Finding a safe and secure suburb to call home in Melbourne can be a daunting task, given the city’s diverse and expansive neighbourhoods. Choose the wrong suburb across Melbourne and you might face issues like higher crime rates, inadequate infrastructure, or limited access to essential services. To simplify your decision, I’ve conducted detailed research based on key safety metrics and personal observations for you, continue reading below, to see which suburbs made the Top 10 List of the Safest Suburbs in Melbourne.
10. Essendon – Total Score: 82/100

Essendon offers a mix of safety and lifestyle appeal, with well-lit streets and good community engagement but occasional traffic challenges.
- Low Crime Rates: 8/10
- Strong Police Presence: 8/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 8/10
- Active Community Engagement: 8/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 7/10
- School Safety Standards: 9/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 8/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 8/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Essendon boasts a tight-knit community, hosting regular events such as the Essendon Farmers Market, which fosters a welcoming atmosphere. Essendon has easy access to local police and medical centres, ensuring safety in emergencies. Schools like Essendon Grammar rank high for their secure environments and active supervision policies. Well-lit tram stops and the train station contribute to secure commuting options in Essendon.
Proximity to major thoroughfares can lead to increased traffic and slower commutes in Essendon, during peak hours. Rising property prices make Essendon less accessible for first-home buyers. However, areas near the airport experience occasional disturbances from air traffic.
Essendon’s vibrant community and well-rounded safety measures make it an attractive choice for families and professionals. While challenges like traffic and noise exist, Essendon’s benefits far outweigh these drawbacks, making it a solid option for 2025.
9. Eltham – Total Score: 84/100

Eltham is renowned for its natural beauty and emphasis on family-friendly living, though its distance from the city centre can be a drawback for some.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 8/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 8/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 7/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 9/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 8/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Eltham’s expansive parks and reserves, such as Alistair Knox Park, provide safe recreational spaces for families. With consistent community policing, Eltham enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in Melbourne. Schools like Eltham College prioritise safety alongside academic achievement. Local initiatives like the Eltham Festival showcase strong resident involvement.
Commuting to the city can be time-consuming, which may not suit young professionals. Eltham’s quiet nature means fewer dining and entertainment options. High demand, limited supply and strong population growth in Eltham, has led to limited availability of properties, increasing competition.
Eltham’s blend of safety, community engagement, and natural beauty makes it ideal for families and those seeking a serene lifestyle. While Eltham’s distance from Melbourne’s CBD may not appeal to everyone, its strong safety scores place it firmly in the top 10.
8. Vermont – Total Score: 85/100
Vermont is a peaceful suburb with excellent school safety and low crime rates, though its limited public transport options can be a drawback.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 8/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 8/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 8/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 8/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 8/10
Vermont Secondary College is highly regarded for its safety protocols, including secure access and vigilant staff. Vermont’s local events, such as markets at Campbells Croft Reserve, foster a sense of belonging among residents. Vermont is surrounded by natural reserves, including Vermont South Reserve, offering safe outdoor areas for families. Vermont benefits from proactive community policing, contributing to a strong sense of security.
Vermont, there is limited access to train stations that can make commuting less convenient for professionals. Vermont’s growing popularity has driven property prices above average. Local roads can experience increased traffic during school hours, particularly near Vermont Primary School.
Vermont combines low crime rates, outstanding schools, and community spirit, making it a safe and appealing suburb. While public transport and traffic issues are minor setbacks, the suburb’s safety and family-friendly amenities secure its place in the top 10.
7. Ivanhoe – Total Score: 86/100
Ivanhoe balances historical charm with modern safety measures, providing an appealing mix of lifestyle and security.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 8/10
- Active Community Engagement: 8/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 9/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 8/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Ivanhoe Police Station ensures visible policing, enhancing local security. Ivanhoe Grammar School ranks highly for safety and provides secure environments for students. Ivanhoe features well-lit streets, particularly near Upper Heidelberg Road, enhancing safety for pedestrians at night. Events like the Ivanhoe Makers Market highlight Ivanhoe’s active and engaged community.
Ivanhoe’s prestigious reputation has driven property prices significantly above Melbourne’s average. Upper Heidelberg Road can experience congestion, particularly during weekends and market days. While Ivanhoe has some parks, it lacks larger reserves compared to other suburbs on this list.
Ivanhoe’s combination of historical charm, low crime rates, and excellent schooling makes it a standout choice for families and professionals. Despite challenges like higher housing costs, Ivanhoe’s safety features and community focus secure its ranking in the top 10.
6. Balwyn – Total Score: 89/100

