West Melbourne, VIC 3003
Ranked 274th best suburb by locals in Melbourne (Greater) Region, VIC
Great for
- Parks and recreation
- Internet access
- Eating out
- Public transport
- Resale or rental value
Not great for
- Lack of traffic
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families With Kids
- Retirees
Reviews of West Melbourne, VIC
"Vibrant Urban Living"
Nestled on the outskirts of Melbourne's bustling city centre, West Melbourne offers a unique blend of urban living and cultural diversity. Boasting a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere, this suburb has become a hotspot for young professionals, creatives, and food enthusiasts alike. In this review, we delve into the charm of West Melbourne and explore its eclectic nightlife scene.Situated just west of Melbourne's CBD, West Melbourne enjoys excellent connectivity to the city's major attractions and amenities. With multiple tram and train lines running through the area, residents have convenient access to public transportation, making commuting a breeze. Additionally, its proximity to major highways allows for easy travel to other parts of the city and beyond.West Melbourne is steeped in history, evident in its Victorian-era architecture and cobblestone streets. The suburb's heritage-listed buildings and warehouses have been repurposed into trendy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops, adding to its allure. Taking a leisurely stroll through its streets feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Melbourne's past while embracing its modern evolution.One of the defining features of West Melbourne is its cultural diversity. The suburb is home to a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its eclectic dining scene and community events. From authentic Italian trattorias to trendy fusion eateries, there's no shortage of culinary delights to explore. Residents and visitors alike can indulge in a variety of cuisines, making West Melbourne a food lover's paradise.When the sun sets, West Melbourne comes alive with a dynamic nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for craft cocktails, live music, or late-night dancing, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Trendy bars and cozy pubs line the streets, offering the perfect setting for socializing and unwinding after a long day. Additionally, the suburb's proximity to the CBD means that world-class entertainment venues and clubs are just a stone's throw away.
Among the standout nightlife destinations in West Melbourne is its thriving bar scene. From intimate speakeasies to rooftop lounges with panoramic views of the city skyline, there's no shortage of places to grab a drink and soak in the ambience. Additionally, the suburb's live music venues showcase talented local artists and touring bands, providing an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts.
Who lives here?
- Professionals
"Increasing Recognition as a Residential Option"
As close as you get to the CBD without actually being in it. West Melbourne had little recognition as a “residential neighbourhood” until recent years. Increased recognition has resulted in increasing pricing & the pricing gap between it & its neighbours – especially North Melbourne – has decreased. However its still arguably relatively good value – particularly in comparison to nearby Parkville, Carlton & Fitzroy. West Melbourne does n’t really have its own a retail/hospitality “hub” but as a resident you are going to benefit from the retail, café, restaurant etc infrastructure of neighbouring North Melbourne. Roller Door on Stawell St is my preferred café option – off a very short West Melbourne list! While I see it as a more suited to students, young professional & down sizers – rather than families – my understanding is that it is in the very highly regarded University High School catchment zone. Although you should always check before moving here on that basis. Queen Victoria Market with its great range of fresh food options is within walking distance. An easy walk into the CBD & three nearby train stations inc. Southern Cross. As the CBD drifts westward towards Docklands - West Melbourne is well positioned to benefit. As well as from the the Metro Tunnel project which will see a station – Arden - relatively nearby in North Melbourne (near intersection of Arden & Laurens streets). Scott Hall Buyers Advocate - 0457 513 124.
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
"Perfect Position"
I agree with others who say this is the most underrated suburb in Melbourne - Everything you could possibly need is 'just down the road'. We moved from interstate 3 years ago and chose our townhouse in the market precinct because of its proximity to the CBD (for work) and University of Melbourne (for young adult kids). We have gained so much time and quality of life due to this. My husband and I have a quick 8 min walk to work, the kids have an 8 min walk to uni and we have a 5 min walk to Vic markets for most of the groceries. For a bigger shop we usually go to Woolworths in North Melbourne (a short drive with fantastic free undercover parking) or Costco in Docklands. Alternatively, you can walk to the IGA in Errol St, Coles in Spencer St.or Aldi at the top of the CBD . ( Another Woolworths is about to open near Festival Hall) Who needs a garden when you have the large Flagstaff Gardens, Triangle Park or Pocket Park to spend time in and a plethora of historic churches, cobblestone lanes and heritage buildings all artfully restored? There are a multitude of cafes, eateries, restaurants and nightclubs in easy walking distance and we love our 'local' for a drink and a feed. Our neighbours are super friendly and we feel surprisingly safe (given the inner city location) walking around our deceptively quiet suburb - there are many young professionals, young families (it's in the University High School catchment) and dog walkers in the park, as well as the Police watch house nearby. Culturally, the free tram zone borders the suburb on William and Latrobe so it's easy to get to all CBD events and galleries - we enjoy strolling to the free public lectures and events at the uni and in Carlton. If you have to drive anywhere, it's relatively quick to get on to the citylink or other major roads and the hospitals are very close. For train travel, there are 3 stations in easy walking distance - Flagstaff, North Melbourne and Southern Cross (Skybus for the airport) with the soon to be completed underground metro line having 2 stops in walking distance. As somebody said, there isn't a beach (I wouldn't swim in Docklands) but Port Melbourne and South Melbourne are really close, especially if you cycle. I think this suburb has been Melbourne's best kept secret for many years while it has been gentrifying - but now people are awakening to the amazing things it has to offer.
