Five CFA appliances attended the blaze in Leichardt St, near the intersection of Bowen St, at 10.59pm.
"The house was well alight when they arrived and flames were showing through the roof," CFA District 20 Commander Mick Lavery said.
It took 20 firefighters about 30 minutes to extinguish the fire.
"The house suffered extensive damage," Mr Lavery said.
"Nobody was inside at the time and there is no apparent cause determined as yet."
Detective Senior Constable said the fire was believed to have been deliberately lit.
"The residence was extensively damaged and will likely have to be demolished,' he said.
"Fortunately there was no damage to surrounding residences.
"There was no-one in the residence at the time of the fire and it is believed the house has been somewhat unoccupied in recent months."
Police are appealing to anyone with information about the fire to contact Echuca police on 5483 1500 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.