Northern Suburbs Spotlight: Top 5 Suburbs Poised for Growth in 2026

Jess Ross
February 17, 2026

If you're looking to make your next strategic investment move, now is the time to shift your focus north. 

Melbourne’s northern suburbs are on the brink of a significant transformation, with infrastructure upgrades, population growth, and rental demand driving momentum.

At BISE Property, being based in Heidelberg West, we know these local pockets better than anyone. With deep experience managing and advising across Melbourne’s north, we help investors get ahead of the market by identifying suburbs with untapped potential before the broader market takes notice.

What’s Driving Growth in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs?

Several key factors are setting the northern corridor apart:

  • The Suburban Rail Loop: Already influencing buyer behaviour, this massive infrastructure project is creating stronger links between Melbourne’s employment and education hubs. Future stations are expected to increase long-term value for nearby suburbs.
  • State housing targets: The Victorian Government recently finalised new housing capacity targets, directing growth towards established areas. This shift will favour inner- and middle-ring suburbs, including parts of the north. Vivien Topalovic, a property journalist, reported the government aims to deliver70% of Melbourne’s growth in established areas and just 30% in outer-city suburbs, reversing the current trend. 
  • Rezoning activity and building booms: Preston, Reservoir, and Broadmeadows are earmarked for higher density development. Investors acting now can take advantage of value uplift before price pressure kicks in.
  • Changing lifestyle preferences: Renters are looking for affordable, well-connected suburbs where they can live and work flexibly. For landlords, that means strong tenant demand and stable rental income.

5 Northern Suburbs to Watch

1. Heidelberg Heights

Located next door to our office in Heidelberg West, Heidelberg Heights offers excellent value and promising upside. It has strong local infrastructure, expanding medical and education precincts, and is already popular with first-home buyers and young professionals.

Investors who complete minor cosmetic upgrades can see a solid boost in rental yield.

One of our clients recently purchased here under market value. With a light renovation and our leasing strategy, we increased rent by 10% and secured a quality renter within one week.

2. Bellfield

Bellfield is a quiet achiever. This small suburb often flies under the radar, but it is showing strong signs of growth with new developments and rezoning activity underway.

It has great access to public transport and is walkable to shops and schools. For investors with a long-term focus on capital growth, Bellfield deserves attention.

3. Reservoir (North-East pocket)

Reservoir has always had strong rental demand, but its north-east corner stands out for affordability and future potential.

It is already home to students, young families, and commuters, and the coming transport upgrades will only increase its appeal. Renovation opportunities are common here, giving investors a chance to add value and lift yield quickly.

4. Rosanna

Rosanna is a solid performer with consistent capital growth. It is highly sought after by families thanks to its strong school zones and green spaces.

Right now, there is a shortage of quality rental homes, which reduces vacancy risk and keeps rent prices competitive.

For investors seeking long-term renters and minimal turnover, Rosanna is a strong candidate.

5. Macleod

Macleod is often overlooked in favour of neighbouring Ivanhoe and Rosanna, but this is starting to shift. With excellent access to the Central Business District and a relaxed, village feel, Macleod is quietly gaining interest from renters and buyers alike.

Infrastructure improvements and less investor competition mean lower purchase prices and stable rental income.

Why Timing is Important

Many key upgrades, including the Suburban Rail Loop and local precinct redevelopments, are due to progress or be completed by this year. Investors who act now can benefit from lower purchase prices and capitalise on early-stage growth.

Waiting too long may result in higher entry costs and reduced yield. Strategic timing is one of the biggest levers investors can use to get ahead.

How BISE Property Helps You Identify Growth Suburbs

At BISE, we go beyond property management. We partner with investors to provide suburb-specific insights, market research, and compliance support through our Property Profiling service.

For example, we recently helped a client secure a three-bedroom home in Reservoir before a local market shift. We coordinated value-adding upgrades and secured a high-quality renter within five days. The property now yields above-average returns and has attracted long-term interest from other investors.

If you are looking to grow your portfolio in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, now is the time to act.

Connect with us today for tailored suburb insights.

Bise partnership extends to all corner of the real estate landscape.

A BISE partnership extends to every corner of the real estate landscape. With our service focused on proven knowledge, trust and collaboration with our client. We are committed to providing tailored services to each unique client’s needs.
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