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Suburb Insights ยท VIC 3003

West Melbourne 3003, Victoria

ABS 2021 Census ยท Updated 31 March 2026

Suburb Overview

West Melbourne is an inner-city suburb of Melbourne, Australia, with a population of approximately 8,025, making it a smaller community. Located 3 km from the Melbourne CBD, West Melbourne is a inner city area in Victoria. The median household income is $92,976 AUD per year (ABS 2021 Census).

Investment Score

78 / 100 Good

Above-average earnings in West Melbourne support sustained property values. Its proximity to the CBD adds a strong location premium.

Location

Map shows West Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Key Indicators

Postcode
3003

Official Australia Post postcode for West Melbourne. A postcode may cover multiple suburbs.

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Population
8,025

Usual resident population at census night. Source: ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

ABS Census Data โ†’
Median Rent (weekly)
$388/wk

Weekly median rent for occupied private dwellings. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Live rental data integration coming soon.

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Median Household Income
$92,976/yr

Annual median household income (before tax) for all households. Source: ABS 2021 Census.

ABS Census Data โ†’
Distance to CBD
3 km

Straight-line distance from the suburb centroid (ABS 2021 SAL geography) to the nearest capital city CBD. Actual driving distance will be longer.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Schools nearby
2

Estimated 2 schools within or near this suburb based on ABS 2021 data.

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Parks & green spaces
3

Estimated 3 parks and green spaces near this suburb. Source: ABS 2021 data.

Median Mortgage (monthly)
$2,106/mo

Monthly median mortgage repayment for households currently paying off a mortgage. Source: ABS 2021 Census.

ABS Census Data โ†’
Dwelling Type
1% houses

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 โ†’

Investment Insight

As an inner-city location, West Melbourne benefits from proximity to employment, dining, and cultural precincts. Investment properties here typically attract young professionals and downsizers seeking walkable lifestyles. The median rent of $388/week (ABS 2021) indicates an affordable rental market. Owner-occupiers face a median mortgage repayment of $2,106/month. The median household income of $92,976/year reflects a solid demographic, supporting sustainable rental demand. With only 1% separate houses, West Melbourne has a significant apartment and unit market โ€” typical of inner-city investment corridors.

Investment Strategy

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Buy & Hold

Solid fundamentals in West Melbourne support capital growth over a medium to long hold period.

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Rental Yield

West Melbourne can deliver reasonable rental income, though yields are not the primary draw.

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Renovation / Flip

Some renovation potential exists in West Melbourne, though margins may be tighter due to higher base prices or competition.

Risk Factors

Run the numbers on a West Melbourne property

Full Property Analysis

30-year projections for West Melbourne

Scenario comparison, cash flow analysis, tax modelling, and PDF export โ€” all in one place.

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2026 Outlook

Growth: Strong Rental Demand: Moderate Investor Sentiment: Strong

The outlook for capital growth in West Melbourne is encouraging heading into 2026, driven by constrained supply and buyer competition. Rental demand is expected to be stable, though landlords may need to remain competitive on pricing. Confidence in West Melbourne's medium-term prospects is reflected in sustained buyer interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is West Melbourne a good suburb for investment?

West Melbourne is a inner city area in Victoria with a population of 8,025. The median rent is $388/week and the median household income is $92,976/year (ABS 2021 Census). As with any property investment, conduct thorough due diligence on current listings, vacancy rates, and local infrastructure plans before committing.

What drives property demand in West Melbourne?

Key demand drivers in West Melbourne include employment proximity and urban lifestyle. 1% of dwellings are separate houses. The area has approximately 2 schools and 3 parks nearby.

What is the population of West Melbourne?

According to the ABS 2021 Census, West Melbourne has a population of approximately 8,025. For historical population trends and intercensal estimates, visit the ABS Census Data Explorer at abs.gov.au.

How far is West Melbourne from the Melbourne CBD?

West Melbourne is approximately 3 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.

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