City Profile
Clare, South Australia
Australia · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Clare is a charming regional town located in the Mid North region of South Australia, renowned as the gateway to the historic Clare Valley wine region. Established in the mid-19th century, the town blends rich European heritage with vibrant contemporary agriculture, particularly world-class Riesling production. People are drawn to Clare for its picturesque landscapes, tight-knit community spirit, and relaxed pace of life amidst rolling hills and historic stone architecture.
South Australia, often called "The Festival State" or "The Wine State," is known for its relaxed lifestyle and cultural vibrancy. The economy is diverse, with major industries including health care and social assistance, manufacturing, construction, and education, alongside traditional strengths in agriculture, food, wine, and mining. The southern part of the state experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, while the interior is arid or semi-arid. Living in Adelaide, the capital, is generally considered more affordable than in Sydney or Melbourne, offering a balanced lifestyle with access to cultural events, natural attractions, and shorter commute times.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 85 / 100 | 85.0 | 30% | 25.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 88.0 | 58.8 | 25% | 14.7 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $51,000 Income needed to live here: $45,000 Unemployment rate: 4.1% | 57.7 | 20% | 11.5 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.5% Job growth rate: 1.2% | 40.8 | 15% | 6.1 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 64.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
17 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Clare is generally lower than Australia's major metropolitan capitals, offering favorable housing affordability for regional standards. Everyday goods, local services, and utilities remain reasonably priced, though specialty imported items and localized transport can sometimes carry a slight premium. Overall, residents enjoy a high quality of life with lower financial pressures compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
Income
Salary Insights
Clare's economy is anchored by agriculture, viticulture, tourism, and regional public administration, including healthcare and education. The surrounding Clare Valley wine industry drives significant seasonal employment and agritourism, attracting visitors from across the country. Additionally, regional retail and local government services provide stable employment opportunities for the local workforce.
The average salary in Clare is $52,000 per year. You would need approximately $45,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Private vehicles serve as the primary mode of transportation for daily commuting and regional travel in and around Clare. Walking and cycling are popular and practical within the compact town center. Long-distance regional bus services connect Clare to Adelaide and surrounding towns, though rail options are limited.
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