Highett (East) - Cheltenham

SA2

Greater Melbourne / Kingston

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 208031188 How we calculate this
Chart Color Schemes
Loading map data ...
Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

0 People

est. as @ -- *

ABS ERP | -- people | --

2021 Census | -- people

Land Area
--
Land Area
Population Density
--
Density
Unemployment Rate
--
Unemployment
Development
--
Resi Approvals
Get My Report

Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.

Median Price
$0
1yr Sales Volume
0
Find a Recent Sale
Type Specified (1) | Limit 50

Sales Detail

Loading rental data…

DemographicsPopulation Growth in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Highett (East) - Cheltenham has an estimated 26,400 residents, up from 24,085 at the 2021 Census — a change of 2,315 people, or 9.6%. Growth has averaged 1.2% a year over five years. 697 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 73.4% of that increase. That puts 3,021 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to investigations by AreaSearch, the resident count for Highett (East) - Cheltenham stands at approximately 26,400 as of May 2026. This represents an addition of 2,315 individuals (9.6%) relative to the 2021 Census, which documented 24,085 residents. This demographic shift is calculated using the ABS estimated resident population figure of 26,320 from June 2025 combined with 697 validated new addresses identified since the Census. Such population numbers translate to a density of 3,020 persons per square kilometer, placing the locality in the highest quartile of all Australian areas analyzed.

The 9.6% expansion rate of Highett (East) - Cheltenham since the 2021 census outpaced the SA3 area (6.7%) and the broader SA4 region, establishing it as a local growth hub. This demographic expansion was primarily fueled by overseas migration, which accounted for roughly 73.4% of the overall population rise during recent timeframes, though natural growth and interstate migration also registered gains. Projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia, issued in 2024 using 2022 as their baseline, are utilized by AreaSearch for each SA2 area. For localities lacking coverage in this dataset, AreaSearch relies on the 2023 Regional/LGA projections from the VIC State Government, adjusting them via a weighted aggregation technique to scale population growth from LGA down to SA2 boundaries. Age group growth distributions derived from these aggregations are also applied across all locations for the period spanning 2032 to 2041. Looking at future demographic trends, statistical areas assessed by AreaSearch are anticipated to experience above median population growth, with this specific locality projected to add 5,022 individuals by 2041 when measured against the most recent annual ERP data, yielding a total increase of 18.7% across the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Total population for the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 was estimated to be approximately 26,400 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 26,320 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 changed since 2021?
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 has added approximately 2,315 people and shown a 9.61% increase from the 24,085 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The population density in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is estimated at 3,020 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

1,011 new dwellings have been approved in Highett (East) - Cheltenham over the past five years, an average of 202 a year. That places the area in the 81st percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 8 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 134 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 19% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 114, well below that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Property developments in Highett (East) - Cheltenham have run at a yearly average of about 202 new dwelling approvals, resulting in 1,011 residential builds authorized during the last 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25) and 105 during the current FY-26 period. Local growth demands and residential construction appear closely aligned, with an average of 1.5 individuals migrating to the area for every new home constructed over the last 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25), fostering balanced market conditions. The expected construction cost for these new dwellings averages $306,000, which aligns with broader regional averages.

Additionally, local business investment has seen commercial development approvals reach $47.8 million in the current financial year. Adjusted per capita, urban growth activity in Highett (East) - Cheltenham is 50.0% higher than the Greater Melbourne average, presenting a broader selection for purchasers despite a recent slowdown in construction volumes. The composition of new housing approvals stands at 19.0% detached houses and 81.0% attached dwellings. This emphasis on higher-density residential options provides more economical entry points and caters to downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. This represents a major shift from the existing housing stock (which is currently 54.0% houses), driven by a scarcity of available development plots and evolving consumer preferences and affordability constraints. Highett (East) - Cheltenham exhibits a maturing construction market, recording approximately 249 people for every dwelling approval. Long-term forecasts suggest Highett (East) - Cheltenham will add 4,942 new residents by 2041 when measured from the most recent AreaSearch quarterly projection. Provided current construction volumes persist, residential supply is anticipated to meet local demand, offering favorable purchasing conditions and potentially paving the way for demographic growth that outpaces current predictions.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 area has seen 326 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's current population of 26,400 has been supported by 202 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has seen 0.81 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.9 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 249 people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, compared to one for every 125 in the broader region.
Is the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 4,942 people by 2041, around 2,471 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear broadly sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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 202, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is expected to grow by 4,942 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 2,471 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has grown by approximately 6,593 people, while 1,011 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 6.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 202 approvals per year and a population of 26,400, the market appears to be reasonably balanced between supply and demand, presenting moderate opportunities for well-positioned developments. With the population expected to increase by 4,942 people by 2041, around 2,471 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Development applications around Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
Application search is not available in Victoria. AreaSearch holds 48 applications for Highett (East) - Cheltenham, but they are a record of past activity rather than a current register. Victoria has no state-wide planning portal and its council coverage is uneven, so we have switched the search off here rather than return partial answers. We are currently investigating a solution. No credits are charged for Victorian applications, and building approvals from the ABS and the major projects we track are unaffected.

SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

PROFILE FAQ

AreaSearch tracks 16 current infrastructure and development projects inside Highett (East) - Cheltenham, worth an estimated $38.1 billion. A further 137 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $57.1 billion. 49 are already under construction and 54 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and transport & logistics. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local performance is heavily shaped by developments in regional infrastructure, major construction works, and municipal planning. AreaSearch has identified 18 projects expected to influence the local area. Principal developments include Sanctuary Sandringham, Suburban Rail Loop East - Cheltenham Station, Cheltenham Precinct Structure Plan - Suburban Rail Loop East, and Cycle Sandringham Infrastructure, with key details provided for the most relevant projects.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
All Selected

AI Generated Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.

Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 include: Sanctuary Sandringham (Construction); Suburban Rail Loop East - Cheltenham Station (Construction); Cheltenham Precinct Structure Plan - Suburban Rail Loop East (Under Assessment); Cycle Sandringham Infrastructure (Construction); and 48 Station Road Mixed-Use Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $38.8 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 vicinity.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 shows moderate infrastructure development relative to national averages, with opportunities for future growth and investment.
Suburban Rail Loop East - Cheltenham Station
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2035
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Major underground metro station as part of the 26km Suburban Rail Loop East project. Located approximately 17m below ground under Sir William Fry Reserve, the station will serve as the southern gateway to the SRL network and provide a critical interchange with the existing Frankston line. Features include a new bus interchange, enhanced pedestrian and cycling paths, and a dedicated bridge over Bay Road connecting the station to Southland Shopping Centre. Works are currently focused on utility relocations and site preparation for the launch of tunnel boring machines.

Transport & Logistics

Cheltenham Precinct Structure Plan - Suburban Rail Loop East
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2041
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Cheltenham Precinct Structure Plan is an approved long-term urban renewal framework centered on the new Suburban Rail Loop underground station at Sir William Fry Reserve. The plan facilitates approximately 4,500 new dwellings and 12,000 new jobs by 2041, featuring building heights reaching 18 storeys in strategic hubs. Key infrastructure includes a pedestrian and cyclist bridge over Bay Road connecting to Southland Shopping Centre, a new bus interchange, and the revitalisation of Sir William Fry Reserve.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Southpoint Highett
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

New apartment development by H1Land Group designed by Rothelowman architects. Features two buildings: a 12-level tower with 360-degree views and a 4-level boutique building. Includes 217 apartments (1-3 bedrooms) with rooftop amenities, plunge pool, and sunset bar. Located opposite Westfield Southland. As of July 2025, construction has faced a stoppage due to a dispute with the Suburban Rail Loop authority over compensation for underground land acquisition.

Residential Development

7-21 Station Road Apartments
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

A nine-storey mixed-use apartment development featuring 63 residences, including studios, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with ground floor retail spaces. Located near Cheltenham Station, it aims to increase housing density in a transit-oriented location with modern amenities and sustainable features.

Residential Development

Cycle Sandringham Infrastructure
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Safer cycling connection linking Sandringham Train Station to Sandringham Family Leisure Centre via Melrose St, Beach Rd, Royal Ave, Spring St and Tulip St. Stage 1 Section 1 works commenced to improve bike safety and supporting infrastructure; Stage 2 planned in 2025/26 subject to budgets and approvals.

Sports & Recreation

Banksia Apartments Cheltenham
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2026

Contemporary urban living development at 216-226 Charman Road, Cheltenham. Luxury apartments in heart of growing suburb near Beaumaris.

Residential Development

48 Station Road Apartments
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2026

A five-storey mixed-use development featuring 18 apartments (9 one-bedroom, 8 two-bedroom, 1 three-bedroom), basement car parking with 27 spaces, and additional commercial office space. The project aims to increase housing density near Cheltenham Station with modern residential design and landscaping.

