The Ultimate Guide to Areas to Live in Hamilton

Moving to Hamilton? Don’t know areas to live in Hamilton? I was on the same boat recently. Thankfully, I do have some friends who are already living in Hamilton for 6 years, whom I interviewed in depth haha. Choosing the right place to live in Hamilton can be tricky, as every neighbourhood has its own pros and cons. I’ve been through the process myself, so I am familiar with the struggles. This guide provides general insights on areas to live in Hamilton based on local knowledge and community discussions. However, I strongly suggest you check Google Streetview to check the neighbourhoods and the street yourself. I find that there are so many

(If you are moving to New Zealand: maybe you want to also check the cost of living)

Great Choices: Well-Regarded Areas

Flagstaff & Rototuna
These newer suburbs in the north of Hamilton offer modern housing, great schools, and a safe, family-friendly environment. With easy access to shopping centres, parks and schooling, they’re popular among professionals and families.

Hamilton/Rotorua Lake & Riverside
For those with a bigger budget, these scenic areas provide a high standard of living. With great views and a central location, they are among the most desirable places to live in Hamilton.

Hillcrest & Hamilton East
Close to the University of Waikato, these areas are student hubs but also have solid family-friendly sections. Hillcrest, in particular, has good schools and a mix of older and newer housing.

Dinsdale
A well-established suburb with a mix of housing options, Dinsdale is popular with families and working professionals. It offers good amenities, decent schools, and a community feel, making it a solid choice.

Worth Considering: Mixed Reviews

Melville
For disclosure, I live in Melville. I can say it’s very much a street-by-street experience. Some areas are quiet and family-friendly, while others can be a bit rougher. Melville is also conveniently located near Waikato Hospital, making it a great option if you’re moving to Hamilton for work there (case on point: my husband). The hospital has a diverse team of international doctors from all over the world, so if you’re joining them, welcome to the community!

Also, Melville is quite close to the great Hamilton Gardens, and Hamilton Lake, which means there are plenty of places for walks in the morning/afternoon.

Frankton
A central suburb with a mix of older homes and industrial areas. It has a strong local community and is undergoing some revitalisation, but parts of it can feel run-down. I heard that Frankton was the original city centre of Hamilton some time ago – don’t know whether this is true or not. Frankton has amazing charity shops, local shops and cafes though – I pretty much go there every week or so. Also very thankfully there is cycle track that goes between Melville and Frankton.

Fairfield & Nawton
These areas get mixed reviews—some people avoid them, but many live there happily. They tend to have more affordable housing and a strong sense of community, but, like Melville, it’s best to assess street by street. I got many advice to avoid them though.

Areas to Approach with Caution

Bader and possibly Whitiora
These areas generally have a rougher reputation and may not be the best choice for families or those looking for a quieter lifestyle. I have been generally been told to avoid the area.

The Heart of the City

Victoria Street
Hamilton’s downtown hub, filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Great for those who love city living, but not necessarily ideal for a quiet residential environment.

Final Thoughts

Every neighbourhood in Hamilton has its pros and cons, and personal experience can differ greatly from general perceptions. If you’re looking to move to the area, take the time to explore different streets, talk to locals, and consider what best suits your lifestyle.

What’s your experience living in Hamilton? Share your thoughts in the comments below!