Alice Springs vs Darwin
Cost of living, weather, jobs and lifestyle, side by side. Pick any two cities to switch.
| Fact | Alice Springs | Darwin |
|---|---|---|
| Population1 | 26,000 | 150,000 |
| State | Northern Territory | Northern Territory |
| Median house price2 | $500k | $580k |
| Median weekly rent (house)2 | $550 | $650 |
| Average summer day3 | 36°C | 32°C |
| Average winter day3 | 20°C | 31°C |
| Annual rainfall3 | 280 mm | 1700 mm |
| Time zone4 | ACST (UTC+9.5) | ACST (UTC+9.5) |
| Main industries5 | Government, health, tourism, Aboriginal services | Defence, government, tourism, gas |
Alice Springs and Darwin share the same time zone all year. Figures are rounded, indicative values and are a guide only.
What it's really like: Alice Springs and Darwin beyond the numbers
What each city is known for
Alice Springs. The red centre: the MacDonnell Ranges, Aboriginal art and culture, and the starting point for Uluru trips (about 450 km away).
Darwin. Mindil Beach sunset markets, crocodiles, World War II history, and access to Kakadu and Litchfield national parks. It is the closest Australian capital to Asia.
Getting around
Alice Springs. There is a small bus service, but you need a car. The Ghan train passes through on its Adelaide–Darwin run.
Darwin. A bus network only, and driving is the norm. There are no toll roads, and the city is small enough to cross in about 20 minutes.
Sport
Alice Springs. AFL is very popular, along with outback events such as the Henley-on-Todd regatta in a dry river.
Darwin. AFL is popular, and NT Thunder plays in the state league. Darwin also hosts NRL and AFL fixtures, the Darwin Triple Crown Supercars and fishing competitions.
Day-to-day life
Alice Springs. A remote town with hot summers and cold desert nights. It has a large Aboriginal population and many people work in health, government and community services.
Darwin. Tropical: a humid wet season (November to April) with storms and the risk of cyclones, then a dry season of clear warm days. The population is young and transient, with many defence families.
Sources: NT Government public transport · Discover Central Australia · NT Government public transport · Tourism NT