Residential Development

48 Station Road Mixed-Use Development
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

A permit-approved five-level mixed-use development in the Cheltenham Activity Centre, featuring 18 residential apartments and 339 sqm of commercial space. The development includes 27 basement car parking spaces and has a total gross floor area of 2,288 sqm. Located within 300 metres of Cheltenham Train Station and 1km from Westfield Southland Shopping Centre.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

13,999 residents of Highett (East) - Cheltenham are employed, from a labour force of 14,898. Unemployment sits at 6.0%, with participation at 67.8%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.8% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Highett (East) and Cheltenham boast a highly educated labor pool where professional services hold a dominant position, unemployment sits at 6.0%, and employment has remained relatively steady throughout the previous year. By March 2026, 13,999 individuals were employed, with the unemployment rate standing at 1.3% higher than the Greater Melbourne benchmark of 4.8%, while workforce participation lagged slightly behind the metropolitan average of 70.2% at 67.8%. Census data indicates that 38.6% of residents worked from home, although the lingering effects of Covid-19 lockdowns should be taken into account when interpreting this figure.

The primary sectors employing local residents are health care & social assistance, professional & technical, and retail trade. The local labor market exhibits a high concentration of finance & insurance roles, which operate at 1.3 times the regional rate. Conversely, the transport, postal & warehousing sector is underrepresented, employing only 3.4% of the workforce compared to the regional average of 5.2%. Although there are local employment hubs, a comparison between the Census working population and local resident count indicates that a large share of the workforce travels outside the area for work. Based on AreaSearch's evaluation of SALM and ABS statistics, the latest 12-month cycle saw employment rise by 0.3% while the total labor force contracted by 0.3%, resulting in a 0.6 percentage point reduction in the unemployment rate. Over the same timeframe in Greater Melbourne, employment grew by 2.1%, the labor force expanded by 2.3%, and the unemployment rate increased by 0.2 percentage points. National employment projections released in May-25 by Jobs and Skills Australia provide further context on expected workforce needs for Highett (East) - Cheltenham. These five and ten-year forecasts have been applied to the local workforce structure to model future employment trends. On a national scale, total employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though individual industries vary widely. Aligning these national sectoral trends with Highett (East) - Cheltenham's specific labor pool suggests local employment will rise by 6.8% over five years and 13.9% over ten years, using a weighted extrapolation that does not incorporate local population projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
As of March 2026, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has approximately 13,999 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.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 stands at 6.0%, which is 1.3 percentage points above Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.8%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
How has employment changed recently in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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 70.2%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's employment market?
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 shows notable specialization in finance & insurance, which employs 6.2% of the local workforce compared to 4.9% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.8% over the next five years and 13.9% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compare nationally?
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 8.9% decline, ranking 34.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 43.5% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (14.4%), professional & technical (11.3%), and education & training (9.6%). With projected employment growth of 6.8% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Median household income in Highett (East) - Cheltenham is $1,853 a week (about $96,000 a year), with median personal income at $925 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $64,228 a year against an average of $80,527. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

Based on AreaSearch's analysis of the most recent postcode level ATO statistics from the 2023 financial year, taxpayers in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 recorded a median income of $64,228 and an average income of $80,527. These levels are very high on a national scale and exceed the Greater Melbourne median of $57,688 and average of $75,164. Adjusting for a Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since the 2023 financial year, current estimated figures stand at approximately $70,407 for median income and $88,274 for average income as of March 2026.

In the 2021 Census, personal, family, and household earnings in the area fell around the 63rd percentile nationally. The data shows that 30.2% of the local population (7,972 people) earn between $1,500 and $2,999, which aligns closely with the regional trend where 32.8% of the population sits within this bracket. Residents allocate 16.6% of their income to housing costs, and robust local earnings place disposable income at the 56th percentile, with the area ranking in the 7th decile of the SEIFA income index.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $70,407. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $64,228.
What is the average taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $88,274. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $80,527.
How does the median taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $70,407 compared to $63,238 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $64,228 and $57,688 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is approximately $88,274 compared to $82,395 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $80,527 and $75,164 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~30.2% / 7,972 persons) of the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.2% of the population. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 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.
What is the median family income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $2,470/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $925/wk.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's income rank nationally?
The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's income level is extremely high nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's median income among taxpayers is $64,228 and the average income stands at $80,527, which compares to figures for Greater Melbourne's of $57,688 and $75,164 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $70,407 (median) and $88,274 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $6,694 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2's disposable income is $6,694 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Highett (East) - Cheltenham had 9,791 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 54% detached houses and 20% apartments. 38% are owned with a mortgage, 28% rented and 34% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $421 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,167 a month. Rent absorbs 22.7% of household income here and mortgage repayments 27.0%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to the latest Census, the housing inventory in Highett (East) - Cheltenham consisted of 54.2% detached houses and 45.8% multi-unit housing options such as townhouses and apartments, compared to Greater Melbourne's split of 67.9% houses and 32.1% other dwellings. Home ownership in the area was notably higher than the metro average at 33.9%, with mortgaged properties accounting for 37.8% and rental properties making up 28.3% of homes. The median monthly payment for home loans in the area was $2,167, and the median weekly rent was $421, exceeding the Greater Melbourne averages of $2,000 and $390.

