23 Jun 2025 10 Best Suburbs in Melbourne for Schools in 2025
Finding one of the best suburbs in Melbourne with good schools means looking beyond just shops or transport connections. For many families, it comes down to access to the best schools in the city.
In 2025, with more parents prioritising education over convenience, there’s a growing demand for homes in high-performing catchment areas. This guide explores the best suburbs in Melbourne for schools, where academic success, lifestyle appeal, and property value come together.
Planning a family move to the suburbs, renowned for outstanding schools? EverLend’s Melbourne mortgage brokers will guide you through home loan lender selection, rate negotiations, and custom loan structuring so you can focus on finding the perfect catchment-area property. Call (03) 7036 3356 today.
Top Melbourne Suburbs for Excellent Schools
If you’re searching for the best places to live that align with top educational opportunities, this section breaks it down, suburb by suburb. Each area offers a distinct blend of school access, lifestyle amenities, and family appeal.
#1. Glen Waverley
Topping our list is Glen Waverley, a thriving eastern suburb renowned for its academic pedigree and family-friendly vibe. Home to standout institutions like Glen Waverley Secondary College and Wesley College’s St. Leonard’s campus, it offers students a proven environment for success.
With direct access to the Glen Waverley train line, a comprehensive bus network and easy links to the Eastern Freeway, commuting is straightforward for students, families and professionals alike.
- Median house price: $1.52M
- Median unit price: $797K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.5%
- Family perks: The Glen shopping centre, train station, playgrounds, and a strong focus on education in the local culture.
#2. Balwyn
Balwyn is home to the high-performing Balwyn High School, making it a top choice for families focused on education. The suburb also offers wide, tree-lined streets, a calm residential atmosphere, and a strong sense of community.
- Median house price: $2.62M
- Median unit price: $750K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.2%
- Family perks: Great parks, library, and tram access.
#3. Camberwell
Camberwell offers a well-rounded mix of top public and private schools, including Camberwell Grammar and Camberwell High. This balance makes it ideal for families looking for flexibility in educational choices while enjoying the area’s village charm and leafy streets.
- Median house price: $2.59M
- Median unit price: $810K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.3%
- Family perks: Camberwell Junction, cafes, schools within walking distance.
#4. Kew
Kew is home to some of Melbourne’s most elite schools, including Xavier College, MLC, and Carey Grammar. Families are drawn to the suburb for its high educational standards, rich heritage, and easy access to both public and private transport options.
- Median house price: $2.81M
- Median unit price: $865K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.5%
- Family perks: Yarra trails, historic homes, tram lines. Includes access to private primary schools and several IB schools.
#5. Brighton
Brighton gives families access to top-tier private schools such as Brighton Grammar and Firbank Grammar. Combined with its relaxed beachside lifestyle, safe streets, and vibrant community, it’s an appealing choice for those wanting both strong education and coastal living.
- Median house price: $3.01M
- Median unit price: $1.01M
- Vacancy rate: ~1.4%
- Family perks: Beaches, cafes, safe and quiet streets. Home to some of the highest Edu Suburb Ratings in the state.
From comparing hundreds of lenders to streamlining applications and locking in the best loan terms, our Melbourne mortgage brokers at EverLend act as your personal advocates, ensuring you secure the ideal school-zone home with confidence. Call us at (03) 7036 3356 to schedule your no-obligation broker appointment now!
#6. Mount Waverley
Mount Waverley stands out for its high-performing Mount Waverley Secondary College, a strong drawcard for many families focused on education. The suburb also benefits from close proximity to Monash University, making it ideal for households with older students or those seeking long-term academic pathways.
- Median house price: $1.57M
- Median unit price: $850K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.4%
- Family perks: Playgrounds, good local bus lines. Close to Mount Dandenong Primary School and other public primary schools.
