Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Highett (East) - Cheltenham has an estimated 26,876 residents, up 11.6% since the 2021 Census, with 16 projects tracked in Highett (East) - Cheltenham.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham, located 19 kilometres south-southeast of Melbourne CBD, had an estimated population of around 26,876 as of Aug 2026, according to AreaSearch's analysis. That figure represents an increase of 2,791 people (11.6%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 24,085 people. The estimate is inferred from the estimated resident population (ERP) of 26,320 from the ABS as of June 2025, together with 966 Validated New Addresses added since the Census date.
Residents include a high proportion of older people, and the area is very well educated. Population growth has been strong, and the location blends urban and coastal living, with access to lush parks, picturesque beaches, extensive shopping, bustling cafes, highly regarded schools and excellent public transport links. Its family-friendly character, rich cultural heritage and welcoming atmosphere make it a distinctive blend of contemporary living and attractive surroundings within VIC, Australia.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 19,727 in 2001 and 26,320 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 26,876 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 16.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.2%.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham ranks in the 89th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 88th for amenities.
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 Highett (East) - Cheltenham is $604 a week, up 6.7% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 3% above Greater Melbourne.
3% above Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $476 in 2016, $742 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $373 in 2016, $570 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $604 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $742 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $570 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 | +5.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Kingston | $598 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Kingston, over 12 months | +6.8% | 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 79 tracked applications: 58 approved, 3 under assessment, 18 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 16 projects in Highett (East) - Cheltenham (7 under construction) and 134 more in the surrounding area.
Major underground metro station as part of the 26km Suburban Rail Loop East project.
New apartment development by H1Land Group designed by Rothelowman architects.
Developed and built by Shenfield Property and designed by Brayshaw Architects, Banksia is a boutique mixed-use apartment project at 216-226…
A nine-storey mixed-use apartment development featuring 63 residences, including studios, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with…
Safer cycling connection linking Sandringham Train Station to Sandringham Family Leisure Centre via Melrose St, Beach Rd, Royal Ave, Spring…
A five-storey mixed-use development featuring 18 apartments (9 one-bedroom, 8 two-bedroom, 1 three-bedroom), basement car parking with 27…
A permit-approved five-level mixed-use development in the Cheltenham Activity Centre, featuring 18 residential apartments and 339 sqm of…
Residential apartment development featuring 36 residences with 1, 2, and 3 bedroom options across 10 floors.
Scentre Group completed a $72 million redevelopment of Westfield Southland in Melbourne, repurposing existing department store space to…
74 one & two bedroom apartments plus six townhomes designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke.
Apartment development by Pascal Pty Ltd designed by EAT architects.
A major social and affordable housing redevelopment delivered by Homes Victoria via the Ground Lease Model, in which the land is leased to…
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 77 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 13, 2026 30, 2027 16, 2028 8, 2029 2, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 4. 13 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 79 substantial development applications lodged in and around Highett (East) - Cheltenham over the past 5 years, 12 in the last 12 months; 3 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 18, 2023 17, 2024 21, 2025 13, 2026 (to Oct) 8.
Key application 57 Grange Road Retail | $10k | 1 storey Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 79 | 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 | 71st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 155 | ABS building approvals | 88th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 58 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 include: Suburban Rail Loop East - Cheltenham Station (Construction); Cheltenham Precinct Structure Plan - Suburban Rail Loop East (Approved); Southpoint Highett (Construction); Cycle Sandringham Infrastructure (Construction); and Banksia Apartments Cheltenham (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Highett (East) - Cheltenham when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 area has seen 175 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's current population of 26,876 has been supported by 155 approvals on average over recent years.
The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 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 317 people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, compared to one for every 121 in Greater Melbourne.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 155, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has grown by approximately 1,512 people, while 777 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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 Highett (East) - Cheltenham are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 26,876 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +11.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 3,076 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 86th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 24,085 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,791 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 8.74 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 was estimated to be approximately 26,876 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 26,320 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 has added approximately 2,791 people and shown a 11.59% increase from the 24,085 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is estimated at 3,075 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (73.4%), Natural increase (13.3%), Interstate migration (13.3%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 73.4% of overall population gains.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 40 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 53.5% | 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 | 40 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 at 40 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Highett (East) - Cheltenham is 3 years older than the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 6.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Melbourne. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (3.5% vs 2.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.5% of the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.3% of the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 as at August 2026.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 73% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $67,406 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 78th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $85,240 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,853 | 2021 Census, weekly | 56th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $925 | 2021 Census, weekly | 70th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 27.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,470 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 23.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $71,855. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $67,406.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $90,866. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $85,240.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $71,855 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $67,406 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $90,866 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $85,240 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's households (~30.2% / 2,954 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.2% 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 Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $1,853/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $2,470/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $925/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is among the highest in Australia, with the median assessed at $67,406 while the average income stands at $85,240. This contrasts to Greater Melbourne's figures of a median income of $59,834 and an average income of $78,435. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $71,855 (median) and $90,866 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $6,694 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2's disposable income is $6,694 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 67.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 14,286 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 27,320 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 15,191 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has approximately 14,286 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.0%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 stands at 6.0%, which is 1.0 percentage points above Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.4% of employment), professional & technical (11.3%), and retail trade (10.1%). Other significant employers include education & training and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 67.8%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Melbourne average of 70.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Melbourne.
