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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.
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ABS ERP | -- people | --
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Sales Activity
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Sales Detail
Population
Population growth drivers in Melbourne CBD - East are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends
Melbourne CBD - East's population is around 14,009 as of Nov 2025. This reflects an increase of 4,161 people since the 2021 Census which reported a population of 9,848 people. The change was inferred from the estimated resident population of 13,697 in Jun 2024 and an additional 38 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 17,511 persons per square kilometer, placing it in the top 10% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch, indicating high demand for land in the area. Melbourne CBD - East's growth of 42.3% since the 2021 Census exceeded the national average of 9.7%, marking it as a growth leader in the region. Population growth was primarily driven by overseas migration contributing approximately 97.6% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For areas not covered, they utilise VIC State Government's Regional/LGA projections released in 2023, adjusting using a method of weighted aggregation from LGA to SA2 levels. Growth rates by age group are applied across all areas for years 2032 to 2041. By 2041, the area is forecasted to increase by 4,487 persons based on latest annual ERP population numbers, reflecting an overall increase of 29.8% over the 17 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
Residential development activity is lower than average in Melbourne CBD - East according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets
Melbourne CBD - East averaged approximately one new dwelling approval per year from FY21 to FY25, with seven homes approved during this period. No dwelling approvals have been recorded in FY26 so far. The area saw an average of 166.7 people moving in for each dwelling built over the past five financial years.
This significant demand outpacing supply has historically exerted upward pressure on prices and increased competition among buyers. In terms of commercial development, $558.9 million in approvals have been registered this financial year, indicating strong momentum. Compared to Greater Melbourne and nationally, Melbourne CBD - East has less development activity, reflecting market maturity and potential constraints.
By 2041, the area is projected to grow by 4,175 residents according to AreaSearch's latest quarterly estimate. If current development rates persist, housing supply may not keep pace with population growth, potentially intensifying buyer competition and supporting stronger price growth.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Melbourne CBD - East has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified 36 projects that may affect this region. Notable initiatives include Level Crossing Removal Project, Greenline Project - Birrarung Marr, Town Hall Station (Metro Tunnel Project), and Telstra InfraCo Intercity Fibre Network. The following list details those most likely to be relevant.
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INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Greenline Project - Yarra River
The Greenline Project is a major 4km urban renewal initiative transforming the north bank of the Yarra River (Birrarung) into a continuous promenade. It connects five distinct precincts: Birrarung Marr, The Falls, River Park, Maritime, and Saltwater Wharf. As of early 2026, the first stage at Birrarung Marr (Site 1) has been completed and opened to the public, featuring 450 metres of new boardwalks, native habitats, and cultural spaces. Future stages include the River Park and The Falls precincts, with planning currently underway for the section between Birrarung Marr and the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium.
Metro Tunnel Project
Melbourne's largest public transport transformation featuring twin 9km tunnels and five new underground stations: Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, and Anzac. The project enables a new end-to-end rail line from Sunbury to Cranbourne/Pakenham with high-capacity signalling and platform screen doors, supporting turn-up-and-go services every 2-3 minutes during peak periods.
Arts Centre Melbourne Ian Potter State Theatre Upgrades
A comprehensive refurbishment of the heritage-listed State Theatre, now renamed the Ian Potter State Theatre following a major philanthropic donation. The project includes significant accessibility improvements such as new lifts and wheelchair positions across all three levels. Key features involve the replacement of all seating, enhanced acoustics, upgraded theatre technology (lighting, sound, and broadcast infrastructure), and modernized air-conditioning. The expansion also adds a 16% increase to the building footprint, facilitating an expanded loading dock, a new flexible rehearsal studio, and updated back-of-house facilities. New hospitality outlets will be integrated into the northern and western facades.
Town Hall Station (Metro Tunnel Project)
Town Hall Station is a major underground rail hub in Melbourne's CBD, part of the 9km Metro Tunnel. It features a unique trinocular design with 230-metre long platforms and 12-metre high columns. The station provides direct underground transfers to Flinders Street Station and includes entrances at City Square, Federation Square, and Swanston Street. It serves the Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham lines, significantly increasing network capacity.
