For passionate footy fans, living within walking distance of a home ground is the ultimate lifestyle perk and worth paying a premium.
But buying property near two of the AFL’s most iconic venues - the Carlton Football Club’s home at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and the Sydney Swans’ base at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) - comes with plenty of pros and a couple of cons.
Stadium precincts are rarely fringe locations, they’re usually close to CBDs, entertainment hubs and established retail strips. This often supports long-term capital growth and rental demand, particularly from professionals and short-term visitors.
As the AFL season prepares to kick off this Thursday with a season opener between The Blues and the Swannies, we take a look at some of the best listings within punting distance.
Kicking goals
One of the benefits of living close to the MCG is the vibrant energy of its surrounding suburbs. On game days, Richmond, East Melbourne and Jolimont hum with excitement.
Around the grounds, residents have access to extensive parklands including Yarra Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens, plus multiple tram and train options into Melbourne’s CBD.
There are many perks beyond proximity to the stadium. Picture: realestate.com.au
In Sydney’s eastern suburbs around the SCG and Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter, leafy suburbs like Paddington, Centennial Park and Bondi Junction are a short walk to the Swans’ home turf and provide easy access rather than relying on congested public transport on big match days.
Other bonuses of living near the SCG include light rail links, Centennial Parklands and being within close proximity to popular beaches.
Property penalties
On the fault side, proximity to a major stadium isn’t for everyone. Game days bring traffic, crowded public transport and parking restrictions. Noise levels rise temporarily, especially for homes directly bordering grounds or the key pedestrian routes to and from the grounds.
Grand Paddington terraces sit within striking distance of the SCG and Allianz Stadium. Picture: realestate.com.au
While most AFL matches don’t continue into the night, stadiums also hold concerts and other major events can drag on.
At home near the MCG
Here are five of the best homes currently on the market that sit just moments from the action.
1. Elegant terrace with prized corner position
Price guide: $3 million to $3.3 million
The home sits just moments from the CBD, the MCG and Treasury and Fitzroy Gardens. Picture: realestate.com.au
A three-bedroom home in a tightly-held street in East Melbourne, this two-storey end-of-row terrace sits on the corner of George and Powlett Sts close to the MCG.
2. Uninterrupted outlooks towards the MCG
Price guide: $5.25 million to $5.75 million
A period property with a contemporary interior behind it’s stately facade, this three-bedroom residence with a designer renovation is almost within arm’s reach of the stadium.
3. Stroll to the game
Price guide: $4.8 million to $5.2 million
The 400sqm town home is serviced by a lift to each level. Picture: realestate.com.au
This contemporary four-bedroom four-level terrace, complete with a private lift to all levels, is within walking distance to Carlton’s home ground and the CBD.
4. East Melbourne's 'best penthouse'
Penthouse 124-126 Jolimont Rd, East Melbourne
Price guide: $11.995 million
Sitting atop the exclusive Dayton building, this premium penthouse has 464sq m on title including a 14.5m long living room with sweeping views of the MCG.
5. Stadium-like proportions
Price guide: $18 million to $19.5 million
The landmark estate spans 1,090sqm, the largest residential parcel in East Melbourne. Picture: realestate.com.au
A landmark residence on a grand 1090sq m block, this 1880s compound is filled with 19th Century heritage with modern updates. It is also just two blocks from the stadium and parklands.
On the sidelines by the SCG
1. Business at the front, party at the back
Imagine the post-match celebrations here. Picture: realestate.com.au
Crafted by architect Reg Lark, this six-bedroom modernised heritage mansion on one of Sydney’s most coveted streets is only footsteps from the SCG and Centennial Parklands.
2. Grand terrace with rear lane access
Now that's a bathroom. Picture: realestate.com.au
A classic arts and crafts era residence at the Paddington end of Cook Rd in Centennial Park, this 5.1m wide terrace is packed with period details and is only a couple of streets from the stadium.
3. Picture-perfect terrace 'handy to sports & entertainment precincts'
Price guide: $3 million
The home is also footsteps to Oxford Street's boutiques & cafes. Picture: realestate.com.au
Close enough to walk, but far enough from the SCG to avoid the hustle and bustle on game day, this traditional Paddington terrace has been updated with loads of character still intact.
4. Sandstone entertainer close to the action
Price guide: $6.5 million
Positioned near the Centennial Park gates, this Woollahra home is an easy stroll down Oxford St to the bright lights of the stadium and Entertainment Quarter.
5. 'Paddington Green’ penthouse
The penthouse sits atop the former Royal Hospital for Women. Picture: realestate.com.au
The penthouse atop the Dods and Zuccon transformation of the 1901 former Royal Hospital for Women, just a short stroll from the Sydney Cricket Ground and Entertainment Quarter.
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