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Best Brisbane Suburbs for Families to Live In

If you are wondering what the best Brisbane suburbs are to live in, then you have found the right article! We know because we live here and have done for over 50 years, and we have seen the changes that have affected suburbs across Brisbane. What was once cool is not any more and what was awful has improved – considerably! We have ranked them in order of median house price so check your family finances and speak to your mortgage broker after reading our detailed article. We also have listed the median rental price if you are looking to move into the suburb before you buy to check if it really is the right place for your family.

What are the best Brisbane suburbs for families in 2024? Let us tell you!

Where to live in Brisbane?

Greater Brisbane really is more than just one council area. When we talk about ‘Brisbane’ we mean:

  • Brisbane City Council,
  • Logan,
  • Redlands,
  • Moreton Region.

And out past Brisbane towards the west is Ipswich. (We call this the ‘western corridor’). These council areas, whilst distinct all are grouped together to talk about ‘Brisbane’. If you are thinking about moving to Brisbane, do read our other article too!

Find out the best suburbs in Brisbane for families, right here.

Which is the best suburb to live in Brisbane? 

It’s challenging to pinpoint the absolute “best” suburb for families in Brisbane because preferences vary based on individual needs and priorities. However, we’re going to go out on a limb and say that the absolute best suburb for families in Brisbane is Kenmore.

Why Kenmore:

  1. Schools: Kenmore has reputable schools, both primary and secondary, which is a significant factor for families.
  2. Parks and Recreation: There are beautiful parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and family outings.
  3. Community Atmosphere: Kenmore has a strong community atmosphere with various local events and activities, fostering a sense of belonging.
  4. Amenities: The suburb offers essential amenities such as shopping centres, medical facilities, and other services, making daily life convenient.
  5. Proximity to the City: While not in the heart of the city, Kenmore is close enough to Brisbane’s central business district for commuting, yet far enough to maintain a suburban feel.

Remember, what makes a suburb the “best” can vary based on your family’s specific needs, such as proximity to work, school preferences, lifestyle, and budget considerations. And once you read below, you will see that Kenmore is NOT cheap! So it’s advisable to explore several suburbs, considering your unique requirements before making a decision.

What is the worst suburb in Brisbane to live in?

It’s important to approach discussions about the “worst” suburb with sensitivity, as perceptions of a place can vary widely, and every neighborhood has its strengths and challenges. Labeling a suburb as the “worst” can perpetuate stereotypes and may not accurately represent the experiences of everyone living there.

Rather than focusing on the “worst” suburb, it’s more constructive to consider factors that are important to you and your family when choosing a place to live. Factors such as safety, school quality, amenities, and proximity to work should guide your decision. Additionally, visiting different suburbs and talking to residents can provide valuable insights into the community atmosphere and lifestyle.

This article will give you a review of each suburb and a list of the best suburbs in Brisbane based on 5 criteria:

  • median house price
  • amenities
  • distance from city
  • safety
  • flood history

This is the best way to make a decision about which suburb is right for you!

Best family suburbs in Brisbane – best schools for families

Most of Brisbane schools are enrollment managed. This means that they will only take students who live in the school’s catchment. This makes the ‘high academic achieving schools’ more difficult to get into. Therefore, some families like to consider the best schools in the best catchments, to do this check out our article on the Brisbane schools catchment areas.

The cost of living in Brisbane as well as the proximity to good schools can really make or break your decision when it comes to living in Brisbane. These things have a knock-on effect in terms of housing prices and family-friendly facilities.

Setting your family up in one of the best Brisbane suburbs for families; one that has great schools definitely tops the list of helping us to choose where to live in Brisbane. And trust us when we say that there are GREAT schools all over Brisbane!

NAPLAN & ATAR results aren’t the be all and end all when it comes to choosing a school but, if they’re important to you, here are a few of our round-ups of standarised testing school scores.

