Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Essendon North

Essendon North is a quietly residential pocket in Melbourne's inner north-west, beside Essendon and close to Essendon Airport. Tree-lined streets and a mix of post-war weatherboard and brick houses, period bungalows and some contemporary infill give it a low-key, established feel. The suburb of 3,071 people has a median age of 38. Family households dominate, and it appeals to families, downsizers and professionals who value nearby shopping strips, parks and sporting ovals in neighbouring suburbs.

Transport options and arterial roads are within easy reach. Tram enabling works on Route 59 include stop upgrades through Essendon North. A North Essendon activity centre plan sets building-height and activity-centre rules for local centre cores and introduces a funding mechanism for new and upgraded local infrastructure, and council has finalised a Keilor Road streetscape plan. The suburb remains primarily residential, so whether that suits you depends on what you want.

Renting in Essendon North would take a noticeable share of local incomes as recorded at the last Census. A house rent of $628 a week is about 36.7% of a typical local household's weekly income of $1,712 at the last Census, a sizeable share, while a unit rent of $505 a week is about 29.5% of that income, a moderate share. On the buying side, the median unit price of $420,000 works out to about 4.7 times a typical local annual household income at the last Census, which sits somewhat above local incomes. If you're renting rather than buying, the rent shares are the most relevant numbers; if buying, the price multiple is the key measure.

Everyone's financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.

House values climbed 33.5% over the past 12 months, a strong rise, while unit values rose a more modest 4.6%. In Essendon North rents also increased: house rents lifted 7.4% and unit rents rose 5.2%, both solid gains, with house rents edging ahead of unit rents this year.

For someone weighing Essendon North as an investment, the figures show capital growth was concentrated in houses over the past year, while rental income improved for both houses and units. Whether that balance suits you depends on your own objectives and circumstances.

This information has been prepared without taking your objectives, needs and overall financial situation into account. It is not meant to be a substitute for professional financial advice. For this reason, you should consider the appropriateness of the information and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice.