Melbourne’s Best Suburbs for Families

Brighton

Located in the southeastern suburbs of Melbourne, Brighton is a prestigious and highly sought-after family-friendly suburb. With its beautiful beaches and iconic beach boxes, locals enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle just 30 minutes away from the CBD by train or around 20-30 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. Brighton offers excellent schools, including Brighton Primary School and Brighton Secondary College, making it a popular choice for families. The suburb boasts an array of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops along its bustling shopping precincts, such as Church Street and Bay Street. Families can explore scenic spots like Dendy Park, ideal for picnics and outdoor activities, and enjoy the serene coastline and beachside promenades.

Williamstown

Nestled along the western foreshore of Melbourne, Williamstown is a charming and historic suburb loved by families for its coastal appeal and friendly atmosphere. Commuting to the CBD takes around 30 minutes by train, providing residents with easy access to the city. The suburb is renowned for its top-rated schools like Williamstown North Primary School and Williamstown High School. With a rich maritime history, Williamstown offers scenic waterfront parks, such as Jawbone Marine Sanctuary and Williamstown Beach, perfect for family outings. The bustling Nelson Place hosts a vibrant array of cafes, eateries, and boutique stores, adding to the suburb's charm.

Camberwell

Situated in the eastern suburbs, Camberwell is a leafy and family-oriented suburb with a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Commuting to the CBD takes approximately 20-25 minutes by train, making it easily accessible. Camberwell is known for its excellent schools like Camberwell Primary School and Camberwell High School, attracting families seeking quality education options. Burke Road and Camberwell Junction offer a vibrant retail precinct with boutiques, eateries, and fresh produce markets. The suburb boasts several picturesque parks, including Camberwell Gardens and Frog Hollow Reserve, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and family picnics.

Glen Waverley

Located in the southeast, Glen Waverley is a multicultural and family-friendly suburb known for its diverse community and convenient amenities. The CBD is easily accessible with a train commute of approximately 40 minutes. Glen Waverley is home to prestigious schools like Glen Waverley Secondary College and Wesley College, making it a popular choice for families. The suburb offers various shopping centers, including The Glen and Kingsway, offering retail and dining options. Families can enjoy the beautiful Central Reserve and Jells Park, providing playgrounds, walking trails, and lush green spaces for recreational activities.

McKinnon

Nestled in the southeastern suburbs, McKinnon is a tranquil and welcoming suburb ideal for families seeking a peaceful environment. Commuting to the CBD takes around 25-30 minutes by train, providing easy access to Melbourne's city center. The suburb is renowned for its excellent schools like McKinnon Primary School and McKinnon Secondary College. Locals love the McKinnon Reserve and Allnutt Park, offering open spaces, sports facilities, and playgrounds for family enjoyment. McKinnon Road and nearby Centre Road provide a variety of dining options, cafes, and shops.

Balwyn

Situated in the eastern suburbs, Balwyn is an affluent and family-oriented suburb known for its high-quality lifestyle and picturesque streets. The CBD is approximately 30-40 minutes away by car or easily accessible via public transport. Balwyn boasts top-tier schools such as Balwyn Primary School and Balwyn High School, attracting families seeking quality education. The suburb offers a thriving retail precinct along Whitehorse Road and Balwyn Shopping Centre, catering to diverse shopping and dining preferences. Families can explore picturesque parks like Beckett Park and Maranoa Gardens, providing serene spots for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Essendon

Located in the northwestern suburbs, Essendon is a vibrant and family-friendly suburb cherished for its rich history and modern amenities. Commuting to the CBD takes approximately 30 minutes by train, providing convenient access to the city. Essendon is home to reputable schools like Essendon Primary School and Essendon Keilor College, catering to families with school-aged children. Locals love the shopping precincts along Napier Street and Buckley Street, offering an array of cafes, shops, and supermarkets. The suburb boasts several parks and reserves, including Queens Park and Aberfeldie Park, ideal for family picnics and leisurely strolls.

Yarraville

Nestled in the western suburbs, Yarraville is a trendy and family-friendly suburb with a vibrant village atmosphere. Commuting to the CBD takes around 20-25 minutes by train, making it easily accessible. Yarraville offers excellent schools such as Yarraville West Primary School and Yarraville-Seddon School, attracting families seeking quality education options. The suburb's vibrant shopping precinct along Anderson Street features a variety of boutique stores, cafes, and local markets. Families can enjoy the scenic Yarraville Gardens and Stony Creek Reserve, providing green spaces for outdoor activities and community gatherings.