Life in the Tatiara
Life in the Tatiara
A low cost of living
In general, South Australia offers a low cost of living compared other states across Australia. The Tatiara region is no exception, with everything you need right on your doorstep – quality schools, healthcare, recreation facilities, plentiful housing and a welcoming community.
Plentiful affordable housing
Live the idyllic country lifestyle by owning your own slice of the Tatiara. There is plenty of affordable housing available, with house prices ranging from $50,000 to $400,000. This is $70,000 less than the median house price in Adelaide, and almost half the median house price in Melbourne.
High employment
The Tatiara is a job-hunters haven, with a very low unemployment rate of 0.7 per cent, compared to almost 7.6 per cent in Adelaide (June 2024).
Urban style health & education facilities
Your children will have the best start to life in our caring, supportive and urban-style schools. The Tatiara is home to two high schools, four primary schools, kindergartens, playgroups and child care centres.
High-quality medical facilities are available to all, including the Bordertown Memorial Hospital and Keith & District Hospital featuring 24-hour emergency departments, the Tatiara Medical Centre, Tatiara Country Health Connect, Bordertown Medical Centre, Padthaway Medical Centre, dentists, pharmacies and Benson Radiology services.
Excellent recreation facilities
At the heart of every country town are its sporting clubs, and the Tatiara region is no exception. From basketball to dragon boating, eightball to netball, our strong, welcoming community invites you to take part in the many sports on offer.
Recreation facilities in the region include golf courses, croquet and bowling greens, gliding clubs, swimming pools (indoor and outdoor), squash and tennis courts, boating and fishing lake, adventure playgrounds and canoeing venues.
Take a look at what community groups can be found in the Tatiara – Tatiara District Council Community Directory
The Tatiara is also home to a small but thriving arts, retail and fashion scene – the Walkway Gallery in Bordertown features national quality exhibitions through the Art Gallery of South Australia, and residents can take their pick of the cafes, bakeries, clothing and gift shops in the region.
Take a look at the Tatiara District Council Business Directory for a list and contact details of all services.
A safe community
A strong, connected community means the Tatiara has one of the lowest crime rates in South Australia.
A strong, welcoming community
An increasing number of migrants and refugees are starting a new life in the Tatiara, and making a significant contribution to the diversity and productivity of the region. In April 2016, the Bordertown Migrant Resource Centre (MRC) was opened, which acts as a gathering place for migrants while increasing cross-cultural understanding in Tatiara.

There is plenty of affordable housing available in the Tatiara, $70,000 less than the median house price in Adelaide, and almost half the median house price in Melbourne.
Six years ago, school teacher Rikilee Nies moved to Bordertown. She loves the community spirit and high standard of living.
Thanks to its safe community and and high quality schools, Ben Galyer thinks Keith is the ideal place to raise kids.
The Fuentes family moved to Bordertown from the Philippines nine years ago, and have been warmly welcomed by the community.
Pull quote: Tatiara has affordable housing, urban quality education, health and recreational facilities and a friendly and supportive community that you won’t find in big cities.