Best place to buy a house in Brisbane in 2024

best family suburbs in brisbane

Housing affordability and choosing the safest suburbs in Brisbane are the keywords when it comes to finding the best suburbs in Brisbane for families. You want something that’s affordable and that won’t trap you under huge repayments or rent but is also close enough to schools, resources and other people. You also want to know that the suburb you are looking at is a safe place to raise children.

Curious about the cheapest suburbs in Brisbane?

Have a look at Brisbane northside suburbs and Brisbane southside suburbs. For some of these areas, their growth potentials are all high as developments are increasing and new facilities are being built. However, some have flooding issues, and it is crucial you check the Brisbane flood maps before you make an offer on any property across greater Brisbane.

11 cheapest suburbs in Brisbane 2024

Some of the cheapest suburbs to buy in Brisbane represent good quality affordable housing options for families. While you may think that the cheapest places to live in Brisbane are not great, you may just find that these options may actually suit you and your family. We do warn you to check the flood maps as some of these locations are definitely flood prone! Even if we have not specifically mentioned flooding for a specific suburb, still do check the flood map!

1. Rocklea

  • Median house prices – $453,342 for houses

Rocklea is an industrial suburb located approximately 10 kilometres south of Brisbane’s central business district. While the area has a mix of residential and commercial properties, it may not be the ideal place for families due to the proximity to industrial areas and heavy traffic. The median house price in Rocklea is around $453,000, making it an affordable option for those looking for a suburban lifestyle. There are several schools in nearby suburbs, and Rocklea has a range of local amenities, including a large retail centre and several parks. Public transportation options are available, with several bus routes and a nearby train station. However, overall, families looking for a more family-oriented neighborhood with better access to schools and recreational facilities may want to consider other suburbs. At times the suburb has experienced significant flooding from the nearby Brisbane River.

2. Goodna

  • Median house price – $462,000 for houses to $280,000 for units.

Goodna, is a shrinking suburb in Brisbane because of its potential for flooding. In the 2021 floods more than 600 properties at Goodna were destroyed in the flood, the largest number of flood-affected properties in southeast Queensland. The median house price in Goodna is $462,000 for houses to $280,000 for units.

  • Goodna provides a range of affordable housing options, including houses and apartments, making it an appealing choice for individuals and families on a budget.
  • The suburb offers various amenities, such as local shops, supermarkets, and dining options, ensuring residents have convenient access to everyday necessities and services.
  • While not located directly in the city centre, Goodna maintains reasonable proximity to Brisbane, allowing for a manageable commute and access to city amenities and employment opportunities.
  • Safety is a priority in Goodna, with the suburb actively working to improve its security measures and maintain a safe environment for residents.
  • Goodna is well-connected through public transportation, with bus and train services available, enhancing accessibility and ease of travel to and from the suburb.

3. Logan Central

  • Median house price – $471,500 for houses to $233,500 for units.

This area offers a diverse and multicultural experience, with a range of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere. Logan Central’s media house price is $471,500 for houses to $233,500 for units.

  • The suburb of Logan Central is known for its cultural diversity, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere and offering a rich tapestry of different cultures and traditions.
  • The area boasts a variety of amenities, including major shopping centres like the Logan Central Plaza, local markets, and a wide range of dining options, catering to different tastes and preferences.
  • Housing options in Logan Central include a mix of apartments, townhouses, and houses, providing choices for different lifestyles and budgets.
  • The suburb enjoys convenient access to public transportation, with bus and train services readily available, allowing for easy travel within the suburb and to other parts of Brisbane.
  • Safety measures and community initiatives are in place to ensure a secure living environment, providing residents with peace of mind.
  • Logan Central is also home to various community events for families, festivals, and cultural celebrations, promoting a sense of belonging and fostering a strong community spirit.

4. Ellen Grove

  • Median house price – $542,000 for houses to $409,000 for units.

Ellen Grove is a suburb located approximately 19 kilometres south-west of Brisbane’s central business district. It is a predominantly residential area with a mix of houses and townhouses, and the median house price is around $542,000 and $409, 000 for units, making it a more affordable option for families and first-time home buyers. Living expenses such as groceries and utilities are generally lower than in the city, and there are several nearby parks and recreational areas, including Forest Lake and Oxley Creek Common. Although public transportation options are limited, Ellen Grove has easy access to major roads and highways, making it easy to commute to other areas of Brisbane.

