The Neighbourhood Guide to Selby: What It’s Really Like
I drove through Selby on a Tuesday afternoon and the first thing that struck me was how different it felt from what I’d expected. 36km from the CBD, this suburb has its own rhythm.
Selby is a small residential pocket in the lower Dandenong Ranges – less touristy than Sassafras, less village-y than Belgrave, and more quietly residential than either. Tree-lined streets, modest homes on sloped blocks, and the kind of community where people know their neighbours by name. It’s the Ranges without the postcard.
With a population of around 1,800 and median rents sitting at $340/week for a one-bedroom apartment, Selby is one of Melbourne’s more affordable options. Here’s what it’s actually like to live here.
Getting Around
Bus to Belgrave station (10-15 minutes). Belgrave line trains to the CBD in 60 minutes. Car-dependent for daily life. Selby-Aura Road connects to the Monash Freeway corridor.
The reality of commuting from Selby is a commitment. At 36km from the CBD, your daily commute will be 50-75 minutes depending on your mode of transport and the time of day.
For drivers, peak hour adds 15-30 minutes to most journeys. Public transport is limited – a car is essential.
If you’re coming from Belgrave, Menzies Creek, Lysterfield, the connections are car-dependent.
The Food Scene
Let’s be honest about the food scene in Selby. It’s developing but don’t expect a Brunswick-level strip of restaurants.
What you’ll find:
- Takeaway and fast food along the main roads – the usual suspects plus local favourites
- Cafes that range from solid to surprisingly good
- Multicultural food that reflects the community – the variety is better than you’d expect for a suburb this far out
- Supermarkets cover the basics, with Coles and Woolworths within driving distance
The dining scene in Selby isn’t going to win any awards, but you won’t go hungry. For a proper night out, you’re heading to the nearest larger suburb.
Shopping and Daily Life
- Birdsland Reserve walking trails
- Selby Community House
- Belgrave village (nearby)
- Dandenong Ranges proximity
- Puffing Billy route (nearby)
Daily shopping in Selby is limited locally – plan your shopping trips.
Parks and Green Space
The walking and cycling infrastructure is basic but functional. Families will find a few playgrounds and open spaces for kids.
For more serious nature, Belgrave, Menzies Creek, Lysterfield and the surrounding area provide access to larger parks and reserves.
The Community Vibe
Selby has a population of 1,800 and the community is tight-knit and established.
Quiet, safe residential area with low crime. Bushfire risk during summer months – CFA active area. Dark, narrow roads at night. Wildlife on roads is common.
The demographic skews towards established residents who chose the area deliberately.
Community events are smaller but genuine – everyone knows each other.
Who Lives Here
The typical Selby resident is a family who values space and community over inner-city convenience.
You’ll notice a mix of old and new.
The area attracts people who prioritise value for money.
The Verdict
Selby is a unique Melbourne suburb with its own distinct character.
Who it suits: More affordable than Sassafras or Olinda with similar proximity to Belgrave station. The Ranges life
Who should look elsewhere: Anyone who needs a quick CBD commute.
The bottom line: Selby is the Ranges suburb for people who want the trees without the tourism. It’s quieter and cheaper than Sassafras or Olinda, with similar nature access. The trade-off is even fewer local services
Neighbouring suburbs worth comparing: Belgrave, Menzies Creek, Lysterfield. Each has slightly different strengths, so drive through a few before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Selby like to live in?
Selby is a 36km-from-CBD suburb with a population of 1,800. The character is tight-knit and established, with one of Melbourne’s more affordable options rents. Daily life involves limited locally – plan your shopping trips shopping, and the commute to Melbourne’s centre takes 50-75 minutes. The community vibe is genuine and the area has its own rhythm that takes a few weeks to appreciate.
Is Selby affordable?
One-bedroom apartments rent for around $340/week. The median house price sits at $730,000. Compared to inner Melbourne, Selby offers significantly more space for the money. Factor in commuting costs of $125/week to get the true cost of living here. Groceries and dining are generally priced below inner-suburb equivalents.
How is public transport in Selby?
Bus to Belgrave station (10-15 minutes). Belgrave line trains to the CBD in 60 minutes. Car-dependent for daily life. Selby-Aura Road connects to the Monash Freeway corridor. Public transport is limited – a car is essential. For daily commuters, expect 50-75 minutes to the CBD depending on mode. Many residents find a car is essential for local errands regardless of their commute method. The PTV app is essential for planning trips around service schedules.
Local knowledge compiled April 2026. Prices are estimates based on current market data. Always verify current listings and inspect in person.