#7. Doncaster East
Doncaster East provides families with access to high-performing schools like Beverley Hills Primary School and East Doncaster Secondary College. With strong academic outcomes and well-regarded school catchment areas, the suburb is a reliable choice for parents seeking long-term educational stability.
- Median house price: $1.55M
- Median unit price: $870K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.3%
- Family perks: Ruffey Lake Park, community centres, family homes. Close to Doncaster Park and Ride.
#8. Box Hill
Box Hill offers a mix of multicultural schooling options that cater to a wide range of family needs and learning styles. Its well-connected transport links make it convenient for students commuting to nearby secondary schools, universities, and tutoring centres.
- Median house price: $1.49M
- Median unit price: $765K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.6%
- Family perks: Library, parks, hospital precinct. Close to vertical schools and coaching centres, such as tutor music teacher coaching school hubs.
#9. Williamstown
Williamstown brings a unique blend of historic charm and coastal living, making it a standout choice for families and professionals alike. Its well-regarded schools, from Williamstown Primary to Williamstown High School, benefit from close proximity to landmark attractions like the Williamstown Botanic Gardens and the bustling Ferguson Street café precinct.
Students and commuters enjoy two train stations on the Werribee line, plus regular bus services and even a direct ferry link to the CBD, ensuring smooth daily journeys..
- Median house price: $1.55M
- Median unit price: $735K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.4%
- Family perks: The Strand, cafes, parks by the bay. Proximity to recreational areas like Dinosaur Park Reserve and Canterbury Park Racecourse.
#10. Northcote
Northcote is a vibrant and creative suburb that offers excellent access to public schools, making it a smart choice for education-minded families. Its close proximity to the CBD, combined with a strong sense of community and local culture, adds to its appeal for parents and students alike.
- Median house price: $1.62M
- Median unit price: $715K
- Vacancy rate: ~1.5%
- Family perks: Parks, bike trails, close to the CBD. Appeals to families valuing lifestyle amenities and public school zones.
Ready to buy in one of Melbourne’s top school catchments? Partner with EverLend’s Melbourne mortgage brokers to fast-track your mortgage pre-approval, unlock exclusive loan packages, and gain the competitive edge in hot markets. Call us at (03) 7036 3356 to book your free broker consult now!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Melbourne suburb has the best schools?
Glen Waverley is highly regarded, thanks to Glen Waverley Secondary College. Kew, Balwyn, and Camberwell also offer excellent education options.
Which suburb is best for families in Melbourne?
Balwyn stands out for its parks, public transport, and strong school performance. Mount Waverley and Doncaster East are also popular among families.
What is the best suburb to live in Melbourne for students?
Parkville, Carlton, and Hawthorn offer great access to universities, public transport, and student-friendly amenities.
What are the top 5 schools in Melbourne?
Melbourne is home to several standout public schools that consistently rank highly for academic results. These schools are often located in sought-after suburbs within tightly held school zones and include:
- Glen Waverley Secondary College
- Melbourne High School
- Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School
- Balwyn High School
- University High School
Are public schools in Melbourne good?
Yes. Many public schools are competitive with private schools and perform very well in state-wide academic results.
How do I find a property within a school zone?
You can check government catchment maps or speak with Everlend’s home loan brokers in Melbourne, who can guide you through properties that fall within top school zones.
Is it worth investing in a school zone?
Absolutely. School zones tend to attract steady demand, deliver stronger capital growth, and hold lower vacancy rates.
Conclusion
In 2025, these top 10 suburbs in Melbourne for schools offer more than just accessibility to academic excellence; they provide a community, lifestyle, and future value. Whether you’re looking to settle near a public high school, secure a spot in a selective secondary college, or invest in a suburb with consistent house price growth, choosing the right location is key.
Everlend’s mortgage brokers in Melbourne can help you navigate finance options tailored for buying within school catchment zones. Our brokers are experts in structuring loans that can maximise your borrowing power for easy mortgage approval.
Call (03) 7036 3356 or visit www.everlend.com.au to schedule a free chat with our brokers.