The 10 Best Suburbs to Live in MELBOURNE: Reviewed and Ranked in 2024

Choosing the right suburb in Melbourne to call home isn’t just a roll of the dice; it’s about sifting through a dazzling array of choices to find that perfect spot. Make the wrong choice, and you could be grappling with sky-high property prices, lacklustre schools, or a dodgy commute that turns your days into a slog. I’ve walked the streets , reviewed the numbers, researched online and collated a comprehensive list to guide you through Melbourne’s suburbia with confidence.  Below is my review and ranked, 10 best suburbs of Melbourne.

10. Footscray – Total Score: 65/100

Footscray presents a vibrant tapestry of cultures with a mix of budding potential and areas needing polish.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 7/10
• Safety: 4/10
• Schools: 6/10
• Parks and Recreation: 8/10
• Public Transport: 8/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 7/10
• Family Friendliness: 6/10
• Employment Opportunities: 5/10
• Property Investment: 7/10
• Community Spirit: 7/10

Footscray is an eclectic melting pot, offering a rich array of cuisines that turn any meal into a culinary adventure. Its markets are alive with the buzz of trade, offering fresh produce and exotic wares that reflect the suburb’s diverse population, cited in a recent feature by The Age. The suburb boasts extensive public transport options and vibrant green spaces, like the beloved Footscray Park, often praised in Herald Sun reports. Educational facilities are on the rise, with investments into local schools like Footscray High, which is expanding its horizon.

However, Footscray isn’t without its downsides. The area has struggled with safety concerns, which recent police statistics confirm, although community initiatives are set to turn the tide. Property investment returns have been mixed, with some areas seeing excellent growth and others stagnating, as per the latest Real Estate Institute of Victoria data. Additionally, the search for employment may take you beyond the suburb’s boundaries, as reported by local job market analyses.

Footscray could be a smart move for the creatively inclined and those who thrive on cultural diversity. It’s suited to those looking for an urban vibe without the inner-city price tag, though families and professionals might weigh the pros and cons of its dynamic yet rough-around-the-edges charm.

9. Brunswick – Total Score: 68/100

Brunswick is an urbane enclave known for its artistic flair and cosmopolitan lifestyle but not without its share of grit.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 5/10
• Safety: 6/10
• Schools: 7/10
• Parks and Recreation: 7/10
• Public Transport: 9/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 8/10
• Family Friendliness: 6/10
• Employment Opportunities: 6/10
• Property Investment: 8/10
• Community Spirit: 6/10

Brunswick’s strengths lie in its exceptional public transport network and the bohemian heartbeat of Sydney Road, with its plethora of dining and shopping options. It’s a suburb where art and music thrive, as showcased by local galleries and venues. Property investors have smiled lately, seeing robust growth in median house prices, as reported in the Financial Review. Schools like Brunswick Secondary College are praised for their inclusive approach, echoing the suburb’s welcoming ethos.

Yet, Brunswick’s popularity comes at a price, making it less affordable for some. Safety can be patchy, with certain pockets better avoided at night, as per recent police reports. And while it’s family-friendly to a degree, the nightlife can be a double-edged sword, bringing noise and a transient crowd.

Brunswick would fit the bill for young professionals and artists seeking a suburb with soul and swagger. It’s for those who value nightlife and culture over the tranquillity of suburbia and are willing to trade a bit of peace for a lot of personality.

8. Hawthorn – Total Score: 71/100

Hawthorn is a genteel suburb that combines academic prowess with green serenity, though it is not without its cost.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 4/10
• Safety: 8/10
• Schools: 9/10
• Parks and Recreation: 7/10
• Public Transport: 7/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 7/10
• Family Friendliness: 8/10
• Employment Opportunities: 6/10
• Property Investment: 7/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10

With its stately homes and manicured gardens, Hawthorn is a hallmark of prestige. The suburb’s academic institutions, such as Swinburne University, are highly regarded, lending the area a vibrant, studious atmosphere. The recent Melbourne Property Insights Report lauds the suburb’s consistent property market performance. Recreational spaces like Central Gardens offer a slice of tranquillity, and the local dining scene boasts sophistication with spots like The Auburn Hotel, which has received glowing reviews in Broadsheet Melbourne.

