Melbourne continues to earn its stripes as one of the world’s most liveable cities. It isn’t just a city; it’s a collection of vibrant, evolving neighbourhoods, each with its own identity and rhythm. In 2025, the conversation around where to live isn’t just about postcode pride—it’s about smart decisions that align with lifestyle, future value, and day-to-day liveability.
Whether you’re raising a family, investing for the long term, or simply seeking a lifestyle upgrade, the suburb you choose makes all the difference. This curated list of 13 standout suburbs captures where Melbourne living truly thrives this year.
1. South Yarra – Sophistication Meets City Edge
Just 4 km from the CBD, South Yarra is where high fashion meets lush green spaces. Think brunch on Chapel Street, evening strolls through the Botanic Gardens, and boutique apartments rubbing shoulders with Victorian terraces.
Why buy here? World-class amenity, walkability, and capital growth.
2. Hawthorn – Timeless and Family-Oriented
With elite schools and leafy streets, Hawthorn is perennially popular. It offers a balanced lifestyle just minutes from the city, perfect for professionals and families seeking prestige without pretension. Take a look at this BLOG to know why Hawthorn is such an enticing suburb!
3. Brighton – Beachside Luxury
Sun, sand, and some of Melbourne’s most enviable homes. Brighton continues to attract high-net-worth families seeking coastal calm, complemented by prestigious schools and elite amenities.
4. Carlton – Academic Prestige with Italian Flare
Home to the University of Melbourne and the best espresso this side of Rome. Carlton is a student haven with heritage charm, bike lanes, and a buzzing arts scene.
5. Kew – Elite and Established
Old money charm meets modern convenience. Home to Melbourne’s best private schools and surrounded by parklands and river trails, Kew is blue-chip in every sense.
6. Fitzroy – Creative Capital of the North
From laneway murals to underground gigs, Fitzroy is Melbourne’s cultural heartbeat. Young professionals and creatives flock here for the energy, community, and long-term upside.
7. Richmond – Inner-City Energy
Love footy? Live music? Café-hopping? Richmond’s for you. Just 3 km from the CBD, it offers incredible transport links and a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
8. Camberwell – Family Favourite
Renowned for its community spirit, excellent schools, and parks, Camberwell is an ideal location for long-term family living. A mix of Edwardians, townhomes, and new builds adds to the appeal.
9. St Kilda – Vibrant Coastal Playground
More than just the beach. St Kilda offers a lifestyle packed with entertainment, food, and culture. It’s the perfect base for urban beach lovers. Read through how we helped this first-home buyer purchase his home project in St. Kilda!
10. Brunswick – Urban Cool, Creative Soul
A melting pot of music, markets, and Middle Eastern food. Brunswick attracts culturally curious and savvy investors chasing long-term capital gain.
11. Malvern – Graceful and Green
Grand homes, generous parks, and elite schooling options. Malvern offers prestige with heart, ideal for those who want space without sacrificing style.
12. Williamstown – Bayside with Heritage
A charming seaside village just minutes from the CBD. With parks, pubs, and plenty of personality, Williamstown is where lifestyle and history converge.
13. Ivanhoe – Leafy, Serene, and Well-Served
A quieter achiever in the northeast, Ivanhoe offers excellent schooling, abundant green space, and a strong sense of community.
Explore why Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities, and dive into the whole story!
These 13 suburbs each bring something unique to the table, whether it’s prestige, affordability, walkability, or growth. The key is finding the right suburb that matches your lifestyle and long-term goals.
I’m Andrew Date from Industry Insider Property.
Our clients consistently say we’re the best decision they made in their property journey. Read our reviews on LinkedIn and Google to see why.
Industry Insider Property
Level 3, 489 Toorak Road, Toorak 3142
+613 8374 7652
+613 402 346 810
industryinsider.com.au
