Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities. Whether you’re a student, professional, or family, finding the best area to live in Melbourne is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore the top suburbs in Melbourne based on lifestyle, affordability, and growth.
One of the best suburbs to live in Melbourne, South Yarra is an iconic destination known for its vibrant cafe culture, world-class shopping, and seamless public transport connections. Whether you’re after fine dining, boutique stores, or picturesque parks, South Yarra has it all. With a mix of stylish apartments and charming heritage homes, it’s the perfect choice for young professionals, families, and even retirees seeking an active lifestyle.
According to the latest real estate data, property values in South Yarra have steadily increased by 5.6% annually, making it a sought-after suburb for both homeowners and investors. With its close proximity to Melbourne’s CBD (only 4 km away), it’s no wonder South Yarra continues to be a top choice for those looking for an exciting yet comfortable lifestyle.
2. Carlton – Best for Students and Food Lovers
Carlton, home to the prestigious University of Melbourne, is often considered one of the best Melbourne suburbs to live for students. With over 52,000 students enrolled at the university, the suburb thrives on youthful energy.
Carlton is not just about studies—it’s about balancing academic life with leisure. Whether it’s enjoying a morning coffee at Brunetti, exploring bookshops, or relaxing in a green oasis like Carlton Gardens, this suburb offers the perfect mix of convenience and vibrancy.
Fitzroy is a creative hub, known for its street art, boutique shops, and eclectic nightlife. It’s one of the best growing suburbs in Melbourne, attracting young professionals, artists, and entrepreneurs. The area boasts a unique blend of history and modernity, with heritage-listed buildings housing some of Melbourne’s trendiest cafes and co-working spaces.
With a thriving arts scene, a foodie’s paradise, and a community-driven atmosphere, Fitzroy continues to attract those seeking a vibrant and dynamic urban lifestyle.
With top-rated schools, tree-lined streets, and seamless connectivity to Melbourne’s CBD, Hawthorn is a dream suburb for families and professionals. According to recent real estate reports, Hawthorn’s median house price has steadily risen, reflecting its high desirability.
Ranked as one of the best suburbs to live in Melbourne, Hawthorn offers a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle. Whether you’re a young professional looking for a buzzing social scene or a family seeking stability, Hawthorn provides the perfect balance.
A stone’s throw from the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Richmond is a paradise for sports lovers. Whether you enjoy footy, cricket, or live entertainment, this suburb puts you in the heart of Melbourne’s sporting culture. With over 50 bars and pubs, Richmond’s nightlife is buzzing, making it an excellent spot for young professionals and social butterflies. The suburb also boasts an 85/100 walkability score, ensuring you’re never too far from trendy cafes, top restaurants, and boutique shops.
If you’re looking for a best place in Melbourne with a coastal lifestyle, Brighton is the answer. With its pristine beaches, elite schools, and stunning real estate, it remains one of the most desirable suburbs in Melbourne.
Camberwell is often considered the best family suburb Melbourne thanks to its excellent schools, parks, and community vibe. It offers a blend of heritage homes and modern developments, making it a dream location for families seeking quality living.
St Kilda is a lively suburb known for its stunning beach views, vibrant nightlife, and iconic attractions. If you love a beach lifestyle with urban convenience, this is one of the best Melbourne suburbs to live.
St Kilda Beach attracts over 3 million visitors annually.
The suburb hosts the St Kilda Festival, one of Australia's largest free music festivals.
Luna Park has been an iconic attraction since 1912.
Whether you’re a young professional, student, or family, St Kilda offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle with everything you need at your doorstep.
One of the best growing suburbs in Melbourne, Preston has become a hotspot for young families and professionals due to its affordability and excellent amenities. The median house price in Preston is around $920,000, significantly lower than inner-city suburbs, making it an attractive option for first-home buyers.
With its mix of cultural diversity, new developments, and proximity to the city, Preston is fast becoming one of Melbourne’s best suburbs to live for those seeking affordability without compromising on lifestyle.
Brunswick’s diverse community, fantastic food scene, and vibrant music culture make it a top suburb for creatives and professionals alike. In fact, Brunswick has one of the highest concentrations of independent music venues in Melbourne, with spots like Howler and The Retreat Hotel drawing large crowds.
With an artistic atmosphere and a growing demand for real estate, Brunswick is not only culturally rich but also one of the best growing suburbs in Melbourne.
With great schools, parks, and excellent transport options, Essendon is the perfect balance of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. Ranked among the best suburbs to live in Melbourne, this suburb offers top-rated schools like Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School and Lowther Hall Anglican Grammar School, making it a favorite for families.
