brand_logo
search_icon
Search
AccommodationNewsroomContact UsContact UsLogoutLogin
Search
Search
£20 cashback on the app!
4.5/5
180K+ Downloads
Download App
Log in or sign up
Please provide a valid email address
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Enter code sent on your email
test@test.com
Change
Please provide a valid OTP
Haven’t received the OTP
Resend (15s)
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
or
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions

The 10 Best Places To Live in Melbourne In 2025: Your Guide

Living
7 Min
|
Uploaded on
Sep 8, 2022
|
Last updated on
Feb 9, 2025
Uploaded on
Sep 8, 2022
|
Last updated on
Feb 9, 2025

Share :

Copy Link

Link Copied

Share on Facebook

Share on Twitter

Share on LinkedIn

The 10 Best Places To Live in Melbourne In 2025
Culture Capital that rarely disappoints!

Are you considering Melbourne this semester? Well, you ought to be. The city of Melbourne is becoming the next hotspot for international students in Australia. It is located around coastal land and is the capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria, adding the best living experience for newbie students. Welcoming culture, lively food and sports events, and a great environment allow you to explore various career opportunities. But with this massive city, how does a fresher narrow down the best neighborhoods in Melbourne? Leave it up to us! We've curated a list to help you find the best area in Melbourne to live! Let's start by knowing more about Melbourne before we dive into the best places to live in Melbourne!

About Melbourne

If you are planning on studying in Australia, you will want to check out the country's best student city, which is Melbourne. Along with that, you must also want to know about the best areas in Melbourne suitable for students. Home to over 180,000 international students from over 120 different nationalities, Melbourne is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after study destinations, making it hard to find student accommodation here. However, these best places to live in Melbourne Australia come with student accommodation options that are surely unmissable!

Living in Melbourne can be quite a pleasant experience for students, with reasonable living costs, a well-connected transport system, and several opportunities to discover the city's culture; make sure to check these 20 things to do in Melbourne! If you are looking to make some extra money, Melbourne also has quite a few part-time jobs that you can take up. So, let's take a look at some of the best places to live in Melbourne!

10 Best Places to Live in Melbourne

With the city quickly becoming Australia's next big destination for international students, where to live in Melbourne is the first question that will strike your mind. Well, we've eased the process for you with a list of the best places to live in Melbourne, Australia, and a guide to help you find the perfect student housing. To make your decision easier, we have also mentioned the average cost of living, tourist attractions, and transport options available in these best places to live in Melbourne! We also have a Melbourne student housing guide, which can help you settle in better.

Cost of Living in The Best Places To Live in Melbourne

Table 1
Locality Avg Cost of Living
Carlton AU$ 1900 - AU$ 2,500/month
St. Kilda AU$2,000-AU$ 2,600/month
Richmond AU$ 5,000 - AU$ 7,000/month
Hawthorn AU$ 2,100 - AU$ 2,400/month
South Yarra AU$ 1,500 - AU$ 2,000/month
Caulfield AU$2,100 - AU$2,600 /month
Brunswick AU$1,500 to AU$2,000/month
Fitzroy AU$2,000 to AU$2,500/month
Coburg North AU$1,800 to AU$2,300/month
Seaholme AU$ 1,500 - AU$ 2,000/month
Made with HTML Tables

‍1. Carlton

Nearby transport: Carlton ranks highly with public transport, with trams running along Swanston Street to Carlton North.
Tourist Attractions: The Readings Bookstore, Royal Exhibition Building, Melbourne Museum, Cinema Nova
Most Suited for: Students seeking a peaceful, calm neighbourhood where they can focus on their studies.
Average Rent: AU$ 1400 - AU$ 2,000/month
Carlton is one of the most lively and best suburbs near the University of Melbourne, well-known for the Italian cafes and restaurants of Lygon Street Italian. You'll find several famous cafes and restaurants lined up in one of the best neighborhoods in Melbourne and enjoy its traditional cuisine. Carlton is one of the ten best places to live in Melbourne, as it is also known for its beautiful Victorian buildings, leafy parks, and quiet gardens. It has a population of around 20,000 people. Students Living in Carlton would be a great option as this area is in a prime location that is only a few minutes away from universities such as RMIT or the University of Melbourne. This is one of the nicest areas in Melbourne and is well-connected to public transportation at all times.‍ 

