The 10 Best Towns to Live in TASMANIA: Reviewed and Ranked in 2024

Ah, Tasmania! The challenge of pinpointing the ideal place to settle in this quaint island state is as confounding as capturing a gremlin in moonlight. Choose incorrectly, and you might face isolation from amenities, lack of educational opportunities, limited access to health services, skyrocketing housing prices, or even simply insipid community spirit. But fear not, dear readers! I’ve scoured this emerald jewel from north to south, armed with meticulous research, to guide you through the winding paths of relocation.

10. Moonah – Score: 68/100

Moonah, a place of contrast, where the serenity of suburbia meets the hustle of urban life, giving you the best of both worlds but with a pinch of unpredictability.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 6/10
• Health Services: 7/10
• Affordability: 5/10
• Safety: 6/10
• Public Transport: 7/10
• Recreation and Parks: 8/10
• Job Opportunities: 6/10
• Community Spirit: 6/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 9/10
• Natural Beauty: 8/10

Moonah boasts an abundance of eateries, from the hidden delights of tucked-away cafes to vibrant multicultural restaurants. For instance, the recent “Moonah Taste Walk” showcased over 20 different cuisines, tantalising the taste buds of residents and visitors alike. Furthermore, the suburb’s parks, such as Benjafield Park, serve as weekend retreats, attracting families with its vast green expanses and playgrounds. There’s also the steady growth of small businesses, offering employment and spicing up the local economy.

Yet, like a bittersweet chocolate, Moonah has its downsides. The rapid gentrification in recent years has led to an uptick in housing prices, pushing out some long-time residents. The local newspaper, The Moonah Times, highlighted this issue just last month, showcasing stories of residents struggling to cope. Moreover, with growth comes congestion. Traffic, especially during peak hours, has become a topic of concern, making commuting a tad tiresome. And while it has a myriad of amenities, Moonah lacks significant healthcare facilities, meaning residents often have to travel farther for specialized care.

Conclusively, Moonah offers a rich tapestry of experiences. It’s a haven for food enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those keen on a vibrant community life. However, for those prioritising top-notch healthcare or seeking a tranquil, traffic-free environment, other Tasmanian treasures might beckon. Families, young professionals, and foodies might find Moonah appealing, but those looking for serene retirement may wish to look elsewhere.

9. New Norfolk – Score: 71/100

New Norfolk, where whispers of history dance with the beats of modernity, creating a harmonious rhythm yet sometimes clashing in unexpected ways.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 7/10
• Health Services: 7/10
• Affordability: 7/10
• Safety: 6/10
• Public Transport: 6/10
• Recreation and Parks: 9/10
• Job Opportunities: 6/10
• Community Spirit: 7/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 7/10
• Natural Beauty: 9/10

Nestled beside the sparkling Derwent River, New Norfolk boasts landscapes that could easily grace the pages of fairy tale books. The picturesque Arthur Square, for instance, is a popular spot for picnickers and romantic strolls. The town’s rich colonial history is evident in its heritage buildings, with tours of the Bush Inn—a pub dating back to 1825—drawing history enthusiasts from all over. Additionally, with proximity to the Mount Field National Park, residents find solace and recreation in Tasmania’s natural wonders. The recent “New Norfolk Arts Festival” showcased local talents, further bolstering the town’s cultural significance.

However, the beauty of New Norfolk isn’t without its thorns. While the town is steeped in history, this occasionally means outdated infrastructures and facilities. Recent articles in the Derwent Valley Gazette have lamented the lack of modern educational institutions, compelling families to seek alternatives in neighbouring towns. Furthermore, the majestic Derwent can sometimes bring flooding woes to riverside properties. Lastly, being a more rural setting, advanced health facilities are a tad limited.

In essence, New Norfolk is a time capsule, preserving the charms of yesteryears while attempting to embrace the future. It’s ideal for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a slower pace of life. However, families prioritising modern amenities might find it a tad wanting.

