Northcote Property Market
& Suburb Profile

Melbourne’s northern suburbs were ranked the top areas for work, rest and play, according to a landmark PwC Australia City Pulse 2021 study. Of the 295 city suburbs researched, Northcote led the way with a perfect score of 10.

Over the years Northcote has become a rather hip area with the requisite cafes, bars and boutiques, and to the fortunes of planning that afforded Rucker's Hill its unparalleled city views.

Whether you're cruising the Westgarth strip, heading up Ruckers Hill to High Street, or occupying a patch of St Georges Road, you'll notice a decidedly arty vibe around Northcote. Check out the latest exhibitions, catch a flick at Westgarth Cinema, or enjoy an entertaining night of high-profile or emerging bands at the Northcote Social Club and anything-goes acts at Open Studio and 303.

The area now known as Northcote is on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people.

A mansion was built by William Rucker on Bayview Street in 1842 (the area now known as Ruckers Hill). Large, expensive houses were built throughout the Victorian gold rush of the 1850s.

Northcote has a strong community spirit which contributes to its liveability and popularity, according to Barry Plant Inner North Group director Loretta Khoo.

“This was particularly evident during the Covid lockdowns when everyone bought local and supported the businesses to keep them going,” she said.

“There is an awesome energy that resonates through the suburb, which also has a great Walk Score, well above most areas in Melbourne.”

Northcote’s Walk Score, which measures the walkability of any address to amenities, is a high 82, and the postcode is deemed very walkable as most errands can be accomplished on foot.

“Cafes, parks, bike and walking tracks, shops, schools, trains and trams are practically at the doorsteps of most homes,” Ms Khoo said.

Looking for a bite to eat? You've got every meal covered in Northcote, and the chances of a good night out with some top tunes are high. It's a great place to go out for an evening of entertainment, a lazy brunch or lunch.

To keep you fit and healthy, Northcote has a variety of parks and recreational areas. All Nations Park in Northcote has skating facilities, basketball courts, play equipment and picnic facilities. There's plenty of open space and a large native garden, giving special attention to plants indigenous to the area, and a series of ponds.

Batman Park is one of the oldest parks in Northcote, easily accessible by public transport; it has many established trees and shady areas to sit and enjoy a picnic.

Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Northcote Swimming & Lifesaving Club, Northcote Bowls Club, Cricket Clubs and more and if you're after a round of golf, there's the Northcote Golf Club on Normanby Avenue, in the neighbouring suburb of Thornbury. There are also plenty of great areas to bike ride around Northcote.

Northcote has five railway stations along two lines. The Mernda line serves Merri station, Northcote station and Croxton station. The Hurstbridge line serves Westgarth station and Dennis station. Trams operate along St Georges Road; Northcote is also served by bus routes along Separation Street, Westgarth Street and Victoria Road.

A trendy yet laid-back suburb, Northcote attracts singles, families, professional couples, downsizers and retirees.

“There is strong interest from buyers moving in from the country and wanting the Northcote vibe, and also from developers who understand its value and growth, ” Ms Khoo said.