Melbourne’s outer suburb of Narre Warren North is making headlines for its rising property values, emerging as the city’s most expensive outer suburb, according to the latest Domain House Price Report. The median house price in this area has reached $1,665,000, surpassing well-known suburbs like Fitzroy and Northcote, both of which stand at $1.6 million.
At the heart of this transformation is the unique blend of spacious living and proximity to the city. The suburb offers a striking contrast with larger land sizes—properties must be at least one acre—allowing families to enjoy a semi-rural lifestyle while remaining just over 20 kilometres from Melbourne’s Central Business District.
One of the standout properties currently on the market is a remarkable garden at 1 The Lough Court, owned by renowned gardener Attila Kapitany and his wife, Michelle. This expansive 4075-square-metre plot, featuring a stunning collection of succulents and architectural plants, is listed for an eye-watering $2.65 million. Kapitany describes it as “where suburbia meets the country,” a fitting description for a region that has become increasingly desirable.
The demand for properties in Narre Warren North has surged, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a 43.6 percent increase in house prices over the past five years. Real estate agent Anne Haynes notes that buyers from across Melbourne and even Western Australia are now interested in making this suburb their home. “It took COVID for the area to explode,” she said, highlighting the suburb’s appeal to professionals, including doctors, business owners, and equestrian families.
A key factor behind the rising prices is the zoning regulations that classify parts of Narre Warren North as Green Wedge, which preserves the area’s semi-rural character. This zoning restricts high-density developments, maintaining the spacious nature of the suburb. A spokesperson from the Casey Council confirmed plans to uphold this rural perception, ensuring that Narre Warren North remains distinct from Melbourne’s more densely populated suburbs.
The allure of Narre Warren North extends beyond its physical characteristics. The suburb offers a community atmosphere that many residents cherish. Kay Charman, who grew up on an 80-acre dairy farm in the area, recalls an idyllic childhood filled with local sporting events and community involvement. “This town has still got a lot of its original country, original residents, which are the backbone of this place,” she remarked, emphasizing the enduring charm of the suburb.
Despite its growing reputation as a luxury destination, the suburb retains a sense of community. Amanda Eames, a UK expat who moved to the area in 2007, appreciates the local connections, stating, “We have a real local community here.” Such sentiments reflect the tight-knit nature of Narre Warren North, which continues to attract families looking for both space and a sense of belonging.
As demand rises, the local real estate market has shown signs of recovery after a quiet period. Debbie Brettoner, director at Ray White Berwick, notes that the market is picking up following a dip caused by interest rate increases. With the approach of warmer weather and potential interest rate cuts, buyers seeking more space and greenery are increasingly active.
The combination of clean air, abundant greenery, and convenient access to Melbourne makes Narre Warren North an attractive option for those looking to relocate. Terry Rawnsley, a KPMG urban economist, highlights that 80.5 percent of homes in the area feature four or more bedrooms, compared to just 32.8 percent across Greater Melbourne. This availability of larger homes, coupled with local amenities and easy access to major freeways, adds to the suburb’s appeal.
As Narre Warren North continues to grow in prominence, it exemplifies a successful fusion of suburban convenience and countryside charm. With properties like the Kapitanys’ unique garden attracting significant attention, it is clear that this outer suburb is carving out a niche as one of Melbourne’s most desirable places to live.
