Preston suburb profile
Preston is a vibrant suburb located 9km north of Melbourne's CBD, known for its cultural diversity and lively community atmosphere. It offers a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, with a variety of housing options ranging from period homes to modern apartments. Preston Market is a local landmark, providing fresh produce and a multicultural shopping experience. The suburb is well-served by public transport, including trains and trams, making it easily accessible. With its parks, schools, and community facilities, Preston appeals to families, young professionals, and those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.
Preston property market performance
Preston's property market has shown varied performance over the past 12 months. House values have seen a modest increase of 0.4%, with the median house price now at $1.16 million. In contrast, unit values have experienced a significant rise of 7.4%, bringing the median unit price to $595,000, indicating a stronger demand for units in the area.
Sales activity has been robust, with 100 houses and 90 units sold over the past 12 months. The market is relatively balanced, with houses spending a median of 37 days on the market and units 38 days, suggesting steady buyer interest across both property types.
The rental market in Preston has seen notable changes, particularly for units, where rent prices have surged by 10.4% over the last 12 months. House rents have also increased, albeit at a slower pace of 3.4%, reflecting a strong rental demand in the suburb.
Median price - houses$1.16MPast 3 months
Median price - units$557KPast 3 months
Change in value - houses-1.1%12 months
Change in value - units10.3%12 months
Houses sold94Past 3 months
Units sold93Past 3 months
Median DOM - houses38Past 12 months
Median DOM - units39Past 12 months
Average rent - houses$600Past 12 months
Average rent - units$540Past 12 months
Change in rent - housesN/APast 12 months
Change in rent - units9.1%Past 12 months
Preston demographics
Preston, located in Melbourne's northern suburbs, is a vibrant and diverse community known for its rich cultural tapestry and bustling local markets. With a population of 33,790, it offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm, making it an attractive option for families, professionals, and retirees alike. The median age of 37 suggests a balanced mix of young families and established residents, contributing to a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere.
The suburb's housing landscape is varied, with a significant portion of properties being rented, accounting for 41.2% of the market. This high rental rate reflects Preston's appeal to those seeking flexible living arrangements, including young professionals and students. Meanwhile, 27.9% of properties are owned outright, and 30.9% are owned with a mortgage, indicating a stable and growing community of homeowners.
Family life is a cornerstone of Preston, with 42.3% of households being couple families with children, and 38.8% being couples without children. The presence of one-parent families, making up 15.8% of the community, further highlights the suburb's family-friendly nature. Preston's thriving local economy, coupled with its proximity to Melbourne's CBD, makes it a desirable location for those seeking a balanced lifestyle with access to both work and leisure opportunities.
Preston infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities
Preston is undergoing significant redevelopment, with several projects poised to enhance its appeal. The $40 million revitalization of Preston Market is set to create a vibrant community hub, potentially boosting property values in the surrounding area. Additionally, the Level Crossing Removal Project along the Mernda line is improving connectivity and safety, which may increase demand for homes near train stations.
The suburb is also benefiting from the ongoing High Street upgrade, enhancing walkability and creating a more attractive streetscape. With its proximity to Northland Shopping Centre and excellent public transport links, Preston continues to attract young professionals and families. These developments, combined with Preston's diverse housing stock and relative affordability compared to inner-city suburbs, suggest a positive outlook for the local property market.
Preston rental market trends
The rental market in Preston has shown moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 3.4% over the past year to $600 per week, while unit rents have seen a more significant rise of 10.4% to $530 per week. This reflects a strong demand for units, making Preston an attractive option for renters and investors seeking opportunities in a vibrant suburban setting.
Suburbs near Preston
Some popular suburbs near Preston include: