When comparing Melbourne and London, two iconic global cities, the question of “size” can be measured in different ways—geographically, by population, or by economic and cultural influence. Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, and London, the United Kingdom’s global metropolis, are vastly different in terms of history, development, and scale.
In this article, we’ll explore whether Melbourne is as big as London and dive into the details of geography, population, infrastructure, and global standing. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how these two cities stack up against each other.
A Quick Overview of Melbourne and London
Melbourne
Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, is the second-largest city in Australia. It’s celebrated for its coffee culture, vibrant arts scene, and world-class sporting events.
- Location: Southeast Australia, on the Yarra River.
- Area: Approximately 9,992 square kilometers (Greater Melbourne).
- Population: Over 5 million people (2023 estimate).
- Known For:
- The Australian Open and the Melbourne Cup.
- Laneway culture, street art, and coffee.
- The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and vibrant cultural festivals.
London
London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a historic city and a global financial and cultural hub.
- Location: Southeastern England, along the River Thames.
- Area: Approximately 1,572 square kilometers (Greater London).
- Population: Over 9 million people (2023 estimate).
- Known For:
- Landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace.
- A history spanning over 2,000 years.
- Being a global hub for finance, arts, and education.
Learn more about London’s attractions on the Visit London website.
Geographical Size: Melbourne Is Larger in Area
When it comes to land area, Melbourne is significantly larger than London. The Greater Melbourne area covers approximately 9,992 square kilometers, while Greater London spans just 1,572 square kilometers. This means that Melbourne is about six times the size of London in terms of physical area.
Why Is Melbourne So Large?
Melbourne’s sprawling urban design reflects its car-centric planning and relatively low population density. Suburbs extend far from the city center, providing spacious living conditions that contrast sharply with London’s compact design.
Population: London Leads by a Wide Margin
While Melbourne is geographically larger, London’s population is nearly double that of Melbourne.
- London: Over 9 million people.
- Melbourne: Over 5 million people.
Population Density
London’s population density is much higher than Melbourne’s, with about 5,700 people per square kilometer compared to Melbourne’s approximately 500 people per square kilometer. This difference highlights London’s more compact urban environment versus Melbourne’s sprawling suburban model.
Economic Comparison: London as a Global Powerhouse
London’s economy far surpasses Melbourne’s in scale and global influence.
London:
- GDP: Approximately £500 billion (AUD $950 billion).
- Key Sectors: Finance, technology, creative industries, tourism, and education.
- Global Role: Home to the London Stock Exchange and headquarters for multinational corporations, London is one of the world’s top financial centers.
Melbourne:
- GDP: Approximately AUD $400 billion.
- Key Sectors: Education, healthcare, tourism, manufacturing, and technology.
- Global Role: A major hub in the Asia-Pacific region, Melbourne is known for its innovation and liveability.
While Melbourne has a thriving economy, it doesn’t match the global scale of London’s financial influence.
Cultural Influence: A Tale of Two Cities
Both cities are cultural heavyweights, but their influence differs in scale and style.
London’s Cultural Impact:
- History and Heritage: As a city with over 2,000 years of history, London boasts iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey.
- Arts and Theatre: The West End rivals Broadway as a global theatre hub.
- Global Connectivity: London’s museums, galleries, and festivals attract millions of visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited cities in the world.
Melbourne’s Cultural Scene:
- Modern Creativity: Known for its vibrant street art, independent music scene, and cutting-edge fashion.
- Sports Capital: Melbourne hosts globally recognized events like the Australian Open and Formula 1 Grand Prix.
- Food and Coffee: The city’s culinary scene is renowned worldwide, especially its café culture.
While London’s influence is broader due to its size and history, Melbourne offers a unique blend of modernity and creativity.
Infrastructure and Public Transport
London:
- Public Transport: London’s transport system is one of the most comprehensive in the world, featuring the London Underground, buses, and extensive rail connections.
- Global Accessibility: London has six major international airports, including Heathrow, one of the busiest in the world.
Melbourne:
- Public Transport: Melbourne’s system includes trains, trams, and buses, with its tram network being the largest in the world.
- Global Accessibility: Melbourne is served by Melbourne Airport, Australia’s second-busiest airport.
While London’s transport network is far larger and more complex, Melbourne’s tram system is a standout feature.
Lifestyle and Liveability: Melbourne Takes the Crown
Melbourne is frequently ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world, thanks to its quality of life, safety, and access to healthcare and education.
London:
- Advantages: A global hub with unmatched cultural and professional opportunities.
- Challenges: High living costs, congestion, and pollution.
Melbourne:
- Advantages: A relaxed lifestyle, excellent healthcare, and a strong sense of community.
- Challenges: Increasing housing prices and urban sprawl.
While London offers unparalleled global connectivity, Melbourne’s liveability makes it highly appealing for residents.
Key Takeaways: Is Melbourne as Big as London?
- Geography: Melbourne is significantly larger in land area.
- Population: London has nearly double the population of Melbourne.
- Economy: London’s economy is larger and more globally influential.
- Culture and Lifestyle: While London boasts a rich history and global impact, Melbourne excels in liveability and modern creativity.
Both cities are unique, offering contrasting experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is London More Expensive Than Melbourne?
Yes, London is generally more expensive than Melbourne, particularly in terms of housing and transport. However, both cities have high living costs compared to global averages.
Which City Is Better to Live In?
This depends on personal preferences. If you value global connectivity and history, London may be the better choice. For a relaxed, culturally rich lifestyle, Melbourne is ideal.
How Long Is the Flight Between Melbourne and London?
A direct flight between Melbourne and London takes approximately 22–24 hours, depending on the route and airline.
Conclusion: How Do Melbourne and London Compare?
While Melbourne is larger geographically, London surpasses it in population, economic scale, and global influence. However, Melbourne’s cultural vibrancy and high quality of life make it a standout city in its own right. Whether you prefer London’s historical grandeur or Melbourne’s modern creativity, both cities offer incredible experiences that cater to diverse tastes and lifestyles.
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See Also: Is Melbourne or Victoria Bigger?