5. Durack

  • Median house prices – $650,000 for houses to $398,675 for units.

Durack is an outer suburb of Brisbane, Australia. It is 15 kilometres south-west of the CBD. Over 63% of households in this area are comprised of couples with children, and 29% are couples without children. Stand alone houses account for over 96% of dwellings in this area, and townhouses account for a further 2%. Durack is only lightly populated and there have been considerable areas developed recently for housing. There are small farms around here and the area tends to attract migrants and first home buyers.

6. Darra

  • Median house prices – $665,000 for houses to $455,000 for units.

Darra is a Brisbane suburb located about 14 kilometres southwest of Brisbane central business district. The first subdivisions in the area occurred in 1864. The houses are mainly of the Queenslander style built in the 1940s and 1950s. Darra has developed greatly over the years. There are many grocers selling fresh local produce, the famous pecking duck restaurant, newsagent, Woolworths and the new train station with routes to the Gold Coast. Darra is a quiet and friendly neighbourhood with a lot to offer. It is only 10 minutes away from the Jindalee DFO , Mount Ommaney Shopping Centre.

7. Bald Hills

  • Median house prices – $685,000 for houses to $430,000 for units.

Bald Hills is a family-friendly suburb located approximately 18 kilometres north of Brisbane’s central business district. It is a quiet, leafy suburb with a mix of older-style homes and newer developments. The median house price in Bald Hills is around $685,000, making it a more affordable option for families looking for a suburban lifestyle. The suburb has several schools, both public and private, and a range of recreational facilities, including parks, playgrounds, and sports fields. There are also several shopping centres and supermarkets in the area. Public transportation options are good, with several bus routes and a nearby train station providing easy access to the city and surrounding suburbs.

8. Springfield Central

  • Median house prices – $690,000 for houses to $438,000 for units.

Springfield Central is a family-friendly suburb located approximately 25 kilometres south-west of Brisbane’s central business district. It’s part of Greater Springfield, Australia’s first privately built city, founded in 1993.

The suburb has a mix of older-style homes and newer developments, including modern apartments, townhouses, and larger family homes. The median house price in Springfield Central is around $690,000, making it a relatively affordable option for families looking for a suburban lifestyle. The area has several schools, both public and private, and a range of recreational facilities, including parks, playgrounds, and sports fields. Springfield Central also has several shopping centres, supermarkets, and restaurants, providing good access to amenities. Public transportation options are good, with a nearby train station and several bus routes providing easy access to the city and surrounding suburbs.

9. Forest Lake

  • Media house price – $700,000 for houses to $376,000 for units

Forest Lake is a large, master-planned suburb located approximately 20 kilometres south-west of Brisbane’s central business district. It is known for its lakeside setting and family-friendly amenities. The median house price in Forest Lake is around $700,000, making it an affordable option for families looking for a suburban lifestyle. The suburb has several schools, both public and private, and a range of recreational facilities, including parks, playgrounds, and a golf course. Living expenses such as groceries and utilities are generally lower than in the city, and there are several public transportation options available, including buses and a nearby train station.

10. Redcliffe

Settlement Cove in Redcliffe pople swimming on a beautiful day
  • Median house prices – $715,000 for houses to $512,500 for units.

Redcliffe is a coastal suburb located in the Moreton Bay Region of Queensland, approximately 35 kilometres north of Brisbane’s central business district. The cost of living in Redcliffe is generally more affordable than inner-city suburbs like Ascot or New Farm. The median house price in Redcliffe is around $720,000, making it an attractive option for families and retirees looking for a coastal lifestyle. There are also many affordable rental options available in Redcliffe. Living expenses such as groceries and utilities are generally lower than in the city, although transportation costs may be higher for those who commute to Brisbane for work.

