Best Neighborhoods for Families in Melbourne

Melbourne, is a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity, stunning architecture, and family-friendly communities. Expats and digital nomads with families often seek out neighborhoods that offer a blend of safety, convenience, and leisure activities. The following are some of the best neighborhoods in Melbourne that cater to the needs of families, providing a comfortable and engaging environment for both parents and children.

South Yarra

South Yarra is a fashionable and upscale suburb that's perfect for families looking for a blend of city life and suburban comfort. With its chic boutiques, cafes, and proximity to the Royal Botanic Gardens, families can enjoy both urban amenities and natural beauty. The area boasts excellent schools and is known for its community spirit, with plenty of playgrounds and parks where children can play and families can picnic.

Location: Southeast of Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD)

Real Estate: South Yarra offers a mix of historic homes and modern apartments. The average rental price for a 2-bedroom apartment is around AUD 500 per week, while a 3-bedroom home may cost upwards of AUD 700 per week. Purchase prices vary widely depending on the property type and exact location.

International Schools: South Yarra doesn't have a large number of international schools, but it is home to several prestigious private schools that offer high-quality education.

Where to Eat: The suburb is filled with family-friendly dining options, from cozy cafes to international cuisine, ensuring that there's something to satisfy every palate.

Interesting History: South Yarra was one of Melbourne's first suburbs to be established and has a rich history reflected in its well-preserved Victorian architecture.

Parks: Fawkner Park and the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens are popular green spaces for families to relax and play.

Brunswick

Brunswick is known for its bohemian atmosphere and multicultural community. It's a great place for families who appreciate diversity and creativity. The suburb has numerous playgrounds and parks, as well as a strong focus on community events and activities. Schools in Brunswick are well-regarded, and there's a sense of inclusivity that makes it welcoming for expat families.

Location: North of Melbourne's CBD

Real Estate: The rental market in Brunswick is competitive, with 2-bedroom apartments averaging around AUD 400 per week and 3-bedroom homes around AUD 600 per week. Buying a home in Brunswick can be pricey due to its popularity and location.

International Schools: While Brunswick itself may not have international schools, it is within reach of several in neighboring suburbs.

Where to Eat: Sydney Road, the suburb's main thoroughfare, offers a plethora of dining options, from hip cafes to authentic ethnic eateries.

Interesting History: Brunswick has a rich industrial history, once known for its large textile industry, and remnants of this past can still be seen in some of the converted warehouses and factories.

Parks: Brunswick Park and Clifton Park are among the popular spots for families to gather and enjoy outdoor activities.

Kew

Kew is an affluent suburb that's ideal for families seeking a quiet, leafy environment with access to some of Melbourne's best schools. The area is known for its grand homes and manicured gardens, as well as its numerous parks and recreational facilities. Families can enjoy cycling along the Yarra River or exploring the Studley Park Boathouse.

Location: East of Melbourne's CBD

Real Estate: Kew is on the higher end of the market, with 2-bedroom apartments renting for an average of AUD 450 per week and 3-bedroom houses around AUD 750 per week. Purchasing property in Kew is a significant investment, reflecting the suburb's desirability.

International Schools: Kew is home to several prestigious private schools, some of which offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.

Where to Eat: High Street and Kew Junction offer a variety of dining options, from casual family-friendly restaurants to more upscale dining experiences.

Interesting History: Kew has a historical association with Melbourne's elite, and its heritage-listed homes and estates are a testament to its storied past.

Parks: Victoria Park and Alexandra Gardens are two of the many green spaces where families can enjoy the outdoors.

Brighton

Brighton is a coastal suburb that provides families with a relaxed beachside lifestyle. With its well-maintained beaches, including the iconic Brighton Beach with its colorful bathing boxes, families can enjoy seaside activities year-round. The suburb also offers excellent schools and a strong sense of community, making it a safe and desirable place for expat families.

Location: Southeast of Melbourne's CBD, along the coast

Real Estate: Brighton is one of Melbourne's most exclusive suburbs, with 2-bedroom apartments renting for an average of AUD 550 per week and 3-bedroom houses often exceeding AUD 1,000 per week. Buying a home in Brighton is a significant investment, with prices reflecting its prime location and lifestyle.

International Schools: While there are no international schools directly in Brighton, there are several located in nearby suburbs.

Where to Eat: Church Street is the suburb's dining hub, offering a range of eateries from family-friendly cafes to fine dining restaurants.

