The Best Suburb for a 21-Year-Old Buying Their First Home in Melbourne

At twenty-one, most people are still renting, travelling, or just starting out in their careers. But every so often, a young buyer comes along determined to jump into the property market early. The question is: where should they look?

The answer isn’t just about price. It’s about lifestyle, growth potential, and how that suburb will support the long journey of property ownership.

Take Werribee as a case study.

A 21-year-old buyer looking here in 2025 will still find median house prices around the low to mid $600,000s — which is well under Melbourne’s overall median. That means borrowing power goes further, and the first-home buyer grant plus stamp duty concessions can make a real difference.

But the story isn’t only about affordability. Werribee offers train access to the city, a strong café and food culture, a growing university presence through Victoria University and nearby educational hubs, and a mix of new estates with young families. For a 21-year-old, that means not being locked into a long commute without any lifestyle to balance it out.

Then there’s the long-term growth factor. The Wyndham corridor is one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing regions, with infrastructure projects pouring in. A first home bought here has strong prospects to grow in value, giving a young buyer leverage for their next move up the property ladder.

Of course, Werribee isn’t the only option. Suburbs like Craigieburn, Pakenham, and Melton also offer affordability and a similar “young buyer friendly” profile. But Werribee stands out because it strikes a balance between value, transport, lifestyle, and long-term upside.

As explained by David Dawn, Licensed Conveyancer at Victorian Property Settlements, buying young is about setting yourself up for options later:

“Your first property is rarely your forever home. It’s a stepping stone. Choosing the right suburb at twenty-one isn’t about perfection — it’s about positioning yourself for growth.”

For 21-year-olds ready to take the plunge, suburbs like Werribee offer exactly that — a chance to own, build equity, and move forward in life while still enjoying the vibrancy of a community that suits their age and stage.

Victorian Property Settlements has guided many first-home buyers through this process, ensuring they understand the risks, the paperwork, and the opportunities that come with early entry into the market.

Victorian Property Settlements – Trusted for over 25 years by Victorian buyers and sellers. Visit: www.victorianpropertysettlements.com.au