11. Bracken Ridge

  • Median house prices – $750,000 for houses to $465,000 for units

Bracken Ridge is a family-friendly suburb located approximately 18 kilometres north of Brisbane’s central business district. It is a quiet, leafy suburb with a mix of older-style homes and newer developments. The median house price in Bracken Ridge is around $752,000, making it a more affordable option for families looking for a suburban lifestyle. The suburb has several schools, both public and private, and a range of recreational facilities, including parks, playgrounds, and sports fields. There are also several shopping centres and supermarkets in the area. Public transportation options are good, with several bus routes and a nearby train station providing easy access to the city and surrounding suburbs.

31 more expensive suburbs in Brisbane for families

If you’re a little more established and in the position to spend more money, we have identified these suburbs as the best in terms of family housing. These are not in order of affordability, just a list of the more pricey areas of Brisbane.

1. Coopers Plains

  • Median house prices – $788,000 for houses to $490,000 for units.

Coopers Plains is an outer suburb of Brisbane, Australia. It is an outer suburb of Brisbane, just 11 kilometres south-west of the CBD, with QE2 Hospital & Griffith University (Nathan Campus) in close proximity. Coopers Plains has an array of restaurants, cafes and takeaways on offer. This suburb is ideal for commuters with express city buses and Coopers Plains train station. Young families will also enjoy living here with kindergartens, primary schools and plenty of parks to choose from.

2. Banyo

Huron Street Banyo Christmas Lights Brisbane
Huron Street Banyo – Christmas lights

Median house prices – $817,500 for houses.

Banyo is a northern suburb of the City of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is a community split between residential and industrial land usage, the latter being attracted by the accessibility of local transport, including the Gateway Motorway. Banyo and the neighbouring suburb Nudgee, with which it is intertwined in many respects, are both rich in local history. This history includes the recent preservation of an Aboriginal Bora Ring. The areas of Nudgee and Nudgee Beach border on the Boondall Wetlands, which is protected by the Brisbane City Council. The photo above shows one of the best Christmas lights displays in Brisbane – Banyo homes really turn it on!

3. Brighton

best family suburbs in brisbane
  • Median house prices – $830,000 for houses to $546,321 for units.

Brighton is the northernmost suburb of Brisbane City, Australia, located 19 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. It has a woodland wetland protected by the local government. This natural reserve is made up of three woods; namely Goodenia Woods, Pimelea Woods and Dianella Woods.

The land is so called a wetland as it fills with water during heavy rain which flows into a small tidal creek, Copold Creek, that flows under one of the main roads of Brighton, Beaconsfield Terrace, and then leads to Bramble Bay between 15th and 16th Avenues.

Full disclosure: I grew up here and I think it is one of the best places to live in Brisbane!! (It is also one of the safest suburbs in Brisbane!)

4. Everton Park

Median house prices – $895,000 for houses to $509,350 for units.

Everton Park is a suburb of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is about eight kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. This suburb is predominantly residential, with more than a quarter of the population residing in semi-detached and higher density dwellings. Everton Park is a Neighbourhood Watch area.

5. Bowen Hills

  • Median house prices – $920, 000 for houses and $430,000 for units

Bowen Hills is an inner-city suburb of Brisbane known for its trendy restaurants, cafes, and proximity to the central business district. The cost of living in Bowen Hills is generally more affordable than neighbouring suburbs like Fortitude Valley or New Farm. The median house price in Bowen Hills is around $920,000, and there are also options for renting apartments or townhouses at a more affordable price point. Living expenses such as groceries and utilities are also generally lower in Bowen Hills compared to other inner-city suburbs. Additionally, there are many public transportation options available in Bowen Hills, making it a convenient and affordable place to live for those who work in the city.

6. Carina / Carina Heights

  • Median house prices – $950,000 for houses to $692,500 for units.

