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Hawthorn suburb profile

Hawthorn is a prestigious suburb located just 6km east of Melbourne's CBD, renowned for its blend of historic charm and modern sophistication. With its tree-lined streets, elegant Victorian homes, and vibrant community, Hawthorn attracts families, professionals, and students alike. The suburb is home to Swinburne University, adding a youthful energy to the area. Glenferrie Road serves as a bustling hub with an array of cafes, boutiques, and eateries, while the Yarra River and nearby parks offer ample recreational opportunities. Excellent public transport links and top-tier schools further enhance Hawthorn's appeal as a desirable residential destination.

Hawthorn property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,564,000Past 3 months

Property growth-2.5%Past 12 months

Hawthorn's property market has remained stable over the past 12 months, with no change in median house and unit values. The median house price stands at $2.57 million, while the median unit price is $563,000, indicating steady demand in the area.

Sales activity has been robust, with 32 houses and 82 units sold over the last 12 months. However, houses are selling faster than units, with a median of 48 days on the market compared to 69 days for units, suggesting a stronger demand for houses.

The rental market in Hawthorn has seen moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 4.9% and unit rents by 2.3% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is $850, while units average $525, reflecting a steady rental demand.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$2.56M$563K
Change in value
Past 12 months
-3.3%-1.7%
Sold
Past 3 months
3282
Median days on market
Past 12 months
4869
Average rent
Past 12 months
$850$525
Change in rent
Past 12 months
4.9%2.3%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Hawthorn demographics

Hawthorn, located in Melbourne's inner eastern suburbs, is a vibrant and affluent area known for its blend of historic charm and modern convenience. With a population of 22,322 and a median age of 34, it attracts a mix of young professionals, families, and students, particularly due to its proximity to Swinburne University. The suburb's leafy streets, heritage architecture, and bustling shopping precincts make it a desirable place to live.

The suburb's housing market is diverse, with a significant portion of properties being rented, accounting for 46.8% of the housing stock. This high rental rate is indicative of the area's appeal to students and young professionals seeking flexible living arrangements. Meanwhile, 27.5% of properties are owned outright, and 25.6% are owned with a mortgage, reflecting a stable and established community.

Family dynamics in Hawthorn are varied, with couple families with children making up 38.9% of the population, while couple families without children account for 48.0%. This balance highlights the suburb's appeal to both families and those seeking a more urban lifestyle. The presence of one-parent families at 10.0% and other family types at 3.1% adds to the suburb's diverse community fabric. With its combination of educational opportunities, cultural amenities, and convenient transport links, Hawthorn continues to be a sought-after location for a wide range of residents.

Hawthorn infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Hawthorn is experiencing significant developments that are likely to impact its property market. The ongoing redevelopment of the former Hawthorn Tram Depot into a mixed-use precinct, including residential apartments and retail spaces, is set to enhance the area's urban appeal and potentially boost property values. Additionally, the expansion of Swinburne University's Hawthorn campus continues to attract students and academics, driving demand for housing in the vicinity.

Infrastructure improvements, such as the Level Crossing Removal Project at Glenferrie Road, aim to enhance traffic flow and pedestrian safety, potentially increasing property desirability along key routes. The suburb's excellent public transport links, including multiple train stations and tram lines, continue to be a major drawcard for residents. Hawthorn's blend of heritage charm, modern amenities, and proximity to top-tier schools maintains its status as a highly sought-after inner-eastern suburb, likely sustaining strong property demand and values.

Hawthorn rental market trends

The rental market in Hawthorn has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 4.9% over the past year to $850 per week, while unit rents have seen a 2.3% rise to $525 per week. With its prestigious schools, vibrant community, and proximity to Melbourne's CBD, Hawthorn continues to attract both renters and investors seeking a stable and desirable location.