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 shows notable specialisation in finance & insurance, which employs 6.2% of the local workforce compared to 4.9% across Greater Melbourne. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 2.6% decline, ranking 28th out of 37 regions nationally.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham 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 | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 9.2% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 37.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 16.5% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 33.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
37.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
33.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 ranks in the 84th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (25.2%), Certificate (16.5%), Advanced Diploma (12.3%).
27.0% of the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.7% in primary school, 6.7% in secondary school, 5.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 1092, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,937 students.
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 30.7% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 9,791 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 10,926 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 66.7% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.4 per family | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 had 9,791 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 11.6% to an estimated 10,926 households today.
The average household size in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 66.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.7%), group households (2.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 6,531 family households, couples with children account for 30.5% of all households, couples without children at home 24.4%, and single parent families 10.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 30.7% (versus 24.8% in Greater Melbourne). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have an average of 1.4 children, matching the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.9% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 30.7% of all households in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 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 2.7% of households, below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 32.7% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 73.2% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 85.6% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 67.3% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.4% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
Highett (East) - Cheltenham was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 32.7% of its population born overseas and 26.8% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Highett (East) - Cheltenham was found to be Christianity, which makes up 46.1% of people in Highett (East) - Cheltenham. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 1.9% of the population, compared to 1.0% across Greater Melbourne.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Highett (East) - Cheltenham are English, comprising 23.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 20.1% of the population, and Other, comprising 10.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Russian is notably overrepresented at 1.3% of Highett (East) - Cheltenham (vs 0.4% across Greater Melbourne), Greek at 4.7% (vs 2.7%) and Polish at 1.2% (vs 0.8%).
32.7% of the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
26.8% of the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
0.4% of the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
85.6% of the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 28.3% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 33.9% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 54.2% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,167 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 76th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 37.8% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 25.0% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $421 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 68th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 74th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 33.9% of homes are owned outright, 37.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 28.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 54.2% of dwellings in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are houses.
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 20.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 25.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 stands at 33.9%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $2,167, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $1,335, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.0% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 22.7% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 consists of 54.2% detached houses, 25.0% semi-detached dwellings, 20.4% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Highett (East) - Cheltenham consumes approximately 16.6% of median household income ($8,023 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Highett (East) - Cheltenham show attached dwellings contributing 75% of approvals compared to 46% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 25% of applications versus 54% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health in Highett (East) - Cheltenham: private health cover 59.7%, no long-term health condition 70.0%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 59.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 78th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.0% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.3% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
Around 59.7% of people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 6.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
7.5% of people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.1% of the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.7% of people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 59.7% 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 | 118 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 79th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 13,096 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 224 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 29 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 38.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 118 public transport stops within the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2.
The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has 13,096 weekly trips across 29 routes, averaging 1,870 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 193 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 384 m away and the nearest pharmacy 507 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 118 stops nearby, 13,096 weekly trips, access rating 89 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 88 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 88th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 384 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 450 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 507 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 520 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 540 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 607 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 869 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 969 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.9 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 8 long day care centres with 721 places in Highett (East) - Cheltenham, about 2.1 children aged 0-4 per place.
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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 Highett (East) - Cheltenham when compared nationally.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 44th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Highett (East) - Cheltenham is $604 a week, +6.7% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Population growth drivers in Highett (East) - Cheltenham are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 73% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health in Highett (East) - Cheltenham: private health cover 59.7%, no long-term health condition 70.0%.
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.
Highett (East) - Cheltenham has an estimated 26,876 residents, up 11.6% since the 2021 Census, with 16 projects tracked in Highett (East) - Cheltenham.
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 Highett (East) - Cheltenham.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. 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 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may 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 (208031188). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
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 (Aug 2026) 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 Highett (East) - Cheltenham 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 Highett (East) - Cheltenham 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.