Carina is a suburb of Brisbane, Australia. It is located 7 kilometres east of the CBD, and borders Carindale, Carina Heights, Cannon Hill and Camp Hill. Carina is a mostly residential suburb. The Clem Jones Centre (a large sporting complex) is located in Zahel street, and a Brisbane City Council bus depot is situated on Creek Road Carina. The suburb is home to the Carina Tigers Rugby League Football Club.

7. Wynnum

  • Median house prices – $965,000 for houses to $597,000 for units.

Wynnum is a suburb in the City of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. In the 2016 census, Wynnum had a population of 12,915. Although Wynnum is situated next to the ocean, the shoreline is covered in mangroves and aromatic mudflats which makes it unsuitable for swimming at low tide. Next to the Wynnum Wading Pool which has a playground and Water Park and the Wynnum Jetty, there is a artificial beach called Pandanus Beach.

8. Sunnybank

  • Median house prices – $972,500 for houses to $500,000 for units

It’s taken more than a hundred years but Sunnybank, a one-time semi-rural suburb with market gardens, has overtaken Chinatown as home to Brisbane’s biggest Asian community and hence is now the in-spot to go to for authentic Asian eats and shops.

Sunnybank is located approximately 12 kilometres south of Brisbane’s central business district. It is known for its vibrant Asian community and a variety of restaurants and shops catering to different cuisines and cultures. The median house price in Sunnybank is around $975,000, making it a more affordable option compared to some of the more expensive inner-city suburbs nearby. The suburb has several schools, both public and private, and a range of recreational facilities, including parks and sports fields. Public transportation options are excellent, with several bus routes and a nearby train station providing easy access to the city and surrounding suburbs.

9. Mount Gravatt

  • Median house prices – $980,500 for houses to $503,000 for units.

Mount Gravatt is the name of both a major suburb of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia and a prominent hill in this suburb. The suburb is situated in the south-east of the city and was one of Brisbane’s largest. The suburb is populated by middle class, young families seeking stability. During the summer it is sometimes home to WaterWorld. Mount Gravatt was once a popular destination of German, Irish and English Immigrants to Australia after World War 1 and 2. The suburb has a growing number of Southern Europeans (mostly from Greece and Italy).

10. Sandgate

sandgate aquatic centre splash
  • Median house prices – $985,000 for houses

Sandgate is a coastal suburb in Brisbane, Australia, 16 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. The town became a popular escape for the people of Brisbane in the early 20th century. Most of Sandgate’s facilities are located along Brighton Road, the main street in Sandgate, which include numerous banks, shops, services and a small shopping centre anchored by a Woolworths supermarket. We love the Sandgate Aquatic Centre with its outdoor water park and indoor heated pool, right on the beach front!

11. Murarrie

Median house prices – $990,000 for houses to $645,000 for units.

Murarrie is a suburb located approximately 8 kilometres east of Brisbane’s central business district. It is a predominantly residential area with a mix of older-style homes and newer developments. The median house price in Murarrie is around $980,000, with prices rising a lot over the last 2 years. Murarrie also has good access to public transportation, including several bus routes and a train station, making it easy to commute to the city or surrounding suburbs.

12. Kenmore

  • Median house prices – $1,025,000 for houses to $866,500 for units.

Kenmore is a leafy suburb with a high number of professional residents and families. It is dominated by detached housing, but townhouses and units are increasing within the suburb. Kenmore has benefited greatly from the Centenary Highway which gives it direct access to the city via Milton Road, Coronation Drive, or since 2015 the Legacy Way (toll road).

13. Manly

  • Median house prices – $1,100,000 for houses to $695,750 for units.

Manly is located approximately 19 km east of the Brisbane central business district. Surrounding suburbs are Wynnum (to the north), Lota to the South and Manly West (to the west). To the east lies Moreton Bay. Over 43% of households in this area consist of couples without children and a further 37% are couples with children. Stand-alone houses account for 67% of all dwellings in this area, with townhouses accounting for a further 10%.

14. Corinda

  • Median house prices – $1,257,650 for houses to $555,000 for units.

