Brisbane vs Canberra
Cost of living, weather, jobs and lifestyle, side by side. Pick any two cities to switch.
| Fact | Brisbane | Canberra |
|---|---|---|
| Population1 | 2.7 million | 470,000 |
| State | Queensland | ACT |
| Median house price2 | $950k | $980k |
| Median weekly rent (house)2 | $650 | $680 |
| Average summer day3 | 30°C | 28°C |
| Average winter day3 | 22°C | 12°C |
| Annual rainfall3 | 1000 mm | 620 mm |
| Time zone4 | AEST (UTC+10) | AEST (UTC+10), daylight saving |
| Main industries5 | Construction, health, education, resources services | Federal public service, defence, education |
Brisbane and Canberra share a time zone for half the year. Canberra 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: Brisbane and Canberra beyond the numbers
What each city is known for
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.
Canberra. Parliament House, national museums and galleries, Lake Burley Griffin, and a city built around bush 'nature reserves'. It is the home of the federal public service.
Getting around
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.
Canberra. Buses plus a light rail line from Gungahlin to the city, being extended south. Roads are wide and congestion is light compared with the big capitals, and there are no tolls.
Sport
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.
Canberra. Rugby league (Raiders) and rugby union (Brumbies) are the biggest codes. Manuka Oval hosts cricket and some AFL games for the GWS Giants.
Day-to-day life
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.
Canberra. Quiet, green and family-friendly, with some of the highest household incomes in Australia. Winters are frosty and summers are dry. Many people find the social scene smaller than in other capitals.
Sources: Translink Queensland · Visit Brisbane · Transport Canberra · VisitCanberra