An eclectic suburb popular with the alternative set.
Northcote, Melbourne
You know a suburb has gone through gentrification when a whole stack of kids clothing shops open up. The thing about Northcote though, is you won't find any designer labels here. It's a hell of a lot more alternative and eclectic. Northcote is where you will find Greek families, young families, lesbians, gays, students, arty types, professionals, working class families and plenty of cafes. (More info below...)
Singles, Professionals, Families, Gay/lesbian, Students
Can be hard in High St
Vibe:
Green Left Weekly and herbal tea
Campers and Birkenstocks
Once upon a time High St in Northcote had a big collection of totally unpretentious shops. Now, there are plenty of interesting cafes and bars offering good food and drinks, with more cafes and bars opening up. So if you venture out here on a weekend or busy weeknight, you'll have plenty to choose from.
Traditionally, Northcote has been working class territory and was popular with Greek and Italian families. But in more recent years, those priced out of Fitzroy and North Fitzroy have moved in. Now Northcote has become popular with people who are into a community activism. Politically, it's of the left and green variety.
The transport in Northcote is very good with access to trams, buses and trains. Mind you, it is a big suburb so the five train stations come in handy. All trains and trams go into the city. Some buses go to Moonee Ponds, Fairfield and LaTrobe Uni.
There are plenty of wide tree lined streets and some more narrow wines with great examples of Victorian, Edwardian and Federation architecture. Many of the houses tend to be larger than the usual inner city suburb offerings, which makes Northcote popular with families. But if you want to own one of these houses, be prepared to take our a HUGE mortgage.
Parking can be hard on High Street. Vibe: green left weekly and hippy herbal tea. Shoe equivalent: Campers and Birkenstocks. Would suit: families, students, gays and lesbians, professionals, couples, and anyone who is into the unconventional. Location: inner city. Distance from city centre: 7km. Direction: north.