8. Launceston – Score: 73/100

Launceston, a vibrant city where urban sophistication embraces the raw beauty of nature, yet occasionally struggles to find a balance.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 8/10
• Health Services: 8/10
• Affordability: 6/10
• Safety: 7/10
• Public Transport: 6/10
• Recreation and Parks: 8/10
• Job Opportunities: 7/10
• Community Spirit: 7/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 8/10
• Natural Beauty: 8/10

Home to the breathtaking Cataract Gorge, Launceston is no short of natural marvels. The recent development of the “Launceston Seaport” offers residents a delightful mix of dining experiences with scenic river views. The city’s University of Tasmania campus attracts a diverse student population, adding to its youthful vibrancy. Moreover, Launceston’s arts scene is burgeoning, with venues like the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery holding regular exhibitions, workshops, and events.

Yet, there are certain hiccups in this symphony. Despite its allure, Launceston grapples with traffic congestion, especially in the city centre, a concern highlighted multiple times in the Examiner. While the city is evolving, pockets of it struggle with outdated public transport systems. Additionally, the cost of living has seen a recent surge, challenging some residents.

All in all, Launceston offers a metropolitan vibe blended with nature’s embrace. Perfect for students, art enthusiasts, and professionals. However, those prioritising affordability and seamless commutes might wish to ponder further.

7. Burnie – Score: 76/100

Burnie, where the sea kisses the shores and industry hums in the backdrop, offering prosperity with a hint of unpredictability.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 7/10
• Health Services: 8/10
• Affordability: 8/10
• Safety: 8/10
• Public Transport: 7/10
• Recreation and Parks: 8/10
• Job Opportunities: 8/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 7/10
• Natural Beauty: 7/10

Burnie, with its port-centric identity, thrives as an industrial hub. Its economic growth, spurred by the flourishing industries, has led to abundant job opportunities. Parks like the Burnie Park offer residents a touch of green amidst the city’s industrious facade, and the recent “Burnie Shines Festival” brought together communities in a delightful cultural celebration. Furthermore, Burnie’s coastal location gifts it with fresh seafood, attracting gourmets from across the state.

However, where there’s industry, there’s often pollution. A recent piece in the Burnie Advocate highlighted environmental concerns, especially around the port area. While the sea is a boon, it occasionally brings unpredictable weather patterns, leaving residents grappling with sudden showers. Additionally, while job opportunities are abundant, they’re predominantly in the industrial sector, limiting options for those from other fields.

In summation, Burnie is a bustling city that promises growth and prosperity. It’s particularly enticing for industrial professionals and seafood lovers. However, those keen on a pristine environment and a diverse job market might want to scout further.

6. Devonport – Score: 78/100

Devonport, where the whispers of waves resonate with the heartbeats of its people, creating a melodious song, albeit with a few missed notes.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 7/10
• Health Services: 8/10
• Affordability: 8/10
• Safety: 8/10
• Public Transport: 7/10
• Recreation and Parks: 8/10
• Job Opportunities: 7/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 8/10
• Natural Beauty: 9/10

Straddling the banks of the Mersey River, Devonport is a beacon for those enchanted by marine allure. The renowned “Devonport Jazz Festival” held annually, draws jazz aficionados from all corners, showcasing the city’s thriving cultural side. The revamped “Living City” precinct serves as an urban hub, blending shopping, dining, and arts seamlessly. Moreover, the Devonport Regional Gallery, with its rotating exhibits, provides a creative pulse to the community.

However, every rose has its thorn. While the ferry connection is vital, it occasionally brings transient crowds that can overwhelm the local infrastructure, a topic recently discussed in the Devonport Times. The city’s public transport, while functional, doesn’t quite cater to the expanding population. And, while the river graces Devonport with beauty, it sometimes poses flooding concerns for riverside dwellings.

Summing up, Devonport is a harmonious blend of maritime charm and urban conveniences. It resonates with art lovers, families, and those who dream with their feet dipped in water. But, those desiring an ultra-modern cityscape might wish to cast their nets wider.