Corinda is a suburb in Brisbane, Australia, located approximately 8.8 kilometres southwest of the Brisbane central business district. At the 2016 Australian Census the suburb recorded a population of 5,064. Corinda has two main parks both sharing the same name but separated at either end of the suburb. One is a forest reserve along the Brisbane River which includes Carrington Rocks and Carrington Boat Club. The other is on the floodplain of Oxley Creek near the bowls club and state school. The historic Francis Lookout reserve has another small park used for the traditional local Carols by Candlelight celebrations run by various local church and school groups. The Sherwood Arboretum borders the suburb but is located in Sherwood.

15. Woolloongabba

  • Median house prices – $1,279,000 for houses to $518,000 for units.

Woolloongabba is home to the Brisbane Cricket Ground, also known as the Gabba, a vast sports stadium that hosts professional Aussie Rules football and cricket matches. The area’s burgeoning dining scene includes trendy bistros as well as more established fine dining favourites, while nearby shops sell antiques and vintage fashion. Story Bridge offers a harnessed climb with sweeping views and optional abseiling. With the 2032 Olympics on their way, Woolloongabba’s median house price is now nearly $1.3 million.

16. Gordon Park

  • Median house prices – $1,295,000 for houses to $430,000 for units.

Gordon Park is a family-friendly suburb located approximately 6 kilometres north of Brisbane’s central business district. The suburb has a mix of older-style homes and newer developments, and the median house price in Gordon Park is around $1.3 million, which is relatively higher compared to some of the other suburbs in the area. However, the area is generally considered safe and family-friendly, with several parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities in the area. Gordon Park also has several schools, both public and private, making it a good choice for families with children. The suburb has good public transportation options, with several bus routes providing easy access to the city and surrounding suburbs.

17. Carindale

best family suburbs in brisbane
  • Median house prices – $1,300,000 for houses to $650,000 for units.

Carindale is a suburb of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is located 10 kilometres east of the CBD, and borders Belmont, Carina, Carina Heights, Mackenzie, Mansfield, Mount Gravatt East, and Tingalpa. Whether you’re an outdoor family, an inside family, a sporting family, an older family or just starting a family, Carindale’s a neighbourhood filled with things to do and places to play (for adults and kids). It’s easy to get around, and all your necessities, amenities and services are right nearby so it’s perfect for older couples and retirees, too.

18. East Brisbane

  • Median house prices – $1,300,000 for houses to $485,000 for units.

East Brisbane is an inner suburb of Brisbane, Australia, located 2.5 kilometres south-east of the CBD. The cost of properties in East Brisbane varies, with a mix of apartments and houses. The median house price in East Brisbane is $1,300,000 for houses to $485,000 for units. The suburb offers a range of amenities, including trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, providing ample entertainment options for individuals and couples. Its proximity to the city centre makes it convenient for commuters, with a short distance ensuring easy access to work and social activities. In terms of safety, East Brisbane generally has lower crime rates, contributing to a sense of security. While East Brisbane may still be suitable for families, its emphasis on urban living and the absence of extensive family-oriented amenities might make it more appealing to singles and couples.

19. Kelvin Grove

Median house prices – $1,305,000 for houses to $453,000 for units.

Kelvin Grove, a lively suburb in Brisbane, offers an attractive mix of residential charm and urban convenience. With its diverse range of properties, bustling amenities, close proximity to the city, and a strong focus on safety, Kelvin Grove media house price is $1,305,000 for houses to $453,000 for units.

  • The cost of properties in Kelvin Grove caters to various budgets, offering a mix of apartments, townhouses, and houses to suit different needs. There are also short term rental options for singles, couples, professionals and students.
  • The suburb boasts a range of amenities, including trendy cafes, restaurants, and local shops, ensuring residents have convenient access to everyday necessities and entertainment options.
  • Kelvin Grove enjoys a close distance to the city centre, making it a favourable choice for commuters, with easy access to work, educational institutions, and cultural activities.
  • Safety is a priority in Kelvin Grove, as the suburb maintains a strong sense of security, with lower crime rates compared to some other areas in Brisbane.
  • The presence of educational institutions like the Queensland University of Technology and Kelvin Grove State College adds to the suburb’s appeal, making it an attractive option for students and families seeking educational opportunities.

