Aspendale Gardens vs Patterson Lakes Melbourne — Which Is Better?

We’ve spent time in both Aspendale Gardens and Patterson Lakes to give you an honest comparison. If you’re choosing between these two suburbs — for living, investing, or just knowing where to eat — here’s the real picture for 2026. Our verdict: Patterson Lakes edges it overall, but it depends on what you prioritise.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspendale Gardens in 90 Seconds

Aspendale Gardens is a suburb that rewards patience. Planned residential estate with lakes and parks. Family-friendly with good open spaces. The dining scene runs from $12-18 for casual meals to $28-45 for a proper sit-down dinner. The suburb has a evolving community identity and good access to major roads.

Patterson Lakes in 90 Seconds

Patterson Lakes contrasts with Aspendale Gardens in most categories. Built around man-made lakes and canal system. Popular for boating and waterside living. Expect to pay $4.50-5.50 for coffee and $28-45 for dinner. The suburb has a food scene that punches above its weight.

Head-to-Head: Cost of Living

The weekly rent difference between Aspendale Gardens ($353/wk) and Patterson Lakes ($459/wk) is noticeable. Groceries and daily costs are similar in both suburbs. Coffee runs $4.50-5.50 in Aspendale Gardens versus $4.50-5.50 in Patterson Lakes. For eating out, Aspendale Gardens ranges $28-45 for dinner while Patterson Lakes sits at $28-45. Over a year, the cost difference between the two is about $5,512 in rent alone.

Head-to-Head: Dining Scene

Aspendale Gardens has a growing food scene with reliable local favourites. Patterson Lakes counters with a stronger cafe game. For cheap eats, both suburbs deliver well under $15 — Aspendale Gardens leans toward burgers and pizza while Patterson Lakes favours Middle Eastern and Italian.

Head-to-Head: Lifestyle

If you want parks and outdoor space, Aspendale Gardens has the edge. Shopping is better anchored in Patterson Lakes. For nightlife and evening options, neither suburb is exactly Chapel Street — but Aspendale Gardens has more going on after 8pm. Weekend activities are a toss-up, with both suburbs offering community events and sports clubs.

Head-to-Head: Families

Both suburbs cater to families, but in different ways. Aspendale Gardens offers better park access, while Patterson Lakes has better weekend activities for kids. For school quality, check the MySchool data — but both suburbs have options that locals rate highly.

Head-to-Head: Transport

Aspendale Gardens is 18-41km, 32-55min train, 25-47min drive — well-connected. Patterson Lakes sits at 18-41km, 32-55min train, 25-47min drive. For driving, both suburbs have reasonable arterial connections. Public transport: both are similarly served.

Who Should Choose Aspendale Gardens

• You prioritise affordability
• You want established infrastructure
• You prefer growing food and cafe options
• Budget: $353/wk rent, $28-45 dinners

Who Should Choose Patterson Lakes

• You prioritise newer housing stock
• You want a suburb on the upswing
• You prefer newer development
• Budget: $459/wk rent, $28-45 dinners

Our Verdict

Patterson Lakes takes this one — but not by much. The deciding factors are family infrastructure and future growth potential. If affordability is your top priority, go with Patterson Lakes. The other suburb is still a solid choice and may suit you better depending on your specific needs.

Explore More

• Aspendale Gardens Complete Guide — everything about Aspendale Gardens
• Patterson Lakes Complete Guide — everything about Patterson Lakes
• Aspendale Gardens Best Cafes — where to eat in Aspendale Gardens
• Patterson Lakes Best Cafes — where to eat in Patterson Lakes
• Compare Suburbs Tool — detailed side-by-side
• Moving to Aspendale Gardens — full relocation guide

FAQ

Which is cheaper, Aspendale Gardens or Patterson Lakes?

Rent in Aspendale Gardens averages $353/wk vs $459/wk in Patterson Lakes. Daily costs (coffee, groceries, transport) are similar in both suburbs.

Which is better for families?

Both work for families. Aspendale Gardens has better parkland. Patterson Lakes has stronger community programs.

How far are they from Melbourne CBD?

Aspendale Gardens: 18-41km, 32-55min train, 25-47min drive. Patterson Lakes: 18-41km, 32-55min train, 25-47min drive.

Last updated: March 2026