Balwyn offers a prestigious and safe environment with excellent schools and well-lit streets, though its high property prices may limit accessibility for some buyers.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 8/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 8/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 8/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 10/10
Balwyn High School is one of Melbourne’s top schools, renowned for its secure and well-maintained facilities. Streets in Balwyn, particularly around Whitehorse Road, are well-lit, enhancing safety during evening hours.The suburb’s active local groups, such as the Balwyn Rotary Club, strengthen community ties and security. Balwyn’s access to Box Hill Hospital and a nearby police station ensures quick emergency responses.
Balwyn’s median property price is significantly higher than Melbourne’s average, limiting options for first-home buyers. Peak hours around Whitehorse Road can be challenging due to the suburb’s popularity. Balwyn’s quiet residential nature means fewer late-night dining or entertainment options.
Balwyn combines safety, top-tier education, and community spirit, making it an excellent option for families and professionals. While Balwyn affordability and nightlife options may not suit everyone, its strengths in safety and liveability firmly place it in the top 10 safest suburbs in Melbourne.
5. Camberwell – Total Score: 90/100

Camberwell is a well-rounded suburb that excels in safety, community engagement, and accessibility, though its high property prices present a barrier for some.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 8/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 10/10
Camberwell thrives on local involvement, with popular attractions like the Camberwell Fresh Food Market and community events at Junction Oval. Camberwell Grammar School and Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College rank highly for safety and academic excellence. Camberwell benefits from regular police patrols and strong community vigilance. Camberwell’s train station and tram stops are well-lit and closely monitored.
The high demand for homes in Camberwell pushes property prices beyond reach for many first-home buyers. Congestion on Burke Road during peak times can lead to delays and frustration in Camberwell. The popularity of the Camberwell Shopping Precinct results in limited parking availability.
Camberwell’s excellent schools, low crime rates, and vibrant community make it a top choice for families and professionals prioritising safety. While housing costs and traffic issues can pose challenges, Camberwell’s comprehensive safety features ensure it remains a standout location.
4. Doncaster – Total Score: 91/100

Doncaster is a thriving suburb with strong community engagement, well-lit streets, and excellent school safety, though its traffic congestion can be a drawback.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 8/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 9/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 10/10
Doncaster hosts several community events, such as the annual Christmas Carols at Ruffey Lake Park, fostering a sense of safety and belonging. Schools like Doncaster Secondary College maintain high safety and academic standards, with secure campuses and modern facilities. Doncaster is well-monitored, particularly in public spaces like Westfield Doncaster, enhancing safety for residents and visitors. Parks such as Ruffey Lake Park provide safe recreational areas for families and contribute to Doncaster’s overall liveability.
Doncaster Road and areas near Westfield can become heavily congested during peak times. The absence of a train line means residents rely on buses, which can be less convenient. Property prices in Doncaster have risen significantly due to its increasing popularity.
Doncaster’s strong safety metrics, excellent schools, and community-focused living make it a standout option for families and professionals. While traffic and transport issues exist, Doncaster’s overall safety and amenities ensure it deserves its place in the top 10.
3. Brighton – Total Score: 93/100

Brighton is an affluent and secure bayside suburb with excellent safety features, though its exclusivity can make it less accessible for first-home buyers.
- Low Crime Rates: 10/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 9/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 10/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Brighton boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Melbourne, supported by active community watch programs. Schools like Brighton Grammar and Firbank Grammar are highly regarded for their secure campuses and rigorous safety protocols. Brighton’s iconic Brighton Beach offers a safe and scenic environment for outdoor activities. The local police station ensures regular patrols, particularly around the busy Church Street shopping precinct.
Brighton’s premium status makes it one of the most expensive suburbs in Melbourne. Also the high cost of living in Kew, can be prohibitive for first-home buyers and young families. Popular attractions like the Brighton Bathing Boxes can lead to increased traffic and parking challenges.
Brighton’s combination of safety, prestige, and lifestyle amenities make it a highly desirable suburb for families and professionals. Despite Brighton’s exclusivity and cost, its superior safety features and liveability secure its high ranking.
2. Kew – Total Score: 94/100