20. Coorparoo

  • Median house prices – $1,330,000 for houses to $520,000 for units.

Coorparoo is a suburb of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, located 4 kilometres south-east of the CBD. It borders Camp Hill, Holland Park, Stones Corner, Greenslopes, East Brisbane and Norman Park. Only four kilometres from the city, Coorparoo has become a sought-after location for professionals looking for a shorter commute, generous apartments and unique homes. The double-storey post-war homes here are great for families too – complete with backyard fig trees that are perfect for climbing (and kids like them too). The median house price is $1.3 million.

In terms of amenities, Coorparoo has a bustling high street with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The suburb is also well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes and a train station providing easy access to the city and surrounding suburbs.

For families, there are several parks and recreational areas in Coorparoo, including the popular Whites Hill Reserve, which offers walking trails and picnic facilities. Coorparoo also has a range of schools, both public and private, catering to all levels of education.

21. Indooroopilly

  • Median house prices – $1,410,000 for houses to $575,000 for units.

Indooroopilly is a suburb of Brisbane, Australia 7 kilometres west of the Brisbane central business district. The suburb covers 7.5 km². At the 2016 Australian Census the suburb recorded a population of 12,242.

22. Wilston

  • Median house prices – $1,440,000 for houses to $521,000 for units.

Wilston is known for its diverse range of properties, from charming Queenslanders to modern apartments, catering to different preferences and budgets. The median house price in Wilston is $1,440,000 for houses to $521,000 for units. The suburb is well-equipped with amenities, including boutique shops, trendy cafes, and a variety of dining options, ensuring you have everything you need within walking distance. Its close proximity to the city centre makes commuting a breeze, with a short distance ensuring you can easily access work and entertainment opportunities. Safety is also a notable aspect of Wilston, as the suburb boasts a strong community spirit and is considered one of the safer areas in Brisbane, creating a sense of peace and security for residents.

23. South Brisbane

streets beach south bank cinema - best family suburbs in brisbane
  • Median house prices – $1,443,000 for houses to $542,370 for units.

South Brisbane centres on South Bank, a busy riverfront stretch with cultural and science exhibits at the Queensland Museum, as well as art galleries and a giant Ferris wheel. Other draws include Streets Beach and the weekend Collective Markets, which sells handcrafted homewares. Grey Street features a popular cineplex, plus brewpubs and upmarket tapas bars. Burger and sushi places are part of a casual dining scene.

If you are looking for access to fun for the kids in the form of culture and water play then South Brisbane is one of the best suburbs to live in Brisbane. We wrote a huge round up on things to do in South Bank with kids on our other website.

24. Red Hill

  • Median house prices – $1,450,000 for houses to $585,000 for units.

Red Hill is an inner suburb of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia 3 kilometres north-west of the Brisbane CBD. The properties in Red Hill range from cozy apartments to spacious houses, catering to a variety of budgets. The median house price is $1,450,000 for houses to $585,000 for units. This suburb boasts a range of amenities, including cafes, local shops, and recreational facilities like parks and sports fields. Red Hill’s proximity to the city centre is a definite advantage, with a short commute allowing you to enjoy the benefits of urban living while residing in a peaceful residential area. Safety is also a priority in Red Hill, as the suburb is known for its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals alike.

25. Taringa

  • Median house prices – $1,455,000 for houses to $515,000 for units.

Taringa is a suburb of Brisbane, Australia 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) south-west of the Brisbane CBD. The suburb is mostly residential, except for a small number of commercial buildings mostly clustered along Moggill Road. It is a popular neighbourhood among the students of the University of Queensland and the Queensland University of Technology because of its proximity to the universities and to Brisbane city.

26. Toowong

  • Median house prices – $1,500,000 for houses to $530,000 for units.

