Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Live in Melbourne Australia Introduction
Welcome To The Ultimate Guide to the Best Neighborhoods To Live In Melbourne Australia! We are Full time digital nomads who have lived in Australia for a while! so we wanted to help you to understand where are the best places to live in Melbourne!
We will explore Melbourne’s Best Neighborhoods to Call Home, tell you what you should know about the best neighborhoods in Melbourne, and share videos that can help you find the best areas to live in.
Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and laid-back charm.
From its world-famous streets decorated with street art to its trendy cafes serving up some of the best coffee on the planet, this city has something for everyone.
But where should you call home?
We’ll explore the unique qualities, pros, and cons of living in different areas of Melbourne for expats.
You’ll discover insider tips and resources to evaluate if each location suits your expat dreams.
We spent $2,200 – $2,600 per month living in Australia for both of us, and we will break down different neighborhoods based on our experiences.
Table of Contents
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10 Top Reasons to Live in Melbourne Australia
- Foodie’s Paradise: Melbourne is a haven for food lovers, with an incredible range of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks serving up diverse cuisines from all around the world.
- Cultural Hub: From world-class art galleries and museums to festivals and live music events, Melbourne’s cultural scene is unparalleled.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: With beautiful parks, gardens, and beaches within close range, Melburnians can enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle year–round.
- Vibrant Street Art: Melbourne’s laneways are decorated with stunning street art, creating an ever-changing outdoor gallery that adds to the city’s unique character.
- Coffee Culture: Melbourne is known for its exceptional coffee scene, with many quirky cafes serving up some of the best brews in the world.
- Shopping Galore: From high-end fashion boutiques to quirky markets, Melbourne’s shopping scene caters to every taste and budget.
- Excellent Public Transportation: Melbourne’s efficient public transportation system, including trams, trains, and buses, makes getting around the city a breeze.
- Sporting Events: Whether you’re a fan of Australian Rules Football, cricket, tennis, or Formula 1 racing, Melbourne hosts some of the world’s biggest sporting events.
- Diverse Neighborhoods: From the trendy inner-city suburbs to the leafy outer suburbs, Melbourne offers many neighborhoods to suit every lifestyle.
- Welcoming Community: Melbourne is a multicultural city with a friendly and welcoming community, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
Cultural Considerations in Melbourne Australia
- Multiculturalism: Melbourne is a melting pot of cultures, and respecting and embracing diversity is essential.
- Relaxed Lifestyle: Melburnians value a laid-back and balanced lifestyle, so don’t be too uptight or rushed.
- Coffee Culture: Coffee is more than just a beverage in Melbourne; it’s a way of life. Be prepared to learn about the city’s obsession with quality coffee.
- Sports Enthusiasm: Sports, particularly Australian Rules Football (AFL) and cricket, are deeply embedded in Melbourne’s culture. It’s worth learning about popular sports to better mix with the locals.
- Environmental Consciousness: Melburnians take pride in their clean and green city, so being environmentally conscious is highly valued.
- Artistic Appreciation: Melbourne is well known for its vibrant arts scene, so supporting local artists and cultural events is encouraged.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: With Melbourne’s mild climate and abundance of parks and beaches, outdoor activities are an important part of the city’s culture.
General Cost of Living in Melbourne Australia Breakdown:
| General Cost of Living in Melbourne Australia Category | Item | Cost Range per month (USD) | Cost Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing in Melbourne | Basic 1-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $1,200 – $2,000 | $1,800 – $3,000 |
| 2-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $1,800 – $3,200 | $2,700 – $4,800 | |
| 3-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $2,500 – $4,500 | $3,750 – $6,750 | |
| 3-4 bedroom villa (compound living) per month | $3,000 – $5,000 | $4,500 – $7,500 | |
| Utilities (electricity, AC, water) for a family | $100 – $300 | $150 – $450 | |
| Internet Plan | $30 – $100 | $45 – $150 | |
| Food in Melbourne | Local and imported groceries for a family per month | $400 – $800 | $600 – $1,200 |
| Dining out 2-3 times a week | $200 – $500 | $300 – $750 | |
| Cheap street food and fast food per meal | $5 – $15 | $7.50 – $22.50 | |
| Transportation in Melbourne | Public Transport (Bus/Train/Tram) | $2 – $5 per trip | $3 – $7.50 per trip |
| Monthly Transport Pass (Myki Card) | $100 – $200 | $150 – $300 | |
| Fuel | (per gallon) | $3.50 – $5 | $5.25 – $7.50 |
| Car Maintenance and Insurance | $100 – $300 | $150 – $450 | |
| Taxi | (per ride) | $10 – $30 | $15 – $45 |
| Rental Car | (per day) | $30 – $80 | $45 – $120 |
| Domestic flight | (Melbourne to Sydney) | $100 – $300 | $150 – $450 |
| Entertainment | attending cultural events (concerts/theater performances) museums/galleries, recreational activities– visiting parks/ sports events | $200 – $500 | $300 – $750 |
| Total Monthly Cost of Living in Melbourne Australia for Expats | $2,500 – $6,000 | $3,750 – $9,000 |
Notes:
- Consider staying in a flatshare to save $$
- Share housing can be found on flatmate finders and Facebook groups if you’re looking to save more money on rent
- Weekly rent for 1 bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around $300 – $400
- You can find a studio for as low as $280 depending on the area
- Carlton is a good area where you can find cheap studios to rent
- If you are looking for cheaper rent, a house, or be able to stay with your pets, it’s best to get out of the city and search for places in the suburbs
- You can find a 3-bedroom house for as low as $400 in Maribyrnong or in Northgate a 2-bedroom apartment can cost as low as $350 and it’s not too far from the city either.
