05 Aug 2025 From Inner City to Coastal: The 15 Most Liveable Suburbs in Melbourne (2025)
Choosing where to live is one of life’s biggest decisions, and in 2025, more people than ever are looking toward Melbourne for its lifestyle, diversity, and mix of inner-city buzz and quiet neighbourhood charm.
The most liveable suburbs in Melbourne offer a balance of essentials, easy access to public transport, quality schools, green spaces, low crime rates, and strong community facilities. Whether you’re raising a family, working from home, or simply craving better walkability and recreational options, Melbourne continues to tick the right boxes for homebuyers across all life stages.
From trendy urban pockets to leafy, peaceful streets, it’s easy to see why so many are calling this city home.
Let’s break down our top picks of Melbourne’s most liveable suburbs in 2025.
Ready to Call Melbourne’s Most Liveable Suburbs Home? Let EverLend’s expert Melbourne mortgage brokers help you secure the right loan for your perfect postcode. Call us today at 03 7036 3356 to book a free consultation.
1. Fitzroy North – Best Overall Suburb to Live in Melbourne
Fitzroy North blends village charm with inner-city convenience, making it a standout among Melbourne’s most liveable suburbs. Locals enjoy access to Merri Creek, Edinburgh Gardens, and vibrant spots like Brunswick Street and Lygon Street.
The suburb is well-connected with multiple tram routes and bike paths leading straight to the CBD. Its proximity to Melbourne University, Cinema Nova, and strong green space access make it ideal for families, professionals, and creatives alike.
- Median House Price: $1.55 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $675
- Rental Yield (%): 2.3%
- Population Growth: +5.8% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: High – proximity to top public and independent schools
2. Canterbury – Peaceful, Leafy, and Family-Friendly
Canterbury is one of Melbourne’s most elegant and family-friendly suburbs, known for its tree-lined streets, heritage homes, and prestigious schools. Locals enjoy green spaces like Canterbury Gardens and the Anniversary Trail, perfect for walking and cycling.
It offers access to top schools like Camberwell Grammar and Strathcona, making it a smart choice for families prioritising education. Despite being just 10 km from the CBD, Canterbury feels peaceful and far removed from the city buzz.
- Median House Price: $2.6 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $980
- Rental Yield (%): 2.0%
- Population Growth: +3.2% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Very High – access to Melbourne’s top private and public schools
3. Flemington – Great Public Transport and Diversity
Flemington is one of Melbourne’s most diverse and well-connected suburbs, known for its affordability, vibrant culture, and excellent public transport. Beyond the famous Flemington Racecourse, locals enjoy global eateries, a buzzing food scene, and a strong sense of community.
Its close proximity to Victoria University, the CBD, and major train lines makes it ideal for students, professionals, and young families. Leafy streets, period homes, and access to the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail add to its growing lifestyle appeal.
- Median House Price: $1.15 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $580
- Rental Yield (%): 2.6%
- Population Growth: +6.1% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Moderate – mix of local public and private schools
4. West Melbourne – Urban Convenience Meets Quiet Living
West Melbourne offers a rare mix of CBD convenience and a peaceful, residential feel. With wide streets, heritage terraces, and trendy warehouse conversions, it’s become a quiet favourite for professionals and downsizers.
Locals enjoy easy access to Victoria Harbour, Flagstaff Gardens, and Southern Cross Station, putting the city at their doorstep. Ongoing urban upgrades and strong walkability make it one of Melbourne’s most liveable inner suburbs.
- Median House Price: $1.4 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $670
- Rental Yield (%): 2.5%
- Population Growth: +7.4% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Moderate – growing access to primary and secondary options
5. Hawthorn – Historic Charm with Modern Lifestyle
Hawthorn blends heritage charm with everyday convenience, making it one of Melbourne’s most desirable suburbs. It’s home to grand period homes, leafy streets, and riverside trails along the Yarra River.
Locals enjoy vibrant shopping, cafes like Hawker Hall, and easy CBD access via trams and trains. With Swinburne University, top schools, and great community facilities, Hawthorn suits families, students, and professionals alike.
- Median House Price: $2.2 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $890
- Rental Yield (%): 2.1%
- Population Growth: +4.6% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Very High – Scotch College, MLC, and excellent public schools nearby
Unsure Which Suburb Fits Your Budget? We’ll Help You Make It Work. Our experienced Melbourne mortgage brokers at EverLend match your finances with the right loan, so you can settle in the suburb that suits your lifestyle and goals. Call 03 7036 3356 for a free consultation.
