10 Apr 2025 12 Safest Suburbs in Melbourne for a Secure Lifestyle in 2025
Living in one of the safest suburbs in Melbourne brings a sense of calm that many people crave when choosing a place to settle down. For families, retirees, and anyone chasing peace of mind, safety means more than low crime—it’s about quiet streets, a strong sense of community, good schools, and access to everyday essentials without stress.
If you’re planning to call a Melbourne suburb home, the mortgage brokers at EverLend are here to make the finance side easy. With expert advice and tailored home loan options, we’ll make the move into your new place feel a whole lot easier.
This article will explore the factors that make a suburb safe, and which Melbourne suburbs top the list in 2025.
What Makes a Suburb Safe?
Safety means different things to different people, but some factors consistently stand out when choosing where to live. Before we jump into the list, let’s look at what really makes a suburb feel safe and secure.
- Low crime rates – fewer reports of property damage, deception offences, and drug offences.
- Strong community – neighbours know each other and care.
- Fast emergency response – police and ambulance services are nearby.
- Street lighting – good lighting boosts safety and walkability.
- Public transport access – safe and reliable, especially around schools.
- Green spaces and parks – areas that attract families and promote an active lifestyle.
Now, let’s break down the 12 safest Melbourne suburbs that offer more than just low crime—they deliver peace of mind, a strong community feel, and the kind of lifestyle people move for.
Top 12 Safest Melbourne Suburbs
1. Ferny Creek: A Quiet Escape in the Dandenongs
Tucked away in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, Ferny Creek is a serene and tightly held suburb that’s perfect for those craving fresh air and quiet living. With its winding streets, abundant greenery, and strong sense of community, it’s no wonder Ferny Creek consistently ranks as one of Melbourne’s safest places to live.
Its low population density and tight-knit local culture help maintain a calm, low-crime environment year after year.
- Crime rate: Exceptionally low (almost no reports of property damage or drug offences)
- Community vibe: Peaceful and green with a strong sense of community
- Ideal for: Retirees, bushwalkers, young families
- Why live here: Excellent tree cover, leafy streets, low-density feel, quick access to the hills and National Parks
- Amenities: Close to Upper Ferntree Gully, has public transport options, local markets and a nature-rich environment
2. St Andrews: Peaceful Living in Melbourne’s Northeast
St Andrews is the kind of place where everyone knows your name, and local markets are a weekend ritual. The natural setting and artistic leanings create a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to those stepping away from the city hustle. Its remote charm is matched by reliable access to nearby towns, making it feel peaceful without being isolated.
- Crime rate: Among the lowest in the northern suburbs
- Community vibe: Known for its connected community, artsy energy, and quiet streets
- Ideal for: Creatives, families, semi-retirees
- Why live here: Generous tree cover, decent walkability, tight-knit local scene
- Nearby: Eltham North, North Warrandyte, and access to Yarra Glen
3. Merricks: Safe Coastal Lifestyle on the Mornington Peninsula
Life in Merricks moves at a gentler pace, surrounded by vineyards and quiet beaches that draw in those after a more refined coastal lifestyle. The area’s low traffic and quiet atmosphere mean residents enjoy peace and privacy, with few disturbances. It’s a community where locals know each other, and the crime stats reflect the trust shared among neighbours.
- Crime rate: Low
- Vibe: Premium suburb feel, strong sense of community
- Ideal for: Sea-change seekers, retirees, families
- Extras: Proximity to vineyards, beachside suburbs vibe, natural beauty
4. Point Leo: Small, Safe, and Right by the Sea
With only a handful of permanent residents, Point Leo is more of a hidden sanctuary than a typical suburb. Its quiet nature and lack of commercialisation help keep disturbances to a minimum, contributing to an almost non-existent crime presence. Locals often speak of the calm, undisturbed lifestyle as one of the area’s biggest draws.
- Crime rate: Very low
- Vibe: Coastal, tranquil, community-focused
- Ideal for: Surfers, families, those after a laid-back lifestyle
- Extras: Walkable suburbs qualities, demand for space, excellent access to coastal lifestyle
5. Shoreham: Tranquil Beachside Living
Shoreham offers a coastal vibe without the chaos, making it an ideal location for those who want beachside living with privacy. Its strong artistic community and quiet atmosphere mean you’re more likely to hear birds than sirens. Homes are well spaced, reducing the risk of property offences and encouraging neighbourly interaction.
