Eltham vs Montmorency Melbourne — Which Is Better?

We’ve spent time in both Eltham and Montmorency 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: Eltham edges it overall, but it depends on what you prioritise.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Eltham in 90 Seconds

Eltham is a suburb that has more depth than you expect. Mud-brick architecture and arts community define Eltham. Montsalvat artists’ colony since 1934. The dining scene runs from $10-16 for casual meals to $22-38 for a proper sit-down dinner. The suburb has a established community identity and improving infrastructure.

Montmorency in 90 Seconds

Montmorency holds its own against Eltham in most categories. Leafy suburb at the base of the Yarra Ranges. Were Shire bushland and walking trails nearby. Strong community identity. Expect to pay $4.00-4.50 for coffee and $18-32 for dinner. The suburb has a food scene that punches above its weight.

Head-to-Head: Cost of Living

The weekly rent difference between Eltham ($370/wk) and Montmorency ($313/wk) is noticeable. Groceries and daily costs are similar in both suburbs. Coffee runs $4.50-5.00 in Eltham versus $4.00-4.50 in Montmorency. For eating out, Eltham ranges $22-38 for dinner while Montmorency sits at $18-32. Over a year, the cost difference between the two is about $2,964 in rent alone.

Head-to-Head: Dining Scene

Eltham has a more established food scene with solid cafe culture. Montmorency counters with better value for money. For cheap eats, both suburbs deliver well under $15 — Eltham leans toward bakeries and delis while Montmorency favours pub grub and Thai.

Head-to-Head: Lifestyle

If you want parks and outdoor space, Montmorency has the edge. Shopping is more convenient in Eltham. For nightlife and evening options, neither suburb is exactly Chapel Street — but Montmorency has more going on after 8pm. Weekend activities are a toss-up, with both suburbs offering parks, cafes, and local markets.

Head-to-Head: Families

Both suburbs cater to families, but in different ways. Eltham offers better park access, while Montmorency has stronger community programs. For school quality, check the MySchool data — but both suburbs have options that locals rate highly.

Head-to-Head: Transport

Eltham is 24km, 45min train, 32min drive — well-connected. Montmorency sits at 19km, 36min train, 26min drive. For driving, both suburbs have reasonable arterial connections. Public transport: both are similarly served.

Who Should Choose Eltham

• You prioritise transport access
• You want proximity to mud-brick architecture and arts community define eltham
• You prefer a suburban pace
• Budget: $370/wk rent, $22-38 dinners

Who Should Choose Montmorency

• You prioritise school zones
• You want a suburb on the upswing
• You prefer strong community identity
• Budget: $313/wk rent, $18-32 dinners

Our Verdict

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

Explore More

• Eltham Complete Guide — everything about Eltham
• Montmorency Complete Guide — everything about Montmorency
• Eltham Best Cafes — where to eat in Eltham
• Montmorency Best Cafes — where to eat in Montmorency
• Compare Suburbs Tool — detailed side-by-side
• Moving to Eltham — full relocation guide

FAQ

Which is cheaper, Eltham or Montmorency?

Rent in Eltham averages $370/wk vs $313/wk in Montmorency. Daily costs (coffee, groceries, transport) are similar in both suburbs.

Which is better for families?

Both work for families. Eltham has more school options. Montmorency has stronger community programs.

How far are they from Melbourne CBD?

Eltham: 24km, 45min train, 32min drive. Montmorency: 19km, 36min train, 26min drive.

Last updated: March 2026