6. South Yarra – Trendy, Connected, and High-End
South Yarra is one of the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne, offering a mix of luxury, lifestyle, and unbeatable location. Locals enjoy Chapel Street shopping, fine dining, and riverside walks near the Royal Botanic Gardens.
With excellent public transport access and iconic spots like Lune Croissanterie, it’s ideal for professionals, singles, and downsizers. Stylish and well-connected, South Yarra delivers inner-city living with a premium edge.
- Median House Price: $2.1 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $950
- Rental Yield (%): 2.3%
- Population Growth: +6.9% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: High – close to Melbourne High School and private school options
7. Northcote – Creative Vibes and Great Schools
Northcote is one of the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne, known for its blend of creativity, green space, and family appeal. With Merri Creek Trail, live music venues, and quirky cafés, it strikes the perfect balance between lifestyle and culture.
Excellent public transport access and strong local schools make it ideal for young families and professionals alike. Even as it grows, Northcote keeps its indie charm and strong community vibe.
- Median House Price: $1.56 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $720
- Rental Yield (%): 2.4%
- Population Growth: +5.4% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: High – access to sought-after schools and early learning centres
8. Brunswick – Young, Lively, and Well-Connected
Brunswick is one of those Melbourne suburbs that never go out of style, young, lively, and full of character. From late-night eats on Sydney Road to gigs on Brunswick Street, it’s a hub for students, artists, and creatives.
The suburb is packed with vintage shops, breweries, and great vegan food, all supported by strong public transport access. With Melbourne University, Lygon Street, and Princes Park nearby, Brunswick offers energy and green space in equal measure.
- Median House Price: $1.25 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $690
- Rental Yield (%): 2.9%
- Population Growth: +6.3% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Moderate – mix of local public schools and access to nearby private institutions
9. Coburg – Affordable and Up-and-Coming
Coburg is quickly becoming one of the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne, offering a great mix of affordability, culture, and community spirit. Once quiet, it’s now buzzing with new cafés, bars, and creative spaces, plus access to Coburg Lake and the Merri Creek trail.
It’s a smart pick for young families and first-home buyers wanting room to grow close to the city. With strong public transport access and links to Moonee Ponds and Brunswick, Coburg is a rising star in the inner north.
- Median House Price: $1.05 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $630
- Rental Yield (%): 3.1%
- Population Growth: +7.6% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Moderate – mix of public and independent schools, with steady improvement
10. Essendon – Spacious, Safe, and Suburban
Essendon offers a peaceful, leafy vibe in Melbourne’s inner north-west, perfect for families wanting space and convenience. With Woodlands Park, period homes, and wide streets, it blends charm with practicality.
Excellent schools, a low crime rate, and easy public transport access via Essendon Station make everyday life a breeze. Add in a thriving café scene and nearby Moonee Ponds, and it’s easy to see why Essendon keeps growing in popularity.
- Median House Price: $1.6 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $750
- Rental Yield (%): 2.4%
- Population Growth: +4.9% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: High – top-performing public and private schools in the area
Found Your Dream Melbourne Suburb? Let’s Get Your Loan Approved. At EverLend, we don’t just talk numbers. We explain your loan options clearly and help you feel confident about your next move. Call us today at 03 7036 3356 to get started.
11. Camberwell – Classic Suburbia with Top Schools
Camberwell is a long-time favourite for families, offering leafy streets, elegant homes, and some of Melbourne’s top schools. It blends classic suburban charm with great connections, such as trams, trains, and an easy city commute.
Locals love weekends at Camberwell Market, relaxing in Fritsch Holzer Park, or dining along Burke Road. With low crime rates, strong schools, and excellent community facilities, Camberwell remains one of the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne.
- Median House Price: $2.4 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $920
- Rental Yield (%): 2.0%
- Population Growth: +3.5% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Very High – Camberwell High, Canterbury Girls’, private school options nearby
12. Balwyn – Education-Focused and Family-Oriented
Balwyn is a premium suburb that draws families who value education, space, and community. Known for its leafy streets and spacious homes, it offers a calm, well-kept lifestyle just 10 km from the CBD.
