Choosing one of the best Brisbane suburbs for public transport can make daily commutes faster, cheaper, and far less stressful. With a well-connected train, bus, and ferry network, Brisbane offers plenty of suburbs where you can enjoy seamless access to the city centre, shopping hubs, and top universities.
If you're planning to buy a home in one of these sought-after suburbs, mortgage brokers from Zest Mortgage Solutions can help you find the right home loan to match your budget and goals. The right financial guidance can make homeownership easier and more affordable in these Brisbane suburbs.
Now, let’s explore the top 10 Brisbane suburbs with the best public transport links.
Top 10 Brisbane Suburbs with the Best Public Transport
Brisbane has many well-connected suburbs, making it easy to get to work, school, or leisure spots. Whether you take the train, bus, or ferry, these 10 suburbs offer reliable and convenient public transport.
#1 South Brisbane – Best for Train, Bus & Cultural Hub
South Brisbane is a vibrant inner-city suburb known for its excellent transport links and proximity to major landmarks. Its central location makes commuting a breeze, with frequent trains and buses connecting to the city and surrounding suburbs.
Living here means having South Bank Parklands, Griffith University, and top cultural precincts right on your doorstep.
- Public transport options:
- Train: South Brisbane train station (Caboolture, Cleveland, and Ipswich lines)
- Bus: High-frequency services along the South East Busway
- Ferry: CityCat terminals at South Bank
- Accessible landmarks:
- South Bank Parklands
- Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
- Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
#2 Fortitude Valley – Best for Nightlife & Transport Access
Fortitude Valley is one of Brisbane’s most well-connected inner-city suburbs, offering train, bus, and pedestrian-friendly streets for easy transport. This area is perfect for professionals and students, with quick train services to Brisbane CBD and an active nightlife and entertainment scene.
The suburb’s central location also means short travel times to key business and retail districts.
- Public transport options:
- Train: Fortitude Valley station (on multiple major train lines)
- Bus: Regular services along Brunswick Street and Wickham Street
- Accessible landmarks:
- Howard Smith Wharves
- Chinatown Mall
- Brunswick Street Mall
#3 Toowong – Best for University & CBD Access
Toowong is a well-established suburb known for its strong public transport links, making it an excellent choice for students and professionals.
With direct train and bus services to the city, residents can enjoy quick and hassle-free commuting. It’s also home to Toowong Village, The Wesley Hospital, and beautiful riverside parks.
- Public transport options:
- Train: Toowong station (Ipswich and Springfield lines)
- Bus: High-frequency services to the CBD and University of Queensland
- Accessible landmarks:
- Toowong Village Shopping Centre
- Brisbane River pathways
- Regatta Hotel
#4 Indooroopilly – Best for Train & Bus Connectivity
Indooroopilly is a major transport hub in Brisbane’s western suburbs, offering both train and extensive bus services.
It’s a popular choice for families and students, thanks to its proximity to great schools, the University of Queensland, and a huge shopping precinct. Public transport here is frequent and reliable, making city commutes effortless.
- Public transport options:
- Train: Indooroopilly station (Ipswich and Springfield lines)
- Bus: Major bus interchange with frequent services
- Accessible landmarks:
- Indooroopilly Shopping Centre
- Brisbane Golf Club
- University of Queensland (via bus services)
#5 Woolloongabba – Best for Future Transport Growth
Woolloongabba is set to become one of Brisbane’s most connected suburbs, thanks to the upcoming Cross River Rail project. Already well-serviced by high-frequency buses and train connections, this suburb offers easy access to the CBD, hospitals, and major sporting venues.
It’s also a great place for professionals working in the medical field, with the Princess Alexandra Hospital nearby.
- Public transport options:
- Train: Woolloongabba station (upcoming Cross River Rail)
- Bus: High-frequency services via South East Busway
- Accessible landmarks:
- The Gabba Stadium
- Princess Alexandra Hospital
- Kangaroo Point Cliffs
#6 Bowen Hills – Best for Fast Train Connections
Bowen Hills is a key transport hub in Brisbane, offering direct train access to the CBD, Brisbane Airport, and northern suburbs. Its excellent train connectivity makes it an attractive option for professionals and frequent travellers.