2. St. Kilda

Nearby transport: Public transport operates through the main arteries of Acland Street and Fitzroy Street.
Tourist Attractions: Luna Park, Palais Theatre, St Kilda Festival
Most Suited for: Students who like to party and want to experience Melbourne's nightlife!
Average Rent: AU$1,500-AU$ 2,100/month
Undoubtedly a popular destination for students wishing to live in Melbourne, St. Kilda is one of the best places to live in Melbourne, known for its abundance of cafes, live music, and cinema, as well as several festivals being held here. Students of Charles Sturt University will be glad to learn that this is one of the good areas to live in Melbourne and is just a few minutes away from their university. As one of the best areas in Melbourne for beach lovers, this area is most suited for those wishing to partake in Melbourne's vibrant nightlife. It is located about 6 kilometers southeast of Melbourne's Central Business district. Stick around in February for St Kilda's very own music festival, which confirms this place as one of the best suburbs to live in Melbourne for students. 

3. Richmond

Nearby transport: Comprises tram routes, train stations, and arterial routes.‍
Tourist Attractions: Burnley Park, Richmond Oval
Most Suited for: Students who are nature lovers looking for security without compromising their student lifestyle.
Average Rent: AU$ 2,5000 - AU$ 5,000/month
Just a short hop away from Melbourne CBD, Richmond is one of the best locations to stay in Melbourne, which has pretty much everything a student could wish for - food, shopping, sporting events, and even access to the city. Close to the bayside Yarra River as well as St Kilda's beaches, Richmond offers students living here the best of both worlds. It is amongst Melbourne best places to live due to its more established transport system. It is known for its celebrations, community events, and even food diversity. Richmond also has a vibrant nightlife with numerous pubs, bars, and live music venues, offering a range of entertainment options for students.

4. Hawthorn

Nearby transport: Hawthorn is serviced by three railway stations (Hawthorn, Glenferrie, Auburn) and six tram routes (16, 48, 70, 72, 75, 109).
Tourist Attractions: Lido Cinemas, The Auburn Tower, Sir Zelman Cowen Park
Most Suited for: Nature lovers and students who wish for the best suburb to stay in Melbourne CBD
Average Rent: AU$ 1,600 - AU$ 2,200/month
If you've got a green thumb, you're bound to fall in love with Hawthorn. This is certainly one of the best places to live in Melbourne, recognised for its flora, public transportation connectivity, and vicinity to Melbourne CBD. A mere 6 kilometers from the city centre, Hawthorn is quite urban despite being located in the inner Eastern suburbs and has several excellent cafes and galleries, making it one of the best areas in Melbourne for students. Swinburne University of Technology's campus in the area is quite close to this place, making it the best place to live in Melbourne Australia. 

5. South Yarra

Nearby Transport: South Yarra has its railway station and several tram stops served by the 78, 72, and 58 trams
Tourist Attractions: Chapel Street, Toorak Road, Prahran Market, the Jam Factory, Village Cinema, Palace Como, and the Royal Botanic Gardens
Most Suited for: Students who enjoy shopping and are looking for a posh locality that offers an excellent quality of life at a reasonable price.
Average Rent: AU$ 1,200 - AU$ 1,600/month
A Victorian suburban village called South Yarra is located just 4 kilometers from Melbourne CBD. It creates the perfect student environment, making it one of the best places to live in Melbourne. With a lavish working-class lifestyle and a thriving shopping area, South Yarra is perfect for students planning on living in Melbourne. Major shopping venues, public transport, parks, schools, and a thriving place for businesses are a few reasons South Yarra is among the best areas to live in Melbourne. It is close to several major universities, such as Monash University's Caulfield campus, and RMIT University, and also the suburb is rich in cultural and recreational opportunities. 

6. Caulfield

Nearby transport: You can take a train from Caulfield Station, and the area is connected to the city centre via the Line 46 tram and the Line 605 bus.
Tourist Attractions: Caulfield Park, Caulfield Racecourse, and Monash University Museum of Art
Most Suited for: Young professionals who are seeking the best place to stay in Melbourne.
Average Rent: AU$1,700 - AU$2,300 /month
Counted among the best places to live in Melbourne, Caulfield has a quiet, intrinsic area with a relaxing atmosphere. You won't feel like living in the middle of nowhere because it isn't too quiet or isolated from Melbourne's civilization. There are lovely parks, sporting facilities, and modest community restaurants around Caulfield, whether you rent an apartment or live in communal accommodation. It is a posh area in Melbourne that attracts working professionals and families. Caulfield is a convenient location for students of Monash University (Caulfield campus), making it one of the most preferred places in Melbourne to live. 

