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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 was around 13,758 as of November 2025. This showed an increase of 3,910 people since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 9,848. The growth was inferred from ABS estimated resident population figures: 13,697 in June 2024 and additional validated addresses after the Census date. This resulted in a density ratio of 17,197 persons per square kilometer, placing Melbourne CBD - East in the top 10% nationally. The area's growth rate exceeded both national (8.9%) and state averages since the 2021 Census, driven primarily by overseas migration contributing approximately 97.6% of overall population gains. AreaSearch uses ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area released in 2024 with a base year of 2022.
For areas not covered, it employs VIC State Government's Regional/LGA projections from 2023 with adjustments made using weighted aggregation methods. Growth rates by age group are applied across all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Future trends indicate a significant population increase in the top quartile of national statistical areas, with Melbourne CBD - East expected to expand by 4,487 persons by 2041, reflecting a total increase of 32.2% over the 17-year period.
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. Between financial years 2021 (FY-21) and 2025 (FY-25), seven homes were approved, with no approvals recorded so far in FY-26. On average, 166.7 people moved to the area annually for each dwelling built during these five financial years.
This significant demand outpaces supply, potentially driving up prices and intensifying competition among buyers. In this current financial year, $558.9 million in commercial approvals have been registered, indicating robust commercial development momentum. Compared to Greater Melbourne, Melbourne CBD - East has notably less development activity, which generally supports stronger demand and values for established properties.
This lower level of activity is also seen nationally, suggesting market maturity and possible development constraints. By 2041, Melbourne CBD - East is projected to gain 4,426 residents (AreaSearch quarterly estimate). If current development rates persist, housing supply may not keep pace with population growth, potentially increasing competition among buyers and supporting stronger price growth.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Melbourne CBD - East has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally
The performance of an area can significantly be influenced by changes in local infrastructure, major projects, and planning initiatives. AreaSearch has identified a total of 37 projects that are expected to impact the area. Notable projects include the Metro Tunnel Project, Level Crossing Removal Project, and Greenline Project - Birrarung Marr. The following list details those projects likely to have the most relevance.
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Metro Tunnel Project
The Metro Tunnel is Melbourne's largest public transport project, delivering twin 9km rail tunnels and five new underground stations (Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, Anzac). It creates a new end-to-end rail line from Sunbury to Cranbourne/Pakenham, introduces high-capacity signalling and new High Capacity Metro Trains to enable turn-up-and-go services every 2-3 minutes, and removes four level crossings on the Cranbourne-Pakenham line.
Greenline Project - Yarra River
A city-shaping transformation of the Yarra River's north bank into a 4km continuous green promenade connecting Birrarung Marr to the Bolte Bridge. The project features five distinct precincts: Birrarung Marr, The Falls, River Park, Maritime, and Saltwater Wharf, delivering interconnected parklands, boardwalks, and cultural spaces. Construction has commenced on the first stage at Birrarung Marr, with the project expected to generate significant economic and social benefits.
Metro Tunnel Project
The Metro Tunnel is a 9km twin-tunnel underground rail project with five new stations (Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, Anzac). It creates a new end-to-end rail line from Sunbury to Cranbourne/Pakenham, includes High Capacity Signalling and new High Capacity Metro Trains. Major construction is complete, systems testing and trial operations are underway. Limited passenger services on the tunnel section commence 30 November 2025, with full integration into the metropolitan network and new timetable from early 2026.
Level Crossing Removal Project
State-wide program to remove 110 level crossings across metropolitan Melbourne by 2030, delivering safer roads, less congestion and more reliable train services. Includes rebuilding or upgrading 57 train stations, opening up new community spaces and creating thousands of jobs.
Town Hall Station (Metro Tunnel Project)
New underground metro railway station forming part of the Metro Tunnel Project. Directly connects with Flinders Street Station, Federation Square and the arts precinct in Melbourne's CBD. The station features two new entrances on Flinders Street and Swanston Street/City Square.
The Fox: NGV Contemporary
Australia's largest gallery dedicated to contemporary art and design (approx. 30,000 square metres; 13,000+ square metres display). Key features include dramatic arched entries, a 40-metre-high spherical hall, flexible exhibition spaces, and a rooftop terrace with sculpture garden. Part of the $1.7b Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation led by the Victorian Government.
Arts Centre Melbourne State Theatre Upgrades
The refurbishment of the heritage-listed State Theatre at Arts Centre Melbourne involves significant upgrades including improved accessibility with new seating and lifts, enhanced acoustics, modernized theatre technology such as lighting and broadcast infrastructure, better air-conditioning and flooring for comfort, expanded back-of-house facilities like loading dock and rehearsal spaces, and new food and beverage areas. This is the first major upgrade since 1984, aiming to bring the venue to contemporary standards.
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 strongly represented. Its unemployment rate was 2.6% in the past year, with an estimated employment growth of 6.3%.