Metro Tunnel Project
The Metro Tunnel is a city-shaping 9km twin-tunnel underground rail project featuring five new stations: Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, and Anzac. The project enables a new end-to-end rail line from Sunbury to Cranbourne/Pakenham, utilizing High Capacity Signalling and new High Capacity Metro Trains. While limited passenger services began on 30 November 2025 as part of a 'Summer Start' program, the project reached full operational integration on 1 February 2026. This 'Big Switch' introduced over 1,000 extra weekly services and a total network-wide timetable overhaul, significantly increasing capacity and frequency across Melbourne's metropolitan rail network.
Level Crossing Removal Project
State-wide program to remove 110 level crossings across metropolitan Melbourne by 2030, with 88 already removed. The project aims to deliver safer roads, reduce congestion, and provide more reliable train services by rebuilding or upgrading 54 stations and creating over 31 MCGs of new community open space.
The Fox: NGV Contemporary
Australia's largest gallery dedicated to contemporary art and design, spanning 30,000 square metres with 13,000 square metres of exhibition space. Designed by Angelo Candalepas and Associates, it features a 40-metre-high spherical hall, dramatic arched entries, and a public rooftop sculpture garden with city views. As of early 2026, piling works are complete and basement excavation is ongoing alongside the construction of the Laak Boorndap urban garden deck.
Greenline Project - Birrarung Marr
Waterfront revitalization project transforming 450 metres of the Yarra River's north bank at Birrarung Marr with new boardwalks, promenades, native habitats, and greening. Enhances public spaces, celebrates Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung culture, and improves biodiversity and connectivity. Part of the broader Greenline project revitalizing the north bank of the Yarra River.
Employment
Employment performance in Melbourne CBD - East ranks among the strongest 15% of areas evaluated nationally
Melbourne CBD - East has a highly educated workforce with professional services being strongly represented. The unemployment rate in the area is 2.6%. Over the past year, there has been an estimated employment growth of 6.3%.
As of September 2025, 10,204 residents are employed and the unemployment rate is 2.0% lower than Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.7%. The workforce participation rate in the area is 78.8%, which is higher than Greater Melbourne's 71.0%. According to Census responses, 41.4% of residents work from home. The key industries of employment among residents are accommodation & food, professional & technical services, and health care & social assistance.
Employment levels in accommodation & food are particularly notable, being at 3.0 times the regional average. In contrast, construction employs only 2.8% of local workers, which is below Greater Melbourne's rate of 9.7%. There are 10.6 workers for every resident in the area, indicating that it functions as an employment hub hosting more jobs than residents and attracting workers from surrounding areas. Over the 12 months to September 2025, employment increased by 6.3% while labour force increased by 6.2%, causing the unemployment rate to fall by 0.1 percentage points. In comparison, Greater Melbourne recorded employment growth of 3.0%, labour force growth of 3.3%, with unemployment rising by 0.3 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these industry-specific projections to Melbourne CBD - East's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 6.9% over five years and 13.9% over ten years, though this is a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not take into account localised population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch
The Melbourne CBD - East SA2 had median taxpayer income of $41,082 and average income of $64,515 in financial year 2023. These figures were below Greater Melbourne's median income of $57,688 and average income of $75,164. By September 2025, estimated median income would be approximately $44,471 and average income $69,837 based on an 8.25% Wage Price Index growth. Census 2021 data showed personal income ranked at the 64th percentile ($884 weekly) and household income at the 36th percentile. Income brackets indicated that 32.1% of individuals earned between $1,500 - $2,999 annually. Housing affordability was severe with only 78.6% of income remaining, ranking at the 29th percentile. The area's SEIFA income ranking placed it in the 8th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Melbourne CBD - East features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region
