Why We Want to Live In South Melbourne

When it comes to inner city-living, South Melbourne is exemplary. Huddled comfortably between St Kilda, Southbank, South Yarra and Port Melbourne, this suburb boasts an incredible location that complements a variety of lifestyles. Life here means quick access to beaches, gardens, shopping hubs and nightlife, not the mention the Royal Botanic Gardens and the CBD. What else do you need?

The best of both worlds

South Melbourne represents the meeting of the old and the new. The area has plenty of history in buildings such as the local town hall and the Seep Yup Temple, the latter of which was built in 1866 during the Victorian gold rush. This antiquity is balanced by plenty of thriving cafés, eateries, retail outlets and art galleries, all connected by countless cobbled bluestone laneways snaking between residential areas and shopping strips.

Aside from some new developments sprouting up here and there, the aesthetically pleasing architecture is mostly terraced or semi-detached Victorian. Current figures put the median house price at around $1.4 million, while units fall just under the $600k mark.

Effortlessly caters to a diverse range of lifestyles

Now that we mention food and shopping, how could a profile of this suburb not include the iconic South Melbourne Market? Overflowing with general goods and incredible cuisine, this 150-year-old hotspot is a huge tick for the suburb in terms of livability. While famed for its dim sims, don’t forget to branch out and try all the other mouth-watering treats the market has to offer!

Sport lovers will be right at home in South Melbourne: the MCG, AAMI Park and surrounding stadiums and facilities are just over the Yarra, while Etihad Stadium is a short tram ride down Clarendon and Spencer Streets. If you feel like mixing with the locals a little more, head over to Lakeside Stadium and catch the beloved South Melbourne FC battle it out for glory in the Victorian Premier League. Don’t forget the Formula 1, which is just next door at Albert Park Lake!

However, this area isn’t just perfect for market lovers and sport fanatics. Given its prime access to some of Melbourne’s most storied features, South Melbourne suits any independent looking for a combination of homey vibes and an inner-city lifestyle.

Home to the up-and-coming of Melbourne

South Melbourne is populated by a mix of residents, but most fall within the 20-39 age bracket. Around 46% of residents are independent youth or young people with established independence, but you’ll also find older singles, lifelong residents and maturing couples and families. Given the location and community of the area, it’s no surprise that independents of all ages find it such a fantastic place to live.