On a national level, housing costs in Highett (East) - Cheltenham are elevated, with mortgage payments surpassing the Australian average of $1,863 and rental costs sitting well above the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
What percentage of dwellings in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 54.2% of dwellings in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 20.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 25.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 stands at 33.9%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $2,167, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median weekly rent in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $421, compared to $390 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 4.0% of rentals are $0-149/week, 18.1% are $150-349/week, 68.9% are $350-649/week, 8.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.9% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is $1,335, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
How crowded are homes in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.0% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% regionally), while renters spend 22.7% of income on rent (vs 20.5% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,335. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,167/month, and renters paying $1,823/month.
How affordable is housing in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 relative to local incomes?
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.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Recent development applications in Highett (East) - Cheltenham show attached dwellings contributing 88% of approvals compared to 46% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 12% 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.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Highett (East) - Cheltenham counted 9,791 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 10,732 today, averaging 2.3 people each. 31% are couples with children, against 24% couples without children. 31% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.4 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family units constitute the majority of households at 66.7%, which includes couples with children at 30.5%, couples without children at 24.4%, and single parent households at 10.6%. Non-family households comprise the remaining 33.3%, with single-person households representing 30.7% and group housing accounting for 2.7%. The local median household size of 2.3 persons is slightly smaller than the Greater Melbourne average of 2.6.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 had 9,791 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.6% to an estimated 10,732 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median 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.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 66.7% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (30.7%), group households (2.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 6,530 family households, 30.5% are couples with children, 24.4% are couples without children at home, and 10.6% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
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% regionally). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
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.
What are the marriage patterns in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 30.7% of all households in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, higher than the regional average of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.7% of households, well below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
Loading household composition data...

EducationSchools & Education in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

37.9% of adults in Highett (East) - Cheltenham hold a university qualification, including 25.2% with a bachelor degree and 9.2% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 84% of areas nationally. A further 16.5% hold a vocational qualification. 5 schools serve the area, with 1,937 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,092 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Educational attainment in Highett (East) - Cheltenham lags behind regional indicators, as 37.9% of residents aged 15 and over hold a university degree, compared to 46.0% across the broader SA4 region. This discrepancy suggests opportunities exist to boost qualification levels and local skill sets. Among university graduates, Bachelor degrees are the most common at 25.2%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 9.2% and graduate diplomas at 3.5%. Vocational and technical training is also common, with 28.8% of the population aged 15 and over holding qualification credentials, split between advanced diplomas at 12.3% and vocational certificates at 16.5%.

A high proportion of residents are engaged in studies, with 27.0% of the local population currently enrolled in education. Within this student group, 8.7% are in primary schools, 6.7% are attending secondary schools, and 5.3% are enrolled in tertiary education.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have university qualifications?
37.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have no formal qualifications?
33.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% regionally.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 ranks in the 84th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (25.2%), Certificate (16.5%), Advanced Diploma (12.3%).
What proportion of the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
27.0% of the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 8.7% in primary school, 6.7% in secondary school, 5.3% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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).
How many schools are located within the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
There are 5 schools within the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,937 students.
What types of schools are available in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The highett (east) - cheltenham sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

PROFILE FAQ
Explore the surrounds Search this catchment for any place type — schools, cafés, supermarkets, transport — and drop your own custom points on the map.
Open

Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Public transport in Highett (East) - Cheltenham reaches 118 stops on 27 routes, timetabled for about 6,200 services a week. The typical home sits about 190 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.1 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transit networks in Highett (East) - Cheltenham include 118 active transit stops, consisting of bus services. These stops are served by 27 separate routes that run a total of 6,161 passenger trips each week. Transit access is high, with residents living an average of 193 meters from the nearest stop. Because the area is primarily residential, most workers travel outside the suburb, with private cars remaining the primary commute mode at 84% and trains carrying 7% of commuters. Average vehicle ownership is 1.1 cars per household, which is below the metro average.