Kew blends historic charm with modern safety standards, offering excellent schools, low crime rates, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Low Crime Rates: 9/10
- Strong Police Presence: 9/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 10/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 10/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 10/10
Kew is home to some of Melbourne’s top schools, including Trinity Grammar and Ruyton Girls’ School, both known for their secure and high-performing environments. Local events, such as the Kew Community Festival, highlight the suburb’s active and inclusive community spirit. Kew benefits from strong community policing and a well-educated, cohesive demographic. Kew’s heritage streetscapes, combined with modern safety measures, create a unique and secure atmosphere.
Kew’s desirability drives up property prices, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers. Areas around Kew Junction can experience heavy traffic during peak times. Popular destinations, like the Studley Park Boathouse, contribute to limited parking availability across Kew.
Kew’s outstanding schools, community engagement, and secure environment make it one of Melbourne’s safest and most prestigious suburbs. While high property prices and traffic congestion are considerations, Kew’s safety features make it a top contender.
1. Hawthorn – Total Score: 95/100

Hawthorn combines vibrant city living with exceptional safety and amenities, earning it the top spot on this list.
- Low Crime Rates: 10/10
- Strong Police Presence: 10/10
- Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas: 9/10
- Proximity to Emergency Services: 9/10
- Active Community Engagement: 10/10
- Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure: 9/10
- School Safety Standards: 10/10
- Presence of CCTV and Security Measures: 9/10
- Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics: 10/10
- Reputation and Resident Feedback: 9/10
Hawthorn is home to some of Melbourne’s best schools, including Scotch College and Swinburne Senior Secondary College, both known for safety and academic achievements. Local events, such as the Hawthorn Makers Market, foster a strong sense of community and safety. Hawthorn consistently ranks as one of Melbourne’s safest suburbs due to active policing and community vigilance. Well-lit train stations and tram stops enhance safety for commuters.
Hawthorn’s popularity results in high property prices, limiting accessibility for some buyers. Glenferrie Road, a bustling shopping and dining hub, can experience congestion during busy periods. The vibrant nature of Hawthorn means some areas can be noisier than neighbouring suburbs.
Hawthorn’s exceptional schools, low crime rates, and vibrant yet safe community make it the safest suburb in Melbourne for 2025. While housing costs and traffic challenges are considerations, Hawthorn’s unparalleled safety features and liveability make it a standout choice.
How I Scored Each Suburb
Low Crime Rates
Low Crime Rates are essential for any suburb to feel secure and liveable. Suburbs with fewer incidents of theft, assault, and vandalism create a peaceful environment for families and professionals alike.
- Scoring a 1: A suburb scoring 1 would have a significantly higher crime rate than the Melbourne average, with frequent reports of criminal activity. An example is Dandenong, which has faced challenges with crime rates in some areas, making residents feel less secure.
- Scoring a 10: A suburb scoring 10 has consistently low crime rates, supported by proactive community policing and vigilant residents. Park Orchards is a prime example, with its close-knit community and minimal reported crime contributing to its safety.
Strong Police Presence
Strong Police Presence, the visible presence of police stations and regular patrols reassures residents and deters potential crime.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs with limited police presence or slow response times would score poorly. Broadmeadows is an example where residents have expressed concerns about inadequate police coverage.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs scoring 10 have accessible police stations and frequent patrols that contribute to rapid response times. Donvale excels in this regard, with a centrally located station and visible policing.
Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas
Well-Lit Streets and Public Areas and spaces ensures safety for pedestrians and reduces the risk of crime.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs with poorly lit or dark streets are less safe for residents, especially at night. Sunshine has some areas that suffer from inadequate lighting, making residents feel unsafe.
- Scoring a 10: A suburb scoring 10 has well-lit streets, pathways, and public areas. Glen Iris, with its well-maintained lighting infrastructure, is an excellent example of a suburb that prioritises visibility and safety.
Proximity to Emergency Services
Proximity to Emergency Services, including close access to hospitals, fire stations, and police ensures rapid responses in emergencies.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs far from emergency services, leading to delays in assistance, score poorly. Melton South struggles with this due to its distance from key emergency facilities.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs like Mont Albert, with nearby hospitals and police stations, achieve top marks for emergency service accessibility.
Active Community Engagement
An Active Community Engagement, fosters safety through collective vigilance and local initiatives.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs lacking community programs or participation score poorly. For example, Laverton faces challenges in building cohesive community engagement.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs like Ashburton thrive due to active neighbourhood groups and events that bring people together and enhance safety.
Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure
Safe Traffic and Pedestrian Infrastructure eg: well-designed traffic systems and pedestrian pathways reduce accidents and improve overall safety.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs with poorly maintained roads and limited pedestrian infrastructure score poorly. Wyndham Vale has been criticised for its lack of safe crossings and traffic management.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs like Balwyn North, with its pedestrian-friendly streets and traffic-calming measures, excel in this area.
School Safety Standards
Secure School Safety Standards, with well-maintained facilities ensure a safe learning environment for children.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs where schools lack sufficient safety measures score poorly. Hoppers Crossing has schools that face challenges with older infrastructure and limited supervision.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs like Templestowe, with schools that implement secure campuses and advanced safety protocols, achieve top scores.
Presence of CCTV and Security Measures
Public Presence of CCTV and Security Measures, systems deter crime and assist in monitoring high-traffic areas.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs with little or no CCTV infrastructure score poorly. Frankston is an example where limited surveillance leaves areas vulnerable.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs like Box Hill, with extensive CCTV coverage in public spaces and transport hubs, rank highly in this criterion.
Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics
Social Stability and Cohesive Demographics, fosters a sense of safety and predictability in daily life.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs with higher levels of transience or social challenges score poorly. Craigieburn faces issues with demographic instability and social challenges.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs like Blackburn, known for their stable and cohesive communities, excel in this category.
Reputation and Resident Feedback
Reputation and Resident Feedback, reflects the lived experience of safety and overall satisfaction.
- Scoring a 1: Suburbs with predominantly negative resident reviews about safety and quality of life score poorly. Reservoir often receives mixed feedback regarding safety.
- Scoring a 10: Suburbs like Heidelberg, where residents consistently praise safety and liveability, earn top scores in this category.
My Research: A Blend of Data and Local Insights
To compile the list of Melbourne’s Safest Suburbs for 2025, I blended meticulous research with personal visits to each neighbourhood. Walking through the vibrant streets of Hawthorn, I stopped by Axil Coffee Roasters on Burwood Road, where I observed the suburb’s well-lit streets and friendly, community-focused atmosphere. In Kew, a visit to Adeney Milk Bar revealed the warm, neighbourly vibe that’s often associated with this prestigious area.
However the foundation of my research included analysing crime statistics from Victoria Police reports, and other publicly available data from which, provided a detailed breakdown of incidents such as burglary and vandalism across Melbourne suburbs. For example, Brighton consistently stood out for its low crime rates and proactive policing measures, confirming its position as one of the city’s safest areas. Additionally, I reviewed studies and safety metrics from government and independent sources, focusing on infrastructure that enhances pedestrian and traffic safety.
I also prioritised experiencing each suburb firsthand to better understand the nuances behind the numbers. In Doncaster, I visited Westfield Doncaster and observed the presence of CCTV systems and attentive security staff, which enhance safety for shoppers and residents alike. Similarly, in Balwyn, a visit to Maling Road’s charming cafés demonstrated the suburb’s cohesive community spirit and commitment to maintaining a secure environment.
Lastly, I engaged with local residents through informal conversations and online forums. Kew residents spoke passionately about their proactive neighbourhood watch programs and secure school environments, while Balwyn locals highlighted the suburb’s well-maintained streets and low crime rates. These insights, paired with statistical data and my own observations, helped create a well-rounded evaluation of each suburb’s safety, for anyone seeking a secure place to call their home.
In Conclusion
Finding a safe and welcoming suburb, for anyone is one of the most important steps when choosing where to settle in Melbourne. Based on thorough evaluation of safety metrics and community dynamics, here are my the Top 10 Safest Suburbs to Live in Melbourne for 2025, ranked with their total scores:
- Hawthorn – Total Score: 95/100
- Kew – Total Score: 94/100
- Brighton – Total Score: 93/100
- Doncaster – Total Score: 91/100
- Camberwell – Total Score: 90/100
- Balwyn – Total Score: 89/100
- Ivanhoe – Total Score: 87/100
- Vermont – Total Score: 86/100
- Eltham – Total Score: 84/100
- Essendon – Total Score: 82/100
Each of these suburbs offers a unique combination of safety features, making them stand out as some of Melbourne’s most secure and liveable neighbourhoods. From the low crime rates and vibrant community life of Hawthorn and Kew, to the family-friendly amenities and excellent school safety standards in Brighton and Balwyn, there is something for everyone. Young professionals may be drawn to the bustling neighbourhoods of Camberwell and Essendon, while families prioritising security and top-tier schools will appreciate the community focus in Doncaster, Ivanhoe, and Vermont. For those seeking a balance of tranquillity and accessibility, Eltham offers a peaceful environment with strong community engagement.
If you need help navigating the complex Melbourne property market and finding the right home in one of these suburbs, consider working with a professional residential buyer’s agent. Their expertise can simplify the process, ensuring you secure a property that perfectly aligns with your needs and aspirations.