Suburb profile · Greater Melbourne
Elsternwick has an estimated 11,788 residents, up 8.3% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Elsternwick.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Elsternwick is a convenient 8.7 kilometres south-southeast from Melbourne CBD. AreaSearch estimates the suburb’s population at around 11,788 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. This is an increase of 901 people (8.3%) since the 2021 Census, when 10,887 people were recorded.
The suburb has a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 38, and many lone person and group households. Population growth is moderate. Elsternwick is a picturesque suburb in Victoria, Australia, where historic character sits alongside modern living, with a diverse cultural scene, shops, cafes, restaurants, entertainment venues, tree-lined streets, parks and heritage buildings. Schools and a strong local community add to its appeal for families and young professionals.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Elsternwick is a convenient 8.7 kilometres south-southeast from Melbourne CBD. AreaSearch estimates the suburb’s population at around 11,788 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. This is an increase of 901 people (8.3%) since the 2021 Census, when 10,887 people were recorded.
The suburb has a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 38, and many lone person and group households. Population growth is moderate. Elsternwick is a picturesque suburb in Victoria, Australia, where historic character sits alongside modern living, with a diverse cultural scene, shops, cafes, restaurants, entertainment venues, tree-lined streets, parks and heritage buildings. Schools and a strong local community add to its appeal for families and young professionals.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 9,667 in 2006 and 11,706 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,788 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 16.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.2%.
Elsternwick ranks in the 91st percentile nationally for amenities and the 89th for transport & access.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Elsternwick is $611 a week, up 5.2% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 4% above Greater Melbourne.
4% above Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $800 in 2022, $914 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $430 in 2022, $568 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $611 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $914 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | -3.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $568 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Glen Eira | $612 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Glen Eira, over 12 months | +3.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Melbourne - Inner South | $626 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne - Inner South, over 12 months | +5.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Greater Melbourne | $587 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Melbourne, over 12 months | +4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, VIC, over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 75 tracked applications: 0 approved, 0 under assessment, 75 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 11 projects in Elsternwick (1 under construction) and 93 more in the surrounding area.
Mixed-use development featuring a supermarket and residential apartments, revised to 6 storeys with additional setbacks and height reductions after VCAT approval. Includes ground floor commercial spaces.
Boutique townhouse development by Coff Property on an 1800 square metre site in the sought-after suburb of Elsternwick. The luxury residential project is in early planning stages and will feature contemporary townhouse design in a highly desirable location close to Elsternwick Village, train station, tram lines, shops, dining, and amenities.
A 4-storey mixed-use residential development comprising 16 apartments (15 x 2-bedroom, 1 x 3-bedroom) and 2 ground-floor retail shops. The building features a rooftop terrace, lift and stair access, custom perforated brick wall, face brick, aluminium casement windows, stackers and bi-fold doors, concrete profile panels and vertical metal slat balustrades.
Redevelopment of the former ABC Studios site into the Elsternwick Gardens mixed-use neighbourhood by Milieu and Besen. The approved project comprises six residential buildings with up to 180 apartments following a 2025 amendment, food and drink premises, extensive landscaped gardens, public open space, retention and relocation of the historic broadcast…
Collection of 19 luxury townhouses in Elsternwick designed by Megowan Architectural. The project is being delivered by Freeman Group with Sinjen as builder. Construction is well underway with completion targeted for December 2025.
Council-led upgrade of Selwyn Street into a pedestrian-focused cultural precinct connecting the Jewish Holocaust Museum, the future Jewish Arts Quarter and nearby venues. Works include slow-speed street treatments, wider footpaths, lighting, planting, public art and a central civic space for events.
Boutique 5-level development of 44 two and three bedroom apartments with ground floor retail, secure basement parking and a communal rooftop terrace. Led by Freeman Group with Balmain & Co as builder. Construction is underway with completion targeted for late 2026.
Boutique seven-level luxury apartment building directly opposite Caulfield Park in Caulfield North. Rebranded as The Parker on Caulfield Park, the project has been redesigned by Powell and Glenn Architects within the approved building envelope, reducing the dwelling count from 30 to 20 residences to deliver larger, higher-specification apartments.
Mixed-use development featuring residential apartments above retail spaces along the Glen Huntly Road corridor.