For those looking for the best affordable suburbs in Melbourne, Footscray is a standout choice. This vibrant suburb has seen significant growth in recent years, making it a hotspot for first-home buyers and investors alike. Footscray boasts a thriving multicultural food scene, a flourishing arts and music culture, and excellent public transport links that connect residents to the CBD in under 15 minutes.
Malvern is perfect for families and professionals who want a peaceful environment with easy city access. It boasts some of Melbourne’s most prestigious schools, including St Kevin’s College and Malvern Central School, making it an excellent choice for education-focused families.
Beyond its academic appeal, Malvern offers a blend of boutique shopping, lush green parks, and historic homes. The suburb’s median house price sits around $2.5 million, reflecting its premium lifestyle. However, for those seeking affordability, apartment living offers a more accessible entry point.
With an excellent blend of lifestyle, accessibility, and top-tier schools, Malvern continues to be one of the best Melbourne suburbs to live in 2025.
This historic suburb isn’t just another waterfront spot—it’s a lifestyle. With stunning beaches, lush parks, and a charming village atmosphere, Williamstown is one of the best areas to live in Melbourne for those craving a relaxed yet connected community. The suburb boasts over 50 hectares of parkland, making it a paradise for outdoor lovers. It’s also home to some of Melbourne’s top-rated seafood restaurants, a thriving arts scene, and a bustling pier where you can take a ferry straight to the city.
For those looking for a perfect blend of tranquility and connectivity, Williamstown is an exceptional choice.
With an influx of new developments and increasing property demand, Moonee Ponds has become one of the best growing suburbs in Melbourne. Over the past five years, property values in the area have risen by nearly 20%, making it an attractive option for investors and homebuyers alike.
What makes Moonee Ponds special? It seamlessly blends modern conveniences with a suburban charm. The suburb boasts sprawling parks, top-rated schools, and a thriving café culture. According to recent data, the median house price in Moonee Ponds is around $1.2 million, with apartment prices averaging $620,000—still competitive compared to other inner-city suburbs.
Here’s a quick look at what makes Moonee Ponds stand out:
For families, professionals, and retirees, Moonee Ponds offers the best of both worlds—city convenience with suburban tranquility.
Kew is a premium suburb known for its prestigious schools, spacious homes, and leafy streets, making it one of the best family suburbs in Melbourne. It is home to some of Melbourne’s top private schools, including Xavier College and Methodist Ladies’ College.
Kew also boasts some of the best community facilities, with local farmer’s markets, boutique shopping, and a strong sense of community. The combination of elite education, lush parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere makes Kew a top-tier suburb for quality living.
For those who love city views and modern apartments, Docklands is an excellent choice. It’s one of the best places in Melbourne for luxury high-rise living. Home to iconic developments like the Marvel Stadium and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, Docklands offers breathtaking waterfront views, fine dining, and premium shopping experiences.
With stunning skyline views, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to the CBD, Docklands is a prime destination for those who want to experience city living at its finest.
Glen Waverley is one of the best Melbourne suburbs to live for families, offering top-rated schools, diverse dining options, and excellent transport links. With Glen Waverley Secondary College consistently ranking among Victoria’s top schools, families are drawn to this suburb for quality education. The area boasts The Glen Shopping Centre, home to over 200 stores, providing everything from luxury fashion to daily groceries.
Public transport is a breeze, with a well-connected train station offering direct access to the CBD. According to recent real estate reports, Glen Waverley has seen steady property growth, making it a sound investment for homeowners. Whether you're after a strong community vibe, lush parks, or modern conveniences, this suburb ticks all the right boxes.
With easy access to Westfield Doncaster and the Eastern Freeway, Doncaster is a rapidly growing suburb that appeals to both families and investors. Property prices in Doncaster have seen a steady rise over the past five years, making it a smart investment choice.
If you're looking for a balance between urban convenience and suburban peace, Doncaster is one of the best growing suburbs in Melbourne worth considering.
Ivanhoe is one of Melbourne’s most sought-after suburbs, offering a blend of history, greenery, and excellent education options.
1. What is the best area to live in Melbourne for families?
Camberwell, Kew, and Glen Waverley are top family-friendly suburbs with great schools and parks.
2. What are the best affordable suburbs in Melbourne?
Footscray, Preston, and Moonee Ponds offer affordability with great amenities.
3. Which suburbs are best for professionals in Melbourne?
Hawthorn, South Yarra, and Richmond provide a great mix of work-life balance.
4. What are the best growing suburbs in Melbourne?
Preston, Moonee Ponds, and Doncaster are rapidly developing and attracting more residents.
Melbourne’s suburbs offer a diverse range of lifestyles, from bustling cityscapes to tranquil family-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for affordability, luxury, or growth potential, there’s a best area to live in Melbourne that suits your needs.
If you’re planning to move, consider consulting an immigration agent for guidance. Melbourne offers diverse options, making it one of the best places to live in Australia.
