Ten of the Best: Family-Friendly Suburbs in Sydney

Raising a family in Sydney is no doubt a privilege (and an expensive one at that... thanks #cozzielivs) but luckily our stunning harbour city gives back with picturesque beaches, fantastic local schools, and diverse communities. 

Looking for the best suburb to raise a family in Sydney? We've done the leg work for you. North, south, east, or west, in these pretty pockets of Sydney, you’ll find 10 of the best family-friendly suburbs in Sydney.

Lane Cove

Lush and leafy Lane Cove has become one of Sydney’s most sought-after neighbourhoods for young families thanks to its central location and abundant amenities.

It boasts children’s playgrounds, a library, an aquatic centre, and a flourishing village that houses restaurants, cafes and supermarkets. Locals love getting outdoors and exploring Lane Cove National Park, while the CBD is just a 20-minute drive or bus ride away.

Sitchu Tip: When it comes to coffee we recommend heading to Lil Lane and do not leave without their weekly pita pocket special! 

Curl Curl

Curl Curl is a haven for families in the Northern Beaches and it's easy to see why. The laid-back beachside suburb has it all — plentiful green spaces, an emerald blue ocean, rock pools, and long stretches of sand dunes for energetic little ones to run amok. It's also in a prime position for venturing up or down the Beaches to nearby postcodes. 

Sitchu Tip: You're spoilt for choice when it comes to walks around Curl Curl. Visualise the glorious Curl Curl to Freshwater Beach walk as your daily meander. How divine! 

Glebe

Those not yet wanting to sacrifice their urban lifestyle can find a good balance in Glebe. Attracting both young professionals and families, the historic neighbourhood is famed for its weekly markets and boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene.

Glebe Point Road is sprinkled with cafes and restaurants, while access to both Glebe and Forest Lodge Public Schools appeals to those with school-aged kids.

Sitchu Tip: Glebe is home to one of the most popular markets in Sydney and it takes place every Saturday. Definitely one to pop on your weekend agenda to stock up on gifts, snacks and artisan goodies. 

Dulwich Hill

This multicultural and family-friendly neighbourhood in the inner west is known for its character-filled streets and delectable food scene.

Dulwich Hill village is packed with a mix of Greek, Italian, Lebanese, Portuguese and Chinese eateries. There are lush parks and reserves, plenty of grocery and speciality stores and the light rail ensuring a convenient commute to Central Station.

Sitchu Tip: The perfect spot to head after a long day? The Larder Wine & Cheese Bar. 

Maroubra

With ample playgrounds, schools and picnic facilities, Maroubra combines a quintessential beachside lifestyle with an excellent array of local schools, a great shopping precinct and a vibrant multicultural community. There are expansive green reserves, scenic Mahon Pool and a long-standing surf culture dating back to 1906. From Maroubra Junction, it’s just a 20-minute bus ride into the CBD.

Maroubra has a diverse makeup of Asian, European and Middle Eastern cultures, and there is a strong sense of family prevalent throughout the community. Young families are drawn to the more affordable coastal lifestyle.

Sitchu Tip: One of Sydney's most beautiful coastal walks could be your local. If you haven't yet had a chance to do the Malabar Headland walk it's time to give it a go! 

Kareela

Cantered in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire, the lovely suburb of Kareela is favoured among families for its large and more affordable homes bound by bushland and the Georges River.

It offers easy rail access to the city from nearby Jannali station, ample supermarkets and grocery stores along with a bustling foodie scene and Westfield Miranda close by. There’s a local golf course, bushwalking trails and the beaches of Cronulla just 20 minutes away.

Sitchu Tip: For an impeccable Lebanese feast, head straight to Jbeil Cuisine. 

Frenchs Forest

The northern suburb of Frenchs Forest lures families for its peaceful, leafy streets and close proximity to both world-class beaches and major shopping hubs with Chatswood and Warringah Mall close by. 

It offers spacious properties and large blocks of land with easy access to bushland, national parks, playgrounds and schools catering to all ages. Frenchs Forest sits roughly 30 minutes drive from Sydney's CBD. 

Sitchu Tip: Head to Mrs Jones for your daily bread, a cup of coffee or a sweet treat. 

Oatley

Resting on the banks of the gorgeous Georges River in southern Sydney, Oatley is a convenient hub for families keen to enjoy the beauty of the harbour city without having to live in the hustle and bustle.

Oatley is 29 kilometres south of the Sydney CBD and is surrounded by picturesque waterways and natural reserves. Oatley’s prime location on the Georges River leaves plenty of room for stunning riverside homes and one of its major drawcards is its proximity to nature. 

Dining and shopping indulgences are close at hand in Oatley with many cafes, restaurants and village shops along Oatley Avenue and Frederick Street. With its own railway station and proximity to the Princes Highway, transport to neighbouring suburbs and the CBD is easy to come by in Oatley.  

Sitchu Tip: If you're in need of a yummy breaky whilst exploring Oatley, head to Edmonds & Greer. They also have a lovely gift shop where you can stock up on beautiful bits and bobs. 

Rozelle

The Inner West haven of Rozelle is nestled right on the waterfront and is home to peaceful parks, local schools, and foreshore walks. It’s close to the city centre with a bustling café and shopping scene, groceries and health food stores. On Saturday mornings locals head to the Rozelle Collectors Market or Orange Grove Farmers Market in neighbouring Leichhardt. Its houses are smaller in size and are mainly a mix of quaint workers’ cottages and historic terrace houses.

Sitchu Tip: No need to head into the city for your Totti's fix! Rozelle has its very own outpost. 

Baulkham Hills

Those seeking more affordable family-friendly living should head for the Hills district. With its strong and diverse sense of community, sizeable homes, and sought-after primary and secondary schools, Baulkham Hills is a suburban dream.

Along Windsor Road you’ll find a good mix of restaurants and cafes, while nearby Castle Towers Shopping Centre offers a one-stop retail and entertainment hub.

Sitchu Tip: Looking to meet locals? Head to Dan's Ceramic Studio to join in a pottery class. 

Loved this edit of the best family-friendly suburbs in Sydney and after more family-friendly inspiration to keep your little ones entertained? We've got you covered! Check out our round-up of the best indoor playcentres in Sydney, and then read our edit of the best playgrounds with cafes.