7. Brunswick

Nearby Transport: Brunswick is served by the Upfield train line, Line 19 tram, and bus routes. Brunswick is also quite bike-friendly, with several bike paths and lanes on its roads.
Tourist Attractions: Black Dot Gallery, CERES, Brunswick Park
Most Suited for: People who enjoy spending time in nature and appreciate bohemian culture, this is the best area to stay in Melbourne.
Average Rent: AU$1,200 to AU$1,600/month

Beautiful nature is rarely far from your doorstep when living in Melbourne, and if you are living in Brunswick, you would be right on the Merri Creek Trail. Brunswick is effortlessly cool, with a hipster and intercultural vibe that puts it among the best places to live in Melbourne for students. Between buzzing pubs and music venues are hip vintage shops, art galleries, bookstores, and family-run restaurants. It is a free-spirited locality full of impressive art, activism, beautiful vintage shops, and delicious food, so living in Brunswick as a student, you will never have a dull moment as it is full of things to do in Melbourne for free.

Moving to Melbourne? Check out some of the best student accommodations!

Book through amber today!

Visit Us

8. Fitzroy

Nearby transport: Fitzroy is linked to the rest of Melbourne as it is serviced by three tram lines and rates highly in walkability. The area is also quite bike-friendly.
Tourist Attractions: Gertrude Street, Brunswick Street, The Fitzroy Swimming Pool, Brunswick Street Gallery, Sutton Gallery, Smith Reserve
Most Suited for: Students who enjoy art studios, art galleries, and street art exhibitions.
Average Rent: AU$1,500 to AU$2,000/month
Adding to the list of the best places to live in Melbourne, Fitzroy is a rapidly growing area known for its cafe culture and bohemian vibe. It is one of Melbourne's most densely populated areas, with Victorian-era terraced housing and modern apartments. Considering it is among the best places in Melbourne to live, Fitzroy has a lot of personality and charm and hosts the Melbourne Fringe Festival. Easily accessible by public transport, it's a booming suburb with many possibilities, so living here as a student would come with the utmost comfort. 

9. Coburg North

Nearby Transport: Coburg North is frequently serviced by trams and buses, taking around 40 minutes to reach Melbourne’s Central Business District.
Tourist Attractions: Merri Creek Trail, Coburg Lake Reserve
Most Suited for: Students seeking out a multicultural neighbourhood with rent on the lower side of the scale.
Average Rent: AU$1,400 to AU$2,000/month
Compared to the other best places to live in Melbourne, Coburg North has a lower average rent cost, which is perfect for students. Coburg is home to multicultural communities, so you will always have easy access to affordable but world-class food, which is why it is among the best places to live in Melbourne as a student. Also, a variety of local supermarkets where you can find products and ingredients you may not see at a typical Australian grocery store would be within your reach, which is another reason why this place is one of the best places in Melbourne to live!

10. Seaholme

Nearby Transport: Seaholme is well-connected to the rest of Melbourne, with its own railway station and several bus lines.
Tourist Attractions: The 100 Steps of Federation, Altona Pier, Altona Coastal Park
Most suited for: Students who wish to live a modern lifestyle at the heart of nature.
Average Rent: AU$ 1,200 - AU$ 1,600/month
Located only 13 kilometers from the CBD, Seaholme offers students peace and abundance. Reputable colleges and universities, such as Victoria University and Greenwich English College, are also nearby; hence, living in Seaholme won't be a hassle and falls under the list of the best places to stay in Melbourne Australia. 

Factors to Choose Melbourne

Melbourne is widely regarded as one of the best cities to live in, offering a unique blend of opportunities, comfort, and a high quality of life. The following factors make Melbourne an ideal choice for anyone considering a move to this vibrant city:

1. Weather

Many people are drawn to Melbourne's mild climate, which offers a range of experiences throughout the year thanks to its various seasons. Melbourne has diverse weather. It offers bright summers for outdoor activities and warm winters for exploring indoor attractions and sipping hot chocolate.

