In the midst of Australia’s challenging rental market, finding the perfect rental can be overwhelming. To those consumers awaiting with bated breath, never fear your resident Homely rental expert has returned! Behold another ten suburbs with competitive rental markets where you can find your ideal Homely home.
As an experienced renter, I prioritise convenience, comfort, and security in a rental. Location is crucial, with proximity to schools and workplaces being key factors. Reliable public transport, good coffee, and lively bars are also important to me.
What are your ‘must-haves’ for rentals? A tree change for some means a sea change for others, inner city convenience is some people’s brand of strawberry jam, whilst suburban green parks and an abundance of primary schools in walking distance is what might set you alight, everyone is different, everyones picture book white picket fence looks (and feels) different.
Fortunately here at Homely we have the very best that the Australian rental market has to offer. Read on to get inspired for your next chapter in your Australian rental dream.
Topics in this article:
1. Balmain, Sydney
Balmain can feel as though it was designed by a Production Design/Cinematography team just gunning for that Oscar. Uniting stunning vistas of the iconic Sydney Harbour with truly picture book houses, Balmain offers a vibrant community atmosphere with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities.
Located just a short ferry ride from Sydney’s CBD, Balmain is renowned for its charming streets lined with Victorian terraces and trendy cafes. Balmain is known for its excellent dining options, boutique shops, and weekly markets. The picturesque waterfront and parklands provide ample recreational opportunities, making it a desirable spot for families and young professionals. While rental prices can be on the higher side, the convenience and lifestyle make it a worthwhile investment for many.
This meticulously designed semi-detached home offers light-filled, spacious interiors and inviting outdoor entertaining areas. Freshly painted throughout, it features two double bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, a master retreat on the top floor with an ensuite, ducted air conditioning, and a ceiling fan.
Never fear urbanites, there is nothing agricultural about this Farm, in fact New Farm is a vibrant inner-city suburb in Brisbane, known for its leafy streets, cultural attractions, and riverfront parks. The area offers a mix of apartments, Queenslander homes, and modern townhouses, catering to a diverse rental market. New Farm Park is a local highlight, providing expansive green space and stunning river views. The suburb’s proximity to the Brisbane Powerhouse, a contemporary arts and cultural hub, adds to its appeal. With an array of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, New Farm is a popular choice for young professionals and families alike.
92 Villiers Street, New Farm QLD 4005 Sam Hempstead Connect Realty
White and bright with a beautiful yard, this newly transformed Queenslander on a quiet New Farm street blends old charm with modern flair. The light-filled matte white interior features four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car garage. The 374sqm corner block is within walking distance to cafes, restaurants, New Farm Park, Merthyr Village, and James Street.
For the politically inclined Homely subscribers, Kingston is one of Canberra’s oldest and most popular suburbs, known for its vibrant atmosphere and prime location near Lake Burley Griffin, and a mere 3 km from the nations capital building. You’ll be rubbing shoulders with some of the most powerful people in the country and you might even catch a glimpse of the PM! The area offers a mix of modern apartments and heritage homes, catering to a diverse rental market. Kingston Foreshore is a major attraction, featuring waterfront dining, bars, and recreational spaces. The suburb’s proximity to the Parliamentary Triangle and the CBD makes it an ideal choice for professionals. With excellent transport links and a bustling local community, Kingston is a top pick for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.
This stylishly furnished first-floor apartment offers stunning uninterrupted views of the Harbour and Lake. With abundant natural light, it will please even the most discerning tenant.
Oh South Australia, she has so much to offer. Uniting the best of Victoria and New South Wales, the air just feels cleaner and the sky just seems bluer (to this Melbournian curmudgeon anyway).
Glenelg is Adelaide’s premier beachside suburb, offering a relaxed coastal lifestyle with all the amenities of urban living. The area is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant Jetty Road precinct, and historic Glenelg Tram. Renting in Glenelg means easy access to a range of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, as well as numerous recreational activities like sailing, fishing, and beach volleyball. The suburb’s family-friendly environment, coupled with excellent schools and public transport options, makes it a popular choice for both young professionals and families.
515/19 Holdfast Promenade, Glenelg SA Anthony Vella Vella
Experience coastal luxury at its finest at Glenelg Beachfront Platinum Apartments, where stunning ocean views combine with unmatched comfort. Situated on Glenelg’s golden shores, this exquisite beachfront apartment sets a new standard for seaside living. Wake up to the gentle sound of waves and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the sparkling Gulf St. Vincent. Ideally located next to Adelaide’s most prestigious beach precinct, you’ll have easy access to the beach, Holdfast Shores Marina, excellent restaurants, and the vibrant Jetty Road, all just a short stroll away.
What’s your favourite part of Glenelg? Add your two cents here and find your perfect beachside bungalow here.
Speaking of legendary inner city suburbs, Newtown, located in Sydney’s Inner West, is a vibrant and eclectic suburb known for its bohemian vibe, diverse culture, and bustling nightlife. The area offers a variety of rental options, from historic terraces to modern apartments. King Street, the main thoroughfare, is lined with unique shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, catering to a wide range of tastes. Newtown’s thriving arts scene, live music venues, and proximity to the University of Sydney make it popular among students and young professionals. Excellent public transport links ensure easy access to the CBD and surrounding areas.