In Melbourne CBD - East, as recorded in the latest Census, there were 0.0% houses and 100.0% other dwellings such as semi-detached homes, apartments, and 'other' dwellings. In contrast, Melbourne metropolitan area had 67.9% houses and 32.1% other dwellings. Home ownership in Melbourne CBD - East was at 15.1%, with mortgaged dwellings at 13.4% and rented dwellings at 71.6%. The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was $1,770, lower than Melbourne metro's average of $2,000. The median weekly rent figure was $375, compared to Melbourne metro's $390. Nationally, mortgage repayments were lower at $1,770 compared to the Australian average of $1,863, while rents were comparable at $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Melbourne CBD - East features high concentrations of lone person households and group households, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households account for 36.6% of all households, including 6.2% couples with children, 24.6% couples without children, and 2.8% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 63.4%, with lone person households at 49.4% and group households comprising 14.2%. The median household size is 1.7 people, which is smaller than the Greater Melbourne average of 2.6.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
The educational profile of Melbourne CBD - East exceeds national averages, with above-average qualification levels and academic performance metrics
Educational attainment in Melbourne CBD - East shows a significant advantage with 61.8% of residents aged 15 and above holding university qualifications, compared to 30.4% nationally and 33.4% statewide (Victoria). Bachelor degrees are the most common at 37.1%, followed by postgraduate qualifications at 21.4% and graduate diplomas at 3.3%. Vocational pathways account for 18.1% of qualifications, with advanced diplomas at 11.1% and certificates at 7.0%. Educational participation is high, with 41.4% of residents currently enrolled in formal education.
This includes 24.2% in tertiary education, 2.1% in primary education, and 1.7% pursuing secondary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Public transport analysis shows 35 active stops operating within Melbourne CBD - East. These include a mix of light rail and bus services, totaling 57 individual routes. Collectively, these routes provide 41,377 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated excellent, with residents typically located 71 meters from the nearest stop. Most residents commute outward due to its residential nature. Walking is common at 30%, while train usage stands at 22%.
Vehicle ownership averages 0.1 per dwelling, below the regional average. Notably, 41.4% of residents work from home (2021 Census), which may reflect COVID-19 conditions. Service frequency averages 5,911 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 1182 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Melbourne CBD - East's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups
Melbourne CBD - East shows excellent health outcomes based on AreaSearch's assessment. Mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence were very low across all age groups.
Private health cover was found to be relatively low at approximately 51% of the total population (~7,172 people), compared to 56.7% in Greater Melbourne. The most common conditions were mental health issues (7.9%) and asthma (5.4%). 82.1% of residents declared no medical ailments, higher than the 72.6% across Greater Melbourne. Only 6.0% of residents were aged 65 and over (843 people), lower than Greater Melbourne's 14.9%. Seniors' health outcomes align with national rankings, similar to the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Melbourne CBD - East is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics
Melbourne CBD-East has a population where 54.7% speak a language other than English at home, with 65.6% born overseas. Christianity is the predominant religion, comprising 25.1%. Buddhism's representation at 10.3% is significantly higher than Greater Melbourne's average of 4.2%.
For ancestry, Chinese (23.3%) and Other (18.2%) are the top groups, while English (14.9%) is notably lower than the regional average of 20.1%. Korean (1.6%), Vietnamese (2.1%), and Indian (5.7%) have notable overrepresentation compared to regional averages.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Melbourne CBD - East hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 10% of areas nationwide
Melbourne CBD - East has a median age of 28, which is lower than Greater Melbourne's figure of 37 and Australia's median age of 38. The area's age profile shows that individuals aged 25-34 are particularly prominent, making up 38.5% of the population, while those aged 5-14 comprise only 1.5%. This is in contrast to Greater Melbourne where the 5-14 group is larger. Nationally, the 25-34 age group makes up 14.5%. Post-2021 Census data indicates a rejuvenation of the population, with the median age falling from 30 to 28 years between censuses. The 15-24 age group has grown from 21.8% to 27.8%, and the 25-34 cohort has increased from 35.9% to 38.5%. Meanwhile, the 35-44 age group has declined from 16.8% to 13.3%, and the 55-64 group has dropped from 6.4% to 4.5%. Population forecasts for 2041 suggest significant demographic changes in Melbourne CBD - East, with the 25-34 age cohort projected to grow by 25%, adding 1,355 residents to reach a total of 6,746.