ABS 2021 Census · Updated 31 March 2026
Carlton is a well-established middle-ring suburb of Melbourne, Australia, with a population of approximately 16,055, making it a smaller community. Located 2 km from the Melbourne CBD, Carlton is a middle ring area in Victoria. The median household income is $67,184 AUD per year (ABS 2021 Census).
Carlton's income profile suggests a value-oriented market with competitive purchase prices. Its proximity to the CBD adds a strong location premium.
Map shows Carlton, Victoria, Australia.
Official Australia Post postcode for Carlton. A postcode may cover multiple suburbs.
Australia Post Postcode Finder →Usual resident population at census night. Source: ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.
ABS Census Data →Weekly median rent for occupied private dwellings. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Live rental data integration coming soon.
State Rental Authority →Annual median household income (before tax) for all households. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Straight-line distance from the suburb centroid (ABS 2021 SAL geography) to the nearest capital city CBD. Actual driving distance will be longer.
Estimated 4 schools within or near this suburb based on ABS 2021 data.
Find schools near Carlton on My School →Estimated 6 parks and green spaces near this suburb. Source: ABS 2021 data.
Monthly median mortgage repayment for households currently paying off a mortgage. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Proportion of separate houses vs units, townhouses, and other dwelling types. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Relevant for investors assessing rental demand mix.
ABS Census Data →Carlton's middle-ring location balances affordability with accessibility. These suburbs often benefit from established infrastructure, good schools, and transport links — making them attractive to families and long-term tenants. The median rent of $365/week (ABS 2021) indicates an affordable rental market. Owner-occupiers face a median mortgage repayment of $1,898/month. With only 1% separate houses, Carlton has a significant apartment and unit market — typical of inner-city investment corridors.
Holding property in Carlton over the medium term may deliver steady, if unspectacular, returns.
Carlton can deliver reasonable rental income, though yields are not the primary draw.
Older housing stock in Carlton combined with strong buyer demand creates solid renovation upside.
Run the numbers on a Carlton property
Scenario comparison, cash flow analysis, tax modelling, and PDF export — all in one place.
Create free account →Carlton faces a cautious growth outlook for 2026 — investors should focus on yield rather than short-term gains. Rental demand is expected to be stable, though landlords may need to remain competitive on pricing. Carlton offers measured appeal for investors willing to look beyond headline metrics.
Carlton is a middle ring area in Victoria with a population of 16,055. The median rent is $365/week and the median household income is $67,184/year (ABS 2021 Census). As with any property investment, conduct thorough due diligence on current listings, vacancy rates, and local infrastructure plans before committing.
Key demand drivers in Carlton include established amenities and transport access. 1% of dwellings are separate houses. The area has approximately 4 schools and 6 parks nearby.
According to the ABS 2021 Census, Carlton has a population of approximately 16,055. For historical population trends and intercensal estimates, visit the ABS Census Data Explorer at abs.gov.au.
Carlton is approximately 2 km straight-line distance from the Melbourne CBD (calculated from ABS 2021 suburb centroid coordinates). This close proximity means excellent access to employment, dining, and entertainment.