6 reasons to live in the Hawkesbury
While often overshadowed by regions closer to the centre of Greater Sydney Metropolitan, The Hawkesbury is an ideal area for those wanting the perfect place to live.
But why? Picture an abundance of space with less traffic, a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy as well as natural barriers to significant over development such as protected National Parks and open low lying Floodplain areas.
In this article, we'll explore why The Hawkesbury is the best place to live in the Greater Sydney area. There is something for everyone to enjoy about life in the Hawkesbury, from its proximity to World Heritage National Parks to its busy café and restaurant scene.
Reasons to Live in The Hawkesbury
Even though the Hawkesbury is home to less than 1.5% of the total population of Greater Sydney, sitting at just under 70,000, you get plenty of “Bang for your buck” in terms of variety the area offers.
In 2020, International research company Ipsos ranked the Hawkesbury & Baulkham Hills in the Top 20 of Metropolitan areas to live worldwide.
The Hawkesbury scored above average in the areas of feeling safe, high quality health services, access to the natural environment, a strong sense of community, high quality education opportunities, social cohesion, and a prosperous economy.
This is just a small list of the many great things about living in The Hawkesbury. Let's talk more about this below:
- Accessible Outdoor and Natural Spaces
Residents have easy access to the picturesque World Heritage Blue Mountains National Park, which backs on to many Hawkesbury Suburbs such as Kurrajong, Yarramundi, Colo, Bowen Mountain, Grose Vale, Bilpin and more.
The Hawkesbury is an excellent place to reside if you enjoy hiking or camping, water skiing, mountain biking or basically any outdoor recreation activities. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with easy access to the bush from anywhere in the region. It also boasts Sydney’s cleanest river, the Colo.
Unlike some cities characterised by towering buildings, you won’t see that anytime soon in the Hawkesbury. With the RAAF base in Richmond, albeit relatively inactive, developments over 3 stories simply won’t fly (pardon the pun).
- Proximity to Sydney
It’s an obvious one, but when it comes to convenience, having Australia’s biggest City just 50km away, and generally within 60-90 minutes from most parts of the region, it’s a real bonus. In today’s “hybrid” working culture, the ability to work from home, but still not be too far from the office if you’re working in Sydney means the area has seen a large growth in Central Sydneysiders migrating outwards.
Access to major Airports, Hospitals, Universities is far more convenient in The Hawkesbury compared to other regions that boast similar space and nature benefits.
- Hospitality – Cafes, Pubs, Restaurants
Even if outdoor adventures aren't your preference, historic towns like Windsor, Richmond, Kurrajong (just to name a few) offer a plethora of pub, café and restaurant options for the beer, coffee and food lovers. There’s even a couple of winery tours available if that so tickles your fancy.
- High-Quality Learning Opportunities
Home to Western Sydney University’s Hawkesbury campus in Richmond, The Hawkesbury has a world class University within it’s borders. Again though, if a Central Sydney based University has the degree you or your children need, it’s within convenient distance to commute. The Hawkesbury also has multiple Primary & High School choices including reputable Public, Private or Religious options.
The area has also adapted to cater for the young population, so if you’re a family with kids or a student moving in, you’ll likely find a place near educational institutions.
- Safest Place to Live
If you're trying to figure out one of the most important reasons for living in The Hawkesbury, you might find it in the Region’s reputation. People here are friendly and welcoming. Plus, its significantly low crime rates are apparent why it boasts as one of Australia’s safest metropolitan areas.
- Striking a Balance Between Work and Personal Life
The Hawkesbury has a range of “Lifestyle” properties that have motivated those seeking a good work-life balance to move to the area. The opportunities for and proximity to leisure activities are also significant factors contributing to this balance.
It’s no surprise that properties in The Hawkesbury are evolving with characteristics that reflect these preferences for more outdoor spaces and beautiful acreage estates at the higher end. Even though on smaller blocks compared to the 5 acre plus properties littered throughout The Hawkesbury, North Richmond’s Redbank development has many parks and open spaces suiting young family’s active lifestyles. Glossodia is about to see a similar development, with good size blocks to suit these needs.
Conclusion
Overall, there are numerous reasons why The Hawkesbury is an ideal place to live in, and the ones we have listed above a just a few of them.
It’s really the best of both worlds, combining the benefits of rural living with the convenience of city living.
But, the decision will still be based on you and your family’s needs after all. Consider factors such as job opportunities, proximity to family and friends, and overall lifestyle preferences.
Finding an ideal place to live in another area seems like a challenging undertaking. Hopefully, this guide has helped you make a sound decision for your potential move. Consider making The Hawkesbury your home and enjoy its unique advantages for a fulfilling life.