Sitting in the sought-after Balwyn High School zone, it’s a top choice for both local and international buyers. With green spaces, upscale cafés, and access to Wilson Botanic Park, Balwyn stands tall as one of the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne.
- Median House Price: $2.6 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $970
- Rental Yield (%): 2.0%
- Population Growth: +4.1% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Very High – Balwyn High, Fintona Girls’, and nearby private institutions
13. Richmond – Close to City, Packed with Culture
Richmond is all about inner-city energy, sitting just 3 km from the CBD with culture, food, and sport at every corner. From footy at the MCG to street art in Hosier Lane, it’s a suburb that never slows down.
With Richmond Station and multiple trams, getting around is easy, whether you’re commuting or exploring. Add riverside walks along the Yarra River and shopping at Victoria Gardens, and it’s clear why Richmond remains one of the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne.
- Median House Price: $1.7 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $820
- Rental Yield (%): 2.5%
- Population Growth: +6.7% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Moderate – a mix of primary schools and access to nearby elite schools
14. Carlton – Historic, Walkable, and Student-Friendly
Carlton blends historic charm with a vibrant, academic energy, making it a favourite just north of the CBD. It’s home to Lygon Street, Melbourne’s Little Italy, where cafes and gelato spots are always buzzing.
With landmarks like the Melbourne Museum, Royal Exhibition Building, and Carlton Gardens, culture is on every corner. Add in top universities, excellent public transport, and walkability, and it’s no surprise Carlton ranks among the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne.
- Median House Price: $1.45 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $710
- Rental Yield (%): 2.6%
- Population Growth: +5.2% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Moderate – strong tertiary access, limited primary/secondary school options
15. Brighton – Coastal Luxury and Top Amenities
Brighton is the definition of beachside luxury, offering ocean views, grand homes, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle just 11 km from the city. Famous for its colourful Brighton Beach bathing boxes and leafy streets, it’s perfect for those chasing prestige and peace.
Locals enjoy fine dining, boutique shopping, and scenic walks along the Bay Trail. With elite schools, green spaces, and a low crime rate, Brighton remains one of the most liveable suburbs in Melbourne in 2025.
- Median House Price: $3.6 million
- Median Weekly Rent: $1,250
- Rental Yield (%): 1.8%
- Population Growth: +2.7% (past 5 years)
- School Quality Index: Very High – Brighton Grammar, Firbank Grammar, and top public options nearby
Sources: Domain, CoreLogic, Realestate.com.au. Please note that prices tend to fluctuate over time. It’s always best to consult with your real estate agent for the latest market values.
Mortgage Advice That Moves With You, Wherever You Choose to Live in Melbourne. From start to pre-approval to settlement, EverLend Melbourne brokers make sure your loan aligns with your lifestyle, suburb, and future plans. Book your free consultation today by calling 03 7036 3356.
FAQs
What are the safest suburbs in Melbourne 2025?
Canterbury, Balwyn, and Camberwell rank highest for low crime rates and family-friendly environments. For the complete list, please check out our guide here. Safest Suburbs in Melbourne
Which Melbourne suburbs are best for families?
Look at suburbs with good schools and parks like Canterbury, Essendon, and Camberwell. Find the complete list here: Best Suburbs in Melbourne for Families
What’s the average rental price in inner-city Melbourne?
Expect around $600–$800/week depending on suburb and property type.
What’s the best suburb near Melbourne University?
Carlton and North Melbourne are closest, with excellent access to University of Melbourne and public transport.
Are Melbourne’s coastal suburbs like Brighton worth the price?
If you value views, prestige, and beachside living, Brighton delivers on all fronts—if you can afford it.
Which suburbs have the best access to green spaces?
Fitzroy North (near Merri Creek), South Yarra (Botanic Gardens), and Carlton (Princes Park) shine in this department.
Final Thoughts
Melbourne continues to shine as one of the most liveable cities in the world, and its suburbs are a big part of what makes it so appealing. Whether you’re drawn to the creative streets of Brunswick, the prestige of Brighton, or the family-friendly vibe of Camberwell, there’s a neighbourhood that suits every lifestyle and life stage.
Need help getting finance-ready? EverLend’s trusted Melbourne mortgage brokers are here to guide you through the home loan process, whether you’re a first-home buyer, upgrader, or investor. From choosing the right lender to understanding what you can afford in your dream suburb, we’re here to help make your next move easy.
Book a free consultation today by calling us at 03 7036 3356.