But beyond the cafes and galleries, Melbourne is also a powerhouse when it comes to job opportunities, particularly in construction and trades. Whether you’re coming from the UK, New Zealand, Ireland, or anywhere else, Melbourne offers an exciting career landscape and an amazing place to call home.

Best Suburbs to Live In.

Melbourne is a city full of diverse suburbs, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re a young professional, raising a family, or just looking for a more affordable lifestyle, there’s a suburb for everyone.

• Young Professionals: Brunswick, Fitzroy, Collingwood, Northcote, and Docklands
  These inner-city suburbs are a top choice for young professionals, offering great connectivity to the CBD, a vibrant social scene, and a mix of modern apartments and period homes. With lively cafés, bars, and cultural hotspots, they’re perfect for those who value both career access and lifestyle.

• Families: Balwyn, Glen Waverley, Williamstown, Eltham, Bentleigh
  Family-friendly living with space to grow. These suburbs are known for quality schools, parks, and a strong sense of community. From beachside charm in Williamstown to leafy streets in Eltham, you’ll find a quieter pace of life without sacrificing convenience.

• Affordable Living: Sunshine, Coburg, Thomastown, Werribee, St Albans
  If you’re looking to stretch your budget further, these suburbs offer better value while still keeping you connected to the city. With ongoing development, improving transport links, and growing communities, they’re ideal for first-home buyers or those looking for long-term potential.

Cost of Living.

Living in Melbourne can be more affordable than you think, especially if you know where to look! Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in terms of daily costs:

• Rent (1-bed apartment in the city): $2,200–$2,800 per month
• Rent (1-bed apartment outside the city): $1,600–$2,000 per month
• Buying a used car: $10,000–$25,000 for a decent second-hand vehicle, but you can find older cars for as little as $3,000–$8,000.
• Eating out (mid-range meal for two): $80–$120
• Coffee: $4.50–$6 (Melbourne is known for its coffee culture – don’t forget to try a flat white!)
• Pint of beer: $10–$14 (Enjoy Melbourne’s craft beer scene with pints in local pubs)
• Food deals: Melbourne’s dining scene is filled with affordable options! Many pubs and restaurants offer special deals such as $20 steak nights, parma nights, and happy hour specials, making dining out more accessible.

What to Expect Living in Melbourne.

Weather: Get ready for a little bit of everything! Melbourne is famous for its unpredictable weather, so pack for all seasons in a single day. Summers are warm (25–35°C), perfect for outdoor festivals and beach days, while winters can be cool (6–14°C) – ideal for cozying up in one of Melbourne’s many quirky cafes or pubs.



Transport: Melbourne's public transport system is extensive, with trams being free in the CBD and a comprehensive train network connecting the city to its surrounding suburbs. Getting around is a breeze, and with trams running regularly, you’ll always be just a short ride away from the action.

Lifestyle: The Melbourne lifestyle is a blend of culture, sport, and food. Sports fans will never be bored, with AFL, cricket, and Formula 1 events drawing huge crowds year-round. The city's food scene is world-renowned, from high-end restaurants to hidden laneway gems. And if you're into music, Melbourne’s live music scene is thriving, with countless gigs, festivals, and events happening all year round.