- Transport is good but you need to purchase a Myki pass, both full fare and concession.
- You can top it up with Myki $$ or Myki pass – this helps save $$ and you can even top up on your phone if you have an Android phone using the Google Pay store.
- A full Myki pass has a monthly cost of $155 or yearly will be around $1,800
- Disclaimer: Alcohol cannot be purchased in Australian supermarkets.
Pros and Cons Of Living in Melbourne Australia for Expats
| Location | Neighborhoods | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner City | Melbourne CBD, Docklands, Southbank, Carlton, Fitzroy, Collingwood, Richmond | – Vibrant, lively atmosphere – Excellent public transportation – Close to major attractions and amenities – Diverse dining and entertainment options | – Higher living costs – More noise and congestion – Limited green spaces – Parking can be challenging |
| Bayside Suburbs | St Kilda, Port Melbourne, Elwood, Albert Park, Middle Park, South Melbourne, Sandringham, Black Rock, Hampton, Brighton | – Close to beaches and waterfront – Laid-back, coastal lifestyle – Excellent cafes and restaurants – Good public transportation links | – Higher housing costs in some areas – Limited nightlife in some suburbs – Traffic congestion in peak hours |
| Inner East | Hawthorn, Richmond, South Yarra, Toorak | – Wealthy and prestigious areas – Excellent shopping and dining – Good public transportation links – Tree-lined streets and parks | – Very high housing costs – Traffic congestion during peak hours – Limited nightlife in some areas |
| Inner North | Brunswick, Carlton, Fitzroy, Collingwood, Northcote | – Trendy, vibrant neighborhoods – Excellent dining and entertainment options – Good public transportation links – Diverse culture and arts scene | – Higher housing costs – Noise and congestion in some areas – Limited parking in some areas |
| South East | Caulfield, Clayton, Oakleigh, Murrumbeena | – More affordable housing options – Good access to universities and hospitals – Multicultural communities – Good public transportation links | – Fewer dining and entertainment options – Less vibrant atmosphere than inner city – Traffic congestion during peak hours |
| West | Footscray, Williamstown, Seaholme, Yarraville | – More affordable housing options – Good access to the city via public transportation – Close to the Maribyrnong River and parks – Diverse multicultural communities | – Limited dining and entertainment options – Some industrial areas nearby – Traffic congestion during peak hours |
27 Top Neighborhoods in Melbourne Australia for Expats
Inner City Neighborhoods
| Best Neighborhoods for Expats | Description | Estimated Rent Range (USD) | Estimated Rent Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne CBD | The central business district offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and public transportation. However, it can be noisy and crowded. | $1,500 – $3,500 | $2,250 – $5,250 |
| Docklands | A modern waterfront precinct with excellent amenities, but you may feel isolated from the rest of the city. | $1,800 – $4,000 | $2,700 – $6,000 |
| Southbank | A stylish neighborhood with high-rise apartments, restaurants, and proximity to the CBD. However, it can be crowded and lacks green spaces. | $1,700 – $3,500 | $2,550 – $5,250 |
| Carlton | A charming inner-city neighborhood with tree-lined streets, parks, and excellent access to the CBD. However, it can be crowded and parking is limited. | $1,300 – $2,500 | $1,950 – $3,750 |
| Fitzroy | A hip and artistic inner-city suburb with a vibrant cafe culture and diverse community. However, it can be noisy and parking is limited. | $1,400 – $2,700 | $2,100 – $4,050 |
| Richmond | A vibrant and diverse inner-city suburb with excellent dining, nightlife, and street art. However, it can be noisy and parking is limited. | $1,400 – $2,800 | $2,100 – $4,200 |
| Collingwood | A trendy inner-city suburb with a vibrant arts and cafe culture. Can be noisy and parking is limited. | $1,400 – $2,700 | $2,100 – $4,050 |
| South Melbourne | A lively neighborhood close to the CBD with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Good for young professionals. | $1,500 – $3,000 | $2,250 – $4,500 |
