CBD
Young professional or growing family, these Brisbane suburbs strike the perfect balance between lifestyle and easy access to the CBD.
From hipster precincts to peaceful riverside gems, these Brisbane neighbourhoods have plenty to offer and come with the bonus of being moments from the city centre.
Newstead
One of Brisbane’s most sought-after suburbs, Newstead combines idyllic riverside living with the convenience of being just 10 minutes from the city centre. From Newstead’s industrial roots, craft breweries, trendy brunch spots and hip boutiques flourish, surrounded by gorgeous parks and picnic spots where locals like to unwind. The Gasworks Precinct – a dining and retail hub encompassing a heritage-listed former gasometer – has garnered as reputation as the neighbourhood’s beating heart.
Newmarket
Just 5km northwest of the CBD, leafy Newmarket entices families thanks to its plentiful playgrounds, community facilities and esteemed schools. The suburb is well serviced with public transport and has walking and cycling trails for a greener commute. A local shopping centre and cinema, along with much-loved restaurants and cafes contribute to an easy breezy lifestyle of true convenience.
Spring Hill
Inner city Spring Hill benefits from being a short stroll to both the CBD and Fortitude Valley, with everything you need on your doorstep. This historic Brisbane suburb – home to the oldest surviving swimming baths in the southern hemisphere – today sees original workers’ cottages and landmark buildings sat among high-rise apartment blocks and elegant hotels. While away an afternoon in Roma Street Parklands or cool off at Centenary Aquatic Centre, here there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Paddington
Living in Paddington allows you to be in the centre of one of Brisbane’s most stylish neighbourhoods and a short drive from the CBD. It attracts discerning buyers, with stunning Queenslanders and updated weatherboard houses in high demand. A hive of activity, Paddington boasts trendy brunch spots, sleek restaurants and bars and one-off fashion boutiques, with a string of excellent antique stores. Soak up the vibrant village atmosphere along Given and Latrobe Terraces.
Woolloongabba
Known as being the home of ‘The Gabba’, Woolloongabba enjoys a prime position just 2km south of the city centre. This is one of Brisbane’s most multicultural neighbourhoods, with local shops, cafes and restaurants, including the Gabba Fiveways precinct and lauded restaurant 1889 Enoteca. Throw in access to excellent educational institutions and spacious traditional Queenslander properties and it’s easy to see Woolloongabba’s appeal.
Camp Hill
With its friendly neighbourly spirit and sense of community, it’s easy to feel right at home in Camp Hill. Get active on the bush walks of Whites Hill Reserve or scour through the many treasures of Camp Hill Antique Centre. Abundant shops and dining options include the trendy Martha Street café precinct and Westfield Carindale close by. When the city beckons, it’s an easy 15-minute drive away.
Fortitude Valley
From notable brunch spots to art galleries and shopping along James Street, Fortitude Valley is considered Brisbane’s cultural mecca. Life in this bustling neighbourhood is best explored on foot, with hidden laneways concealing rooftop bars and fine dining favourites. Locals can jump on the bus and be in the city within minutes, making Fortitude Valley popular among students and young professionals.
Hawthorne
The charming riverside address of Hawthorne offers a village-like atmosphere and strong sense of community. Residents can be spotted picnicking in its lush green parks or meeting at one of the local cafes along Hawthorne Road. Its back streets are lined with beautiful Queenslander homes, while excellent schools and sporting facilities invite families seeking
that picture-perfect lifestyle. End the day with a sunset walk along the river.
South Brisbane
Those wanting to be in the heart of the action, South Brisbane delivers an energetic atmosphere day and night. Rich in culture and amenity, it houses some of the city’s most acclaimed eateries, galleries and theatres including the Queensland Museum and QAGOMA. Thick with new developments, here luxury apartments frame glistening views across the river and city, while the CBD is a quick train, bus or ferry ride away.
Balmoral
Next door in Balmoral, residents can enjoy a quaint suburban lifestyle within easy reach of the city. Nestled on the Brisbane River, this pocket-sized neighbourhood is mainly residential with scenic open spaces and a quiet vibe. That’s not to say it’s boring – here you’ll be surrounded by the inner-city’s most fashionable precincts with endless opportunities for dining and entertainment.
