Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Melbourne
Summary: If you're a solo digital nomad heading to Melbourne, check out these top neighborhoods that are ideal for single adventurers like yourself.
Welcome to Melbourne, the coastal capital of Victoria, known for its dynamic culture, coffee, and art scene. As a digital nomad, finding the right neighborhood to call home is crucial for both work and play. Melbourne's diverse suburbs offer a variety of atmospheres, amenities, and communities, making it an ideal city for single digital nomads to explore and settle in. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Melbourne that cater to the lifestyle and needs of global nomads.
Fitzroy
Fitzroy, the bohemian heartbeat of Melbourne, is a top choice for single digital nomads. Known for its vibrant street art, eclectic bars, and vintage shops, Fitzroy is a cultural hub that fosters creativity and connection. Brunswick Street and Smith Street are lined with cafes and coworking spaces, providing plenty of options for those looking to work outside their homes. The neighborhood is also home to a diverse population, including many digital nomads and expats and like-minded nomads.
Location: Just north-east of Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD).
Where to Eat: Enjoy a variety of cuisines at places like Naked for Satan for rooftop views and Spanish tapas, or Veggie Bar for plant-based delights.
Where to Meet People: Fitzroy has a thriving social scene with fitness clubs, bars like The Everleigh, and numerous art galleries. Joining local Facebook groups or Meetup events can also be a great way to connect with fellow nomads.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of a 1-bedroom apartment ranges from AUD 350 to AUD 450 per week.
St Kilda
St Kilda is the seaside playground of Melbourne, perfect for digital nomads who love the ocean. With its iconic Luna Park, the Palais Theatre, and the St Kilda Pier, this neighborhood offers entertainment and relaxation after a day's work. The area is popular among backpackers and expats, creating a welcoming environment for single nomads looking to socialize and network.
Location: Situated 6 km southeast of Melbourne's CBD, along the coast of Port Phillip Bay.
Where to Eat: Indulge in beachfront dining at Republica or enjoy the famous cakes at Acland Street bakeries.
Where to Meet People: The St Kilda Esplanade Market on Sundays, local yoga studios, or the numerous beach clubs are great spots to mingle.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of a 1-bedroom apartment is around AUD 300 to AUD 400 per week.
South Yarra
South Yarra is a fashionable and upscale neighborhood that offers a blend of luxury and convenience. It's a great spot for digital nomads who appreciate a more refined lifestyle, with high-end boutiques, gourmet eateries, and chic cocktail bars. The area is also well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
Location: Located directly south-east of Melbourne's CBD.
Where to Eat: Sample exquisite dishes at France-Soir or Two Birds One Stone for a perfect brunch experience.
Where to Meet People: Join a class at the many fitness studios, attend events at the Como Centre, or simply enjoy the social scene along Toorak Road and Chapel Street.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of a 1-bedroom apartment is between AUD 400 to AUD 500 per week.
Carlton
Carlton is known for its Italian heritage, which is evident in the excellent cafes and restaurants that line Lygon Street, Melbourne's own 'Little Italy.' It's a great neighborhood for digital nomads who value a strong sense of community and cultural experiences. The area is also home to the University of Melbourne, attracting students and academics from around the world.
Location: Immediately adjoining the north side of the CBD.
Where to Eat: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Tiamo or Brunetti for a taste of Italy in Melbourne.
Where to Meet People: Frequent the local bookshops, join a language class, or visit the Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building for cultural immersion.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of a 1-bedroom apartment ranges from AUD 300 to AUD 400 per week.
Richmond
Richmond offers a perfect mix of suburban charm and city convenience, making it an attractive spot for digital nomads. Known for its vibrant Vietnamese community, the neighborhood boasts an array of Southeast Asian eateries, particularly along Victoria Street. Richmond is also a sports hub, with the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) drawing crowds for Australian football and cricket matches.
Location: East of Melbourne's CBD, bordered by the Yarra River.
Where to Eat: Dive into the diverse food scene with spots like Botherambo for Southeast Asian flavors or Touchwood for a laid-back brunch.
Where to Meet People: Engage with the local community at sports events, join a fitness group, or network at the many pubs and cafes.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of a 1-bedroom apartment is around AUD 350 to AUD 450 per week.
Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique lifestyle and community, making Melbourne a fantastic city for single digital nomads to explore and find their niche. With a variety of cultural attractions, eateries, and social venues, these suburbs provide the perfect balance for work, leisure, and making new connections.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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