Garden-focused neighbourhood development on former ABC Studios site featuring 175 apartments across three residential offerings (Gordon Place, Ripponlea Terrace, The Garden Pavilion). Includes private access to Rippon Lea Estate, extensive landscaping, arts program, and retention of heritage broadcasting tower.
Modern apartment complex with 1, 2 and 3-bedroom homes featuring high-end finishes, rooftop terrace, and proximity to Elsternwick Station.
A permit-approved luxury residential development featuring 10 townhouses designed by renowned Cera Stribley Architects on a 1,629sqm landholding. The site includes existing apartments providing holding income and offers high-profile frontage of over 32 metres to New Street.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 51 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 12, 2026 14, 2027 13, 2028 6, 2029 3, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1. 10 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 75 substantial development applications lodged in and around Elsternwick over the past 5 years, 12 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 0, 2022 16, 2023 19, 2024 18, 2025 11, 2026 (to Oct) 11.
Key application 291 Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick Commercial | $250k | 1 dwelling | 2 storeys
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 75 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 12 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 73 | ABS building approvals | 71st percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Elsternwick include: Metro Tunnel Network Upgrades - Sandringham, Werribee and Williamstown Cross-City Service (Construction); Elsternwick Gardens (Former ABC Studios) (Construction); 25 Sandham Street Townhouses (Planning); 10-16 Selwyn Street Mixed-Use Development (Proposed); and 552 Glen Huntly Road Mixed-Use Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Elsternwick spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
The suburb of Elsternwick ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Elsternwick when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Elsternwick area has seen 213 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Elsternwick's current population of 11,788 has been supported by 73 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Elsternwick has seen 6.3 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 8.7 approvals in Greater Melbourne. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 109 people in the suburb of Elsternwick, compared to one for every 121 in Greater Melbourne.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Elsternwick's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 73, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Elsternwick has grown by approximately 276 people, while 364 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Elsternwick are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,788 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 4,529 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 10,887 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 901 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.60 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Elsternwick was estimated to be approximately 11,788 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,706 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Elsternwick has added approximately 901 people and shown a 8.28% increase from the 10,887 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Elsternwick is estimated at 4,534 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Elsternwick has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.8% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Elsternwick is driven by: Overseas migration (77.0%), Natural increase (23.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 77.0% of overall population gains.
Elsternwick's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 38 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 18.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 29.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 38 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 16.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Elsternwick at 38 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 38 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 38 years as at August 2026, Elsternwick is comparable to the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and similarly aligned with equal to the national Census average.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Elsternwick compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 6.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Elsternwick compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 13.5% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Elsternwick is broadly in line with Greater Melbourne.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.7% of the population in the suburb of Elsternwick as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 18.4% of the population in the suburb of Elsternwick as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 84% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $71,641 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 87th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $111,241 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,209 | 2021 Census, weekly | 78th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,206 | 2021 Census, weekly | 91st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 36.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,210 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 17.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Elsternwick is approximately $76,369. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $71,641.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Elsternwick is approximately $118,583. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $111,241.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Elsternwick is approximately $76,369 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $71,641 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Elsternwick is approximately $118,583 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $111,241 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Elsternwick's households (~29.2% / 1,324 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Elsternwick is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.2% of households. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Elsternwick is $2,209/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Elsternwick is $3,210/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Elsternwick is $1,206/wk.
The suburb of Elsternwick's income level is exceptionally high nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Elsternwick's median income among taxpayers is $71,641 and the average income stands at $111,241, which compares to figures for Greater Melbourne's of $59,834 and $78,435 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $76,369 (median) and $118,583 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Elsternwick is $8,119 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Elsternwick's disposable income is $8,119 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Elsternwick ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 72.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,971 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 10,568 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,229 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Elsternwick has approximately 6,971 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.6%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Elsternwick stands at 3.6%, which is 1.2 percentage points below Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.8%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Elsternwick is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (16.9% of employment), health care & social assistance (14.2%), and education & training (10.2%). Other significant employers include retail trade and finance & insurance.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Elsternwick has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Elsternwick is 72.6%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Melbourne average of 70.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Melbourne.
The suburb of Elsternwick shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 16.9% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% across Greater Melbourne. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Elsternwick's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 2.6% decline, ranking 28th out of 37 regions nationally.
