Pakenham Upper, a picturesque suburb located in the Cardinia Shire, offers residents a perfect blend of tranquility and access to city amenities. Known for its beautiful landscapes, close-knit community, and excellent schooling options, Pakenham Upper is an ideal place for families and individuals looking for a peaceful lifestyle. This article highlights the best residential areas within Pakenham Upper, focusing on their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
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Emerald Hill

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Emerald Hill is renowned for its scenic views and large blocks of land, making it a favourite among those seeking space and tranquility. It’s a family-friendly suburb with an emphasis on community living.
Characteristics of the Emerald Hill
* Culture: Emphasis on community spirit and outdoor events.
* Transportation: Well-connected by public transport with train stations nearby.
* Services: Local shops, cafes, parks, and recreational facilities.
* Environment: Quiet and community-oriented
Housing Options in the Emerald Hill
Larger family homes, townhouses, and new developments
Average Home Prices in the Emerald Hill
* Buying: $600,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,300/month
Pakenham Hills

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Pakenham Hills is characterised by its rolling hills and spacious properties. It caters to those who appreciate nature, with plenty of walking trails and parks available.
Characteristics of the Pakenham Hills
* Culture: Nature-centric community with hiking and outdoor activities.
* Transportation: Good access to main roads; public transport options available.
* Services: Essential services, grocery stores, and health facilities.
* Environment: Peaceful and nature-focused
Housing Options in the Pakenham Hills
Larger homes, lifestyle properties
Average Home Prices in the Pakenham Hills
* Buying: $650,000 – $850,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,400/month
Cardinia Lakes

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Cardinia Lakes is a modern suburb offering attractive lifestyle options with its lakeside living and family-friendly atmosphere. It's perfect for those looking for newer housing developments.
Characteristics of the Cardinia Lakes
* Culture: Community events and family-oriented activities.
* Transportation: Easy access to Pakenham's train station and bus routes.
* Services: Schools, parks, shopping centres, and sports facilities.
* Environment: Vibrant and modern
Housing Options in the Cardinia Lakes
New homes, investment properties, townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Cardinia Lakes
* Buying: $550,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $1,400 – $2,000/month
Beaconsfield Upper

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Beaconsfield Upper is an upscale area known for its large properties and serene environment. It’s ideal for families wanting privacy and larger homes.
Characteristics of the Beaconsfield Upper
* Culture: Upscale living with strong community ties.
* Transportation: Good access to major roads; limited public transport.
* Services: Local shops, schools, and parks.
* Environment: Quiet and serene
Housing Options in the Beaconsfield Upper
Large family homes, custom-built properties
Average Home Prices in the Beaconsfield Upper
* Buying: $700,000 – $1,000,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,700/month
South Pakenham

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South Pakenham is known for its accessibility and diverse community. It has a mix of older and newer homes and is a great area for first-home buyers.
Characteristics of the South Pakenham
* Culture: Diverse neighbourhood with community activities.
* Transportation: Proximal to public transport options and major roads.
* Services: Variety of shops, schools, and recreational facilities.
* Environment: Lively and accessible
Housing Options in the South Pakenham
Units, houses, and family homes
Average Home Prices in the South Pakenham
* Buying: $500,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $1,300 – $1,900/month
Nar Nar Goon North

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Nar Nar Goon North offers a semi-rural lifestyle while being close to Pakenham’s amenities. This area is popular for its charm and spacious properties.
Characteristics of the Nar Nar Goon North
* Culture: Country-style living with community-focused values.
* Transportation: Car is necessary; public transport options are limited.
* Services: Limited but growing, with some local shops and services.
* Environment: Spacious and welcoming
Housing Options in the Nar Nar Goon North
Acreage properties, family homes
Average Home Prices in the Nar Nar Goon North
* Buying: $600,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,300/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Pakenham Upper:
The best residential areas in Pakenham Upper include Emerald Hill, Pakenham Hills, Cardinia Lakes, Beaconsfield Upper, South Pakenham, and Nar Nar Goon North.
Cardinia Lakes and Emerald Hill are both very family-friendly, offering parks, schools, and community activities.
South Pakenham generally offers more affordable housing options, making it attractive for first-home buyers.
Average property prices range from $500,000 to over $1 million, depending on the suburb and type of accommodation.
Public transport is accessible, with bus routes and train stations at nearby Pakenham, providing good connectivity to Melbourne.
Residents can enjoy supermarkets, schools, parks, and local shops within close proximity across the various suburbs.
Yes, Pakenham Upper has a variety of investment opportunities with properties suitable for rental or resale potential.
Yes, there are several reputable primary and secondary schools in and around Pakenham Upper that attract families.
Beaconsfield Upper and Pakenham Hills are known for their serene atmosphere and lifestyle, making them highly desirable.
Average rental costs range from $1,300 to $2,700 per month depending on the suburb and property type.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Pakenham Upper:
Pakenham Upper is a hidden gem in Victoria, offering diverse living options to cater to different lifestyles, from families to couples and retirees. With its close-knit community vibe, great schools, and vast green spaces, it provides an excellent balance between suburban tranquillity and accessibility to urban conveniences. Each suburb within Pakenham Upper brings its unique charm, whether you’re looking for spacious homes in Emerald Hill, modern conveniences in Cardinia Lakes, or a vibrant community in South Pakenham. Regardless of your choice, Pakenham Upper provides an attractive setting for anyone aiming to enjoy a peaceful yet connected life.
About the Author

Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.