The Honest Guide to Fairfield (2026)
No suburb is perfect. Here is what the data says about Fairfield — the good and the not-so-good.
The Pros
- Excellent dining scene — 21 restaurants and 30 cafes
- Excellent green space — 24 parks
- Strong school options — 8 schools in the area
- Good healthcare access — 14 medical facilities
- Multiple supermarket options for daily shopping
The Cons
- Can feel quiet on weekday evenings
By the Numbers
Fairfield has 111 verified businesses and amenities. Here is how that breaks down:
| Category | Fairfield | Melbourne Average* |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 21 | ~25 |
| Cafes | 30 | ~12 |
| Bars & Pubs | 4 | ~8 |
| Schools | 8 | ~5 |
| Parks | 24 | ~7 |
| Medical | 14 | ~4 |
Melbourne average is an estimate across all 300+ suburbs.
Who Should Live in Fairfield?
Families who prioritise schools, parks and quiet streets.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
If you need extensive nightlife options, look at Fitzroy, Collingwood or St Kilda.
Related Guides
- Best Restaurants in Fairfield
- Best Cafes in Fairfield
- Best Bars in Fairfield
- Cost of Living in Fairfield
- Fairfield Neighbourhood Guide
- Family Guide to Fairfield
- Is Fairfield Safe?
- Fairfield Transport Guide
Last updated: March 2026. This guide is refreshed when OpenStreetMap data changes — new openings, closures and corrections are reflected automatically. Found something wrong? Let us know.
Sources
- OpenStreetMap Contributors — openstreetmap.org — accessed March 2026
- ABS Census 2021 — abs.gov.au/census
- REIV Quarterly Median Prices — reiv.com.au
💬 Discussion
Join the conversation — no account needed