Elsternwick shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 35.3% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 13.9% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 55.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 25.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.0% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
55.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Elsternwick have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
25.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Elsternwick have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The suburb of Elsternwick ranks in the 86th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Elsternwick are: Bachelor Degree (35.3%), Postgraduate (13.9%), Advanced Diploma (10.1%).
28.8% of the population in the suburb of Elsternwick is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.5% in primary school, 8.0% in secondary school, 6.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Elsternwick is 1100, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 7 schools within the suburb of Elsternwick, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,430 students.
The suburb of Elsternwick includes 3 primary schools, 4 combined schools.
Elsternwick features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,534 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,909 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.4% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Elsternwick had 4,534 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.3% to an estimated 4,909 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Elsternwick is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.5%), group households (5.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,784 family households, couples with children account for 27.1% of all households, couples without children at home 26.0%, and single parent families 7.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the suburb of Elsternwick shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.5% (versus 24.8% in Greater Melbourne). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.4% compared to 70.9% in Greater Melbourne. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Elsternwick have an average of 1.2 children, slightly below the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 41.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 43.3% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 33.5% of all households in the suburb of Elsternwick, higher than the average for Greater Melbourne of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 5.1% of households, slightly above the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Elsternwick was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 79.5% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 85.8% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 69.5% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
Elsternwick was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 20.5% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 30.5% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Elsternwick, at 32.0% of people, although more residents (45.4%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 19.1% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Melbourne average of 1.0%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Elsternwick are English, comprising 21.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 19.9% of the population, and Other, comprising 14.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Polish is notably overrepresented at 3.7% of Elsternwick (vs 0.8% across Greater Melbourne), Russian at 1.6% (vs 0.4%) and Hungarian at 1.1% (vs 0.3%).
30.5% of the suburb of Elsternwick population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
20.5% of the population in the suburb of Elsternwick speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
0.2% of the suburb of Elsternwick population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
85.8% of the suburb of Elsternwick population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Elsternwick features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 39.5% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 31.5% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 41.4% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,400 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 86th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.1% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 19.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $441 | 2021 Census, weekly | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 60th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Elsternwick, 31.5% of homes are owned outright, 29.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 39.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 38.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Elsternwick are houses.
In the suburb of Elsternwick, 41.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 19.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Elsternwick stands at 31.5%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Elsternwick is $2,400, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Elsternwick is $1,453, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Elsternwick, households with mortgages typically spend 25.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Elsternwick is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Elsternwick shows mortgage holders spending 25.1% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 20.0% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Elsternwick consists of 38.3% detached houses, 19.3% semi-detached dwellings, 41.4% apartments, and 1.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Elsternwick consumes approximately 15.2% of median household income ($9,565 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Elsternwick show attached dwellings contributing 92% of approvals compared to 62% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 8% of applications versus 38% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Elsternwick is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Elsternwick's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 69.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 90th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 74.0% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
Around 69.4% of people in the suburb of Elsternwick are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the suburb of Elsternwick, 4.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
6.9% of people in the suburb of Elsternwick are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the suburb of Elsternwick population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.0% of people in the suburb of Elsternwick have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Elsternwick, 69.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.5%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 89 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 89th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 61 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 50th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 5,280 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 79th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 192 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 9 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 50.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 61 public transport stops within the suburb of Elsternwick.
The suburb of Elsternwick has 5,280 weekly trips across 9 routes, averaging 754 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 153 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 229 m away and the nearest school 281 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 61 stops nearby, 5,280 weekly trips, access rating 89 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 91 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 91st percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 229 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 281 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 388 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 404 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 473 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 526 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 609 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 610 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 925 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 12 long day care centres with 1,295 places in Elsternwick, about 0.5 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Elsternwick is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Elsternwick.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Elsternwick when compared nationally.
Elsternwick has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 19% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Elsternwick is $611 a week, +5.2% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Population growth drivers in Elsternwick are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
Elsternwick's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 84% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch assessment positions Elsternwick ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
Elsternwick shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Elsternwick features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Elsternwick was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Elsternwick features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Elsternwick's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Elsternwick has an estimated 11,788 residents, up 8.3% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Elsternwick.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Elsternwick.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2025. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL20864). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2025) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Elsternwick from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Elsternwick with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
