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Docklands suburb profile

Docklands is a modern waterfront suburb located on the western edge of Melbourne's CBD, known for its contemporary architecture and vibrant lifestyle. Once an industrial port, it has transformed into a bustling urban precinct featuring high-rise apartments, office spaces, and a variety of entertainment options. The area is home to major attractions like Marvel Stadium, the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, and a range of dining and shopping venues. With its picturesque waterfront views, public art installations, and excellent transport links, Docklands offers a dynamic and convenient living environment for residents and visitors alike.

Docklands property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,050,000Past 3 months

Property growth-4.7%Past 12 months

Docklands' property market has shown stability in unit values over the past 12 months, with no change in the median unit price, which currently stands at $580,000. The suburb has seen minimal activity in the house market, with only three houses sold, while unit sales have been robust, with 171 units sold in the same period.

Units are moving relatively quickly, with a median of 47 days on the market, compared to 63 days for houses, indicating stronger demand for units. The rental market has experienced significant growth, particularly for houses, where average rent has surged by 47.1% to $1,140, while unit rents have increased by 4.5% to $700, reflecting a strong rental demand in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$580K
Change in value
Past 12 months
-9.3%N/A
Sold
Past 3 months
3171
Median days on market
Past 12 months
6347
Average rent
Past 12 months
$1140$700
Change in rent
Past 12 months
47.1%4.5%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Docklands demographics

Docklands, a modern waterfront suburb in Melbourne, is renowned for its contemporary architecture, vibrant lifestyle, and proximity to the city center. With a population of 15,495 and a median age of 32, Docklands attracts a youthful and dynamic community, including professionals and young families who appreciate the area's urban conveniences and scenic views. The suburb's development has transformed it into a hub of activity, with numerous dining, shopping, and entertainment options available.

Housing in Docklands is predominantly rental-based, with 68.8% of properties being rented. This high rental rate reflects its appeal to those seeking flexible living arrangements, particularly young professionals and students. The suburb's household composition is diverse, with 65% of couple families having no children, indicating a preference for a lifestyle focused on career and leisure. The presence of 24.1% of couple families with children and 7.3% of one-parent families highlights its growing appeal to families as well.

Docklands offers a unique blend of urban living and waterfront tranquility, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a modern lifestyle with easy access to Melbourne's central business district. The area's ongoing development and investment in infrastructure continue to enhance its appeal, providing residents with a vibrant and convenient place to live, work, and play.

Docklands infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Docklands is undergoing significant urban renewal, transforming it into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. The ongoing development of Victoria Harbour, including the extension of Collins and Bourke Streets to the waterfront, is enhancing the area's connectivity and creating new public spaces. The precinct has attracted major corporate headquarters, including NAB and Ericsson, establishing Docklands as a prime business address.

Recent residential developments, such as the Dock 5 tower, are increasing housing options and bringing more residents to the area. The Digital Harbour precinct is emerging as a hub for IT and media businesses, potentially driving further economic growth. While Docklands has faced criticism for lack of green spaces and pedestrian activity, ongoing projects aim to address these issues, potentially improving livability and property values in the long term.

Docklands rental market trends

The rental market in Docklands has experienced significant growth, with house rents soaring 47.1% over the past year to $1,140 per week, while unit rents have seen a modest increase of 4.5% to $700 per week. As a vibrant waterfront precinct with ongoing development and lifestyle appeal, Docklands continues to attract both renters and investors seeking dynamic urban living.

Suburbs near Docklands

Some popular suburbs near Docklands include:

How does Docklands compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Docklands’s median house price is 14.7% higher than Port Melbourne’s.
  • Median unit prices: Docklands’s median unit price is 6.4% higher than Southbank’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Port Melbourne have risen 14.9% more than in Docklands over the past year.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Docklands have grown 8.8% higher than in Southbank.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in nearby Port Melbourne are selling 34.9% faster than in Docklands.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Docklands are selling 14.5% faster than in Southbank.
  • Investment considerations: In Docklands, the rental yield for house is 83.3% higher than the Melbourne average, while the rental yield for units is 21.5% higher.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Docklands have grown 32.7% higher than the average rate of growth across Melbourne.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Docklands have grown 4.1% higher than the average rate of growth for units across Melbourne.

Common questions about Docklands

  • Is Docklands a nice place to live?

    Docklands is a fantastic place to live, offering a unique blend of urban sophistication and waterfront tranquility. This modern suburb is perfect for those who appreciate contemporary living with a vibrant atmosphere. With its proximity to Melbourne's CBD, Docklands provides residents with easy access to a wide range of amenities, including shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants. The suburb's lively vibe is complemented by its cultural attractions and entertainment options, making it an appealing choice for both professionals and families.

    Families will find Docklands to be an increasingly attractive option, thanks to its growing community and the convenience of city living. The suburb offers a safe environment with a strong sense of community, although it may not have the traditional suburban feel some families might seek. While Docklands is known for its modern high-rise apartments, the ongoing development projects are gradually enhancing the area's livability, with improvements in green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas.

    However, living in Docklands does come with some trade-offs. The area is predominantly rental-based, which might not suit those looking for long-term home ownership. Additionally, while the suburb offers a dynamic lifestyle, it may lack the quieter, more spacious environment found in more traditional family-oriented suburbs. Despite these considerations, Docklands remains a highly desirable location for those seeking a modern, convenient, and vibrant place to call home.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Docklands?

    Living in Docklands can be quite costly, reflecting its status as a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne. The median house price in Docklands is around $593,000, while the median unit price is slightly higher at $607,500. For those considering renting, the average rent for both houses and units is approximately $672 and $675 per week, respectively. These figures suggest that housing, whether buying or renting, requires a significant financial commitment.

    Comparing this to the average wage in Docklands, which is about $104,000 per year, aligns closely with Melbourne's overall average salary. However, given the relatively high property prices and rents, a substantial portion of one's income would likely go towards housing expenses. This makes Docklands a more expensive option for living, especially when considering the cost of living in other suburbs that might offer more affordable housing options.

    Despite the higher costs, Docklands offers a dynamic lifestyle with its modern amenities, waterfront views, and proximity to Melbourne's central business district. If you are thinking of living in Docklands, it's important to consider your financial situation to ensure it can accommodate the expenses associated with this bustling urban environment.

    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.
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  • Is Docklands a good place to invest?

    Docklands presents an intriguing investment opportunity, especially for those interested in rental income. While the median house and unit values have remained stable over the past year, the rental market has shown promising growth. With house rents increasing by 4.7% and unit rents by 3.8%, Docklands is appealing for investors seeking steady rental returns.

    The suburb's modern infrastructure, waterfront views, and proximity to Melbourne's CBD make it a desirable location for young professionals and renters. The lifestyle amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options, add to its allure. Although capital growth has been stagnant recently, the consistent demand for rentals suggests a resilient market.

    For investors, Docklands offers a balance of stable property values and growing rental yields. While it may not be the hotspot for rapid capital appreciation, its appeal lies in the potential for reliable rental income and the lifestyle it offers to tenants. As the area continues to develop, Docklands remains a solid choice for those looking to invest in a vibrant urban setting.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Docklands

There are 186 real estate agents working in Docklands, but they don’t all deliver the same results.

Some agents have a much stronger presence in the suburb, with just 5 agents handling around 35.7% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in Docklands typically range from 1.8% to 2.47%. Comparing agents—including what they charge, what’s included, and how they structure their fees—is not only important when choosing an agent, the right structure can help ensure your chosen agent is motivated to achieve the best possible result.

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