- Crime rate: Minimal incidents
- Vibe: Artistic, peaceful, safe suburb
- Ideal for: Families, semi-retirees, nature lovers
- Extras: Walkability categories, tree-lined streets, attractive option for families
🏡 Ready to Make the Move?
Looking to settle in one of Melbourne’s safest suburbs? Chat with EverLend mortgage brokers in Melbourne today for expert home loan advice that fits your lifestyle and budget. 📞Call us on 03 7036 3356 or visit everlend.com.au to get started.
6. Wattle Glen: A Safe Spot Tucked Between Nature and Suburbia
Wattle Glen hits the sweet spot between feeling far enough out of the city to relax but close enough to still be connected. Locals enjoy a quiet, residential feel with minimal traffic and disturbances. It’s a place where kids still play outside, and everyone gives a friendly wave as they pass by.
- Crime rate: Low
- Vibe: Quiet, green, family-friendly
- Ideal for: Families, first-home buyers
- Extras: Great proximity to schools, Glen Waverley Secondary College nearby, access to bus services
7. Warrandyte: Riverside Charm with Low Crime Rates
Warrandyte feels like a village from another time, where the Yarra River winds through town and locals chat over coffee at the weekend markets. It’s a suburb where crime is rare and neighbours are quick to lend a hand. Its leafy surrounds and slower pace make it a calming place to settle.
- Crime rate: One of the lowest in Melbourne
- Vibe: Riverside charm, exclusive suburbs energy
- Ideal for: Families, retirees, lifestyle seekers
- Extras: Yarra River walks, leafy streets, top-rated schools
8. Yarrambat: Safe and Spacious with a Country Feel
Yarrambat offers a semi-rural feel without sacrificing convenience, which attracts those looking for safety and space. There’s a relaxed rhythm to daily life here, and the community is deeply engaged in preserving its peaceful environment. Large blocks and low traffic mean very few opportunities for crime to occur.
- Crime rate: Low and steady
- Vibe: Spacious, country-meets-suburb
- Ideal for: Families, nature-lovers
- Extras: Strong sense of community, cultural diversity, proximity to Glen Waverley
9. Panton Hill: One of Melbourne’s Best Rural-Lifestyle Suburbs
Panton Hill combines the charm of country living with the convenience of being within reach of Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Locals are active in community groups and events, keeping the area vibrant yet tight-knit. The spread-out housing and strong local networks naturally deter most forms of crime.
- Crime rate: Very low
- Vibe: Tight-knit, scenic, family friendly
- Ideal for: Large families, land banking, retirees
- Extras: Distance to schools manageable, public transport access limited but decent access via bus routes
10. The Patch: Low-Density, Low-Crime Hills Living
Tucked deep in the Dandenongs, The Patch offers seclusion, nature, and a calming lifestyle that many city dwellers can only dream of. With very few through-roads, there’s minimal outsider traffic, which helps reduce petty crime. Residents here value privacy and peaceful living, and the community reflects those values.
- Crime rate: Consistently low
- Vibe: Green, calm, sense of community
- Ideal for: Nature lovers, families
- Extras: Excellent tree cover, Glen Iris proximity, elite schools nearby
11. Beaconsfield: Family-Friendly with Great Schools and Safety
Beaconsfield continues to grow, but it hasn’t lost its sense of local pride and safety. It’s a suburb where schools, parks, and homes blend together in a way that supports family life. Even as development increases, crime rates have remained impressively low.
- Crime rate: Low for a metro suburb
- Vibe: Growing suburb, established suburb feeling
- Ideal for: Families, young couples
- Extras: Shopping centres, proximity to Glen Waverley, excellent train access
12. Dewhurst: Nature-Focused, Low Crime, Hidden Gem
Dewhurst is one of those places that feels completely off the radar, in the best way. It’s surrounded by bushland and feels far removed from the noise of Melbourne, creating a naturally secure environment. The quiet setting and sense of community are key reasons crime stays so low.
