Best Neighborhoods for Families in Melbourne

Melbourne, is a vibrant city known for its culture, coffee, and scenic landscapes. For expats and digital nomads with families, choosing the right neighborhood is crucial. Here are eight of the best neighborhoods for families to live in Melbourne, considering factors like schools, parks, activities, and real estate.

Carlton

Carlton is a charming inner-city suburb, perfect for families who want to be close to the action but also enjoy a quiet, community-focused lifestyle. The neighborhood is filled with beautiful Victorian-era buildings, parks, and excellent schools. Families can spend their leisure time at the Carlton Gardens, visiting the Melbourne Museum, or exploring the iconic Royal Exhibition Building. The Carlton Baths offer swimming and recreational facilities, and there are numerous playgrounds scattered throughout the suburb.

Location: Inner-north of Melbourne's CBD.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 550/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 750/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 750,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,200,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: Carlton North Primary School (Prep to Grade 6, bilingual program in Italian), Princes Hill Secondary College (Year 7 to 12).

Where to Eat: Lygon Street is famous for its Italian restaurants. Try Tiamo or DOC Espresso for a delightful dining experience.

Interesting History: The Royal Exhibition Building, built in 1880, is a World Heritage Site and hosts various exhibitions and events.

Parks: Carlton Gardens is the most popular, featuring a beautiful fountain, tennis courts, and a playground.

Fitzroy

Fitzroy is a lively neighborhood known for its street art, cafes, and vibrant community. It's ideal for families who appreciate a creative and multicultural environment. Families can enjoy picnics at Edinburgh Gardens, visit the Fitzroy Swimming Pool, or explore the bustling markets. The suburb offers a mix of primary and secondary schools, with plenty of art and music programs.

Location: Inner-north-east of Melbourne's CBD.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 500/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 700/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 700,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,100,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: Fitzroy Primary School (Prep to Grade 6, bilingual program in Spanish), Fitzroy High School (Year 7 to 12).

Where to Eat: Brunswick Street offers a variety of dining options. Try Naked for Satan for tapas or Vegie Bar for vegetarian delights.

Interesting History: The Fitzroy Town Hall, built in the late 19th century, is a local landmark with beautiful architecture.

Parks: Edinburgh Gardens is the most popular, featuring a large playground, sports fields, and BBQ areas.

St Kilda

St Kilda is a beachside suburb with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities. The neighborhood features beautiful beaches, the iconic Luna Park, and the St Kilda Botanical Gardens. Families can enjoy cycling along the foreshore, visiting the St Kilda Adventure Playground, or exploring the Sunday Esplanade Market.

Location: South-east of Melbourne's CBD, along the coast.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 500/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 700/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 750,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,200,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: St Kilda Primary School (Prep to Grade 6), St Michael's Grammar School (Prep to Year 12, International Baccalaureate).

Where to Eat: Acland Street is famous for its cake shops and restaurants. Try Monarch Cakes or Lentil as Anything for a unique dining experience.

Interesting History: Luna Park, opened in 1912, is a historic amusement park featuring the iconic Scenic Railway roller coaster.

Parks: St Kilda Botanical Gardens offers beautiful picnic spots and a playground for children.

Brighton

Brighton is an affluent beachside suburb, ideal for families seeking a relaxed lifestyle with excellent schools and beautiful surroundings. Families can enjoy the iconic Brighton Beach with its colorful bathing boxes, explore the Brighton Beach Reserve, or visit the historic Brighton Baths.

Location: South-east of Melbourne's CBD, along the coast.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 650/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 900/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 1,000,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,500,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: Brighton Primary School (Prep to Grade 6), Brighton Grammar School (Prep to Year 12), Firbank Grammar School (Prep to Year 12, International Baccalaureate).

Where to Eat: Church Street offers a variety of cafes and restaurants. Try The Pantry or Brighton Schoolhouse for a delightful meal.

Interesting History: The historic Brighton Baths, established in 1881, feature a pool, gym, and cafe.

Parks: Brighton Beach Reserve offers BBQ areas, picnic spots, and a playground.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn is an elegant inner-east suburb, known for its prestigious schools, beautiful parks, and historic buildings. Families can enjoy picnics at Central Gardens, explore the Hawthorn Aquatic and Leisure Centre, or visit the historic Hawthorn Arts Centre.

Location: Inner-east of Melbourne's CBD.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 550/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 800/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 800,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,300,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: Erasmus Primary School (Prep to Grade 6, bilingual program in Chinese), Scotch College (Prep to Year 12), Methodist Ladies' College (Prep to Year 12, International Baccalaureate).

Where to Eat: Glenferrie Road offers a variety of dining options. Try Hawthorn Common for a family-friendly cafe or Lulo for Argentinian cuisine.

Interesting History: The Hawthorn Arts Centre, built in the late 19th century, is a local landmark hosting various performances and exhibitions.

Parks: Central Gardens is the most popular, featuring a large playground, sports fields, and BBQ areas.

Williamstown

Williamstown is a historic seaside suburb with a charming village atmosphere. It's perfect for families who enjoy a close-knit community and beautiful surroundings. Families can explore the Williamstown Beach, visit the historic Nelson Place, or enjoy the scenic views from the Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park.

Location: South-west of Melbourne's CBD, along the coast.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 500/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 700/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 800,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,200,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: Williamstown Primary School (Prep to Grade 6), Williamstown High School (Year 7 to 12).

Where to Eat: Nelson Place offers a variety of cafes and restaurants. Try the Pirates Tavern or the Customs House Hotel for a family-friendly meal.

Interesting History: The historic Nelson Place features beautifully preserved buildings from the 19th century.

Parks: Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park offers scenic views, picnic spots, and a playground.

Elwood

Elwood is a laid-back beachside suburb, ideal for families who enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle. Families can enjoy the beautiful Elwood Beach, explore the Elwood Canal, or visit the historic Elwood Sailing Club.

Location: South-east of Melbourne's CBD, along the coast.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 500/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 750/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 800,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,300,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: Elwood Primary School (Prep to Grade 6), Elwood College (Year 7 to 12).

Where to Eat: Ormond Road offers a variety of cafes and restaurants. Try Combi or Dandelion for a delightful meal.

Interesting History: The historic Elwood Sailing Club, established in 1924, offers sailing programs for all ages.

Parks: Elwood Beach and the Elwood Canal offer beautiful picnic spots and scenic views.

Yarraville

Yarraville is a charming inner-west suburb known for its beautiful parks, historic architecture, and vibrant community. Families can enjoy picnics at Yarraville Gardens, explore the Yarraville Swimming Centre, or visit the historic Sun Theatre.

Location: Inner-west of Melbourne's CBD.

Real Estate: Average rental price: AUD 450/week for a 2-bedroom, AUD 650/week for a 3-bedroom. Average purchase price: AUD 700,000 for a 2-bedroom, AUD 1,100,000 for a 3-bedroom.

International Schools: Yarraville West Primary School (Prep to Grade 6), Footscray City College (Year 7 to 12).

Where to Eat: Anderson Street and Ballarat Street offer a variety of dining options. Try the Sun Theatre Cafe or the Yarraville Club for a family-friendly meal.

Interesting History: The historic Sun Theatre, built in 1938, is a local landmark and Art Deco cinema.

Parks: Yarraville Gardens is the most popular, featuring a large playground, sports fields, and BBQ areas.

Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of amenities, schools, and recreational activities, making them excellent choices for families living in Melbourne.