Richmondite

I'm seeing a lot of recommendations for singles and professionals so I felt compelled to write on behalf of families. We have lived here for twelve years, the last four have been with two small children - and we're not going anywhere. There are numerous childcare centers, all within walking distance. There are numerous parks, all within walking distance. There are several playgroups, again, all within walking distance. I can walk to my local library. There are three gyms I can walk to and I walk to the one I have membership at.

From the top of my memory there are four primary schools that I can immediately think of, three are government and one catholic. Excepting for Melbourne Girls College, you may have to look at adjacent suburbs for secondary schools, if you can get in: top tier schools, and by high school age your children could use multiple ways of public transport to get to them. There is a shopping center - Victoria gardens with a cinema and bowling available. A plethora of eating options with the majority being child friendly.

We are a two car family and as I am at home full time currently my car just sits on the street. We know almost all our neighbours and have had two 'neighbour' parties. At night we are a quiet street. We are close to the yarra that makes for a lovely walk or bike ride alongside it. I'm a big believer in tramming it to the city as trying to find and pay for parking is pointless.

Downside is the parking issue. There are constant traffic snarls - but hey you can walk everywhere - and as Richmond has a great nightlife, some areas may be noisy.

Lastly I have a special needs child, and the services we have received from the City of Yarra have been exemplary. We have been well looked after.