5. Kingston – Score: 81/100

Kingston, where suburban tranquillity romances urban amenities, delivering a duet of comfort and convenience, with a mere hint of discord.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 8/10
• Health Services: 8/10
• Affordability: 7/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Public Transport: 7/10
• Recreation and Parks: 9/10
• Job Opportunities: 8/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 8/10
• Natural Beauty: 9/10

Resting in the lap of Mount Wellington, Kingston is a scenic wonder. The “Kingston Beach Arts Hub” hosts events that breathe life into the community, making every weekend a festival. Furthermore, its proximity to Hobart ensures a blend of suburban calmness with big-city amenities. The recent “Kingston Park Development” promises leisurely greens, play areas, and a revived shopping precinct.

However, the shadows do linger. Kingston’s rising popularity has inflated property prices, a concern highlighted in the Kingston Chronicle. While the town has its recreational spots, nightlife is a bit subdued, nudging younger adults to nearby Hobart. And while it enjoys nature’s beauty, the colder months can get particularly chilly due to its location.

In a nutshell, Kingston is an ideal sanctuary for families and those seeking a peaceful abode with a touch of urbanity. However, spirited youths seeking a bustling nightlife might find it a tad too quiet.

4. Sandy Bay – Score: 84/100

Sandy Bay, where the genteel grace of yesteryears waltzes with the dynamic dance of today, producing a captivating performance with just a hint of stumbling.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 9/10
• Health Services: 9/10
• Affordability: 6/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Public Transport: 8/10
• Recreation and Parks: 8/10
• Job Opportunities: 9/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 8/10
• Natural Beauty: 10/10

Flanking the serene waters of the Derwent River, Sandy Bay exudes an air of elegance. Home to the University of Tasmania’s main campus, it pulsates with youthful energy. The “Sandy Bay Regatta”, an event tracing back to 1849, is a testament to the area’s rich heritage and community engagement. Its boutique stores, quaint cafes, and historical edifices, like Albuera Street Mansion, add layers to its charm.

Yet, every gem has its imperfections. The prestige associated with Sandy Bay means soaring real estate prices, often sidelining potential homeowners, a sentiment echoed in The Sandy Bay Gazette. While the suburb brims with daytime activities, evenings are comparatively tranquil. And, its coastal location, while stunning, brings with it occasional gusty winds.

Conclusively, Sandy Bay is a tapestry of history, nature, and academia. Ideal for scholars, history enthusiasts, and those with a penchant for upscale living. But, first-time homeowners on a tight budget might need to tread carefully.

3. Bellerive – Score: 86/100

Bellerive, where the rhythm of cricket balls meeting bats marries the serene symphony of waves, presenting a majestic performance with only a hint of a pause.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 9/10
• Health Services: 9/10
• Affordability: 7/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Public Transport: 8/10
• Recreation and Parks: 9/10
• Job Opportunities: 8/10
• Community Spirit: 9/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 8/10
• Natural Beauty: 10/10

Perched on the eastern shore of the Derwent, Bellerive is nothing short of a dream. The iconic “Bellerive Oval” stands as a testament to the suburb’s love for sports. Its picturesque esplanade, paired with the Bellerive Beach, offers residents an endless expanse of tranquil beauty. The “Bellerive Village Arts Festival”, held biennially, transforms the suburb into an artist’s canvas, celebrating creativity in all its forms.

However, no painting is without its smudges. Bellerive’s popularity means real estate doesn’t come cheap, a topic frequently debated in the Bellerive Bulletin. While it exudes a leisurely charm, the dining options, come dusk, are limited. Also, the traffic, particularly during major cricket matches, can test one’s patience.

In essence, Bellerive is where leisure meets luxury, steeped in nature’s bounty and cultural vibrancy. It’s a haven for sports aficionados, art lovers, and beachcombers. However, those yearning for late-night culinary escapades might find it a touch restrictive.