2. Public Transportation 

Melbourne has a well-developed system of buses, trains, and trams that make it simple to travel around the city. The well-connected transportation infrastructure provides more convenient and sustainable urban living, improves accessibility, and reduces the dependency on private vehicles as there are a lot of places to visit in Melbourne.

3. Jobs

Melbourne is the second-biggest city in Australia. It has several part-time jobs available in a variety of fields, including finance, technology, and healthcare. Melbourne's booming job market offers plenty of opportunities for career advancement and growth, no matter what your level of experience is.  

4. Safety and Security 

Melbourne's low crime rate and reputation for safety provide people with a sense of security and peace of mind. Residents are free to explore and enjoy the city without worrying about their safety because of the city's effective law enforcement agencies and well-maintained public areas. These contribute to a safe atmosphere suitable for both daytime activities and nocturnal excursions.

5. Nature and Outdoor Spaces 

Melbourne provides its citizens with an abundance of green spaces and natural attractions, even though it is a busy metropolis. Melbourne offers possibilities for outdoor recreation and relaxation as one of the best things to do in Melbourne, enabling residents to escape the city and reconnect with nature. 

Find your perfect home in Melbourne for 2025 with Amber – start your journey today!

Book through amber today!

Visit Us

Seamless Booking with amber in Melbourne!

The best places to live in Melbourne for students also offer several student accommodation options. However, if you book at the last minute, it isn't easy to get the ones you like at extremely affordable prices. This makes it very necessary to book your Melbourne accommodation early, as you can choose from a wide range of options!

Amber will help you throughout the booking process! You can choose from an exclusive range of comfortable and chic student accommodation options in Melbourne, in some of the best areas, at pocket-friendly prices! With the added advantage of early booking, you not only ensure a seamless transition but also unlock exclusive benefits such as discounted rates and preferred choices. 

Due to its large size, Melbourne has a very diverse population and multicultural communities across the city, so you will fit right in as an international student. Living in Melbourne as a student is accessible and comfortable regardless of where you base yourself, ensuring you'll never be far from the bustle. Make a move and explore the fun and vivacity Melbourne has to offer. Known for its vibrant nightlife, make sure to have a look at the best clubs in Melbourne so that you don't miss out on any new experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safest suburbs in Melbourne?

Generally considered safe areas include Brighton, Camberwell, Surrey Hills, and Mont Albert. Crime rates can change, so check recent local safety reports for up-to-date information.

Which suburbs in Melbourne have the best public transportation?

CBD, Fitzroy, Carlton, South Yarra, and Richmond are well-connected. Areas along train lines and tram routes typically have good public transport access.

Is Melbourne or Sydney better for students?

Both offer quality education. Melbourne is often preferred for its lower cost of living, diverse culture, and student-friendly atmosphere. Choice depends on personal preferences and study programs.

What are the top cultural attractions in Melbourne?

National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Museum, Royal Botanic Gardens, Federation Square, and the Arts Centre Melbourne. The city is known for its street art, festivals, and diverse food scene.

Where do most expats live in Melbourne?

St Kilda, South Yarra, Richmond, and Brighton are popular among expats. The CBD and inner suburbs also attract many international residents due to proximity to amenities and work opportunities.

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Melbourne?

To live comfortably in Melbourne, a single person typically needs around AUD 70,000-80,000 per year before tax. This amount can vary based on lifestyle choices, housing preferences, and personal financial goals.

Unlock your free flight ticket

Your ideal student home & a flight ticket awaits

Claim now
Housing
Lifestyle

Follow us on :

share-insta-icon

Instagram

Facebook

share-tw-icon

Twitter

share-linkedIn-icon

LinkedIn

Copy Link

Share on Facebook

Twitter-share

Share on Twitter

LinkedIn-share

Share on LinkedIn

copy-icon

Share

Share Now:

