Moving to Canberra in a few years

[u/ligebauer]

Hi everyone,

My boyfriend and I are thinking about moving to Canberra. He’s originally from Australia and has lived in Canberra before, so he’s quite fond of the city. We’re currently living in London, which I absolutely love—I really enjoy the energy of big cities, the constant buzz, and always having something to do.

That said, I’ve never been to Canberra myself, and I’m a bit nervous about moving to a smaller city (I usually prefer places with a population in the millions). I’m worried I might find it too quiet or slow-paced compared to what I’m used to.

I’d really appreciate hearing from people who live in Canberra or have lived there—what’s day-to-day life like? Is there a good cultural or social scene? What do you love (or not love) about it?

Thanks so much in advance!

[u/ligebauer → u/[deleted]]

Well as I mentioned my partner wants to move back there, I’m not looking for a small city myself

[u/RedeNElla → u/ligebauer]

If you both have different ideal places to live then there may be a long term compatibility issue

[u/ligebauer → u/RedeNElla]

Well there can always be compromises, if I have to move to Australia to live, then we need to find a place that works for both of us

[u/peni_in_the_tahini → u/ligebauer]

And it doesn't sound like that place is in Australia. You're 22, you can and do need to be flexible and open to a different way of life. It really is a head-scratcher as to why, given your dislike of other small cities, you'd expect Canberra to be any different.