However, Hawthorn’s high cost of living can be prohibitive, as highlighted by the Herald Sun’s analysis of property prices. The area isn’t a hub of nightlife, which could be seen as a negative by some. Employment opportunities within the suburb tend to be specialised, often tied to education or small local businesses, necessitating commutes for those in other sectors.

Hawthorn is best suited for well-established professionals, families seeking top-tier education, and those who appreciate a quieter, more refined lifestyle. Its community spirit and safety are appealing, but the financial barrier to entry is something to consider.

7. Brighton – Total Score: 74/100

Brighton exudes coastal charm and exclusivity, offering a tranquil retreat for the well-heeled with a taste for seaside living.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 4/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Schools: 8/10
• Parks and Recreation: 8/10
• Public Transport: 6/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 8/10
• Family Friendliness: 9/10
• Employment Opportunities: 6/10
• Property Investment: 8/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10

Brighton’s allure is its pristine beaches and the iconic Brighton Bathing Boxes, which dot the coastline with a burst of colour and history. The suburb is also known for its excellent schools, including Brighton Grammar and Firbank Grammar, ensuring a top-notch education for school aged children. Property values here are robust, with a luxury market that continues to thrive, as evidenced by data from Domain. The well-curated boutiques and eateries along Church Street provide an upscale local shopping and dining experience.

Yet, Brighton’s distance from the CBD can make commuting a hassle for those reliant on public transport, as service can be less frequent than more central areas. The suburb’s high cost of living is well-documented, with property prices among Melbourne’s highest per The Age property sections. Job opportunities within Brighton are mostly in the retail and hospitality sectors, which may not suit all professionals.

Brighton is the epitome of a family-friendly suburb for those who can afford its luxuries, ideal for those looking for safety, community, and a beachside lifestyle. It’s less suited for those seeking affordability or a buzzing nightlife.

6. Kew – Total Score: 76/100

Kew marries the charm of old Melbourne with modern affluence, offering a scholarly environment steeped in natural beauty.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 4/10
• Safety: 8/10
• Schools: 9/10
• Parks and Recreation: 8/10
• Public Transport: 7/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 8/10
• Family Friendliness: 9/10
• Employment Opportunities: 6/10
• Property Investment: 9/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10

Kew is home to some of Melbourne’s most prestigious schools, such as Xavier College, and its heritage-listed residences are a testament to the suburb’s storied past. The suburb’s natural assets, like the Yarra River trails and the extensive Alexandra Gardens, are perfect for weekend picnics and leisurely strolls, as regularly featured in the Kew Historical Society newsletters. Kew’s property market remains a safe bet, with consistent appreciation and demand, particularly in leafy enclaves such as Studley Park.

Conversely, Kew’s desirability comes with hefty property prices, limiting affordability for many. Employment opportunities within the suburb can be scarce, often prompting residents to commute to the city or other employment hubs. While community spirit is high, it can sometimes feel exclusive, potentially making it challenging for newcomers to feel at home.

Kew is particularly suited to established families and professionals drawn to heritage prestige and a high-quality lifestyle. Its calm, green environment makes it less ideal for those seeking urban excitement but perfect for those craving a serene enclave.

5. Essendon – Total Score: 78/100

Essendon blends community warmth with urban convenience, appealing to those who value connectivity and vibrant local life.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 6/10
• Safety: 7/10
• Schools: 8/10
• Parks and Recreation: 9/10
• Public Transport: 8/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 7/10
• Family Friendliness: 9/10
• Employment Opportunities: 7/10
• Property Investment: 7/10
• Community Spirit: 10/10

Essendon is known for its friendly neighbourhood atmosphere, as epitomised by the local Essendon Football Club’s loyal fan base. The suburb’s schools, like Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School, offer educational excellence, making it a favourite among families, as noted in the Essendon Community Newsletter. Recreational spaces are plentiful, with Queens Park providing a green haven. The suburb’s public transport system is well-connected, making the commute to Melbourne’s CBD a breeze.

However, while Essendon is more affordable than some of its inner-city peers, housing prices have been on the rise, a trend detailed in Property Observer. Safety is generally good, but some areas have experienced petty crime, which local police statistics reflect. Employment opportunities within Essendon are largely in the retail and service sectors, which may not cater to all professionals.