| Albert Park | A trendy inner-city suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas, close to the CBD and beaches. | $1,600 – $3,200 | $2,400 – $4,800 |
Bayside and Southeastern Suburbs
| Best Neighborhoods for Expats | Description | Estimated Rent Range (USD) | Estimated Rent Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Kilda | A trendy beachside suburb with a lively atmosphere, nightlife, and diverse dining options. However, it can be noisy and crowded during peak seasons. | $1,300 – $2,800 | $1,950 – $4,200 |
| Port Melbourne | A trendy and lively bayside suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Good for young professionals, but can be noisy. | $1,300 – $2,500 | $1,950 – $3,750 |
| Bayside Suburbs (Brighton, Hampton, Sandringham, Black Rock) | Upscale beachside suburbs with a relaxed, coastal lifestyle. Excellent for families and retirees, but can be expensive. | $1,500 – $3,500 | $2,250 – $5,250 |
| Elwood | A beachside suburb with a relaxed vibe and good access to the city. Housing can be expensive. | $1,400 – $2,800 | $2,100 – $4,200 |
| Sandringham | An upscale bayside suburb with excellent beaches and a relaxed lifestyle. Housing costs are high. | $1,600 – $3,200 | $2,400 – $4,800 |
| Black Rock | A peaceful bayside suburb with good beaches and parks. Limited amenities and farther from the city. | $1,500 – $3,000 | $2,250 – $4,500 |
| Brighton | A reputable bayside suburb with excellent beaches and amenities. Housing costs are very high. | $2,000 – $4,000 | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Hampton | An upscale bayside suburb with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and good amenities. | $1,700 – $3,300 | $2,550 – $4,950 |
| Caulfield | A residential suburb with good access to universities and healthcare facilities. More affordable, but fewer dining/entertainment options. | $1,200 – $2,400 | $1,800 – $3,600 |
Inner Eastern and Western Suburbs
| Best Neighborhoods for Expats | Description | Estimated Rent Range (USD) | Estimated Rent Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Yarra | A rich suburb with high-end shopping, dining, and a lively social scene. However, it can be expensive and crowded. | $1,800 – $3,500 | $2,700 – $5,250 |
| Hawthorn | A leafy, wealthy suburb with excellent amenities and a village-like feel. Perfect for families, but housing costs are high. | $1,800 – $3,500 | $2,700 – $5,250 |
| Toorak | An exclusive, affluent suburb with luxurious homes and high-end shopping. One of the most expensive areas in Melbourne. | $2,500 – $5,000 | $3,750 – $7,500 |
| Brunswick | A trendy and artistic suburb with a laid-back vibe, great cafes, and good public transportation links. However, it can be noisy and crowded. | $1,200 – $2,500 | $1,800 – $3,750 |
| Footscray | A diverse and multicultural suburb with affordable housing options and good public transportation links. However, it can be noisy and some areas are industrial. | $1,000 – $2,000 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Williamstown | A charming bayside suburb with a village-like atmosphere, historic buildings, and proximity to the city. However, it can be expensive, and public transportation is limited. | $1,400 – $3,000 | $2,100 – $4,500 |
| Seaholme | A quiet, family-friendly bayside suburb with good parks and beaches. Limited amenities and public transportation. | $1,200 – $2,500 | $1,800 – $3,750 |
| Clayton | A suburban area with good access to universities and hospitals. More affordable housing options but limited amenities. | $1,100 – $2,200 | $1,650 – $3,300 |
Health Insurance While Living in Melbourne Australia
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to protect against any unexpected incidents when visiting Australia. SafetyWing is an excellent option tailored to global travelers and digital nomads.
Why Choose SafetyWing?
SafetyWing makes travel insurance easy and affordable at just $45 – $250/month. Here are some key reasons to consider it:
- Global coverage including exotic destinations
- Flexible policies fit nomadic lifestyles
- Easy sign-up and claims from phone/computer
- Covers medical, evacuations, disruptions, baggage, etc.
- 24/7 customer support anywhere
- Customizable coverage amounts and add-ons
Other Travel Insurance Options
While SafetyWing is a top choice, companies like WorldNomads, Cigna Global, and IMG also offer comprehensive travel insurance for Australia. Typical policies range from $45 – $500 for 2 weeks to a month of coverage. Compare coverage and premium costs.
Some key considerations for finding a good insurance policy:
- Emergency medical and evacuation
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost/delayed baggage
- Adventure sports coverage
- Altitude sickness coverage
- 24/7 emergency assistance
Australia Insurance Cost Estimates
| Insurance Plan | Trip Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| SafetyWing | 1 month | $45 – $250 |
| WorldNomads | 2 weeks | $100 – $200 |
| Cigna Global | 1 month | $150 – $300 |
| IMG | 2 weeks | $150 – $250 |
Living in Melbourne Australia As an Expat Overall
Expats can expect a monthly budget between $2,500 – $6,000 USD ($3,750 – $9,000 AUD) to live comfortably in Melbourne.
Basic utilities cost per month around $100 – $300 USD ($150 – $450 AUD).
- This typically covers electricity, water, gas, and internet.
- Electricity can cost around $100 a month as a couple – ($30) water, heater, electric stove included in this price.
- Around $30 or higher for a prepaid phone plan
- Wifi– $75 for unlimited broadband internet
Food:
- Groceries are around $400 – $800 USD ($600 – $1,200 AUD) per month for one or two people.
- Markets offer affordable local produce like veggies, cheese, eggs, etc. Imported items cost more.
- The cheapest way to eat is to cook at home and eat out only on occasion.
- Recommended supermarkets: Coles, Farmers’ Market, Aldi, and Woolworths
- Aldi is the cheapest option but look for discounts and sales at the other supermarkets too
- Eating out costs $15 – $30 USD ($22.50 – $45 AUD) per meal at local restaurants and if you eat out frequently it can cost as much as $500 – $800 USD ($750 – $1,200 AUD) per month.
- Best street/local food options: Enjoy delicious and affordable options like
- souvlaki ($6 – $12 USD / $9 – $18 AUD)
- banh mi ($4 – $8 USD / $6 – $12 AUD)
- meat pies ($3 – $6 USD / $4.50 – $9 AUD).
Housing:
- Rent for nice 1-2 bedroom apartments averages $1,200 – $2,500 USD ($1,800 – $3,750 AUD) per month.
- Upscale 3-4 bedroom serviced apartments or houses cost $2,500 – $5,000 USD ($3,750 – $7,500 AUD) per month.
- Short-term accommodations are $50 – $120 USD ($75 – $180 AUD) per night on Airbnb for a 1-bedroom apartment.
Healthcare and Hospitals:
Australia has an advanced healthcare system providing affordable medical care.
Private healthcare and insurance run around $100 – $300 USD ($150 – $450 AUD) per month.
Consider travel insurance like Safetywing or World Nomads with plans starting at $45 USD / $67.50 AUD per month.
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation:
- Best Activities: Explore street art in laneways, visit museums and galleries, attend festivals and events, go hiking or to the beach.
- Nightlife: Lively bar and club scene in areas like CBD, Richmond, and St Kilda.
- Local Culture: Embrace coffee culture, Australian Rules Football, and a laid-back outdoor lifestyle.
- Recreational Activities: Sports like tennis, golf, and surfing are popular.
- Expect to pay $10 – $50 USD ($15 – $75 AUD) per activity.
Transport in Australia:
- A car rental can cost $500 – $1,000 USD ($750 – $1,500 AUD) per month.
- Taxis/ridesharing apps cost around $10 – $30 USD ($15 – $45 AUD) per short trip.
- Expect to spend $100 – $300 USD ($150 – $450 AUD) per month on gas + additional car expenses.
- On average as gas costs $3.50 – $5 USD ($5.25 – $7.50 AUD) per gallon for fuel.
Misc Costs + Shopping expenses: $200 – $500 USD ($300 – $750 AUD) per month.