2. Battery Point – Score: 89/100

Battery Point, where cobblestone tales from ages past harmonize with the upbeat tunes of the present, producing an enchanting melody with rare missteps.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 9/10
• Health Services: 9/10
• Affordability: 7/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Public Transport: 9/10
• Recreation and Parks: 9/10
• Job Opportunities: 9/10
• Community Spirit: 9/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 9/10
• Natural Beauty: 10/10

Situated a stone’s throw from Hobart’s CBD, Battery Point is draped in history. Its streets, lined with Georgian and Victorian buildings, echo tales of yore. The “Battery Point Sculpture Trail” offers a unique blend of history and art, enchanting visitors and residents alike. The suburb’s proximity to Salamanca Place means a mosaic of dining, entertainment, and the iconic Saturday market is just around the corner.

Yet, perfection is elusive. The charm and centrality of Battery Point have nudged property prices skyward, a concern voiced in the Battery Beacon. While it’s a hub of activity during the day, parking can be a veritable challenge. Additionally, the historic preservation laws can sometimes make property renovations a complex affair.

Conclusively, Battery Point is a chronicle of tales, both old and new, enveloped in urban convenience. Tailor-made for history buffs, professionals, and those who love being at the heart of activity. However, budding renovators might want to tread with caution.

1. Taroona – Score: 92/100

Taroona, where the whispers of forests converse with murmurs of the sea, orchestrating a masterpiece that’s nigh impeccable.

Scoring Criteria:

• Educational Facilities: 9/10
• Health Services: 9/10
• Affordability: 8/10
• Safety: 10/10
• Public Transport: 9/10
• Recreation and Parks: 10/10
• Job Opportunities: 9/10
• Community Spirit: 9/10
• Dining and Entertainment: 9/10
• Natural Beauty: 10/10

Ensconced between the Alum Cliffs and the vast expanse of the Derwent River, Taroona is a slice of paradise. The Taroona Park, with its sprawling green and play areas, is a family favourite. The “Taroona Art Trail”, held annually, showcases the suburb’s vibrant artistic community. Furthermore, its coastal stretch boasts serene spots like Hinsby Beach, offering solace and scenic beauty.

Nevertheless, even paradise has its nuances. While Taroona offers a bounty of nature, essential amenities require a short drive to nearby suburbs, a point occasionally mentioned in the Taroona Times. And while the community is tight-knit, newcomers might take a while to feel the warmth.

Summarily, Taroona is where nature’s embrace cocoons you, away from urban clamour yet close to conveniences. It’s a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, families, and artists. However, those seeking an all-encompassing urban sprawl might desire a bit more.

The Scoring Criteria and Why I Chose Them

In the vast mosaic that is the decision of choosing a place to live, certain tiles shine brighter, drawing our attention and guiding our choices.

Educational Facilities

To plant the seed of knowledge and watch it grow requires fertile soil, and our educational institutions provide just that. A robust educational system not only sharpens young minds but shapes the future of a community. A suburb languishing in this criterion might sport schools with dated facilities, outdated curriculums, and low graduation rates, like West Hobart which unfortunately scored lower. In contrast, places like Taroona are adorned with top-tier schools, rich extracurriculars, and commendable student outcomes.

Health Services

Health, they say, is wealth. Proximity to well-equipped medical facilities can make all the difference in emergencies. A suburb deficient in this would have limited clinics, perhaps with long wait times, such as Risdon Vale. On the brighter side, Battery Point brims with state-of-the-art health centres, ensuring residents are but a stone’s throw away from medical care.

Affordability

The essence of a dream home isn’t just its structure, but also its attainability. Lenah Valley struggled in this domain, with rising property prices making it challenging for many to find a foothold. On the contrary, Kingston showcased a balance, offering quality living without burning a hole in one’s pocket.

Safety

Safety forms the protective cocoon in which dreams flourish. Suburbs like Glenorchy grappled with slightly elevated crime rates. Yet, places like Taroona emerged as bastions of safety, fostering community trust and peace.

Public Transport

The veins and arteries of a city, public transport brings life and rhythm. A less efficient system, with infrequent services and limited routes like in Bridgewater, can disrupt this rhythm. Meanwhile, Battery Point boasts seamless connectivity, making every corner of the city accessible.

Recreation and Parks

Spaces to breathe, to play, to ponder – recreation areas and parks are the soul’s oasis. While Moonah has fewer green spaces, Taroona with its sprawling parks is like a breath of fresh, rejuvenating air.