With ongoing residential and commercial developments, Bowen Hills is becoming one of Brisbane’s most sought-after transit-friendly suburbs.
- Public transport options:
- Train: Bowen Hills station (multiple train lines)
- Bus: Frequent routes to the CBD and inner suburbs
- Accessible landmarks:
- RNA Showgrounds
- King Street dining precinct
- Brisbane Airport (via Airtrain)
#7 Nundah – Best for Affordable & Well-Connected Living
Nundah is a northern suburb with excellent transport links at an affordable price point. The Nundah train station provides fast access to the CBD, making it ideal for city workers. The suburb also has a vibrant community feel, excellent parks, and easy access to Brisbane Airport.
- Public transport options:
- Train: Nundah station (Shorncliffe line)
- Bus: Regular services along Sandgate Road
- Accessible landmarks:
- Nundah Village shopping and dining
- Toombul Shopping Centre
- Kedron Brook Bikeway
#8 Milton – Best for Train & Ferry Access
Milton offers multiple transport options, including trains, buses, and ferry services, making it a highly convenient suburb for commuters. Its riverside location and proximity to the CBD make it one of Brisbane’s most desirable areas for both professionals and families.
The suburb also features a strong café culture and recreational spaces along the Brisbane River.
- Public transport options:
- Train: Milton station (Ipswich and Springfield lines)
- Ferry: Milton CityCat terminal
- Accessible landmarks:
- Suncorp Stadium
- Caxton Street dining precinct
- Brisbane Riverwalk
#9 Annerley – Best for Bus Transport & Proximity to CBD
Annerley is a southern suburb with excellent bus transport links that provide quick access to Brisbane CBD. It’s a great choice for families and professionals looking for a quiet suburb with a strong community feel. The suburb also offers affordable housing options, numerous parks, and proximity to hospitals.
- Public transport options:
- Bus: Frequent services along Ipswich Road
- Train: Nearby Fairfield station
- Accessible landmarks:
- Greenslopes Private Hospital
- Yeronga Park
- Fairfield Gardens Shopping Centre
#10 Hawthorne – Best for Ferry Transport & Lifestyle
Hawthorne is a beautiful riverside suburb offering a scenic and relaxed lifestyle with excellent public transport links. The suburb is well-connected by CityCat ferry services, making it perfect for those who prefer a ferry commute over buses or trains. With its leafy streets, boutique cafés, and access to Oxford Street, Hawthorne offers the perfect blend of convenience and lifestyle.
- Public transport options:
- Ferry: Hawthorne CityCat terminal
- Bus: Regular bus routes to the CBD
- Accessible landmarks:
- Oxford Street dining precinct
- Bulimba Memorial Park
- Hawthorne Park
These 10 Brisbane suburbs offer some of the best public transport options, making them excellent choices for homebuyers and renters alike. If you're looking to settle down in one of these well-connected suburbs, the expert brokers at Zest Mortgage Solutions can help you find the right home loan to match your needs and budget.
Brisbane Average Commute Time
According to TransLink and ABS data, the average commute time in Brisbane is 30–40 minutes, depending on the suburb, transport mode, and peak hour congestion. Here’s a breakdown:
🚆 Train Commute Times (Suburbs to CBD):
- Brisbane average: 30–40 minutes
- Shortest: Bowen Hills to CBD (~5 min)
- Longest: Ferny Grove to CBD (~35 min)
- Sydney average: 50–60 minutes
- Melbourne average: 50–65 minutes
🚌 Bus Commute Times (Suburbs to CBD):
- Brisbane average: 35–50 minutes
- Via South East Busway (e.g., Woolloongabba to CBD): ~10 min
- From outer suburbs (e.g., Chermside to CBD): ~40–50 min
- Sydney average: 50–65 minutes
- Melbourne average: 50–70 minutes
⛴️ Ferry Commute Times (CityCat & Cross River Ferry):
- Brisbane CityCat: 25–40 minutes
- Hawthorne to CBD: ~20 min
- Hamilton to CBD: ~35 min
- Sydney Ferries: 20–45 minutes
How Brisbane’s Commute Compares
🔹 Brisbane has shorter commute times than Sydney and Melbourne due to lower congestion and fewer train delays.
