Thinking about moving to Cairns? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Cairns.
Located in the far north of Queensland, Cairns is a tropical paradise that offers a unique lifestyle. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Cairns is surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, both World Heritage sites. However, like any place, living in Cairns has its pros and cons. This article will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of calling Cairns home, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering a move to this vibrant city.
Pros of Living in Cairns
One of the most significant advantages of living in Cairns is its proximity to some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is just a boat ride away. This provides residents with unparalleled opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and boating. Similarly, the Wet Tropics Rainforest, the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest in the world, offers countless hiking and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Another advantage of living in Cairns is the city’s laid-back lifestyle. The pace of life is slower than in larger cities like Sydney or Melbourne, and the local culture is friendly and relaxed. This is reflected in the city’s numerous outdoor markets, such as the Cairns Esplanade Market and the Tanks Arts Centre Market, where locals gather to shop, eat, and socialize.
Cairns also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar, showcasing the work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Queensland. The Tanks Arts Centre, a converted World War II oil storage facility, hosts a range of performances and exhibitions throughout the year.
For those interested in volunteering, Cairns offers numerous opportunities. The Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre is always looking for volunteers to help care for injured and sick sea turtles. Similarly, the Cairns and Far North Environment Centre welcomes volunteers to assist with their conservation efforts.
Finally, Cairns is known for its warm, tropical climate. With an average of 300 sunny days per year, Cairns is perfect for those who love the outdoors. The city’s numerous beaches, parks, and outdoor dining venues allow residents to make the most of the beautiful weather.
Cons of Living in Cairns, Australia
While Cairns offers many advantages, it also has its drawbacks. One of the most significant is the city’s isolation. Cairns is located over 1,700 kilometers from Brisbane, the nearest major city. This can make travel to other parts of Australia time-consuming and expensive. It also means that Cairns lacks some of the amenities and services found in larger cities.
The city’s tropical climate, while a draw for some, can also be a disadvantage. Cairns experiences a wet season from November to April, during which the city receives the majority of its annual rainfall. This can lead to flooding and make outdoor activities less enjoyable. The high humidity during the wet season can also be uncomfortable for those not used to tropical climates.
Another drawback of living in Cairns is the cost of living. While it is cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne, Cairns is still one of the more expensive cities in Australia. This is particularly true when it comes to housing. According to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland, the median house price in Cairns is higher than the state average.
While Cairns has a vibrant arts and culture scene, it lacks the variety and depth of larger cities. The city has a limited number of galleries, theaters, and concert venues. This means that residents may have to travel to Brisbane or Sydney to see major exhibitions or performances.
Finally, while Cairns offers numerous volunteering opportunities, job opportunities can be more limited. The city’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which can be volatile and seasonal. This can make finding stable, well-paying employment challenging, particularly for those in fields not related to tourism.