As of September 2025, 10,204 residents are employed, with an unemployment rate of 2.0%, below Greater Melbourne's 4.7%. Workforce participation is 67.7%, compared to Greater Melbourne's 64.1%. Key industries include accommodation & food, professional & technical services, and health care & social assistance. Accommodation & food employment is notably high at 3.0 times the regional average, while construction employs just 2.8% of local workers, below Greater Melbourne's 9.7%.
The area hosts more jobs than residents, with 10.6 workers per resident as of Census data. Over the year to September 2025, employment increased by 6.3%, labour force by 6.2%, reducing unemployment by 0.1 percentage points. In comparison, Greater Melbourne had employment growth of 3.0% and unemployment rose by 0.3%. State-level data to 25-Nov shows VIC employment grew by 1.13% year-on-year, with an unemployment rate of 4.7%, compared to the national rate of 4.3%. National employment forecasts suggest growth of 6.6% over five years and 13.9% over ten years for Melbourne CBD - East, based on industry-specific projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch
The Melbourne CBD - East SA2's median income among taxpayers was $42,906 and average income stood at $65,672 in financial year 2022. This compares to Greater Melbourne's figures of $54,892 and $73,761 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 12.16% since financial year 2022, current estimates for median income are approximately $48,123 as of September 2025, with average income estimated at $73,658 during the same period. According to Census 2021 data, personal income ranks at the 64th percentile ($884 weekly) and household income sits at the 36th percentile. The income bracket of $1,500 - 2,999 captures 32.1% of the community (4,416 individuals), consistent with metropolitan trends showing 32.8% in the same category. Housing affordability pressures are severe, with only 78.6% of income remaining, ranking at the 29th percentile. The area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 8th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Melbourne CBD - East features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
In Melbourne CBD - East, as per the latest Census, there were 0.0% houses and 100.0% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings), contrasting with Melbourne metro's 2.2% houses and 97.8% other dwellings. Home ownership in Melbourne CBD - East stood at 15.1%, with mortgaged properties at 13.4% and rented dwellings at 71.6%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,770, lower than the Melbourne metro average of $1,962, and the median weekly rent was $375, compared to Melbourne metro's $396. Nationally, Melbourne CBD - East's mortgage repayments were below 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 constitute 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 account for 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 1.8.
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+ holding university qualifications compared to the national average of 30.4%. Within Victoria, this figure stands at 33.4%. The area's educational advantage is reflected in its high proportion of residents with bachelor degrees (37.1%), postgraduate qualifications (21.4%), and graduate diplomas (3.3%). Vocational pathways are also well-represented, with advanced diplomas accounting for 11.1% and certificates for 7.0%.
Educational participation is notably high in the area, 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
The transport analysis indicates that Melbourne CBD - East has 33 active transport stops. These include train, light rail, and bus services operating within the area. There are a total of 56 individual routes servicing these stops, providing collectively 25,919 weekly passenger trips.
The accessibility to public transport is rated as excellent, with residents typically located 72 meters from the nearest stop. On average, there are 3,702 trips per day across all routes, which equates to approximately 785 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 with low prevalence of common conditions across all ages. Private health cover stands at approximately 52%, compared to Greater Melbourne's 56%.
Mental health issues and asthma are the most prevalent conditions, affecting 7.9% and 5.4% respectively. Around 82.1% of residents report no medical ailments, slightly higher than Greater Melbourne's 79.8%. The area has 6.0% seniors (aged 65 and over), totalling 828 people. Senior health outcomes align with the general population's profile.
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 high level of cultural diversity, with 54.7% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 65.6% born overseas. Christianity is the predominant religion in Melbourne CBD - East, making up 25.1% of people. Buddhism is overrepresented compared to Greater Melbourne, comprising 10.3% of Melbourne CBD - East's population.
The top three ancestry groups are Chinese (23.3%), Other (18.2%), and English (14.9%). Notably, Korean (1.6%) and Vietnamese (2.1%) are slightly overrepresented compared to regional figures, while Indian (5.7%) is marginally higher than the regional average of 5.5%.
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 of 38. The most prominent age group in this area is 25-34 year-olds, comprising 38.5% of the population, compared to just 1.5% for the 5-14 age group. Nationally, the 25-34 age group makes up only 14.5%. Post-2021 Census data reveals a rejuvenation trend, with median age falling from 30 to 28 years. Key changes include growth in the 15-24 age group (from 21.8% to 27.8%) and the 25-34 cohort (from 35.9% to 38.5%), while the 35-44 group declined from 16.8% to 13.3% and the 55-64 group dropped from 6.4% to 4.5%. By 2041, population forecasts project significant demographic changes for Melbourne CBD - East, with the 25-34 age cohort experiencing the strongest growth (27%), adding 1,451 residents to reach a total of 6,746.