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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:

Common questions about Preston

  • Is Preston a nice place to live?

    Preston is a fantastic suburb that offers a delightful blend of urban convenience and suburban charm, making it a wonderful place to call home. Known for its cultural diversity and vibrant community, Preston provides a lively atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of residents. Families, in particular, will find the suburb appealing due to its abundance of parks, schools, and community facilities. The suburb's proximity to Melbourne's CBD, combined with excellent public transport options, ensures easy access to the city's amenities while enjoying the benefits of a more relaxed suburban lifestyle.

    The suburb boasts a dynamic vibe with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, offering a variety of housing options to suit different preferences. From charming period homes to modern apartments, there's something for everyone. The local Preston Market is a highlight, providing a multicultural shopping experience with fresh produce and a lively atmosphere. For those who enjoy dining out, the suburb offers a range of cafes and restaurants, while nearby Northland Shopping Centre caters to all your retail needs.

    Safety in Preston is generally not a major concern, and the suburb's strong sense of community contributes to a welcoming environment. However, as with any urban area, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. While Preston offers a vibrant lifestyle, some may find the ongoing redevelopment projects and increased demand for housing a trade-off, as these factors can lead to changes in the suburb's character and potentially higher property prices. Nonetheless, for families and young professionals seeking a dynamic and accessible place to live, Preston is a highly attractive option.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Preston?

    Living in Preston can be seen as moderately expensive, especially when considering its proximity to Melbourne's city centre and the amenities it offers. The current median house price in Preston is about $1,160,000, while units are more affordable at a median price of $595,000. For those looking to rent, the average weekly rent for houses is around $600, and for units, it's approximately $530. These figures suggest that housing costs in Preston are substantial, although not as high as some of the more central suburbs in Melbourne.

    When comparing the average wage in Preston, which is around $96,000 per year, to the median household income of $1,844 per week, it becomes clear that a significant portion of income would be directed towards housing expenses. This is relatively in line with Melbourne's broader wage and living cost trends, but it does highlight that living in Preston requires careful financial planning. While the suburb offers a vibrant community and convenient access to the city, potential residents should weigh these benefits against the financial commitments involved in living in this area.

    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 Preston a good place to invest?

    Preston is shaping up to be an attractive suburb for investment, particularly if you're considering units. Over the past year, the median unit value in Preston has increased by a notable 7.4%, indicating strong demand and potential for capital growth. This is complemented by a significant 10.4% rise in unit rents, suggesting a robust rental market that could provide solid rental returns for investors.

    While the median house value has seen a modest increase of 0.4%, the rental market for houses has grown by 3.4%, which still reflects a stable demand for housing. This makes Preston a balanced option for those looking to invest in houses, offering steady rental income with potential for future appreciation.

    Overall, Preston's combination of rising unit values and strong rental growth makes it a compelling choice for investors, especially those interested in units. The suburb's ongoing development and proximity to Melbourne's CBD add to its appeal, ensuring it remains a desirable location for both renters and buyers alike.

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