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
"My perfect suburb"
I have worked in West Melbourne for nine years and lived here as well for four. Sandwiched between the CBD and North Melbourne village, it's a rapidly evolving suburb, turning from light industrial to medium density residential. Ten years ago it was super-close to everything but containing little. Now it is set to contain everything - improving all the time, as is the Spencer St corner of the CBD to which it is closest and is fast becoming the centre of a CBD that extends to Docklands. With all the new developments underway, including shopping, and council plans to turn the streets into parks, by the end of 2020 the area will be buzzing with life. Away from the main arteries (King, Spencer, Dudley) many streets are already quiet, leafy and pleasant walking.
We love that we now walk everywhere, I barely think of taking out a car. Flagstaff Gardens and Eades park provide plenty of recreational space, the QVM and Errol Street great shops and eateries. "North Melbourne" Station is really in West Melbourne and is one of the best-serviced stations on the network. The 58 Tram takes you from Toorak to Coburg, including lots of family destinations like the Zoo and Aquarium on the way. Haileybury College City Campus is a superb ELC-VCE school.
Our street has a friendly monthly social drinks during Daylight Saving including people from houses and apartments, so I know a couple of dozen neighbours well enough to ask for or offer help if necessary. It's as close as you can get to the city without being in the city - only South Carlton and South Fitzroy are really comparable for convenience.
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
Rentals in West Melbourne
Find real estate agents in West Melbourne
"Choose the right pocket"
Great place to live as long as you buy int he right pocket. North Melbourne lifestyle for much, much less....
Great for
- Location
- Lifestyle
Not great for
- Tendancy to be creepy
Who lives here?
- Professionals
"The most underrated suburb in Melbourne and family-friendly."
Having lived in the area for over 10 years we were hesitant to move with the birth of our children but at the same time, apprehensive whether it would continue to work for a family. We walk everywhere, so close to shopping and the market, excellent cafes and restaurants and so many parks to choose from and the pool. Childcare is great and there is a terrific sense of community which was part of the reason we decided to stay.
I actually initially preferred North Melbourne but I certainly now love 3003 more for it's proximity to EVERYTHING and Coles at Spencer St is a five minute drive for those big shopping trips.
Sure there are a few pan-handlers but they are essentially harmless, I feel very safe in the area, only the twits driving to the Western suburbs scare me.
If only there was a beach but hey, Port Melbourne is only a small drive away.
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
"A great place for families"
My family have lived here since 2002 and have two boys aged 6 and 3 who wouldn't live anywhere else. The myth that the city isn't for kids should be put to bed. The city is the place for kids. Schools , parks, sport, beach nearby and all the activities and entertainment that is held in the city make it the perfect place to grow up.
Who lives here?
- Families with kids
"Not for a family"
The good thing about west melbourne is, so close to the city and easy access to transport, bu the price too high. The bad thing about it is, there is not really a cummunity, people don't greet each other and the safety is something I will question about, well I live here my self and saw a few weird stuff. But if you just wants to have a place to live, not socialise, this might be for you and docklands only walking distance which another great thing. But honestly, we definetely will move ou soon as our contract finish.
Who lives here?
- Singles
That's a bit strange Vogue. I've lived in West Melbourne for 1 year now. found it to be a little gem. Ive never felt unsafe.
Not quite city but close enough to have all of the city amenities including the vic Market within walking distance. Errol and it's surrounding streets have a great vibe and cafe/bar scene and is full of all sorts of characters who are only to happy to have a chat. I find it a suburb of all types of classes where the wealthy mix with the battlers.
We have several local dog parks where my partner and I have made friends with a number of locals and our favirote cafe for breakfast where the owners greets us by name and are super friendly. Also keep in the the redevelopment of the West Melbourne rail yards in the not to far off adding more life to the south side of the suburb - I won't be moving out anytime soon
"a great inner city location"
Practically in central Melbourne this is a perfect spot for young couples and professionals working in the city. The convenience of being close to the city combined with the benefits of not actually being in the heart of the city with the associated noise.
West Melbourne is close to Errol Street for its cafes, restaurants and shops and a short walk or tram ride away from central Melbourne. Its easy to get to Southbank to stroll the river, Docklands to see a game of football and enjoy a great new development or across the city to the Victoria markets.
If I worked in Melbourne this would be the suburb for me.
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
I don't know where you lived or what your integration with the local comunity was but I have lived in West Melbourne for 3 years and have made many friends and love the sense of community. You know it's a two way street, you need to engae people so that they will engage you in return. What causes you to question the safety? What weird stuff?