Well, it seems like the big decision has already been made and you’ve finally decided to move to Sydney. Be it for work, studying, or simply chasing sun, get ready for a warm welcome. Sydney is known to have mind-boggling beaches and a beautiful skyline which leaves everyone in awe of the city. Give it some time after settling in and Sydney’s unique rhythm will take you by surprise. Professional movers in Sydney can help you settle in without the stress.
Not booking the removalist right away? That’s a good sign. Stuffing your suitcases also, but there are some things that are not in the brochures or webpages managed by expats. It’s real, lived, and local advice that you will only get once you move. Cheap movers in Sydney can be a good option if you’re trying to keep costs down while handling the move.
Be it relocating from overseas, or shifting from another Aussie city, we have compiled 10 bits of information that will help you avoid the blunders every newbie makes in Sydney and won’t have any drastic impacts on your experience. This information will help you get the most out of Sydney right from day one.
1. Sydney’s Public Transport Isn’t Bad, But It’s Not What You Might Expect
When comparing to trams in Melbourne or the wells oiled machine of Tokyo, then Sydney public transport may alienate people. It consists of trains, buses, ferries, and light rail, all of which are integrated into the Opal card system (which you will need from day one).
But services can become spotty depending on your location. Some suburbs are not too bad while some are well planted. Pro tip? Before you start signing leases, put the address on google maps and check the travel time through the public transport during peak hours.
Ferries can serve as the best mode of transportation while commuting to the harbors. Riding a ferry to work while gliding past the Sydney Opera House is unfathomable.
2. The Cost of Living Can Surprise You, Budget Smartly
Sydney can be mesmerizing, but it can drain your wallet. Casual brunch will be doing the heavy lifting along with expensive rents and skyrocketing groceries when it comes to emptying your wallet.
Before getting ready to move look for professional movers in sydney and settle down to plan a detailed budget outlining your expected income and expenditures. Remember to include rent, utilities, kitchen expenses, phone, public transport, and even food delivery once or twice a month.
Very few people coming to this city for the first time understand the sheer volume at which expenses pile up in the city. With strategic planning, selecting the correct neighborhood, local markets, and frequent cooking, you can enjoy a comfortable living here.
3. Not All Beaches Are Touristy, And That’s a Good Thing
Bondi Beach is an attraction, that is not up for debate. But, stopping your adventure there makes you lose out on the real coastal Sydney experience. Most people are familiar with Sydney’s best-known beaches, but there is far more to explore beyond what is shown on social media.
From Manly to Coogee and from Freshwater to Clovelly and Maroubra, each beach is well-known for its distinctive local crowd and unique charm. If you’re a fan of the coast, don’t miss the Coogee to Bondi trail. It’s not just a pretty coastal walkway, it’s an Australian tradition in itself.
Sandy shores are extremely popular in Sydney for a wide range of reasons, but most of all for relaxing, going for morning swims, surf clubs, post-beach breakfast, and even another afternoon stroll for those hard at work midweek. Lean in and make the most of it.
4. Pick Your Suburb Based on Lifestyle, Not Just Rent
Sydney is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ city and striking out solo can prove difficult, but Newtown is artsy, Parramatta is a hotly developing cultural hub, Surry Hills is a hip foodie haven, and Chatswood is family-friendly and boasts excellent Asian food.
The trick to apartment hunting is matching your lifestyle preferences with your mode of transportation. That $50 cheaper apartment that is 10km further out sounds good on paper, but if you’re sitting in a train for hours everyday, the costs quickly add up.If you’re considering moving from a far distance, make sure to look into long distance movers that can help you with a smooth transition.
Look around the area, speak to locals, and remember to visit first before committing yourself to a multi-year lease.
5. The Job Market is Competitive, But Full of Opportunity
Sydney is a major hub for industries like finance, tech, healthcare, education, hospitality, and media. That said, competition can be intense, especially in white-collar roles.
If you’re moving without a job lined up, give yourself at least a 3-month runway for your job hunt. LinkedIn is widely used here, and networking events (both industry-specific and casual) are a major part of Sydney’s professional culture.
Also, make sure your resume and cover letter follow Australian-style formatting, there are subtle but important differences that can affect your chances.
6. Weather Is Mostly Glorious, But Summers Can Be Brutal
You’ve probably heard about Sydney’s sunny skies. But here’s a heads-up: summer can be intensely humid. We’re talking 35°C days that feel like a sauna. Then, just as suddenly, you’ll get wild storms and flash rains.
Winters, on the other hand, are mild but often feel colder indoors, since many homes aren’t insulated or heated as well as in cooler countries.
Tip? Get a decent fan or air con, especially if you’re moving during peak summer. And don’t throw out your jumpers, you’ll still need them in July.
7. Coffee Culture is a Religion Here, Choose Your Local Wisely
Sydney is fiercely proud of its coffee. You won’t find many Starbucks fans here, and you probably shouldn’t admit if you are one. Independent cafes rule the streets, and baristas take pride in pouring the perfect flat white.
Finding your local café is almost a social ritual. It’s where you start your day, maybe even work remotely, and get to know your neighbours. Try a few spots until you find your vibe.
Also: tipping isn’t expected, but good café service is part of the culture. A smile and a “thanks” go a long way.
8. The Rental Market Moves Fast, Be Prepared to Act Quickly
If you’re renting, know this: Sydney’s property market is fast and competitive. Good rentals are often snapped up within a day or two.
That means you need your paperwork ready:
- 100 points of ID
- Proof of income or employment
- References from previous landlords or housemates
- A short cover letter about yourself
When you inspect a place and like it, apply immediately. Landlords often go with the first strong application they receive. Also, don’t be afraid to call or follow up, persistence can help.
9. Sydney Isn’t Just the CBD, Explore the Hidden Corners
One mistake many newcomers make? Spending all their time in the CBD, thinking that’s the “real” Sydney. But this city’s magic often lies in its less-obvious corners.
Marrickville’s craft breweries, Glebe’s weekend markets, Balmain’s heritage pubs, Kirribilli’s leafy harbourside walks, Cronulla’s underrated beaches, there’s so much to explore beyond the tourist centre.
Take your weekends seriously. Hop on a ferry, join a meetup group, or just pick a random suburb and walk around. That’s how you’ll start feeling like a local, not just a resident.
10. Moving Day? Don’t Try to Do It Alone
Let’s end with a practical truth: moving to Sydney, especially from another city or country, can be stressful. Between packing, utilities, finding a place, and job hunting, it adds up quickly.
Hiring a trusted removalist is not a luxury, it’s a sanity-saver. And if you want peace of mind, go with professional movers in Sydney who know Sydney’s logistics, traffic patterns, and residential quirks like the back of their hand. Whether you’re looking for long distance movers or need a more local solution, the right professionals can make all the difference.
Make Your Move Easy with EasyGoing Removalist
If you’re preparing to move to Sydney, do yourself a favour, call in the pros.
EasyGoing Removalist is a locally trusted, Australian-based moving company that specialises in stress-free, door-to-door relocations.
From packing services and secure transport to handling heavy lifting and delicate items with care, they make settling into your new life smooth and seamless.
Whether you’re relocating from Melbourne, Brisbane, or beyond, EasyGoing Removalist ensures you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time soaking in Sydney’s beauty.
Ready to move the easy way? Visit EasyGoing Removalist and get a free quote today. Your Sydney adventure starts with the right team.
