Part Two of The Times’ Melbourne property road trip series.
Last week we explored Melbourne south of the Yarra River. This week we head north, where the city’s personality changes dramatically.
North of the Yarra is a mix of established inner-city suburbs, leafy family neighbourhoods, multicultural communities and rapidly growing outer suburbs. It is a region that offers everything from Victorian terraces worth millions of dollars to affordable homes for first-home buyers willing to travel a little further from the CBD.
Whether you are relocating, investing or simply curious about Melbourne’s property market, this self-guided weekend tour provides a practical introduction.
Stop 1 – Carlton
Only minutes from the city, Carlton is famous for its café culture, heritage terraces and proximity to the University of Melbourne.
Why people buy here
- Walking distance to the CBD.
- Strong rental demand.
- Historic character homes.
- Excellent restaurants and lifestyle.
Who it suits
Professionals, academics, investors and buyers wanting an inner-city lifestyle.
Stop 2 – Brunswick
Brunswick has transformed from an industrial suburb into one of Melbourne’s most fashionable locations.
Sydney Road offers cafés, breweries, live music, independent retailers and apartment developments alongside traditional homes.
Who it suits
Young professionals, creatives and buyers wanting an energetic urban environment.
Stop 3 – Coburg
Coburg delivers more space while remaining well connected to the city.
Parks, schools, shopping centres and public transport have made it increasingly attractive to families.
The suburb represents the gradual transition between inner Melbourne and the middle suburbs.
Stop 4 – Preston
Preston has experienced significant renewal over the past decade.
The famous Preston Market remains one of Melbourne’s great shopping experiences while new apartments and townhouses continue to reshape the suburb.
It offers a balance between affordability and accessibility.
Stop 5 – Reservoir
Reservoir is popular with first-home buyers seeking larger blocks than those available closer to the CBD.
Many original homes are being renovated or replaced with modern townhouses.
Its value proposition continues to attract growing families.
Stop 6 – Bundoora
Home to major universities, extensive parkland and family housing, Bundoora combines education with lifestyle.
Buyers appreciate its generous streets, established gardens and relatively affordable family homes.
Stop 7 – Epping
Few suburbs demonstrate Melbourne’s population growth better than Epping.
New housing estates continue to expand while retail, medical and commercial facilities keep pace.
It has become a destination in its own right rather than simply an outer suburb.
Stop 8 – Mernda
For buyers looking for modern homes at comparatively accessible prices, Mernda deserves attention.
The extension of Melbourne’s rail network has improved connectivity while new schools, shopping centres and sporting facilities continue to develop.
It provides an insight into Melbourne’s future growth corridor.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Lifestyle Diversity | ★★★★★ |
| Family Appeal | ★★★★★ |
| Public Transport | ★★★★☆ |
| Investment Potential | ★★★★☆ |
| Character & Heritage | ★★★★★ |
| Value for Money | ★★★★☆ |
| Future Growth | ★★★★★ |
| Walkability | ★★★★☆ |
The Verdict
North of the Yarra showcases Melbourne’s remarkable diversity.
Within half an hour you can move from million-dollar heritage terraces in Carlton to modern family estates in Mernda. Every suburb has its own character, demographic and price point.
For buyers, the key is deciding which matters most: proximity to the CBD, lifestyle, family amenities or long-term capital growth.
One of the strengths of Melbourne’s northern suburbs is that they cater to almost every stage of life—from university students and first-home buyers to growing families and retirees.
No two suburbs are identical, and that is precisely what makes this part of Melbourne so fascinating to explore.
Next Week: The Times Real Estate Road Trip visits Melbourne’s East – from Richmond and Kew through Box Hill to Ringwood and the Yarra Valley gateway, exploring one of Australia’s most desirable residential corridors.