Moving to Adelaide? A New Renter's Survival Guide

The No-Stress Guide to Renting a Property in Adelaide

So, you’re planning a move to Adelaide—exciting times ahead!

Whether you’re relocating for work, study or just a fresh start, this vibrant city is packed with charm, world-class food, a relaxed lifestyle and a range of rental property options that makes it a top choice for tenants.

But before you settle in and start exploring, a little planning will go a long way in making your transition smooth and stress-free.

At We Connect Property, we’ve crafted this easy, 5 step guide to help you find the perfect rental and feel at home in Adelaide from day one.

1. Researching the Right Suburb for Your Lifestyle

Adelaide is known for its diverse suburbs, each with their own unique vibe.

Finding the right fit is key to ensuring you enjoy your new neighbourhood. Here are some popular options to consider:

Port Noarlunga – Love the beach? This lively beachside suburb is perfect for ocean lovers, offering trendy cafés, a stunning coastal lifestyle and plenty of things to do.
McLaren Vale – A buzzing semi-rural hub just 50 minutes from the CBD, well-known known for its wineries, restaurants and a thriving arts scene.
Flagstaff Hill – A fantastic choice for both families and professionals, offering leafy streets, parks and top-rated schools.
Glenelg – With a mix of heritage charm and modern living, it offers lively restaurants, bars and entertainment, plus a famous jetty and family-friendly foreshore.

Norwood – This sought-after suburb is home to grand character homes, boutique shopping and a thriving dining scene along The Parade. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a cosmopolitan lifestyle with a touch of old-world charm.

Prospect – An eclectic city-fringe suburb with a mix of classic villas, contemporary developments and loads of community-focused, creative energy.

Pro Tip: The right suburb makes all the difference! So when choosing where to live, consider what’s important to you—commute times, public transport, access to shopping, entertainment options or nearby amenities like supermarkets, gyms and schools..

2. Understanding the Adelaide Rental Market

Adelaide’s rental scene can be competitive, so it pays to be prepared. Knowing what to expect will help you navigate it with confidence.

Rental costs – Weekly rents typically range from $450 to $700 for standard homes, depending on the suburb and property type.
Act fast & apply quickly – Great rentals in popular locations get snapped up quickly. Make sure that when you initially apply online, you submit all relevant documents so you’ve got an edge over other prospective tenants before you get to the open inspection phase.
Understand local rules – Like any state or territory, when it comes to renting property there are often specific rules and regulations. Jump onto the local SA Government website to double-check that all the details contained within your lease agreement correspond correctly.

Pro Tip: First impressions count! To boost your chances of securing a property, arrive at inspections as early as possible, bring a complete application—including all required paperwork, such as identification and rental references—and be ready to make a decision quickly.

3. Preparing for Your Move

Moving house isn’t just about packing boxes. A little planning now means a stress-free move later.

Here’s how to ensure a seamless transition:

Budget wisely – Plan for upfront costs, including a bond, at least two weeks’ rent in advance and utility connection fees for electricity, gas and internet.
Have your paperwork ready – A rock-solid application includes proof of income, valid photo ID, rental history and personal references are all essential for a strong application.
Start packing early – Less stuff means easier unpacking! Declutter as you pack, set aside essentials for quick access and label boxes clearly to make both moving day less stressful and unpacking easier.

Pro Tip: Keep your move organised and prevent damage by creating a list of all your stuff. Rent.com.au suggests to “create a rough inventory of everything you own and use this to note any items that will require special care when you move.”

4. Settling Into Your New Home

Moving in is just the beginning—handling a few key tasks once you’ve moved in will help you feel at home faster.

Connect your utilities – Don’t get caught without power or internet! Make sure your electricity, gas and internet are set up before moving day. Services like Move Me In can help streamline the process.
Complete a Property Condition Report – Document and photograph any pre-existing damage before moving in to prevent disputes when you leave.
Explore your neighbourhood – Take a walk and visit local cafés. Get to know where the local shops, parks and community centres are. Adelaide’s suburbs are packed with great spots to discover, and it’ll help you feel like a local faster!

5. Adelaide-Specific Renting Tips You Need to Know

Renting in Adelaide comes with a few unique quirks. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Water usage costs – Unlike some states, most South Australian tenants pay for their water usage—make sure you clarify this in your lease.
Gas hot water systems – Many Adelaide homes use gas hot water. If your hot water isn’t working, check if the pilot light needs relighting.
Friendly local culture – Adelaide is known for its welcoming communities. A quick hello to your neighbours can go a long way towards helping you settle in and feel at home more quickly.

Ready to Make the Move?

Moving to Adelaide is an exciting opportunity to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle filled with amazing food, beautiful beaches, wonderful outdoor culture and a relaxed atmosphere.

By following this checklist, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running and enjoy everything your new home has to offer.

Got questions about renting in Adelaide? We Connect Property is here to help!

Connect with us today for expert property advice and rental assistance tailored to your needs.

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At We Connect Property, we're dedicated to providing exceptional service and support to our tenants.

If you have more questions or need assistance with any aspect of your tenancy, don't hesitate to reach out to us.

As property experts with over 21+ years combined experience in buying, selling and managing property in Adelaide, here to help you every step of the way.

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Give us a call on (08) 7324 5307 today, or visit our website for the most recent rental listings - we can’t wait to chat!

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DISCLAIMER: All recommendations made by We Connect Property are general in nature and not to be relied upon as legal or financial advice. To ensure accuracy, we always strongly recommend seeking independent, professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any investment or financial decisions.