Interesting History: Brighton has a rich history as one of Melbourne's earliest seaside destinations, and its well-preserved Victorian architecture adds to its charm.

Parks: Brighton features several parks and gardens, with Dendy Park being a popular spot for sports and family picnics.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn is a suburb that combines urban convenience with a family-friendly atmosphere. Known for its excellent schools, including some of Melbourne's top private institutions, Hawthorn is a great choice for families prioritizing education. The suburb also offers a range of recreational activities, with parks, bike paths, and the Yarra River providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun.

Location: East of Melbourne's CBD

Real Estate: Hawthorn's real estate market is diverse, with 2-bedroom apartments renting for an average of AUD 450 per week and 3-bedroom houses around AUD 650 per week. The purchase price for properties in Hawthorn can be quite high, especially for larger family homes.

International Schools: Hawthorn does not have a high concentration of international schools, but it is well-served by prestigious local schools with strong academic programs.

Where to Eat: Glenferrie Road is the heart of Hawthorn's dining scene, offering a variety of restaurants and cafes that cater to families and food enthusiasts alike.

Interesting History: Hawthorn has a rich heritage, with many historical buildings and homes that reflect its development during the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

Parks: Central Gardens is a popular family destination, known for its fairy tree and playground, while the nearby Yarra River provides scenic walking and cycling paths.

Albert Park

Albert Park is a prestigious suburb known for its picturesque lake, parklands, and proximity to the beach. It's a favorite among families who enjoy outdoor activities and a tight-knit community feel. The suburb is also home to the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit, which hosts the Australian Grand Prix, providing an exciting annual event for motorsport fans.

Location: Just south of Melbourne's CBD

Real Estate: Albert Park is a highly sought-after area, with 2-bedroom apartments averaging around AUD 550 per week in rent and 3-bedroom houses around AUD 800 per week. Property prices are steep, reflecting the suburb's desirability and location.

International Schools: There are no international schools within Albert Park, but the suburb is within reach of several in the surrounding areas.

Where to Eat: Victoria Avenue and Bridport Street offer a range of dining options, from cozy cafes to gourmet restaurants, perfect for family outings.

Interesting History: Albert Park has a rich history, with the area originally being used for hunting and fishing by indigenous peoples before European settlement.

Parks: Albert Park and its lake are the suburb's crown jewels, offering a serene environment for picnics, jogging, and water sports.

Elwood

Elwood is a leafy beachside suburb with a relaxed vibe, making it an attractive spot for families. Its Art Deco buildings, quiet tree-lined streets, and proximity to Elwood Beach offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The suburb has a strong community focus, with local schools and family-friendly events throughout the year.

Location: South of Melbourne's CBD, near the coast

Real Estate: Elwood's real estate market is varied, with 2-bedroom apartments renting for an average of AUD 400 per week and 3-bedroom houses around AUD 700 per week. Buying a home in Elwood can be costly due to its popularity and seaside location.

International Schools: While Elwood itself doesn't host international schools, there are options in nearby suburbs for families seeking that type of education.

Where to Eat: Elwood Village is the suburb's dining hub, with a selection of eateries that cater to all tastes and budgets, ideal for family meals or a quick bite.

Interesting History: Elwood was once a swampy area before being transformed into the residential haven it is today, with its Art Deco past still evident in the local architecture.

Parks: Elwood Park is a popular spot for families, offering playgrounds, barbecue facilities, and open spaces for children to run and play.

Essendon

Essendon is a well-established suburb with a rich history and a family-oriented community. It offers a range of housing options, from Victorian and Edwardian homes to modern apartments, catering to diverse family needs. The suburb is known for its excellent schools, both public and private, and its recreational facilities, including the Essendon Football Club, which is part of the Australian Football League (AFL).

Location: Northwest of Melbourne's CBD

Real Estate: Essendon's rental market is relatively affordable, with 2-bedroom apartments averaging around AUD 350 per week and 3-bedroom houses around AUD 500 per week. The purchase price for homes in Essendon varies but is generally more accessible than in some of Melbourne's southeastern suburbs.

International Schools: Essendon doesn't have a high concentration of international schools, but it is well-served by local schools with strong reputations.

Where to Eat: The suburb's main strips, Mount Alexander Road and Keilor Road, offer a variety of dining options, from casual family-friendly eateries to more upscale restaurants.

Interesting History: Essendon has a storied past, with many historical buildings and landmarks that reflect its development since the 19th century.

Parks: Queens Park is a central feature of Essendon, providing a picturesque setting for family picnics, playgrounds, and sporting activities.