Byron Bay, Australia
Last updated on Jul 11, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Byron Bay, Australia. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Byron Bay?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Byron Bay, they said:
"Byron Bay is a small coastal town in New South Wales, Australia, known for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Before moving to Byron Bay, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high, with housing being particularly expensive due to the town's popularity with tourists and celebrities. The town has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental conservation, so expats should be prepared to embrace a green lifestyle. This includes recycling, composting, and using renewable energy sources. Byron Bay has a subtropical climate with warm, wet summers and mild, dry winters. Expats should pack accordingly and be prepared for occasional cyclones and floods during the wet season. The town is a popular destination for backpackers and tourists, which can make it crowded during peak travel seasons. However, it also means that there are plenty of opportunities for meeting people from all over the world. Byron Bay has a diverse food scene with a focus on organic, locally-sourced produce. There are also numerous farmers markets, boutique shops, and art galleries to explore. Public transportation is limited in Byron Bay, so having a car can be beneficial. However, the town is also very walkable and bike-friendly. Healthcare in Australia is of a high standard, but expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, while English is the primary language spoken in Byron Bay, the town has a diverse population with many different languages spoken, so learning a few phrases in other languages could be beneficial," remarked one expat living in Byron Bay, Australia.
How do I find a place to live in Byron Bay?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Byron Bay?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Byron Bay?
- What is the average cost of housing in Byron Bay?
- How do I meet people in Byron Bay?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Byron Bay?
- What should I pack when moving to Byron Bay?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Byron Bay?
- Will I be able to find a job in Byron Bay?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Byron Bay?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Byron Bay?
- What is the social scene like in Byron Bay?
- What advice to expats in Byron Bay have about housing?
- What are medical services in Byron Bay like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Byron Bay?
- Is the cost of living in Byron Bay high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Byron Bay?
- Why do people move to Byron Bay?