7 Wells Street, Newtown NSW 2042 Nosa Obaseki Ray White – Newtown
This elegantly designed home features an open-plan layout that maximises space, natural light, and indoor/outdoor living. It includes two spacious bedrooms, a well-maintained bathroom with charming character, and a private entertainer’s courtyard. Conveniently located, it’s just a short walk to King Street’s renowned dining and café scene, Sydney Park, St Peter’s train station, and bus routes.
Find your perfect Newtown rental on Homely today and tell us your favourite Newtown street here.
Heading back to Radders (Adelaide for those in the know), Henley Beach, a picturesque coastal suburb west of Radders CBD, is renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning sunsets. The area offers a variety of rental properties, from beachfront apartments to modern houses. Henley Square, the heart of the suburb, features a range of dining options, boutique shops, and cafes, creating a lively community hub. The suburb’s family-friendly environment, excellent schools, and outdoor recreational activities make it a popular choice for families and professionals seeking a beachside lifestyle with easy access to the city.
166 Seaview Road, Henley Beach SA 5022 Carol Hartlett Century 21 – The Bay
This impeccably presented 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with sea views seamlessly combines contemporary design with modern comforts. It’s perfect for families, professionals, or anyone looking for a relaxed beachside lifestyle.
Oh how the other half live! Sure we love an affordable locale but for those who can, oh boy, does this suburb impress.
Manly, a picturesque beachside suburb north of Sydney’s CBD, is famous for its stunning beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and outdoor activities. Renting in Manly offers a range of options from beachfront apartments to modern townhouses. The suburb’s main attractions include Manly Beach, the Corso shopping precinct, and scenic coastal walks. Manly is well-served by ferries and buses, providing easy access to the city. The area’s family-friendly environment, excellent schools, and vibrant dining scene make it a desirable location for those seeking a coastal lifestyle with the convenience of urban amenities.
41 East Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095 William Hamblett Belle Property – Manly Victoria McAree
An iconic landmark residence embodying unmatched elegance, sophistication, and style, this meticulously restored c1871 Victorian Terrace stands prominently on the harbour-front, directly opposite the pristine beach at Manly Cove and Manly Wharf. This exclusive, designer luxury home spans three opulently appointed levels, featuring majestic living spaces and stunning harbour-side alfresco areas with captivating views of the yacht-filled harbour. One of Sydney’s most prestigious coastal residences, it is just steps away from Manly Wharf and the renowned ocean beach and lifestyle hub of Manly.
We’ll forgive the team briefly, just to reflect on the truly iconic, nay, legendary status of this inner city Melbourne suburb. Carlton, located just north of Melbourne’s CBD, is a cultural hub known for its Italian heritage and vibrant dining scene. The suburb is famous for Lygon Street, lined with authentic Italian restaurants and cafes. Renting in Carlton offers access to beautiful Victorian-era architecture, leafy parks like Carlton Gardens, and cultural landmarks such as the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum. The area is popular among students due to its proximity to the University of Melbourne. Excellent public transport links and a lively community atmosphere make Carlton an attractive choice for a diverse range of renters.
202 Drummond Street, Carlton VIC 3053 Sophie Dumas Kay & Burton – Stonnington
Ideally situated on one of Carlton’s finest tree-lined streets and just moments from everything that makes Carlton desirable, this exceptional two-story Victorian balcony terrace, designed by Clare Cousins, has been meticulously renovated to the highest standards. It offers a unique inner-city lifestyle with its spacious and versatile design.
Now let’s talk about a real team. Yellow and Black! Welcome to Tigerland.
Richmond, an inner-city suburb just east of Melbourne’s CBD, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining scene, and excellent shopping options. The area offers a variety of rental properties, from historic terraces to contemporary apartments. Bridge Road and Swan Street are the main thoroughfares, featuring a mix of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Richmond’s proximity to the CBD, coupled with its excellent public transport links, makes it a popular choice for young professionals. The suburb’s lively community, sporting venues, and green spaces add to its appeal for a diverse range of renters.
44 Davison, Richmond VIC 3121 Yana Jaruc Woodards – Camberwell
Welcome to this charming Victorian brick home with 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, nestled in the lively heart of Richmond. Just moments from public transport and a short distance from the bustling Victoria Gardens shopping centre, Bridge Road’s eclectic shops and cafes, and the serene Yarra River parklands and trails, this property perfectly combines convenience with lifestyle.
Find your perfect Yellow and Black Richmond abode here and tell us why the Tiges are the best team here
Crossing the continent, welcome to Leederville, a trendy inner-city suburb just north of Perth’s CBD, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, eclectic culture, and thriving dining scene. The area offers a mix of rental options, from character homes to modern apartments. Oxford Street is the suburb’s main hub, bustling with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Leederville’s excellent public transport links and proximity to the city make it a convenient choice for professionals and students. The suburb’s lively community events, cultural diversity, and range of amenities make it a popular spot for those seeking a dynamic and inclusive urban lifestyle.
22 Bruce St, Leederville WA 6007 Kylie Edmunds Performance Asset Management – Perth
Bruce Street is in an absolute gem of a position, and this home is very well presented after recent updates. This spacious 3-bedroom character property is ideal for those who enjoy the city lifestyle, with transport, eateries, and entertainment just a short stroll away.
Finding your way through Australia’s rental market during ongoing crises can feel daunting. Homely specialises in discovering perfect homes, highlighting lively, competitive neighbourhoods where families flourish. Prioritise what matters most to you in a home and community, and kickstart your search with Homely.
James is passionate about Homely and real estate. A 2017 graduate from the University of Melbourne where he honed his love of writing, he is thrilled to bring property news and lifestyle content to Homely readers across Australia.
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