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Which Side of Melbourne is Better to Live?

November 26, 2023

Key takeaways:

  • Factors such as liveability, access to amenities, proximity to schools, and safety are important considerations.
  • The inner suburbs of Melbourne offer a vibrant lifestyle with cultural attractions and convenient access to public transport.
  • The outer suburbs of Melbourne provide a family-friendly environment with good schools and a strong sense of community.

When it comes to choosing which side of Melbourne is better to live, there are many factors to consider. From the vibrant inner suburbs to the family-friendly outer suburbs, Melbourne offers a range of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences.

Whether you are a young professional, a family with children, or someone looking for a safe and well-connected neighbourhood, there is a suburb in Melbourne that can meet your needs.

Factors such as liveability, access to amenities, proximity to schools, and safety are all important considerations when deciding which side of Melbourne is better for you to live. It’s important to think about what is important to you and what you value in a community.

In this article, we will explore the best suburbs in Melbourne for different lifestyles and provide insights into what makes them great places to live. Whether you are looking for a lively inner-city neighborhood or a peaceful suburb with good schools, we’ve got you covered.

Best Inner City Suburbs to Live in Melbourne

In the bustling city of Melbourne, there are several inner city suburbs that offer a unique and vibrant lifestyle.

Whether you’re a young professional seeking excitement or a culture enthusiast looking for a dynamic neighbourhood, these suburbs are sure to captivate you. Let’s explore some of the best inner-city suburbs to live in Melbourne.

RICHMOND

which side of Melbourne is better to live
Apartment for rent near Richmond | Price Guide: $600 per week

“Richmond is like having the best of both worlds – a lively neighborhood with a tight-knit community.”

Liveability ScoreSafetyAccess to AmenitiesProximity to CBD
8.59.29.08.8

Richmond is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, boasting a diverse range of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. The suburb is a hub for arts and culture, with its fantastic live music scene and the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) just a stone’s throw away.

Richmond’s liveability score of 8.5 makes it one of the top choices for those seeking a lively yet affordable inner city suburb. For those interested in exploring more budget-friendly options, check out where are the cheapest rentals in Victoria?

Check out more properties in Richmond VIC 3121.

EAST MELBOURNE

which side of Melbourne is better to live
Apartment for rent in East Melbourne | Price Guide: $300 Per Week

“East Melbourne offers a sophisticated and luxurious lifestyle, just a stroll away from the heart of the city.”

Liveability ScoreSafetyAccess to AmenitiesProximity to CBD
9.39.59.29.7

East Melbourne exudes elegance and charm, with its beautiful mansions and tree-lined streets. The suburb is popular among professionals and families alike, offering easy access to the CBD and a host of amenities.

With a liveability score of 9.3, East Melbourne is undoubtedly one of the best suburbs to live in Melbourne for those seeking a refined lifestyle. Curious about the safety of other areas? You can learn about which Melbourne suburb has the lowest crime rate.

Check out more properties to rent in East Melbourne VIC 3002.

SOUTH YARRA

which side of Melbourne is better to live
Apartment for sale in South Yarra | Price Guide: $350 Per Week

“South Yarra is the epitome of style, with trendy boutiques, upscale dining, and a thriving arts scene.”

Liveability ScoreSafetyAccess to AmenitiesProximity to CBD
9.48.79.59.2

South Yarra is a trendy and cosmopolitan suburb that offers a vibrant lifestyle. With its boutique shopping, art deco architecture, and proximity to the Yarra River, it’s no wonder this suburb is highly sought after.

The liveability score of 9.4 speaks to the quality of life South Yarra offers, making it one of the best inner city suburbs to call home in Melbourne.

Check out more properties for rent in South Yarra VIC 3141.

ST KILDA

which side of Melbourne is better to live
Apartment for rent in St Kilda | Price Guide: $365 Per Week

“St Kilda is a beachside paradise with a lively atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a vibrant nightlife.”

Liveability ScoreSafetyAccess to AmenitiesProximity to CBD
8.78.39.08.5

St Kilda is synonymous with fun and entertainment, with its bustling Acland Street, stunning beachfront, and famous Luna Park. This suburb offers a wide range of amenities, including trendy bars, cafes, and live music venues.

Although slightly lower in liveability score compared to other inner city suburbs, St Kilda’s vibrant lifestyle and beachside location make it an exciting place to call home.

Check out more properties in St Kilda VIC 3182.

Best Suburbs for Families in Melbourne

which side of Melbourne is better to live

When it comes to finding the perfect place to settle down and raise a family in Melbourne, there are several suburbs that stand out for their family-friendly amenities and excellent schools.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful environment, access to parks and playgrounds, or top-quality education, these suburbs have got you covered.

Hawthorn East

Located in the scenic eastern part of Melbourne, Hawthorn East is a suburb that embodies a pleasant and family-friendly atmosphere. The area is adorned with beautiful parks, including the iconic Anderson Park, which is a perfect spot for family picnics and various outdoor activities.

Families are particularly drawn to Hawthorn East due to its proximity to some of Melbourne’s top schools, including Camberwell Grammar School and Scotch College.

