What are the Best Suburbs in Auckland?

Living in a great part of any city makes all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly suburb with room for the kids to run wild or a lively, cosmopolitan spot close to bars and restaurants, Auckland delivers lifestyle options for every kind of local.

So, what are the best suburbs in Auckland? Here are some of our favorites and exactly why we love them. Plus, if you’re planning a move, we’ll tell you who to call for a stress-free relocation with service you can trust.

Best Suburbs in Auckland: Where Lifestyle Meets Location

Devonport

A favorite among expats and locals alike, Devonport is one of Auckland’s oldest and most charming suburbs. It’s known for its village atmosphere, lined with vibrant cafés, bars, and restaurants. With stunning seaside views and historic character, Devonport is not only family-friendly, but it’s also just a short ferry ride to the CBD—perfect for professionals wanting the best of both worlds.

Takapuna

One of Auckland’s most desirable beachside suburbs, Takapuna combines coastal living with city convenience. It’s lively without being overwhelming, offering great shopping, dining, and a thriving café culture. Just over the Harbour Bridge, you’re never far from the action—but with the beach at your doorstep, it feels a world away from the urban hustle.

Parnell

If you’re after elegance and sophistication, Parnell is hard to beat. This central suburb is one of the most affluent areas in Auckland, known for its grand villas, leafy streets, and chic vibe. With French bistros, boutique shops, and decadent chocolate cafés, it feels like a little slice of Europe in the heart of the city. Yes, it comes with a premium price tag—but many say it’s well worth it.

Ponsonby

The epitome of trendy Auckland, Ponsonby is beloved by creatives, foodies, and young professionals. Expect an ever-evolving line-up of hip cafés, gourmet food trucks, and buzzing bars featuring fine wines and craft beers. Ponsonby’s thriving arts scene and edgy galleries make it a cultural hotspot and a vibrant place to call home.

Epsom

Epsom is another highly sought-after suburb, known for its leafy green streets, character homes, and top-tier schools. It’s close to the CBD and a favorite among families and professionals alike. Epsom is also home to Alexandra Park Raceway—so if you love a good day at the races, this might just be your spot!

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’ve found the suburb that suits your lifestyle, you’ll want to move in the right way—and that’s where Domestic Movers comes in with years of experience relocating Kiwis around Auckland, they’re known for their reliable service, attention to detail, and affordable rates.

Whether you’re shifting into a stylish villa in Ponsonby or settling into a seaside haven in Devonport, Domestic Movers can handle the heavy lifting. Get in touch today for a quote and take the next step toward your dream Auckland life.

Auckland is a diverse and sprawling city with a wide range of suburbs that cater to different lifestyles, budgets, and preferences. Here are some of the best suburbs in Auckland, broken down by category to help you find what suits you best:

🌟 Best Overall Suburbs

These suburbs are known for a great balance of lifestyle, location, amenities, and safety.

Devonport: Beautiful seaside suburb with heritage homes, great cafes, and stunning views of the city.
Mount Eden: Leafy streets, great schools, and close to the city center.
Ponsonby: Trendy, vibrant nightlife, great dining and shopping. Very central and lively.
Grey Lynn: Artsy, family-friendly, and close to Ponsonby and the CBD.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best Suburbs for Families

Popular for good schools, parks, and a safe, community-focused vibe.

Remuera: Affluent area with top schools and beautiful homes.
Epsom: Zoned for Auckland Grammar, great for education-focused families.
Birkenhead: On the North Shore, offers good schools, green spaces, and a village feel.
Howick: More affordable than central suburbs, still offers good schools and family amenities.

💸 Best Affordable Suburbs

Still offer decent amenities and lifestyle without the steep price tags.

Te Atatū Peninsula: Growing popularity, water views, and still relatively affordable.
Glen Eden: West Auckland suburb that’s gaining popularity due to train access and affordability.
Onehunga: Revitalized suburb with a mix of older homes and newer developments.
Pakuranga: East Auckland, offers good value for families and close to Sylvia Park and motorways.

🏄‍♂️ Best for Beach Lifestyle

Ideal if you love the outdoors, beach walks, and a more relaxed vibe.

Mission Bay / St Heliers: East Coast Bays with cafes and beaches, great for lifestyle.
Takapuna: North Shore suburb with a beach-town feel and lots of amenities.
Orewa: Further north but right on a beautiful beach; great for retirees or remote workers.
Piha: Wild west coast beach, amazing for surfers and nature lovers.

🧑‍🎓 Best for Students & Young Professionals

Close to universities, nightlife, and public transport.

Grafton / Newmarket: Close to the University of Auckland and Auckland Hospital.
Kingsland: Hip and close to public transport, bars, and Eden Park.
Parnell: Upscale but has student flats and is near university campuses.

How to Choose the Best Suburbs in Auckland for You

Lifestyle: Consider whether you value cultural scenes, nightlife, or a quieter, family-friendly environment.
Transportation: Proximity to public transport links and accessibility to the CBD or your workplace may be crucial, especially if you commute.
Budget: Suburban prices vary widely. Areas like Remuera and Mount Eden are typically on the premium end, while places like Onehunga or Glen Eden might offer more accessible options.
Amenities: Look into local schools, parks, shopping centers, and recreational facilities that match your daily needs.

FAQs: Best Suburbs in Auckland?

1. What are the best suburbs in Auckland for families?

Some of the top family-friendly suburbs include:

Remuera – Great schools and spacious homes.
Epsom – Zoned for Auckland Grammar and filled with parks.
Birkenhead – Community feel with good schools and nature.
Howick – More affordable, with great family amenities.

2. Which Auckland suburbs are best for young professionals?

If you want to be close to nightlife, work, and transport:

Ponsonby – Trendy with cafes, bars, and galleries.
Kingsland – Hip and close to the train line.
Newmarket – Walkable, central, and full of restaurants.
Grafton – Right next to the hospital and university.

3. What are the most affordable suburbs in Auckland?

For those on a budget or first-home buyers:

Te Atatū Peninsula – Scenic and up-and-coming.
Glen Eden – Great value and close to nature.
Onehunga – Central-ish and full of character.
Papakura / Takanini – Further out, but more space for less.

4. Where should I live if I want to be near the beach?

You’re spoiled for choice if coastal living is your thing:

Takapuna – Chic beach vibe with city access.
Mission Bay / St Heliers – East Coast elegance and laid-back lifestyle.
Orewa – Further out but super relaxed with wide beaches.
Devonport – Quaint, historic, and seaside charm.

5. What suburbs are closest to the Auckland CBD?

For a short commute into the city:

Parnell – Affluent and central.
Freemans Bay – Stylish and just steps from the CBD.
Grafton – Ideal for students and healthcare workers.
Mount Eden – Leafy, historic, and walkable to the city.

6. What’s the trendiest suburb in Auckland?

Without a doubt, Ponsonby. It’s the go-to for cafes, boutiques, and nightlife.
Grey Lynn also deserves a mention for its artsy and alternative vibe.

7. What’s a hidden gem suburb in Auckland?

Te Atatū Peninsula – Scenic, peaceful, and growing fast.
Waterview – Close to the city and motorways but still quiet.
Blockhouse Bay – Good value and has a tight-knit community.

8. What are the safest suburbs in Auckland?

1. Devonport (North Shore)

Quiet, family-friendly, and known for low crime.
Strong community feel and excellent schools.

2. Remuera (Central-East Auckland)

Affluent and secure, with good lighting and low reported incidents.
Close to private schools and hospitals.