🔹 Train and ferry commutes are generally faster than buses, especially for longer distances.
🔹 Upcoming projects like Cross River Rail will further reduce commute times in suburbs like Woolloongabba and Bowen Hills.
If you’re looking to settle down in a well-connected suburb with a short commute, Zest Mortgage Solutions can help you find a home loan in Brisbane’s best transport-friendly suburbs. Call (07) 3461 6499 today to speak with our brokers.
FAQs
What suburbs in Brisbane have the best public transport?
Some of the ideal suburbs with great public transport include South Brisbane, Fortitude Valley, Toowong, and Woolloongabba. These areas have direct access to train stations, busways, and ferry services, making commuting easy. They also offer a blend of lifestyle, with an array of cafes, green spaces, and excellent schools, making them a perfect suburb for many.
Which suburb is best to live in Brisbane?
The best suburb depends on your lifestyle and budget. For professionals, South Brisbane and Milton offer easy access to the central business district (CBD) and a vibrant cultural scene. For family-friendly suburbs, families may prefer Indooroopilly or Nundah, which have reputable schools, plenty of parks, and suburban tranquillity. The median house price varies, with more affordable options in the outer suburbs.
Is it easy to get around Brisbane without a car?
Yes, especially if you live in an inner-city suburb or near major transport hubs. Suburbs with varied transport avenues, like Fortitude Valley, South Brisbane, and Woolloongabba, offer quick access to the city. Buses and trains cover a wide range of suburbs, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities, cultural spots, and shopping precincts without needing a car.
What is the busiest bus route in Brisbane?
The South East Busway is the busiest bus route in Brisbane, serving thousands of commuters daily. It connects key suburbs like Woolloongabba, Holland Park, and Carindale to the CBD with high-frequency services. This busway also provides convenient access to private schools, primary schools, and university campuses.
What is the cheapest way to get around Brisbane?
The cheapest way to travel is using a Go Card, which offers discounted fares on buses, trains, and ferries. Cycling is also a cost-effective way to navigate the tree-lined streets of leafy suburbs while enjoying Brisbane’s natural beauty. For students and seniors, concession rates provide an affordable option for transport.
Do I need a car to live in Brisbane?
Not necessarily. If you live in a suburb with excellent public transport links, such as Toowong, Bowen Hills, or Annerley, you can comfortably commute without a car. However, in neighbouring suburbs with fewer transport options, a car might be necessary for better access to educational facilities, suburban lifestyle perks, and Lifestyle & recreation.
What is the busiest train station in Brisbane?
Roma Street Station is the busiest train station in Brisbane, acting as a major transit hub. It provides connections to the Brisbane city rail network, regional trains, and the upcoming Cross River Rail project. This station links commuters to educational institutions, major employment hubs, and suburban areas with high property values.
Is there a free city bus in Brisbane?
Yes! Brisbane offers a free City Loop bus service, which operates within the CBD and Spring Hill. This is a great way for locals and tourists to explore key cultural and business districts without paying a fare. The CityHopper ferry also provides a free service between popular riverside locations.
How much is a taxi from Brisbane Airport to the city?
A taxi from Brisbane Airport to the CBD typically costs between $45 and $55, depending on traffic. An affordable option is the Airtrain, which provides a direct connection from the airport to Roma Street, Fortitude Valley, and other key transit hubs.
How can mortgage brokers help potential Brisbane homebuyers?
Mortgage brokers, like those at Zest Mortgage Solutions, assist first-time buyers, investors, and families in navigating the property market. They help find competitive home loan options, ensuring buyers can secure homes in family-friendly suburbs with good public transport, access to amenities, and reputable schools.
Whether you're looking for a leafy suburb with suburban tranquillity or a bustling inner-city location, brokers can guide you through property buying, property prices, and rental yields to make the right decision.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right place to live in Brisbane is easier when you choose a suburb with excellent public transport options. With 2025 bringing new transport developments, now is a great time to explore your options.
If you're planning to buy a home in one of Brisbane’s well-connected suburbs, the experts at Zest Mortgage Solutions can help. We offer a free consultation to guide you through your home loan options, making the homeownership financing process easier and stress-free. Call us today at (07) 3461 6499 to get started!