- Crime rate: Extremely low
- Vibe: Leafy, private, peaceful lifestyle
- Ideal for: Empty nesters, creative professionals
- Extras: Cultural services nearby, connected community, space categories ideal for large blocks
Source: Realestate.com.au, Crime Stats Agency VIC, Domain, Homely
Safety Trends in Melbourne’s Outskirts (2025 Outlook)
Melbourne’s liveable suburbs on the fringe—particularly in the north-east and south-east—are becoming increasingly attractive due to their low offence rate, growing community spirit, and more spacious living options.
With more residents prioritising safety, green space, and a strong walkability score, the outer suburbs are now a top choice for families. These areas also offer better value—median house prices in places like Yarrambat or Beaconsfield sit around $950,000–$1.2 million, significantly lower than South Yarra’s median of $1.65 million in late 2024.
For investors, these safer outer zones are also showing strong rental demand, consistent rental return, and more stable rental price growth, especially in low-density areas with appealing lifestyle features.
Looking ahead to 2025, the trend points towards continued growth in these low-crime, high-comfort locations as more buyers and renters opt for a safer, more balanced way of living.
🏠 Let’s Make Your Move to a Safer Suburb Simple
Whether you’re eyeing a leafy hideaway in the hills or a family-friendly pocket near great schools, our mortgage brokers at EverLend is here to help. We’re based in St Kilda, right near the heart of Melbourne, but we proudly work with homebuyers all across the city and suburbs.
📞Give us a ring at 03 7036 3356 or head to everlend.com.au to get started—your safer future starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is the safest suburb in Melbourne?
Ferny Creek, located in the Yarra Ranges, consistently records one of the lowest scores for crime, making it a peaceful choice with decent tree cover, lush parks, and a tight-knit local vibe. It’s especially popular with families looking for proximity to primary school options and quiet, hilly streets.
What suburb has the lowest crime rate in Victoria?
Based on 2023 suburb rates, Point Leo on the Mornington Peninsula had fewer than 10 recorded incidents, giving it an extremely low score for crime. This quiet, coastal area offers limited traffic and strong community values, often supported by local community projects.
Which area is not to stay in Melbourne?
Some inner-city suburbs with higher density and nightlife—like parts of North Melbourne or areas around Luna Park in St Kilda—tend to have elevated crime levels and higher scores for crime. While they’re rich in dining options and cafe culture, they may not suit those seeking a quieter or more secure lifestyle, especially for families with young children or those prioritising safety.
What is the most burgled suburb in Melbourne?
According to VicCrime’s data, parts of Port Melbourne recorded one of the highest burglary rates, driven in part by its blend of expensive suburbs, high turnover of residents, and proximity to the city centre. Despite being a vibrant location, the mix of density suburbs and short-stay rentals has impacted its score for crime.
Which suburb is best to live in Melbourne?
For a balance of lifestyle, safety, and access to amenities, East Melbourne and Doncaster East are considered some of the most desirable suburbs. They offer easy access to trams, convenient tram stops, and nearby childcare centres, while also boasting high culture scores and access to art galleries.
What is the most affordable suburb in Melbourne?
In 2024, Cranbourne East and Melton South rank among the most affordable suburbs, with median property prices sitting under $600,000. These suburbs offer a growing range of prestigious schools, land for sale, and good infrastructure while still being relatively close to major secondary school hubs and the eastern suburb transport network.
What suburb has the best overall culture in Melbourne?
Carlton North and Brunswick regularly top the charts for suburbs for culture, thanks to their vibrant cafe culture, access to art galleries, and unique culture score. They’re widely seen as the go-to city for culture lovers looking for walkable streets, nearby trams, and a strong sense of decent culture.
Final Word Before You Go
Choosing where to live is one of the biggest steps you’ll take—and if peace of mind is high on your list, these safest suburbs in Melbourne are a great place to start in 2025. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or buying your very first home, having someone guide you through the home loan process makes all the difference.
At EverLend, we offer a free consultation to help you explore your options and make confident decisions. We’re a team of trusted mortgage brokers in St Kilda, but we work with clients across all of Melbourne—wherever life takes you, we’ve got your back.
📞 Call us today on 03 7036 3356 or visit everlend.com.au to book your free chat.