Living In Carlton

Just 2km north of the Central Business District, Carlton is one of the major suburbs of Melbourne, combining student lifestyle with an amazing array of food and striking places of interest.

Originally Melbourne’s mecca for Italian culture, Carlton has grown to include American, Asian and UK cuisine with an Australian twist. This is not to say that it has lost its roots – you can still find Little Italy on Lygon Street for coffee, pasta and gelato. On a warm morning, relax with eggs benedict outside Seasons Provedore.

Being a student hub, prices are fairly reasonable and there are deals everywhere you turn. A popular haunt for such is The Shaw Davey Slum. Found on Elgin Street, you can enjoy $5 bottles of beer, $6 spirits and $10 meals including pub favourites like chicken schnitzel and burger and chips. They even throw in evening entertainment and, as of November, the rooftop is open on Fridays and Saturdays for an even better experience.

The social culture continues into the John Curtin Hotel, or “The Curtin”, with live music every weekend from local bands aiming to get onto your radar to international artists seeking an intimate venue. Huxtaburger resides inside The Curtin for meat lovers looking to fill their boots with beef, bacon and chips.

With the University of Melbourne to the west and the Melbourne Museum residing within the beautiful Carlton Gardens to the east, there is a stress on education and recreation during the day, and the CBD being just a short walk away offers plenty of opportunities for work and business.

Not only does the university influence social happenings and popular establishments, the amount of students in the area also effects the accommodation you can find. Apartments make up nearly half of all housing, with Carlton having one of the highest amounts of lone and shared rented properties in the city. This can benefit travellers and young professionals looking for long-term accommodation – as long as you don’t mind the student mentality.