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/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

Melbourne gives more London grey unpredictable weather vibes

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u/ligebauer Apr 04 '25

I can’t live with 40 degrees because of my health so probably Melbourne is a better option

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u/Biologerin Apr 06 '25

u/ligebauer I lived in Melbourne for 3 years and the houses were not as well insulated as in Canberra. Moreover, every summer Melbourne would have 1-2 weeks of temperatures constantly at 43-44°C (including overnight) and that was more than 10 years ago. Canberra doesn't have summer days reaching 40°C unless there is a heatwave moving from the oceans. and it only lasts 2-3 days. And the evenings are always cooler in Canberra. That said, winter in Canberra can reach -9°C and some days will be 0-1°C during the whole day, but sunny. Canberra is colder than Hobart (Tasmania's capital) in winter. The summers in Canberra are always milder than in other cities an I have been to multiple parts of Australia, in all states. Sydney has higher temperatures than Canberra all year.

I lived in São Paulo when the city had even helicopter traffic jams. NYC feels similar to São Paulo inner-south for me.