Frankston vs Mentone Melbourne — Which Is Better?

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

Side-by-Side Comparison

Frankston in 90 Seconds

Frankston is a suburb that has more depth than you expect. Frankston Arts Centre is one of Melbourne’s premier regional arts venues. 41km from CBD. 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 improving infrastructure.

Mentone in 90 Seconds

Mentone contrasts with Frankston in most categories. Bayside suburb with strong independent community identity. Good cafe strip on Como Parade. Direct beach access. 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 Frankston ($517/wk) and Mentone ($451/wk) is noticeable. Groceries and daily costs are similar in both suburbs. Coffee runs $4.50-5.50 in Frankston versus $4.50-5.50 in Mentone. For eating out, Frankston ranges $28-45 for dinner while Mentone sits at $28-45. Over a year, the cost difference between the two is about $3,432 in rent alone.

Head-to-Head: Dining Scene

Frankston has a growing food scene with reliable local favourites. Mentone counters with a stronger cafe game. For cheap eats, both suburbs deliver well under $15 — Frankston leans toward burgers and pizza while Mentone favours pub grub and Thai.

Head-to-Head: Lifestyle

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

Head-to-Head: Transport

Frankston is 41km, 55min train, 47min drive — accessible. Mentone sits at 20km, 35min train, 28min drive. For driving, both suburbs have good freeway access. Public transport: Frankston has the edge with more frequent services.

Who Should Choose Frankston

• You prioritise community feel
• You want established infrastructure
• You prefer growing food and cafe options
• Budget: $517/wk rent, $28-45 dinners

Who Should Choose Mentone

• You prioritise lifestyle options
• You want a suburb on the upswing
• You prefer a bit more action
• Budget: $451/wk rent, $28-45 dinners

Our Verdict

Mentone 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 Mentone. The other suburb is still a solid choice and may suit you better depending on your specific needs.

Explore More

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

FAQ

Which is cheaper, Frankston or Mentone?

Rent in Frankston averages $517/wk vs $451/wk in Mentone. Daily costs (coffee, groceries, transport) are similar in both suburbs.

Which is better for families?

Both work for families. Frankston has more school options. Mentone has more childcare spots.

How far are they from Melbourne CBD?

Frankston: 41km, 55min train, 47min drive. Mentone: 20km, 35min train, 28min drive.

Last updated: March 2026