Additionally, the suburb’s excellent public transportation options and easy access to nearby shopping precincts enhance its appeal as a convenient and desirable location for families to settle in.

Surrey Hills

Surrey Hills, nestled amidst leafy streets, is renowned for its community-focused vibe and stands as another fantastic suburb for families in Melbourne. The area is enriched with a range of parks and recreational areas, including Surrey Gardens and Canterbury Sports Ground, offering families numerous opportunities for outdoor leisure and activities.

The suburb is also notable for its educational offerings, boasting esteemed schools such as Surrey Hills Primary School and Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College. The convenience of public transport and proximity to shopping precincts further solidify Surrey Hills as an ideal, family-oriented lifestyle choice.

Essendon

Essendon, situated in the north-western part of Melbourne, is a suburb that exudes a strong sense of community and offers a safe environment for families. The suburb is interspersed with several parks and green spaces, ensuring that residents have ample space for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Educational needs are well catered for in Essendon, with schools like St. Bernard’s College and Essendon Primary School providing high-quality education. The suburb’s close proximity to the city, coupled with a variety of shopping and dining options, makes Essendon an attractive choice for families seeking a vibrant and community-centric place to live.

Moonee Ponds

Moonee Ponds is widely recognized as a family-friendly suburb in Melbourne, celebrated for its excellent amenities and welcoming atmosphere. The area is graced with a variety of parks, notably Queens Park and Moonee Ponds Creek, which are ideal for a range of outdoor activities and picnics, making it a popular destination for families seeking green spaces within the city.

In terms of education, Moonee Ponds is home to highly-regarded schools including Moonee Ponds Primary School and Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School, offering top-notch educational opportunities for children in the area.

The suburb’s proximity to Melbourne’s CBD, combined with its bustling shopping and dining precinct, ensures that residents enjoy a vibrant and convenient lifestyle, making Moonee Ponds an appealing choice for families looking for the perfect balance of urban living and community charm.

Choosing the right suburb for your family in Melbourne is a crucial decision. These suburbs, with their family-friendly amenities, excellent schools, and welcoming communities, offer an ideal environment for you and your loved ones to thrive.

SuburbLocationKey Features
Hawthorn EastEastBeautiful parks, excellent schools, convenient location
Surrey HillsEastLeafy streets, community-focused, recreational areas
EssendonNorth-westStrong community, safe environment, proximity to the city
Moonee PondsNorth-westFamily-friendly atmosphere, parks, proximity to CBD

Conclusion

Alright, mate! It’s time to wrap things up and make a decision. Choosing the best suburb to live in Melbourne is no easy task. But fear not, we’ve got your back!

Whether you’re a young professional or a family looking for your dream neighborhood, Melbourne has something for everyone. The inner city suburbs like Richmond, East Melbourne, South Yarra, and St Kilda offer a buzzing lifestyle with cultural hotspots, trendy dining options, and easy access to public transport. Perfect for the urban explorers and singles ready to mingle.

Now, if you’ve got little rascals running around, suburbs like Hawthorn East, Surrey Hills, Essendon, and Moonee Ponds tick all the boxes. With their leafy streets, beautiful parks, and excellent schools, these suburbs provide the nurturing environment that your family deserves.

Remember, the best suburb for you is the one that aligns with your unique lifestyle, preferences, and priorities. So consider factors like liveability, proximity to amenities, and community vibes when making your decision. Melbourne is waiting for you to call it home!

Expand Your Knowledge: As you consider your options, we invite you to read our dedicated article highlighting the best suburbs to live in Melbourne, adding more value to your research.

FAQs on ‘Which Side of Melbourne is Better to Live?

Which side of Melbourne is better to live?

The best side of Melbourne to live in depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Factors such as liveability, access to amenities, proximity to schools, and safety should be considered when deciding which side of Melbourne is better for you.

What are the best inner city suburbs to live in Melbourne?

Some of the best inner city suburbs to live in Melbourne are Richmond, East Melbourne, South Yarra, and St Kilda. These suburbs offer a vibrant atmosphere, cultural attractions, fine dining options, and convenient access to public transport.

What are the best suburbs for families in Melbourne?

Hawthorn East, Surrey Hills, Essendon, and Moonee Ponds are among the best suburbs for families in Melbourne. These suburbs offer a family-friendly environment, good schools, beautiful parks, and a strong sense of community.

How do I choose the best suburb to live in Melbourne?

Choosing the best suburb in Melbourne depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider factors such as liveability, access to amenities, proximity to schools, and the type of lifestyle you prefer. Research different suburbs and visit them to get a feel for the area before making a decision.

What should I consider when looking for a suburb to live in Melbourne?

When looking for a suburb to live in Melbourne, consider factors such as liveability, access to amenities like shops, restaurants, and parks, proximity to schools and public transport, safety, and the overall sense of community in the area.

Soho
Soho is your expert team in Australian real estate, offering an innovative platform for effortless property searches. With deep insights into buying, renting, and market trends, we guide you to make informed decisions, whether it's your first home or exploring new suburbs.
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