- Cinema tickets cost around $20 – $25
Pros:
- A vibrant multicultural city with an excellent food and coffee scene
- Mild climate and close to beaches and outdoor activities
- World-class healthcare and education system
- Excellent public transportation network
Cons:
- High cost of living, especially for housing
- Traffic congestion and limited parking in some areas
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options in certain suburbs
- Natural disasters like bushfires and droughts can be a concern
Best Neighborhoods in Melbourne Australia for Families, Singles, Retirees
Tailored recommendations for different lifestyles, catering to families, singles, and retirees in Australia.
| Best Neighborhoods in Melbourne Australia By Group | Best Places in Melbourne | Why It’s Best |
|---|---|---|
| Families | Hawthorn, Kew, Brighton, Hampton | – Safe, family-friendly neighborhoods with excellent schools and amenities – Plenty of parks, playgrounds, and recreational activities – Good public transportation links to the city center |
| Bayside suburbs like Sandringham, Black Rock | – Beachside living with a relaxed vibe – Great outdoor activities like swimming, cycling, and walking trails – Good community feel | |
| Singles | Melbourne CBD, Fitzroy, Collingwood, Richmond, St Kilda | – Vibrant nightlife, dining, and entertainment scenes – Plenty of young professionals and social opportunities – Good public transportation and walkability |
| Southbank, Docklands | – Modern apartments with excellent amenities – Close to the city center and attractions – Good for young professionals and students | |
| Retirees | Brighton, Hampton, Sandringham, Williamstown | – Peaceful, low-density suburbs with a relaxed pace – Close to beaches, parks, and golf courses – Good healthcare facilities and services nearby |
| Hawthorn, Camberwell, Kew | – Leafy, well-established suburbs with a village-like feel – Excellent amenities and dining options – Good public transportation links to the city center |
Additional Tips:
For Families:
- Consider suburbs with good public and private school options
- Look for areas with family-friendly parks, playgrounds, and community centers
- Prioritize safety, amenities, and proximity to healthcare facilities
For Singles:
- Focus on areas with a lively social scene, nightlife, and dining options
- Look for neighborhoods with good public transportation and walkability
- Consider areas with tons of young professionals and students
For Retirees:
- Prioritize suburbs with a peaceful atmosphere and good healthcare facilities
- Look for areas with easy access to parks, beaches, and recreational activities
- Consider suburbs with good public transportation links to the city center
Tips on Moving Banking and Finding Housing in Melbourne Australia
Here are helpful tips on finding accommodations, navigating the housing market, moving your stuff, and making your time in Melbourne as comfortable as possible.
| Tips on Living in Melbourne Australia | Tips for Expats | Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Finding Housing | – Use popular rental websites like rent.com.au and realestate.com.au – For short-term stays, consider Airbnb monthly rentals – Be prepared for a competitive rental market and high-demand – Have all necessary documents ready (employment details, references, etc.) – Understand the process for paying a rental bond/security deposit | –Rent.com.au (local site) –Real Estate.com.au –Airbnb Monthly |
| Shipping Belongings | – Research reputable international moving companies – Get quotes from multiple companies and compare services – Understand customs regulations and any duties/taxes – Consider shipping vs. buying new items locally – Allow enough time for overseas shipping | – Allied Pickfords – Crown Relocations – Seven Seas Worldwide |
| Banking and Money Transfers | – Open a local bank account as soon as possible – Use digital money transfer services for lower fees – Understand tax implications for foreign income/assets – Get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees | –Wise |
| Visas | – Determine the correct visa type for your situation – Gather all required documents and meet eligibility criteria – Allow enough processing time for visa applications – Understand visa conditions and any work/study restrictions | –Australian Immigration Website –Australian Visa Wizard |
Here is a list of local apartment rental websites, Government resources for Visas, Facebook Groups, Tourism Boards, and more to help you with your potential move here.
Expat Facebook Groups:
Australia Tourism Board:
Australia Data Sites:
Embassy of Australia:
Australia Local Rental Websites:
- Rent.com.au (local site)
- Real Estate.com.au
- Airbnb Monthly for Melbourne
- Airbnb – Australia Overall
- For exchanging money use Wise Which is the best option if you are a digital nomad and Expat. a cheaper option to send and receive money internationally rather than exchanging money through other platforms like Paypal, Payoneer costs a lot of money for exchange fees and rates
- Booking Flights: To Find insane flight deals, search on Google Flights, and Skyscanner and choose the monthly option to find the best day to fly.
Conclusion Of The Best Neighborhoods To Live In Melbourne Australia
Melbourne, the cultural gem of Australia, offers a wide range of neighborhoods that cater to every lifestyle.
From the busy urban core to the laid-back bayside suburbs, this city has something for everyone and today we discussed 27 of them to help you get started.
Whether you’re a young professional looking for a vibrant social scene, a family in search of a safe and family-friendly environment, or a retiree drawn to the quietness of coastal living, Melbourne’s diverse neighborhoods has got you covered.
Embrace the city’s beautiful charm, indulge in its delicious food, and immerse yourself in the cultures that make this city truly one-of-a-kind.
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