Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Altona

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Altona suburb profile

Altona is a picturesque suburb located 13km southwest of Melbourne's CBD, known for its stunning beaches and relaxed coastal lifestyle. It offers a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, with Altona Beach being a popular spot for swimming, picnics, and leisurely strolls. The suburb features a mix of residential options, from charming period homes to modern apartments, catering to diverse lifestyles. Altona's vibrant community is supported by local shops, cafes, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive destination for families and professionals. Its proximity to public transport and major roads ensures easy access to the city and surrounding areas.

Altona property market performance

Current median dwelling price$942,000Past 3 months

Property growth+3.1%Past 12 months

Altona's property market has shown stability and growth over the past 12 months. The median house price has remained steady at $1.165 million, while unit values have seen a 6.5% increase, bringing the median unit price to $719,000. This indicates a growing interest in units within the suburb.

Sales activity has been consistent, with 40 houses and 24 units sold in the past three months. The median days on market are similar for both property types, with houses at 41 days and units at 42 days, suggesting a balanced demand across the board.

In the rental market, Altona has experienced modest growth, with house rents increasing by 3.5% and unit rents by 3.1% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is $673, while units average $500, reflecting a steady rental demand in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$1.17M$719K
Change in value
Past 12 months
-0.4%6.5%
Sold
Past 3 months
4024
Median days on market
Past 12 months
4142
Average rent
Past 12 months
$673$500
Change in rent
Past 12 months
3.5%3.1%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Altona demographics

Altona, a picturesque suburb located in Melbourne's west, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, parks, and a strong sense of community. With a population of 11,490, Altona offers a serene lifestyle while still being conveniently connected to the city. The median age of 42 suggests a mature community, with many families and long-term residents enjoying the suburb's relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty.

The suburb's housing landscape is quite balanced, with a significant portion of properties owned outright (37.2%) and a substantial number owned with a mortgage (30.9%). This indicates a stable community with a mix of established homeowners and newer families entering the market. The rental market, comprising 31.8% of properties, provides options for those seeking flexibility, including young professionals and families.

Family life is a cornerstone of Altona, with couple families with children making up 41.9% of the households, closely followed by couple families without children at 41.5%. One-parent families account for 15% of the community, reflecting a diverse family structure. The suburb's appeal lies in its blend of coastal charm, community spirit, and accessibility, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Altona infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Altona continues to benefit from its position on the Werribee train line, with frequent services to the CBD supporting commuter demand and underpinning buyer interest in homes within walking distance of the station and Pier Street village.[4] The suburb’s established retail and dining strip along Pier Street, together with ongoing café and small-scale residential infill projects, is gradually enhancing local amenity and reinforcing Altona’s appeal as a more gentrified bayside option compared with neighbouring industrial areas.[2][4] Extensive foreshore reserves, Altona Beach and nearby parklands remain key lifestyle drawcards, supporting values for properties close to the waterfront and walkable green space.[2][4]

Local education facilities such as Altona Primary School, Altona College and St Mary’s Catholic Primary School provide multiple schooling options, which is helping to sustain strong family demand across both houses and townhouses.[4] Hobsons Bay Council’s broader focus on maintaining coastal character, village-style retail and public open space in Altona suggests incremental, rather than large-scale, redevelopment, likely supporting long-term capital growth through continued gentrification rather than a sudden surge in new supply.[2][4]

Altona rental market trends

The rental market in Altona has experienced modest growth, with house rents increasing by 3.5% over the past year to $673 per week, while unit rents have risen by 3.1% to $500 per week. This steady growth reflects Altona's appeal as a coastal suburb with a relaxed lifestyle, making it an attractive option for both renters and investors seeking stable returns.

Suburbs near Altona

Some popular suburbs near Altona include:

How does Altona compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Altona’s median house price is 22.6% higher than Altona North’s.
  • Median unit prices: Altona’s median unit price is 27.3% higher than Altona Meadows’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Seaholme have risen 0.0% more than in Altona over the past year.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Altona have grown 3.2% higher than in Altona North.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Altona are selling 28.1% faster than in Altona North.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Altona are selling 4.5% faster than in Altona North.
  • Investment considerations: In Altona, the rental yield for house is 7.2% higher than the Melbourne average, while the rental yield for units is 14.4% lower.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Altona have grown 9.7% higher than the average rate of growth across Melbourne.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Altona have grown 14.5% higher than the average rate of growth for units across Melbourne.

Common questions about Altona

  • Is Altona a nice place to live?

    Altona is a delightful suburb that offers a charming blend of coastal living and urban convenience, making it a wonderful place to call home. Known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Altona provides a serene lifestyle that appeals to families and professionals alike. The suburb boasts a vibrant community spirit, with local shops, cafes, and recreational facilities contributing to its welcoming vibe. Families will find Altona particularly appealing, with a range of schooling options and a strong sense of community that supports family life.

    Living in Altona comes with the advantage of being well-connected to Melbourne's CBD, thanks to its proximity to public transport and major roads. This accessibility makes it an attractive option for those who work in the city but prefer the tranquility of a coastal suburb. However, one trade-off is that while Altona offers a peaceful lifestyle, it may not have the same bustling nightlife or cultural scene as inner-city areas. Nonetheless, the suburb's natural beauty, including its beaches and parks, provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Altona, and the suburb's family-friendly environment is enhanced by its picturesque surroundings and community-focused amenities. While the housing market offers a mix of charming period homes and modern apartments, potential residents should be aware that property prices can reflect the suburb's desirable location and lifestyle. Overall, Altona is a fantastic choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle with the benefits of coastal living and easy access to urban amenities.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Altona?

    Living in Altona can be relatively expensive, especially when considering the housing market. The median house price in Altona is currently $1,165,000, which is quite high compared to many other suburbs in Melbourne. For those looking to buy a unit, the median price is $719,000. These figures suggest that purchasing property in Altona requires a significant financial commitment.

    Renting in Altona also reflects these higher costs, with the average rent for houses over the past year being $673 per week, and units averaging $500 per week. When compared to the average annual wage in Altona, which is approximately $91,000, housing costs can take up a substantial portion of income. In contrast, the average taxable income for the broader Melbourne area is around $83,000, indicating that Altona's wages are slightly above average, yet the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, remains a significant consideration.

    Overall, while Altona offers the charm of an inner Melbourne suburb with its proximity to the city and local amenities, the cost of living, especially in terms of property prices and rent, can be a challenge for those on an average income. If you are thinking of living in Altona, it's important to evaluate your financial situation carefully to ensure it aligns with the expenses associated with this desirable suburb.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Altona a good place to invest?

    Altona presents an interesting investment opportunity, particularly for those considering units. Over the past 12 months, the median unit value in Altona has increased by 6.5%, indicating a strong demand in this segment. This growth suggests that units in Altona are becoming increasingly desirable, potentially due to their affordability compared to houses and the lifestyle appeal of the suburb. Additionally, rental yields for units have risen by 3.1%, providing a steady income stream for investors.

    While the median house value has remained stable with no change over the past year, the rental market for houses has seen a 3.5% increase. This suggests that while capital growth for houses may be currently flat, there is still demand in the rental market, which could offer a reliable income for property owners. Altona's coastal location and proximity to Melbourne's CBD make it an attractive option for renters and buyers alike, contributing to its steady rental market.

    Overall, Altona offers a balanced investment landscape. The suburb's unit market shows promising growth potential, while the rental market for both houses and units remains strong. For investors seeking a mix of capital growth and rental income, particularly in the unit sector, Altona could be a worthwhile consideration.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Altona

In Altona ,65 agents are actively selling property, but a small number do the heavy lifting. Just 5 agents handled 44.7% of all sales in the past year, giving them a strong presence and deep experience in the local market.

Commission rates usually sit between 1.75% and 2.88%. Comparing agents and understanding what’s included in their fee structure can help you find the right mix of service, value, and motivation—without compromising on outcomes.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.