The inaugural edition of the "Sydney Morning Herald Good Suburbs Guide" recently reviewed 641 Sydney suburbs, and though Bronte (eastern suburbs beach suburb) was the overall winner, the winners for the other categories make for some surprising results. BEST INVESTMENT Alexandria, North Sydney, Parramatta and Ultimo For houses and apartmentS BEST LIFESTYLE Avalon A relaxed hot spot by the beach with great cafes and a cinema. Balmain A charming waterfront suburb with classic pubs and a ferry to the city. Bundeena A secluded southern hideaway with a vibrant arts community and beautiful beaches surrounded by national park. BEST FAMILY Baulkham Hills and Castle Hill Big, affordable homes with access to good schools. Kirrawee Borders the Royal National Park, with an affordable median house price, good sports facilities, schools and its own train station. Roseville Majestic homes on big blocks close to top private schools. BEST VALUE Banksia and Arncliffe Good selection of affordable period homes 20 minutes' drive from the city. Glenwood and Kings Langley Close to M2, with affordable entry-level prices. St Peters Close to King Street, fair median prices. Manly Vale Near the beach and on the commuter corridor, packed full of affordable apartments and large family homes on big blocks. Northmead and Rydalmere Close to Parramatta and very affordable. UP AND COMING North Ryde Growth expected as a result of big firms heading to Macquarie Park and new stations built for the Epping-to-Chatswood rail link. Redfern Close to the centre and redevelopment is planned - the ugly duckling is finally set to turn into a swan. North Parramatta Period homes at a bargain price within a hop, step and jump of the central west's fast-evolving business hub. Link to complete article here ------------------------------------------------------------------------ I agree with most (but not all) of the picks, but in particular with the best family, value and investment spots. North Parra region (inc Northmead and surrounds) has a lot going for it, particularly in terms of affordability and proximity to transport and Sydney's second CBD, Parramatta. Also second the authors opinions on North Ryde area- with all the dvpt currently happening (inc the massive upgrade of Top Ryde shopping centre) this area is looking good. Transport is also solid, with rail and frequent buses along Victoria Rd Gladesville, though not mentioned here, still remains a personal favourite as well, as it's less than 10km from Sydney, sits across the water from the trendier and more expensive Balmain and is next door to the fabulously expensive Hunters Hill (a lovely spot!) There are so many amazing suburbs in Sydney, it's a hard task to pick the cream of the crop but then again, when you don't have to worry about budget, I guess it's a job made far easier I love Sydney