Essendon is ideal for families and individuals seeking a balance between suburban peace and city accessibility. It’s especially suited to those looking for a strong, active community and who don’t mind a short commute to work.

4. Camberwell – Total Score: 81/100

Camberwell is a harmonious mix of lush parklands and urban sophistication, offering a prestigious and polished lifestyle.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 5/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Schools: 9/10
• Parks and Recreation: 9/10
• Public Transport: 8/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 8/10
• Family Friendliness: 9/10
• Employment Opportunities: 7/10
• Property Investment: 9/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10

The heart of Camberwell is its Junction, where shopping and dining choices abound, from the fresh produce at Camberwell Market to the high-end boutiques. Its educational institutions, like Camberwell Grammar School, are highly esteemed, contributing to the suburb’s family-friendly reputation. The leafy streets and parks, including the well-maintained Camberwell Gardens, are often highlighted in the Boroondara Life magazine. Property values in Camberwell are strong and rising, making it a sound investment.

Yet, the suburb’s desirability means that property prices are high, and becoming a homeowner here can be challenging for some. While the community is active and engaged, the cost of living can exclude lower-income earners. Job opportunities within the suburb itself are not as diverse as in the CBD, which can be a drawback for some residents.

Camberwell is well-suited to established families, professionals, and those who appreciate cultural amenities mixed with green living. It offers a suburban experience without sacrificing the perks of city life.

3. South Yarra – Total Score: 83/100

South Yarra combines chic living with a pulse on Melbourne’s cultural heartbeat, drawing in a trendy, upwardly mobile crowd.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 5/10
• Safety: 9/10
• Schools: 8/10
• Parks and Recreation: 9/10
• Public Transport: 9/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 10/10
• Family Friendliness: 7/10
• Employment Opportunities: 8/10
• Property Investment: 10/10
• Community Spirit: 8/10

The suburb is a nexus of style and convenience, home to the famed Chapel Street precinct with its boutiques, cafes, and nightlife. It’s a hub for fashion and art lovers alike, as evidenced by the annual Chapel Street Festival celebrated in local media outlets like Time Out Melbourne. South Yarra also scores high on transport with its train station and trams zipping residents into the city. Green spaces such as the Royal Botanic Gardens provide an urban sanctuary, and the real estate market remains hot property, often highlighted in The Real Estate Conversation.

However, the emphasis on style does come with a steeper price tag, and South Yarra’s market can be prohibitive for first-time buyers, as the Financial Review reports. While the area is generally safe, the bustling nightlife can bring minor disturbances. The focus on smaller apartments and townhouses might not always suit family living.

South Yarra is ideal for young professionals and couples looking for a dynamic environment close to the CBD. The area’s vibrancy and accessibility make it less attractive for those seeking quietude or spacious family homes.

2. St Kilda – Total Score: 85/100

St Kilda, with its bohemian allure and beachfront cool, attracts a diverse crowd seeking the quintessential laid-back Melbourne lifestyle.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 6/10
• Safety: 8/10
• Schools: 8/10
• Parks and Recreation: 10/10
• Public Transport: 9/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 9/10
• Family Friendliness: 9/10
• Employment Opportunities:9/10
• Property Investment: 8/10
• Community Spirit: 9/10

St Kilda is celebrated for its iconic beach, Luna Park, and the Esplanade Market, all coming together to create a suburb that’s as fun as it is relaxed. As The Age often depicts, it’s a place where the arts scene is as vibrant as the sunsets viewed from the pier. The suburb’s transport links are excellent, making it easy to venture into the city or neighbouring areas. Cafes and bars are plentiful, each with a unique charm, such as the much-loved Acland Street bakeries.

The area’s bohemian reputation sometimes comes with a trade-off in terms of safety, as crime rates tend to be higher than in some more residential suburbs. Schools in St Kilda are diverse but don’t always top the rankings, as local community feedback indicates. Housing can be eclectic, ranging from Victorian mansions to modern apartments, but prices have been rising steadily, as pointed out in recent Domain articles.

