Adelaide vs Brisbane
Cost of living, weather, jobs and lifestyle, side by side. Pick any two cities to switch.
| Fact | Adelaide | Brisbane |
|---|---|---|
| Population1 | 1.4 million | 2.7 million |
| State | South Australia | Queensland |
| Median house price2 | $820k | $950k |
| Median weekly rent (house)2 | $570 | $650 |
| Average summer day3 | 29°C | 30°C |
| Average winter day3 | 15°C | 22°C |
| Annual rainfall3 | 540 mm | 1000 mm |
| Time zone4 | ACST (UTC+9.5), daylight saving | AEST (UTC+10) |
| Main industries5 | Defence, health, education, wine and food | Construction, health, education, resources services |
Brisbane is 0.5 hours ahead of Adelaide in winter. Adelaide uses daylight saving, so the gap changes by an hour from October to April. Figures are rounded, indicative values and are a guide only.
What it's really like: Adelaide and Brisbane beyond the numbers
What each city is known for
Adelaide. The festival city: the Adelaide Fringe, Festival and WOMADelaide each March. It is also close to the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills wine regions.
Brisbane. A subtropical river city with South Bank's parklands and swimming lagoon, a warm climate all year, and easy access to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts. It hosts the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Getting around
Adelaide. Buses, trains and a single tram line through the city to Glenelg beach. The grid layout and short commutes make driving easy, and there are no toll roads.
Brisbane. Buses, CityCats on the river and a suburban rail network, with Cross River Rail adding underground stations. Several motorways and tunnels are tolled. Most residents rely on cars.
Sport
Adelaide. AFL leads, with the Crows and Port Adelaide playing at Adelaide Oval, one of the country's best-loved grounds. It also hosts cricket and the AFL Gather Round.
Brisbane. Rugby league leads, with State of Origin a highlight at Suncorp Stadium. The Brisbane Lions (AFL) play at the Gabba, which is also the city's cricket ground.
Day-to-day life
Adelaide. Short commutes, an easy pace and a strong food and wine scene. It is among the cheaper mainland capitals, though prices have climbed quickly in recent years.
Brisbane. Relaxed and outdoorsy, with Queenslander houses on stilts, verandas and backyard living. Summers are hot, humid and stormy. The city is growing fast and rents have risen sharply.
Sources: Adelaide Metro · South Australian Tourism Commission · Translink Queensland · Visit Brisbane