Suburbs near Hawthorn

Some popular suburbs near Hawthorn include:

How does Hawthorn compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Hawthorn’s median house price is 2.1% higher than Kew’s.
  • Median unit prices: Hawthorn’s median unit price is 6.6% higher than Richmond’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Hawthorn have grown 0.8% higher than in Kew.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Hawthorn have grown 1.8% higher than in Kew.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Hawthorn are selling 26.2% faster than in Kew.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Hawthorn are selling 17.9% faster than in Kew.
  • Investment considerations: In Hawthorn, the rental yield for house is 37.5% higher than the Melbourne average, while the rental yield for units is 6.3% lower.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Hawthorn have grown 163.4% higher than the average rate of growth across Melbourne.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Hawthorn have grown 0.7% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Melbourne.

Common questions about Hawthorn

  • Is Hawthorn a nice place to live?

    Hawthorn is a delightful suburb that offers a harmonious blend of historic elegance and modern living, making it a wonderful place to call home. Its tree-lined streets and charming Victorian architecture create a picturesque setting that is both inviting and sophisticated. The suburb is known for its vibrant community atmosphere, attracting families, professionals, and students who appreciate its lively yet refined vibe. With a variety of cafes, boutiques, and eateries along Glenferrie Road, residents have plenty of options for dining and shopping, while the nearby Yarra River and parks provide beautiful spaces for outdoor activities and relaxation.

    Families will find Hawthorn particularly appealing due to its excellent schools and safe environment. The suburb's strong sense of community and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal place for raising children. Additionally, the presence of Swinburne University injects a youthful energy into the area, fostering a dynamic and diverse community. Public transport is a breeze, with multiple train stations and tram lines offering convenient access to Melbourne's CBD and beyond, enhancing the suburb's livability.

    However, living in Hawthorn does come with some trade-offs. The suburb's prestigious status and proximity to the city mean that property prices can be on the higher side, which may be a consideration for those looking to buy. The ongoing developments and infrastructure projects, while promising to enhance the area's appeal, may also lead to temporary disruptions. Despite these factors, Hawthorn remains a highly desirable suburb for those seeking a blend of cultural richness, convenience, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Hawthorn?

    Living in Hawthorn can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to housing. With a current median house price of $2,596,000, it's clear that buying a home in this suburb requires a significant financial commitment. Even units, which are typically more affordable, have a median price of $626,500. Renting in Hawthorn also leans towards the pricier side, with houses averaging $750 per week and units around $525 per week.

    When comparing the average wage in Hawthorn, which is approximately $116,000 per year, to the broader Greater Melbourne area, it's evident that residents here generally earn more. However, this higher income is often necessary to manage the elevated cost of living. The median total household income weekly is $2,145, which supports the higher living expenses but also highlights that a good portion of earnings might go towards housing costs.

    Overall, if you're thinking of living in Hawthorn, it's important to consider the financial implications. While the suburb offers a desirable lifestyle with its proximity to the city and a range of amenities, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is on the higher end. It's crucial to ensure your financial situation aligns with these expenses to comfortably enjoy what Hawthorn has to offer.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
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  • Is Hawthorn a good place to invest?

    Hawthorn presents an interesting opportunity for property investors, particularly those focused on rental income. While the median house and unit values have remained stable over the past year, the significant 10.5% increase in rent for units suggests a strong demand for rental properties. This trend indicates that Hawthorn is a desirable location for renters, potentially due to its proximity to educational institutions, public transport, and vibrant local amenities.

    The stability in property values, combined with the rising rental yields, makes Hawthorn an attractive option for investors seeking steady rental returns. The suburb's appeal to students and young professionals, thanks to its lively atmosphere and convenient access to the city, ensures a consistent demand for rental units. While capital growth has been flat, the rental market's performance highlights Hawthorn's potential as a reliable investment for those prioritizing rental income over immediate capital gains.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Hawthorn

Choosing the right real estate agent in Hawthorn can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 260 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 14.5% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 1.71% to 2.57%, depending on the agent and what’s included. Comparing both performance and fee structures can help you find someone who's well-suited to your needs, and set them up for a successful result.

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