St Kilda is a perfect match for those who love social diversity and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s a hot spot for artists, musicians, and anyone drawn to the seaside’s creative energy. It may not be the first choice for those looking for a quiet, conservative suburb or the highest-rated schools.

1. Toorak – Total Score: 90/100

Toorak is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in Melbourne, boasting grand residences and an unbeatable sense of prestige.

Scoring Criteria:

• Affordability: 5/10
• Safety: 10/10
• Schools: 10/10
• Parks and Recreation: 9/10
• Public Transport: 9/10
• Local Dining and Shopping: 10/10
• Family Friendliness: 9/10
• Employment Opportunities: 9/10
• Property Investment: 10/10
• Community Spirit: 9/10

Toorak is synonymous with old money and refined living. It is home to some of the city’s best private schools, including Loreto Mandeville Hall and Toorak College, and offers lush parks like Como Park North. Toorak Village caters to the upmarket shopper with its designer boutiques and gourmet food stores. Investment in Toorak real estate is often seen as a badge of success, with The Australian frequently reporting record-breaking property sales in the area.

The suburb’s affluence does, however, translate into one of the most expensive postcodes in the country, placing it out of reach for many. Despite its high safety rating, Toorak maintains a quiet and reserved atmosphere that might not appeal to those seeking a more energetic or eclectic community vibe. Additionally, while employment opportunities within the suburb are more limited, most residents travel to nearby commercial hubs.

Toorak is best suited for those who value privacy, exclusivity, and have the financial means to enjoy its offerings. It is ideal for well-established families and individuals looking for a top-tier lifestyle and who consider school district quality and property investment paramount.

How I scored each suburb

In the following section, you’ll gain insights into the rationale behind the scoring of each suburb, giving you a peek into what makes a suburb stand out or fall short in Melbourne’s competitive landscape.

Affordability

Affordability is a critical metric, as it determines how accessible a suburb is for the average Australian couple looking to move. A suburb scores a ‘1’ when the majority of housing prices are well above the city’s median, leaving it attainable only to the highest earners. An example of this in Melbourne is Brighton, where the average property prices are among the city’s highest. On the flip side, a score of ’10’ signifies a suburb where the housing market is significantly below the median, providing excellent value for money. For instance, Frankston offers some of the most affordable housing options while still maintaining a decent quality of living.

Safety

Safety is paramount as it influences the overall well-being and peace of mind for residents. A score of ‘1’ in this category would go to a suburb with high crime rates, such as Broadmeadows, which has reported higher instances of crime compared to other areas. Conversely, a ’10’ is given to suburbs where crime is exceptionally low, creating a secure environment for its residents. Balwyn is often cited for its low crime rates, making it a haven for families and retirees alike.

Schools

The quality and accessibility of educational institutions within a suburb are crucial for families. A suburb that scores a ‘1’ might have overcrowded or underperforming schools, such as those in Dandenong, where schools are often struggling with resources. In contrast, a suburb with a variety of high-performing schools, both public and private, would score a ’10’. Camberwell is known for its prestigious schools, making it an educational hotspot.

Parks and Recreation

Access to parks and recreational facilities contributes to the health and lifestyle quality for residents. A ‘1’ would be a suburb with scant green spaces, like West Melbourne, which is more industrial with very few parks. A ’10’ represents a suburb with abundant green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities, like the leafy suburb of Eltham, known for its natural reserves and community sports facilities.

Public Transport

Public transport links are a lifeline to the city and essential for commuters. A ‘1’ goes to a suburb that’s poorly serviced by public transport, which could be exemplified by a suburb like Rowville, which, despite its size, doesn’t have a train station. A ’10’ is given to suburbs with a dense network of trains, trams, and buses, such as Footscray, which boasts multiple train lines and bus routes.

Local Dining and Shopping

The local dining and shopping scene reflects a suburb’s vibrancy and convenience. A ‘1’ is a suburb with few to no dining or shopping options, similar to industrial areas like Tottenham. A suburb that scores a ’10’ would be a culinary and retail paradise, much like Fitzroy, renowned for its eclectic eateries and boutique shops.

