CBD + inner-ring Melbourne — the dense grid.
Moreland + Darebin + Banyule + northern growth.
Boroondara + Whitehorse + Manningham.
Stonnington + Glen Eira + Bayside + Kingston.
Maribyrnong + Hobsons Bay + Brimbank + Wyndham.
Yarra Ranges, Knox, Casey, Cardinia, Mornington Peninsula.
High-growth corridors — new builds, new schools, moving families.
Verdict Box Best for: First-home builders buying land, families prioritising a new house over established amenities, and those with a long-term (5–10 year) investment horizon. Skip if: You crave …
2026 Pakenham guide: real parks, pubs and cafes locals use—plus commute truth, rent data, and the family pockets worth …
