Best Places to Move From Melbourne for Families in 2026
As housing affordability, lifestyle priorities, and remote work continue to evolve, more Melbourne families are choosing to relocate to new growth suburbs and regional cities. Families are looking for larger homes, modern playgrounds, better schools, safer streets, and stronger community living — without the high inner-city price tag.
Whether you’re upsizing, planning for more space, or simply seeking a better quality of life, here are some of the most popular family-friendly places to move to from Melbourne in 2026.
Why Families Are Leaving Inner Melbourne
Many families are choosing to move away from inner Melbourne due to:
- Rising property prices and limited space
- Busy traffic and commuting pressure
- Smaller backyards and fewer outdoor areas for kids
- Desire for quieter neighbourhoods and stronger community feel
- Access to new schools, parks, and sporting facilities
- Modern housing estates with better layouts and energy efficiency
New suburbs and regional centres now offer excellent infrastructure, healthcare, education, and lifestyle opportunities — making relocation an attractive option for growing families.
Top Family-Friendly Places to Move From Melbourne
🏡 Ballarat
Ballarat continues to attract families due to its affordability, strong schools, and growing employment opportunities. Many new estates feature modern playgrounds, walking tracks, childcare centres, and community hubs.
✔ Affordable housing
✔ Quality public and private schools
✔ Family parks and sports facilities
✔ Approx. 90 minutes from Melbourne
🌿 Bendigo
Bendigo offers a thriving regional lifestyle with modern developments, cultural facilities, and excellent healthcare services. Families enjoy larger block sizes and strong community networks.
✔ Growing housing estates
✔ New playgrounds and recreational areas
✔ Excellent regional amenities
✔ Strong job growth
🌊 Geelong & Surf Coast
Families seeking a coastal lifestyle often choose Geelong, Torquay, and surrounding areas. These suburbs offer excellent schools, beaches, sporting clubs, and new residential developments.
✔ Beach access and outdoor lifestyle
✔ New schools and infrastructure
✔ Family-friendly communities
✔ Easy access back to Melbourne
🌳 Albury–Wodonga
This twin-city regional area offers affordable living, modern estates, and strong education and healthcare facilities — ideal for families wanting a balanced lifestyle.
✔ Affordable family homes
✔ Strong regional economy
✔ New estates and playgrounds
✔ Excellent schooling options
🏗️ Outer Melbourne Growth Areas (Clyde, Tarneit, Mickleham)
Melbourne’s outer growth suburbs continue to attract young families due to new housing estates, playgrounds, shopping centres, and modern schools.
✔ Brand-new playgrounds and parks
✔ Larger homes and land sizes
✔ Master-planned communities
✔ Strong future growth
What Families Should Consider Before Moving
Before choosing your new location, consider:
- School catchment zones
- Childcare availability
- Commute times and transport
- Medical services
- Internet connectivity
- Future infrastructure development
- Community facilities and safety
A little planning upfront helps ensure your move supports your family’s long-term lifestyle and financial goals.
Planning a Family Move From Melbourne?
Relocating your family doesn’t have to be stressful. Professional removalists can help with packing, loading, transport, and safe delivery — especially for interstate or regional moves.