Eltham vs Notting Hill Melbourne — Which Is Better?

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

Side-by-Side Comparison

Eltham in 90 Seconds

Eltham is a suburb that surprises first-time visitors. 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 growing community identity and solid public transport options.

Notting Hill in 90 Seconds

Notting Hill complements Eltham in most categories. Monash University Clayton campus adjacent. Mix of residential and light industrial. Expect to pay $4.50-5.50 for coffee and $28-45 for dinner. The suburb has grown significantly over the past decade.

Head-to-Head: Cost of Living

The weekly rent difference between Eltham ($419/wk) and Notting Hill ($348/wk) is noticeable. Groceries and daily costs are similar in both suburbs. Coffee runs $4.50-5.00 in Eltham versus $4.50-5.50 in Notting Hill. For eating out, Eltham ranges $22-38 for dinner while Notting Hill sits at $28-45. Over a year, the cost difference between the two is about $3,692 in rent alone.

Head-to-Head: Dining Scene

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

Head-to-Head: Lifestyle

If you want parks and outdoor space, Eltham has the edge. Shopping is better anchored in Notting Hill. For nightlife and evening options, neither suburb is exactly Chapel Street — but Notting Hill has more going on after 8pm. Weekend activities are a toss-up, with both suburbs offering walking trails and family-friendly outings.

Head-to-Head: Families

Both suburbs cater to families, but in different ways. Eltham offers better park access, while Notting Hill has more childcare options. 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 — a reasonable commute. Notting Hill sits at 14-22km, 25-38min train, 20-30min drive. For driving, both suburbs have improving road networks. Public transport: Eltham has the edge with more frequent services.

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: $419/wk rent, $22-38 dinners

Who Should Choose Notting Hill

• You prioritise a developing food scene
• You want a suburb on the upswing
• You prefer newer development
• Budget: $348/wk rent, $28-45 dinners

Our Verdict

Notting Hill takes this one — but not by much. The deciding factors are family infrastructure and future growth potential. If you want the better food scene, go with Notting Hill. 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
• Notting Hill Complete Guide — everything about Notting Hill
• Eltham Best Cafes — where to eat in Eltham
• Notting Hill Best Cafes — where to eat in Notting Hill
• Compare Suburbs Tool — detailed side-by-side
• Moving to Eltham — full relocation guide

FAQ

Which is cheaper, Eltham or Notting Hill?

Rent in Eltham averages $419/wk vs $348/wk in Notting Hill. Daily costs (coffee, groceries, transport) are similar in both suburbs.

Which is better for families?

Both work for families. Eltham has a quieter feel. Notting Hill has newer facilities.

How far are they from Melbourne CBD?

Eltham: 24km, 45min train, 32min drive. Notting Hill: 14-22km, 25-38min train, 20-30min drive.

Last updated: March 2026