The best suburbs to live in Melbourne are hard to single out. Why? Because the whole city is crawling with culture and personality. We’re no stranger to the fact that Melbourne has graced the top ten of the EIU’s most liveable cities list for years. From healthcare and education, to culture and safety, these factors give Melbourne the vibrant, artistic, thriving atmosphere we all know and love.
The city has suburbs for every kind of lifestyle. Whether you’re a young professional or settling down with a family, each neighbourhood will have its own unique offering. We’ve prioritised liveability in today’s list, taking into account connectivity to public transport, health services, cool restaurants and bars, shops, schools and parks. So let’s figure out your next move!
Yarraville
- Median house price: $1,300,744
- Median house rental price: $530/week
- Distance from CBD: 9.3 kilometres
You’ll find a strong sense of community in the little village that is Yarraville. With lockdowns and businesses partially closed, this neighbourhood thrived from people coming together and staying positive. It also ticks a lot of other boxes on our list. Close to the city? Check. Lush, verdant parks? Check. Beautiful period homes? You got it. Another accolade it got last year was 5th place in TimeOut’s list of Coolest Neighbourhoods in the World.
Fitzroy
- Median house price: $1,758,891
- Median house rental price: $700/week
- Distance from CBD: 3.3 kilometres
Want to hear something interesting? Fitzroy was Melbourne’s first ever suburb, and the heritage feel is evident. It’s become one of the city’s most energetic spots, with a lively dining scene and funky, local designers. While some might argue that the neighbourhood has undergone some gentrification over the years, we think the raw, artistic essence still remains. That’s why it’s one of the best places to live in Melbourne.
Prahran
- Median house price: $1,843,916
- Median house rental price: $725/week
- Distance from CBD: 7.6 kilometres
If South Yarra is an elegant, sophisticated suburb, then Prahran is its cooler, younger sibling. This is the type of neighbourhood where a 5 kilometre limit would still offer you some of the best in retail therapy, restaurants, cafes and bars (as long as they’re open). Residential areas are also well-connected to train lines, trams and buses.
East Melbourne
- Median house price: $3,262,152
- Median house rental price: $860/week
- Distance from CBD: 2.9 kilometres
Punctuated by Victorian terraces and art deco homes, East Melbourne is a prestigious neighbourhood with the city centre on its doorstep. It’s coveted by young independents and professionals for its culture, cafes and access to public transport. The suburb is effortlessly walkable with tree-lined streets, inspiring architecture and picturesque gardens.
Point Cook
- Median house price: $771,639
- Median house rental price: $410/week
- Distance from CBD: 28.2 kilometres
If you’re looking for a neighbourhood that is family-oriented, friendly, and where your neighbours might become your besties, then Point Cook might be the place. We’re a little further away from the CBD here but with its proximity to schools, parks and an easy-access freeway to the city, the suburb is getting more buzz. Retirees and young professionals mix up the demographic so you’re pretty much getting it all as well as an affordable housing price tag. The cherry on this cake? You’re right by the beach.
South Melbourne
- Median house price: $1,836,035
- Median house rental price: $617/week
- Distance from CBD: 3.2 kilometres
This inner-city suburb has been a long-time contender as one of the best suburbs to live in Melbourne. Victorian terraced houses, leafy streets and close to the beach make this one of the more popular areas. While the housing prices are in the highs, you just can’t beat the hidden gems down those narrow laneways, and the iconic South Melbourne market.
Ascot Vale
- Median house price: $1,463,418
- Median house rental price: $574/week
- Distance from CBD: 8.1 kilometres
Ascot Vale is a superbly connected suburb. If you’re after public transport access, this neighbourhood should be high on your list. It carries a fusion of young couples, singles and professionals, and will especially please those with pets. Parks and leafy streets contribute to the warm, green atmosphere here. Not to mention you’re about a half hour’s bike ride from the city which takes you along the gorgeous river-bend.
Kensington
- Median house price: $1,208,417
- Median house rental price: $580/week
- Distance from CBD: 4.8 kilometres
Kensington sits a mere four kilometres from the CBD which means you get to enjoy the calm of suburban life with easy access to the hustle and bustle when you need it! The neighbourhood is painted with colour, from the artisanal style cafes lining the streets to the Cantonese and Vietnamese shopping strips and Victorian era houses. About 10% of the housing here belongs to Melbourne’s largest universities effusing a young, spirited atmosphere.
The best suburbs to live in Melbourne may be different for you! If you want to find more Melbourne homes, we can also help you out in that department. Browse our search page to check out some amazing listings available right now. But don’t just stop there, download our app to get the full Soho experience. Just remember to shortlist or swipe left on our listings so we can send you others that better match what you’re looking for.