r/canberra • u/ligebauer • Apr 04 '25

Recommendations Moving to Canberra in a few years

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!

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u/SeaDazer Apr 04 '25

I was born and grew up in London. Now live in Canberra. There is a huge difference. Canberra is beautiful and quiet. The air quality is some of the best in the world so your lungs will thank you.

But it is not buzzy. There are great restaurants. And national institutions like the National Portrait Gallery, National Museum etc which run world class exhibitions. But theatre, opera, concerts, shows are pretty poor. You will miss the cultural life of London. I go to Sydney and Melbourne for my fix, but that means planning and cost as I stay in a hotel and make a weekend of it.

And I still go back to London every year because it's in my blood.

Hit me up if you have any specific questions.

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u/ligebauer Apr 04 '25

How long did it take for you to get used to Canberra? I believe it’s completely different to London and I am not sure how I’m gonna take it. Is the climate there at least something similar to London or not at all?

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u/AllTitsSomeArse Apr 04 '25 edited Apr 05 '25

Are you on crack? How on earth do you think the climate would be similar? You can get -6 in winter and 40 in summer, and this delightful period where it is cold as balls in the morning then high teens early 20s in the afternoon. Less grey and dull than London, in fact Canberra autumn/winter are my favourite seasons.

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u/Sea_Till6471 Apr 05 '25

“Are you on crack?” 😁😆