The traditional aspirations of Australian homeowners have often centred around a particular vision of suburban living.
However, evolving societal trends and economic factors lead some to explore alternative housing arrangements. These lifestyle shifts reveal unexpected advantages for those embracing different forms of dwelling.
For generations, the ‘Great Australian Dream’ was simple: a house on a quarter-acre block, a backyard for the kids.
But as property prices soar and urban life gets busier, more and more Australians are quietly rewriting that dream—and finding surprising benefits in the process.
Meet the new face of the Aussie homeowner
Take Liliana Rubiano and her husband, Fernando Mora, for example. Eleven years ago, the Sydney-based couple began their property journey not with a sprawling house, but with a one-bedroom apartment in Chippendale.
Fast forward to today, and they’ve lived in three different apartments within the same building, eventually buying their own for $605,000 in 2022—a price that would barely get you a garage in some parts of Sydney.
When their family grew, so did their need for space. But instead of moving to the suburbs, they simply upgraded to a two-bedroom apartment in the same complex, renting out their original unit for $750 a week.
Their new home, at just under 80 square metres, costs $1,200 a week to rent—a figure that might make some gasp, but for Liliana and Fernando, it’s a price worth paying for the lifestyle and amenities on offer.
Why apartments are winning over Aussie families
So, what’s behind this shift? For Liliana, it’s all about convenience and community. ‘We are very happy. It has 24/7 security, a concierge, a 25-metre outdoor pool, a heated spa, and a beautiful gym,’ she says. ‘The strata fees are very, very expensive, but I’m happy to pay for them because of all the facilities.’
It’s a sentiment echoed by many. According to the 2021 Census, more than 2.5 million Australians—over 10% of the population—now live in apartments.
In Sydney, nearly one in five family households have swapped the backyard for a balcony, a figure that’s only expected to rise as house prices continue to climb (the median house price in Sydney is now a staggering $1.47 million).
The rise of the minimalist mindset
Of course, apartment living isn’t without its challenges. For Liliana, who grew up in a three-storey house in Colombia, downsizing required a shift in mindset.
‘I learned to become a minimalist when I moved here,’ she says. ‘When I get one pair of shoes, I get rid of another pair.’ But she’s found that less really can be more—especially when it means less clutter, less maintenance, and more time to enjoy life.
The financial equation: Is it really cheaper?
While apartments are often seen as the more affordable option, it’s important to look beyond the sticker price.
Strata fees can be significant—Liliana pays $8,000 a year—and while rental income can help cover the mortgage, it doesn’t always offset all the costs.
Still, for many, the trade-off is worth it: less time spent mowing lawns and fixing gutters, and more time enjoying the amenities and the city on your doorstep.
Developers are taking notice
The shift isn’t just happening at the family level. Developers are responding by designing apartments with families in mind: bigger floor plans, more storage, communal gardens, and even dedicated playgrounds.
Projects like Willoughby Grounds on Sydney’s lower north shore are leading the way, offering four-bedroom apartments and family-friendly facilities that would have been unthinkable a decade ago.
Tim Abbott, director of projects and developments at Ray White, says the trend is clear: ‘A lot of it comes down to convenience and maintenance.
We’re seeing families who want to be close to the city and don’t have the time to maintain a house. Developers are understanding what people are looking for and designing apartments to fit that need.’
The pros and cons: Is apartment living right for you?
Like any big decision, there are trade-offs. Here’s what to consider:
Pros:
- Location, location, location: Live closer to work, schools, and amenities.
- Low maintenance: No lawns to mow or gutters to clean.
- Security: Many buildings offer 24/7 security and concierge services.
- Facilities: Pools, gyms, and communal spaces are often included.
- Community: Opportunities to connect with neighbours and build a support network.
Cons:
- Less space: Downsizing can be a challenge, especially for families.
- Strata fees: These can be significant and are ongoing.
- Limited outdoor areas: Balconies replace backyards, which may not suit everyone.
- Rules and restrictions: Strata by-laws can limit renovations, pets, and even how you use your space.
Is it time to rethink your own housing strategy?
For many over-50s, the idea of downsizing or swapping the family home for an apartment can be daunting. But as Liliana’s story shows, it can also be liberating—offering a simpler, more connected lifestyle with less stress and more time for the things you love.
If you’re considering a move, here are a few tips:
Do your research: Visit different buildings, talk to residents, and check the strata records.
Think about your lifestyle: What amenities matter most to you? How much space do you really need?
Crunch the numbers: Factor in all costs, including strata fees, utilities, and potential rental income.
Plan for the future: Will the apartment suit your needs as you age? Is there lift access, security, and support services nearby?
Would you make the switch?
Have you embraced apartment living, or are you still holding onto the dream of a house and garden? What’s your experience been—and what advice would you give others considering the move? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your story!
Also read: Sydney families swap backyard dreams for apartment living