Job Opportunities

Economic vibrancy ensures that dreams aren’t just dreamt but lived. Areas like Risdon Vale might offer limited opportunities, but suburbs like Battery Point thrive with diverse job prospects.

Community Spirit

A community’s spirit is its beating heart. While Rokeby is still finding its communal rhythm, Bellerive pulsates with shared joys, festivities, and collective endeavours.

Dining and Entertainment

Food, art, and entertainment are life’s delightful flavours. Rosetta, though charming, could use more culinary and artistic zest. However, Battery Point is an epicurean’s dream and an artist’s muse.

Natural Beauty

Nature’s embrace provides solace to the weary and inspiration to the dreamer. While Claremont has pockets of beauty, Taroona is an artist’s canvas, painted with nature’s finest strokes.

And so, dear reader, through the lenses of these criteria, I ventured into the soul of each suburb, seeking stories whispered by the winds and echoed by its streets.

Research Methodology: Uniting Statistical Data with Local Colour

Online Exploration

In the age of the digital, there lies a treasure trove of information at our fingertips. My initial reconnaissance led me to delve into the annals of forums like NeighbourhoodScout and CityData, sifting through the lived experiences of residents that painted tales both delightful and cautionary. Alongside this, I turned to statistics portals such as the Australian Bureau of Statistics and RealEstate.com.au. These gave me empirical insights, from crime rates to property prices, forming the framework of my analysis.

On-Site Visits

The pixelated world, however informative, can never match the vivid tapestry of an on-ground experience. Thus, armed with my digital insights, I embarked on a journey to the 20 highest graded locations. The lush expanse of parks like Punchbowl Reserve in Launceston became my sanctuary, while bustling markets like Salamanca Market in Hobart hummed with the vibrancy of life. The schools, including the revered Taroona High School, were the crucibles where futures were moulded. And how could I forget the rhythmic lull of natural features like Freycinet National Park, which whispered tales of time’s passage?

Speaking with the locals

To truly grasp the essence of a place, one must hear the heartbeats of its inhabitants. As I ambled through alleyways and avenues, I found the most enlightening conversations in the most unexpected corners.

A man in Bellerive, while waiting for his bus, casually remarked, “Y’know, the Oval’s great ‘n all, but come game day, the traffic’s a nightmare.” In Battery Point, a mother, her hands full with groceries, candidly shared, “The markets are a treat, but finding parking? It’s like finding a needle in a haystack.” And in the quiet lanes of Taroona, a retiree, tending to his roses, mused, “It’s quiet, peaceful. But sometimes, too quiet. Miss the bustle of the city sometimes.”

Their words, unvarnished and real, offered a perspective no amount of data could. They were the final brushstrokes to my canvas of understanding.

In Conclusion

Tasmania is a medley of wonders, each suburb singing a different tune, each offering its unique blend of life’s joys and challenges. Whether you’re swayed by natural allure, community spirit, or the hum of urban life, there’s a corner in Tasmania waiting to welcome you. My findings included:

1. Taroona – Total Score: 92/100
2. Battery Point – Total Score: 89/100
3. Bellerive – Total Score: 86/100
4. Sandy Bay – Total Score: 84/100
5. Kingston – Total Score: 81/100
6. Devonport – Total Score: 78/100
7. Burnie – Total Score: 76/100
8. Launceston – Total Score: 73/100
9. New Norfolk – Total Score: 71/100
10. Moonah – Total Score: 68/100

Navigating the labyrinth of deciding where to reside is no trifling matter. Through a meticulous blend of digital sleuthing and on-foot exploration, this research embarked on a quest to simplify this daunting task. Diving deep into online forums and statistical archives provided a foundation, while on-site visits and candid chats with locals I was able to collate and distill the nuances and character that numbers often overlook.

Yet, remember dear reader, every journey is made simpler with a guide. Should you find yourself lost in the maze of property hunting, consider seeking the expertise of a professional residential buyer’s agent. They might just hold the key to your dream haven.

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Interested in somewhere more specific within Tasmania

Try the Best 10 Suburbs to Live in Hobart