Tara Murray
A quarter of the top 20 most tenant friendly suburbs in commuting distance to Melbourne’s CBD, a new study has found.
The quarterly Tenant Opportunity Report commissioned by RentRabbit.com.au identifies the top 20 suburbs where tenants can find affordable rents in decent suburbs that are within commuting distance of the CBD.
To establish a top 20 ranking, the included suburbs are ranked based on weekly rental rates from lowest to highest.
All the suburbs had a median weekly rent of $410 or below.
Hoppers Crossing had the top ranking, with the median weekly rent $350 a week.
Epping was the best placed Whittlesea suburb, ranked number six with the median weekly rent $390.
Mill Park was ranked seventh with the median weekly rent $390 per week and Mernda was ranked 12th with a median weekly rent of $400.
In Hume, Mickleham and Craigieburn were ranked 10th and 11th, both with a median weekly rent of $400.
Suburbs ranked in the bottom 40 per cent using the Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas ratings weren’t included in the study.
Suburbs are rated on different aspects of the socio-economic conditions in an area, with many Brimbank suburbs among those not included.
RentRabbit.com.au co-founder Ben Pretty said life is tough right now for tenants on average incomes.
“Vacancy rates are low in many parts of Melbourne and landlords are responding by jacking up rental rates,” he said.
“I really feel for tenants who are being forced out of their homes and suburbs, especially when they have kids who are forced to change schools.
“The RentRabbit.com.au Tenant Opportunity Report aims to help everyday tenants identify rental markets that are affordable, while also being liveable and commutable.
“That way, they can focus on raising their families and building their lives, without having to worry about whether they can afford to pay their bills.”
