Toorak NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

Toorak has been called the “Beverly Hills of Melbourne” due to its mansions and affluent (and influential) residents. People who live here love the peace and quiet, the carefully manicured lawns, the lush playing fields, and the top-tier schools that Toorak has to offer.

For a bit of urban excitement, you can jump on a train or bus to all that the Melbourne CBD has to offer (just 7.5 kms northwest). But many locals forgo city shops in favor of the boutiques and cafes found in Toorak Village.

Despite access to public transportation, many residents travel by car. Still, Toorak is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, with a wide network of footpaths and pedestrian crossings that make the area easy to explore on foot or bike. You'll have easy access to the beautiful Main Yarra Trail that winds its way along the Yarra River.

Toorak has a high-end mix of housing. Million dollar high-rises attract former mansion owners looking to downsize. Italianate and colonial style mansions line the leafy streets, many of which are owned by Melbourne's wealthy and social elite. St. George's Road, Hopetoun Road, and Albany Road are filled with big, gleaming homes with swimming pools and tennis courts, secured behind high walls and gates.

Some residents say the area has its share of arrogant neighbors, so newbies may not receive the warm welcomes customary in smaller, less wealthy suburbs. 

It costs a lot of money to live here, but if you have deep pockets and a taste for the glamorous life, Toorak is a great place to call home.

Toorak is bordered on the north by the Yarra River and Hawthorn, on the east by Kooyong, on the south by Armadale and Prahran, and on the west by South Yarra.