A high proportion of residents, 38.6%, worked from home during the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-era regulations. Transit routes average 880 trips per day, which translates to approximately 52 weekly services per stop. The associated map displays the 100 closest stops to the center of the suburb.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Highett (East) - Cheltenham?
There are 118 public transport stops within the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Highett (East) - Cheltenham?
the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 has 6,161 weekly trips across 27 routes, averaging 880 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Highett (East) - Cheltenham?
On average, residential properties are 193 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

70.0% of residents in Highett (East) - Cheltenham report no long-term health condition. 6.7% need daily assistance with core activities, and 59.5% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 4.9 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators in Highett (East) - Cheltenham are generally positive, as measured by AreaSearch's analysis of mortality data and chronic disease rates. While chronic condition rates are low overall, they rise above the national average when looking specifically at older, vulnerable demographics. The rate of private medical insurance is exceptionally high, covering approximately 60% of the population (15,708 people), compared to 56.7% across Greater Melbourne. Mental health conditions and asthma are the most common medical diagnoses in the area, affecting 7.8% and 7.5% of residents respectively. However, 70.0% of the population reported no chronic conditions, compared to 72.6% in Greater Melbourne.

Residents under 65 exhibit better health outcomes than average. The area has 19.8% of its population aged 65 and over (5,216 people), which is higher than the 15.0% share in Greater Melbourne, though this older cohort ranks lower nationally than the rest of the local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 59.5% of people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.7% in the broader region of Greater Melbourne.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 6.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
Diabetes affects 4.1% of the the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
3.7% of people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Melbourne, 3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2, 59.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.7%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

32.7% of Highett (East) - Cheltenham residents were born overseas and 26.8% speak a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (23.2%) and Australian (20.1%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Highett (East) - Cheltenham exhibits higher levels of cultural diversity than most suburban markets, with 32.7% of the population born outside Australia and 26.8% speaking a non-English language at home. Christianity is the largest religious group, representing 46.1% of the population. The most distinct religious concentration is Judaism, which accounts for 1.9% of local residents, compared to 1.0% across Greater Melbourne. The most common ancestries reported in Highett (East) - Cheltenham are English at 23.2%, Australian at 20.1%, and Other at 10.7%. There are also distinct concentrations of other heritage groups: Russian ancestry is overrepresented at 1.3% of the population (compared to 0.4% regionally), Greek ancestry at 4.7% (compared to 2.7%), and Polish ancestry at 1.2% (compared to 0.8%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
What is the most common religion in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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.
What are the top countries of origin in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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% regionally), Greek at 4.7% (vs 2.7%) and Polish at 1.2% (vs 0.8%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
32.7% of the the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% regionally.
What percentage of the the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
26.8% of the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in the wider region.
How many people in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.4% of the the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
85.6% of the the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

The median resident of Highett (East) - Cheltenham is 40. 22.9% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The median age in Highett (East) - Cheltenham is 40 years, which is slightly higher than the Greater Melbourne average of 37 and the national average of 38. Compared to Greater Melbourne, the area has an overrepresentation of residents in the 75 - 84 age group (7.1% locally) and an underrepresentation of those in the 25 - 34 bracket (12.2%). Since 2021, the 15 to 24 age group increased from 9.7% to 10.6% of the population, while the 25 to 34 group fell from 13.8% to 12.2%. Demographic projections indicate the age structure will change by 2041, with the 75 to 84 cohort expected to grow by 1,026 people (55%) from 1,874 to 2,901.

Overall, the 65+ age categories are projected to make up 52% of all population growth, highlighting the aging profile of the area, while the 0 to 4 and 35 to 44 cohorts are expected to contract.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 40 years.
How does the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 40 years, Highett (East) - Cheltenham is 3 years older than the Greater Melbourne average (37 years) and 2 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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 7.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
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 12.2% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 show significant variance compared to the Greater Melbourne region. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.6% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (7.1% vs 5.1%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 16.5%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 is 19.8%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Highett (East) - Cheltenham

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the SA2 boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 this month all 16 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 697 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (24,085 at the 2021 Census → 26,400 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

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.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Highett (East) - Cheltenham SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., 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.
Where does the data on this Highett (East) - Cheltenham page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Highett (East) - Cheltenham data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas