Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, sits at 43 meters (141 ft) above sea level on the coastal plain between the Adelaide Hills and Gulf St. Vincent. Known for its grid-pattern layout and parklands, Adelaide has a gentler topography than most Australian capital cities.
Key Facts at a Glance
| City centre elevation | 43 m |
|---|---|
| Adelaide Hills (east) | 200–720 m |
| Gulf St. Vincent coast | 0–5 m |
| Coordinates | 34.9285° S, 138.6007° E |
| Country / Region | South Australia, Australia |
Elevations by District
| District / Area | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Adelaide CBD | 35–55 m |
| North Adelaide | 55–80 m |
| Unley / Mitcham | 50–80 m |
| Burnside / Kensington | 60–120 m |
| Salisbury (north) | 20–40 m |
| Glenelg (beach) | 3–15 m |
Compare: Adelaide and Nearby Cities
| City | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Perth | 16 m |
| Melbourne | 31 m |
| Sydney | 58 m |
| Canberra | 577 m |
Interesting Facts About Adelaide's Elevation
- The Adelaide Hills rise steeply to the city's east – Mount Lofty at 727 m is only 13 km from the CBD as the crow flies.
- Adelaide's famous wine regions – Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale – are at 250–500 m in the Adelaide Hills and Southern Vales.
- The Torrens River runs through Adelaide's park lands at about 35 m above sea level.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elevation of Adelaide
What is the elevation of Adelaide?
Adelaide city centre sits at approximately 43 metres (141 feet) above sea level.
Are the Adelaide Hills visible from the city?
Yes, the Adelaide Hills are clearly visible from the CBD. They form a dramatic backdrop to the city's east, rising from the coastal plain to over 700 m in just 15 km.
Does Adelaide flood?
Adelaide is generally not prone to major flooding compared to other Australian cities. However, some low-lying areas near the Torrens River and Port Adelaide can experience localised flooding after heavy rain.