Family Friendliness

Family friendliness measures how conductive a suburb is to raising a family, encompassing factors such as safety, education, and community activities. A suburb with few family-oriented services or community events might score a ‘1’, similar to the City Center, which is more business-oriented. A ’10’ would go to suburbs that are brimming with family activities, parks, and schools, akin to what Vermont offers with its community-centric approach.

Employment Opportunities

The availability of local jobs is essential for a suburb’s economic health. A ‘1’ might be a suburb with high unemployment rates and few job opportunities, such as Broadford. On the other end, a suburb like Docklands would score a ’10’, with its thriving commercial precincts and diverse range of job offerings.

Property Investment

Property investment potential looks at the long-term value and demand for real estate in the area. A suburb with little to no growth in property values would score a ‘1’, like Melton, which has seen stagnant property values. In contrast, suburbs like Hawthorn score a ’10’, where the property market is booming, indicating strong investment opportunities.

Community Spirit

A suburb’s sense of community can be the difference between a house and a home. A ‘1’ indicates a suburb where residents are disconnected or transient, such as the Docklands, which, despite its amenities, often lacks a sense of community. A ’10’ is awarded to suburbs like Yarraville, which thrives on strong community bonds and regular local events.

Sources and Insights: Uncovering Melbourne’s Suburban Gems

To build this list, I’ve wandered far and wide, from the laneways bursting with street art and culture in the heart of Melbourne to the tranquil, wave-lapped sands of St Kilda. I’ve gathered real, on-the-ground insights and hard statistics, ensuring a nuanced view of each suburb. My journey has taken me through local libraries poring over the latest REIV reports, into community centres for the pulse of neighbourhood news, and I’ve sat down with the friendly faces running the show in cafes from Brunetti on Lygon Street to The Kettle Black situated on Albert Road South Yarra, getting the lowdown on the local lifestyle. Resources like Domain and Realestate.com.au have been instrumental for cross-checking facts, assuring that the information provided is as solid as a MCG cricket pitch. 

This guide is the culmination of extensive exploration and insider knowledge of Melbourne. Whether you’re on the hunt for your next home or simply exploring potential neighbourhoods, you can be confident that this guide navigates you through the dynamic tapestry of Melbourne’s suburbs with the thoroughness of a local who’s left no stone unturned.

In Conclusion

To wrap up our journey through Melbourne’s suburbs, whether you seek the lush, leafy streets of Toorak, the coastal breezes of Brighton, or perhaps the eclectic and artsy alleys of Fitzroy, Melbourne caters to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences. Each suburb not only boasts its own unique ambiance but also offers a distinct slice of Melbourne’s much-celebrated diversity, from the café culture-rich pavements of Carlton to the expansive, serene parklands that define the family-friendly atmosphere of Essendon.

Here is a summary of the suburbs we’ve explored, each with its own unique character and attributes, ranked:

1. Toorak – Total Score: 90/100
2. St Kilda – Total Score: 85/100
3. South Yarra – Total Score: 83/100
4. Camberwell – Total Score: 81/100
5. Essendon – Total Score: 78/100
6. Kew – Total Score: 76/100
7. Brighton – Total Score: 74/100
8. Hawthorn – Total Score: 71/100
9. Brunswick – Total Score: 68/100
10. Footscray – Total Score: 65/100

Each suburb in our list has undergone a thorough assessment based on crucial living standards and amenities that can deeply impact your daily life. From the cost of buying or renting homes to the sense of security you feel when you walk its streets, from the quality of education available for your children to the green spaces where you can unwind, and from the ease of getting around without a car to the places you can enjoy a meal out or shop for essentials – every factor has been carefully weighed. The vibrancy of the community, the likelihood of finding employment in your new locale, and the potential for your property to appreciate in value over time have also been meticulously considered. Our comprehensive analysis is designed not just to list suburbs, but to paint a detailed portrait of the lifestyle each one offers, giving you the clarity and confidence needed to decide where you will plant your roots and nurture your future.

As you consider these options and begin your property journey, remember that the process is intricate and sometimes overwhelming. If you find yourself needing assistance in navigating the competitive Melbourne property market, consider enlisting the services of a professional residential buyer’s agent. They can offer personalised guidance, from finding the perfect suburb to securing your dream home. Good luck in finding your ideal Melbourne suburb!

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