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East Melbourne suburb profile

East Melbourne is a prestigious and historic suburb located just 2km east of Melbourne's CBD, renowned for its elegant Victorian architecture and lush gardens. This suburb is home to some of Melbourne's most iconic landmarks, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Fitzroy Gardens. East Melbourne offers a tranquil residential atmosphere with tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community, making it highly desirable for professionals and families. Its proximity to the city, coupled with excellent public transport options, ensures convenient access to Melbourne's cultural and commercial hubs. The suburb's blend of heritage charm and modern amenities continues to attract discerning residents.

East Melbourne property market performance

Property growth-13.6%Past 12 months

East Melbourne's property market has shown stability over the past 12 months, with no change in median house and unit values. The median unit price remains at $635,000, while house sales have been limited, with only 10 transactions in the past year. Units have seen more activity, with 38 sold over the same period.

Both houses and units have a median of 48 days on the market, indicating a balanced demand across property types. The rental market has seen a notable increase for units, with rents rising by 8.3% to an average of $650, while house rents have remained steady at $1,100.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$635K
Change in value
Past 12 months
-26.3%-0.9%
Sold
Past 3 months
1038
Median days on market
Past 12 months
4848
Average rent
Past 12 months
$1100$650
Change in rent
Past 12 months
N/A8.3%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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East Melbourne demographics

East Melbourne, a prestigious suburb located just a stone's throw from Melbourne's bustling CBD, is renowned for its historic charm, leafy streets, and proximity to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. With a population of 4,896, East Melbourne offers a serene residential environment while still being close to the vibrant city life. The median age of 42 suggests a mature community, likely attracted by the suburb's elegant architecture and tranquil parks.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a significant proportion of renters, with 54.1% of properties being rented. This indicates a demand for flexible living arrangements, appealing to professionals and those who appreciate the convenience of city living without the commitment of home ownership. Meanwhile, 27.6% of properties are owned outright, reflecting a stable base of long-term residents who value the suburb's heritage and lifestyle.

Family dynamics in East Melbourne are diverse, with 71.1% of couple families having no children, highlighting the suburb's appeal to empty nesters and professionals. Only 19.2% of families are couples with children, and 7% are one-parent families, suggesting a quieter, more adult-oriented community. The high median household income of $2,345 per week underscores the affluence of the area, making East Melbourne a desirable location for those seeking a blend of sophistication, convenience, and a touch of history.

East Melbourne infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

East Melbourne continues to benefit from its proximity to major medical, sporting and civic precincts, with ongoing upgrades around the MCG, Melbourne Park and the nearby hospital and biomedical precinct supporting strong demand from professionals and hospital staff.[2][4] The suburb’s established heritage streetscapes and well-maintained parks, including Fitzroy Gardens and Treasury Gardens on its doorstep, enhance livability and underpin long-term buyer interest.[2][4]

There are currently no standout new large-scale residential or retail redevelopments within East Melbourne itself that are set to materially alter the suburb’s character or housing supply in the short term.[4] However, continual incremental improvements to surrounding transport links and city-fringe infrastructure mean residents retain excellent access to the CBD, jobs and amenities, which is likely to support property values and rental demand over time.[2][4]

East Melbourne rental market trends

The rental market in East Melbourne has shown stability, with house rents remaining unchanged at $1,100 per week over the past year. In contrast, unit rents have experienced an increase of 8.3%, reaching $650 per week. This suburb continues to attract interest due to its prime location and vibrant community, making it a desirable choice for renters seeking a balance of urban convenience and residential charm.

Suburbs near East Melbourne

Some popular suburbs near East Melbourne include:

How does East Melbourne compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median unit prices: East Melbourne’s median unit price is 44.5% higher than Melbourne’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Collingwood have risen 37.7% more than in East Melbourne over the past year.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in East Melbourne have grown 16.1% higher than in Melbourne.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in East Melbourne are selling 14.3% faster than in Collingwood.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in East Melbourne are selling 7.7% faster than in Southbank.
  • Investment considerations: In East Melbourne, the rental yield for house is 75.2% higher than the Melbourne average, while the rental yield for units is 11.3% higher.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in East Melbourne have grown 180.3% higher than the average rate of growth across Melbourne.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in East Melbourne have grown 11.2% higher than the average rate of growth for units across Melbourne.

Common questions about East Melbourne

  • Is East Melbourne a nice place to live?

    East Melbourne is a delightful suburb that offers a unique blend of sophistication and tranquility, making it a wonderful place to live. With its charming streets and a serene atmosphere, it provides a peaceful retreat just moments away from the vibrant energy of Melbourne's CBD. The suburb is known for its strong sense of community and is particularly appealing to families who appreciate the quiet, leafy environment and the proximity to excellent schools and parks.

    The vibe in East Melbourne is one of refined elegance, with a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its stunning architecture and beautifully maintained gardens. Residents enjoy easy access to a variety of amenities, including cafes, boutique shops, and cultural venues, all within a short distance. The suburb's safety and well-established community make it an ideal choice for families seeking a secure and nurturing environment.

    While East Melbourne offers a high standard of living, there are some trade-offs to consider. The prestige and desirability of the area mean that property prices can be on the higher side, and the housing options may be limited for those seeking larger family homes. Additionally, the quieter lifestyle may not suit those looking for a bustling nightlife or a more youthful, dynamic scene. However, for those who value a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle with the convenience of city access, East Melbourne is a truly charming place to call home.

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  • Is it expensive to live in East Melbourne?

    Living in East Melbourne can be quite expensive, especially when compared to the average income levels in Melbourne. Although there is no current median house price available, the median unit price is around $635,000. This is relatively moderate for an inner-city suburb, but when you consider the rental prices, the cost of living becomes clearer. Renting a house in East Melbourne averages $1,100 per week, while units cost about $650 per week. These figures suggest that a significant portion of income would go towards housing, especially for those earning the average Melbourne wage of $92,000 annually.

    With a median total household income of $2,345 weekly in East Melbourne, the suburb's residents might find it manageable to cover these housing costs. However, for individuals or families earning closer to the average Melbourne wage, living in East Melbourne could be financially challenging. The combination of high rental prices and the cost of living in an inner-city area means that careful financial planning is essential for those considering making East Melbourne their home.

    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 East Melbourne a good place to invest?

    East Melbourne presents a unique investment opportunity, particularly for those interested in the rental market. While the median house and unit values have remained stable over the past year, the suburb's rental market has shown promising growth, especially for units, which have seen an impressive 8.3% increase in rent. This suggests a strong demand for rental properties, making it an attractive option for investors looking to capitalize on rental income.

    The suburb's appeal lies in its prime location, offering a blend of urban convenience and a tranquil residential atmosphere. East Melbourne is renowned for its beautiful parks, heritage architecture, and proximity to the CBD, making it a desirable place to live for professionals and families alike. This consistent demand for rental properties ensures a steady stream of potential tenants, providing investors with a reliable source of rental income.

    While the property values have not experienced significant growth recently, the stability in the market combined with the rising rental returns for units makes East Melbourne a compelling choice for investors seeking a balanced investment. The suburb's enduring appeal and strategic location suggest that it will continue to be a sought-after area, offering long-term potential for those willing to invest in its rental market.

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Choose the right real estate agents in East Melbourne

Choosing the right real estate agent in East Melbourne can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 66 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 52.4% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 1.8% to 2.47%, depending on the agent and what’s included. Comparing both performance and fee structures can help you find someone who's well-suited to your needs, and set them up for a successful result.

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