Copy Link

Link Copied

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

cta
cta

Related Posts

Living

Safest Neighborhoods in Las Vegas: Top 10 Safe Areas to Live

May 8, 2025
|
5 min read
Living

Is Private-Public Partnership the Future of Student Housing Development

April 29, 2025
|
4 min read
Living

NYC Vs London–A Complete Guide To Iconic Cities

April 28, 2025
|
10 min read
Get access to exclusive deals
Only the best deals reach your inbox
Thank you for subscribing to Amber's Updates
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
London
United Kingdom
Dublin
Ireland
Melbourne
Australia
New York City
United States
Frankfurt
Germany
Barcelona
Spain
Toronto
Canada
Birmingham
United Kingdom
Brisbane
Australia
Chicago
United States
Cork
Ireland
Hamburg
Germany
Montreal
Canada
Leicester
United Kingdom
Sydney
Australia
Austin
United States
Vancouver
Canada
Nottingham
United Kingdom
Adelaide
Australia
Houston
United States
Liverpool
United Kingdom
Perth
Australia
San Francisco
United States
Coventry
United Kingdom
Canberra
Australia
Boston
United States
Sheffield
United Kingdom
Gold Coast
Australia
Dallas
United States
Leeds
United Kingdom
Coffs Harbour
Australia
Washington DC
United States
Newcastle Upon Tyne
United Kingdom
Philadelphia
United States
Manchester
United Kingdom
College Station
United States
Cardiff
United Kingdom
Los Angeles
United States
Swansea
United Kingdom
Lubbock
United States
arrow
The 10 Best Places To Live in Melbourne In 2025: Your Guide
7 Min
You'll love these as well
Similar
arrow
10 Safest Areas In Nashville
10 Safest Areas In Nashville: Best Neighborhoods to Stay in 2025
May 7, 2025
|
Living
|
5 min read
Safest Neighborhoods in Las Vegas
Safest Neighborhoods in Las Vegas: Top 10 Safe Areas to Live
May 7, 2025
|
Living
|
5 min read
Private-Public Partnership
Is Private-Public Partnership the Future of Student Housing Development
Apr 29, 2025
|
Living
|
4 min read
Best Places to Live in Idaho for Students
Best Places to Live in Idaho for Students
Apr 17, 2025
|
Living
|
5 MIN
Best Places to Reside in Georgia for Students & Professionals
Best Places to Reside in Georgia for Students
Apr 17, 2025
|
Living
|
5 MIN
best cities for international students
20 Best Cities for International Students in 2025
Apr 10, 2025
|
Living
|
5 min read
Tab 1
Tab 2
Tab 3
Tab 4
Tab 5
Tab 6
Tab 7

amber © 2024. All rights reserved.

4.6/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by students

Trustpilot
Get the app
Payment Options
Company
AboutHow it worksRefer a friendGroup BookingNewList with usNewPartner with usNewCareersWe are hiring!
Discover
BlogPodcastNewsroomAmber PlusMedia MentionAmbassadorScholarshipsApply NowExamsNewSite Map
Support
Help CentreContact UsT&CPrivacy PolicySitemap
Contact Us
+44 7400314942
contact@amberstudent.com
WhatsApp
40 E Main St # 1215 Newark 19711-4639 Delaware
Follow us on:

amber © 2024. All rights reserved.

4.6/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by Students

Trustpilot
Get the app
Payment Options:
Company
AboutHow it worksRefer a friendGroup BookingNewList with usNewPartner with usNewCareersWe are hiring!Site Map
Discover
BlogPodcastNewsroomAmber PlusMedia MentionAmbassadorScholarshipsApply NowExamsNewSite Map
Support
Help CentreContact UsT&CPrivacy PolicySitemap
Contact us
+44 7400314942
contact@amberstudent.com
WhatsApp
40 E Main St # 1215 Newark 19711-4639 Delaware
Follow us on:

amber © 2024. All rights reserved.

4.6/5 on Trustpilot

Rated as "Excellent" • 5000+ Reviews by Students

Trustpilot
Get the app
Payment Options:
Company
AboutHow it worksRefer a friendGroup BookingNewList with usNewPartner with usNewCareersWe are hiring!Site Map
Discover
BlogPodcastNewsroomAmber PlusMedia MentionAmbassadorScholarshipsApply NowExamsNewSite Map
Support
Help CentreContact UsT&CPrivacy PolicySitemap
Contact us
+44 7400314942
contact@amberstudent.com
WhatsApp
40 E Main St # 1215 Newark 19711-4639 Delaware
Follow us on:
Download the amber app
Start your journey from here!
More than 1.25 million beds available in 600 cities
Scan The QR to download the App
app QR
You can directly download from
play storeapp store
100% Verified Listings
Quick and Easy Bookings
Price Match Guarantee
24x7 Personal Assistance
£20 cashback on the app!
Scan to Download App
4.5/5
180K+ Downloads
Download from
Share