Ferntree Gully vs Upper Ferntree Gully Melbourne — Which Is Better?

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

Side-by-Side Comparison

Ferntree Gully in 90 Seconds

Ferntree Gully is a suburb that surprises first-time visitors. Gateway to the 1000 Steps Kokoda Memorial Walk — one of Melbourne’s most popular bushwalks. The dining scene runs from $8-14 for casual meals to $18-32 for a proper sit-down dinner. The suburb has a growing community identity and good access to major roads.

Upper Ferntree Gully in 90 Seconds

Upper Ferntree Gully holds its own against Ferntree Gully in most categories. Upper FTG sits at the top of the Belgrave rail line’s climb into the ranges. Access to Dandenong Ranges National Park. Expect to pay $4.00-4.50 for coffee and $18-32 for dinner. The suburb has its own character that takes time to appreciate.

Head-to-Head: Cost of Living

The weekly rent difference between Ferntree Gully ($295/wk) and Upper Ferntree Gully ($405/wk) is noticeable. Groceries and daily costs are similar in both suburbs. Coffee runs $4.00-4.50 in Ferntree Gully versus $4.00-4.50 in Upper Ferntree Gully. For eating out, Ferntree Gully ranges $18-32 for dinner while Upper Ferntree Gully sits at $18-32. Over a year, the cost difference between the two is about $5,720 in rent alone.

Head-to-Head: Dining Scene

Ferntree Gully has a diverse food scene with reliable local favourites. Upper Ferntree Gully counters with a stronger cafe game. For cheap eats, both suburbs deliver well under $15 — Ferntree Gully leans toward Vietnamese and Indian while Upper Ferntree Gully favours Asian fusion.

Head-to-Head: Lifestyle

If you want parks and outdoor space, Ferntree Gully has the edge. Shopping is more convenient in Upper Ferntree Gully. For nightlife and evening options, neither suburb is exactly Chapel Street — but Ferntree Gully 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. Ferntree Gully offers a quieter residential feel, while Upper Ferntree Gully has more childcare options. For school quality, check the MySchool data — but both suburbs have options that locals rate highly.

Head-to-Head: Transport

Ferntree Gully is 24-35km, 35-52min train, 28-40min drive — a reasonable commute. Upper Ferntree Gully sits at 30km, 48min train, 35min drive. For driving, both suburbs have reasonable arterial connections. Public transport: Ferntree Gully has the edge with more frequent services.

Who Should Choose Ferntree Gully

• You prioritise community feel
• You want established infrastructure
• You prefer growing food and cafe options
• Budget: $295/wk rent, $18-32 dinners

Who Should Choose Upper Ferntree Gully

• You prioritise lifestyle options
• You want a suburb on the upswing
• You prefer a bit more action
• Budget: $405/wk rent, $18-32 dinners

Our Verdict

Upper Ferntree Gully takes this one — but not by much. The deciding factors are value for money and dining variety. If affordability is your top priority, go with Upper Ferntree Gully. The other suburb is still a solid choice and may suit you better depending on your specific needs.

Explore More

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

FAQ

Which is cheaper, Ferntree Gully or Upper Ferntree Gully?

Rent in Ferntree Gully averages $295/wk vs $405/wk in Upper Ferntree Gully. Daily costs (coffee, groceries, transport) are similar in both suburbs.

Which is better for families?

Both work for families. Ferntree Gully has more school options. Upper Ferntree Gully has more childcare spots.

How far are they from Melbourne CBD?

Ferntree Gully: 24-35km, 35-52min train, 28-40min drive. Upper Ferntree Gully: 30km, 48min train, 35min drive.

Last updated: March 2026