Family-friendly Neighbourhoods: Adelaide's 10 Best Suburbs to Raise a Family in

Not surprisingly, the nation’s most liveable city makes a great place to raise kids. From top-rated schools and cultural institutions to idyllic green spaces and community spirit, these are the most sought-after suburbs where families are putting down roots.

West Croydon

With its strong sense of community and gorgeous heritage houses, the inner-city suburb of West Croydon is the stuff family dreams are made of. Locals are drawn here for its abundance of amenities with a bustling village strip catering to their shopping and brunching desires. Playgrounds and reserves are spread throughout the neighbourhood along with a primary school and two train stations ensuring a quick trip to town.

Sheidow Park

Defined by rolling hills and sprawling greenery, Sheidow Park is a relaxed and friendly neighbourhood roughly 30 minutes south of the city centre. It’s close to Hallett Cove beach and boardwalk and home to a number of reserves and sports clubs. Young families are moving in for the spacious and relatively affordable homes along with a great choice of schools and childcare.

Evandale

Minutes from the CBD and Norwood, the diminutive pocket of Evandale gives familes easy access to everything on their doorstep. Its leafy streets are lined with stunning heritage homes making this one of Adelaide’s most premier city fringe suburbs. Evandale is close to esteemed schools and walking distance to boutique shopping and hip eateries on Portrush and Magill Roads.

Hectorville

The compact and peaceful suburb of Hectorville is bounded by some of Adelaide’s most vibrant shopping and dining precincts, giving residents the best of both worlds. It’s coveted for its access to quality public and private schools, seamless public transport connections and amenities along Glynburn Road. Locals can get active on the walking trails of Morialta Conservation Park or let kids loose at Adelaide’s biggest playground, Mukanthi Playspace.

North Brighton

The lifestyle-centric suburb of North Brighton gives residents a beachfront address while being just 25 minutes from the CBD. A popular pick among families, it combines quality homes with breezy, coastal living and a prized school catchment for Brighton Secondary School. The suburb lies minutes from the bustling cafes on Jetty Road and shopping at Westfield Marion, as well as easy public transport links into town.

Vale Park

Rising in the ranks of Adelaide’s most prized neighbourhoods, Vale Park is favoured among families for its excellent schooling options and its inclusive, multicultural community. Mostly residential, there’s shopping, cafes and restaurants next door at Walkerville Terrace and nearby at North Adelaide. Commuters can enjoy a scenic ride along the Linear Parks Trail following the River Torrens through to the CBD.

Colonel Light Gardens

Charming character homes, wide leafy streets and pleasant parklands; Colonel Light Gardens is a little slice of suburban heaven. This tightly held suburb sits between the city and sea and is punctuated by playgrounds and local schools, giving families little reason to leave. There are a handful of specialty stores at The Strand and eateries strung along Goodwood Road.

Burnside

Just east of the city centre, Burnside is known for its spacious homes and excellent community facilities. It has an impressive roster of primary and secondary schools as well as a public swimming pool, local library and tennis courts. Burnside Village offers premium shopping and everyday essentials, while foodies will be spoilt for choice on The Parade in nearby Norwood.

Millswood

Upmarket Millswood is favoured by Adelaide’s well to do families for its leafy streets and impressive 1920s bungalows. The suburb’s prime location, just six kilometres from the CBD, gives locals a life of culture and convenience. It’s moments from Adelaide’s most esteemed schools and the sporting precinct of Goodwood Oval. There’s a tram and bus for direct access into the city, while the restaurants and boutiques of King William Road is just a short stroll away.

Seacliff Park

With its picture-perfect setting and large hillside homes, Seacliff Park offers an attractive sea change away from the chaos of the city. It’s minutes from Adelaide’s sun-soaked beaches as well as Marion Park Golf Club and Westfield shopping centre. There are fantastic local schools and the commercial village of Brighton just up the road.