Toowong is an inner suburb of Brisbane, Australia, which is 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) west of the Brisbane CBD. At the centre of Toowong is a commercial precinct including Toowong Village and several office buildings. The remainder of the suburb is predominantly residential with a mix of medium density dwellings and detached houses.

27. Hendra

  • Median house prices – $1,575,000 for houses to $773,750 for units.

Hendra is a suburb of the city of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It lies roughly six kilometres north-east of Brisbane central business district. The streets of Hendra are lined with Jacaranda and Royal poinciana Trees. As with its neighbouring suburbs, Hendra is predominantly a family-oriented community.

28. Bardon

  • Median house prices – $1,630,000 for houses to $750,000 for units.

Bardon is an inner suburb of the City of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is located approximately 5 kilometres west of the Brisbane CBD. Bardon is a leafy residential suburb, much of which nestles into the foothills of Mount Coot-tha

29. West End

  • Median house prices – $1,682,500 for houses to $610,000 for units.

West End is a laid-back residential area popular for weekend markets like Davies Park, packed with vendors selling crafts and produce, and Boundary Street, known for its food stalls. Organic cafes and family-friendly Greek and Vietnamese restaurants have a casual vibe, while green spaces with playgrounds like Musgrave Park add to the community feel. Brewpubs and live music venues keep the area happening after dark.

30. Ascot

  • Median house prices – $2,150,000 for houses to $579,000 for units.

Ascot is a suburb located in Brisbane’s inner north, known for its affluent and prestigious reputation. Due to its desirable location and high-end amenities, the cost of living in Ascot tends to be on the higher end of the scale. The median house price in Ascot is around $2.1 million, making it a popular area for wealthy individuals and families. However, there are still some affordable options for those looking to live in Ascot, such as apartments and townhouses. It’s important to note that living expenses such as groceries and utilities may also be more expensive in Ascot compared to other areas of Brisbane.

31. New Farm

Things to do on a Sunday
  • Median house prices – $2,710,000 for houses to $750,000 for units.

New Farm is a riverside inner suburb in the City of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. The suburb is located 2 kilometres east of the Brisbane CBD on a large bend of the Brisbane River and is home to the beautiful New Farm Park and playground!

Best family suburbs in Brisbane – resources

Here’s where it comes down to it.

What does the suburb have to offer in terms of shopping options? Parks and playgrounds? Dog parks? Open spaces? Does it have a sense of community? Does the local council put on festivals and events? Is there a neighbourhood watch?

Best place to live in Brisbane?

There is a lot of research to be done before determining the best place to live in Brisbane for your family. And buying or renting in a particular area will very much depend on what you and your family value.

Best family suburbs in Brisbane – The ‘IT’ factor

best family suburbs in brisbane

We think that some of the best suburbs for families in Brisbane have that ‘it’ factor.

What’s your suburb got that others haven’t?

Best family suburbs in Brisbane – what’s your call?

Did we miss out your ‘burb? Got some beef with our list? Do you think you know what is the absolute stand out BEST suburb in Brisbane? Let us know in the comments why you think YOUR neck of the woods should be included… and we’ll think about it!

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Janine Mergler

Janine Mergler is a veteran Queensland teacher, graduating from QUT with a BEd majoring in Social Sciences. After many years in the classroom, Janine moved on to academia. She has proudly trained new generations of teachers in her role as a lecturer at Queensland University of Technology Faculty of Education. She has also worked in the Queensland Government as an education specialist, developing education resources and delivering community awareness programs to help families conserve water. Currently she is the owner and editor of Families Magazine, a publication specifically targeted at parents who value a quality education for children.  Janine leads a team of professionals who write about family lifestyle, early childhood, schools and education information and family-friendly events.

1 thought on “Best Brisbane Suburbs for Families to Live In”

  1. The Gap – 11kms out from the CBD, surrounded by Mt.Cootha bushwalks, Beautiful walks around Walkabout Creek with a wildlife centre, some of the best schools in Brisbane – The Gap State High and lots of leafy parks to explore. Very family friendly and affordable

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