Often viewed as the “poor cousin” to neighbouring Hawthorn, Hawthorn East is still a highly desirable suburb.
Charming historic architecture (Edwardian, Victorian and 1920s), leafy streets, multiple parks, good cafes (Lights in the Attic on Camberwell Road is my favourite) and retail all contribute to the “village” feel of Hawthorn East, circa 7 km from the CBD.
Although it could be argued that the presence of large commercial premises, for example Coles head office and Bunnings head office, is not ideal in a residential suburb.
Like a lot of inner Melbourne suburbs, the demolition of heritage houses (in this instance a significant number of Californian bungalows) and their replacement with townhouses or McMansions have reduced the “historic charm” factor of some localities in the suburb.
Residents can easily access the nearby attractions of Hawthorn, for example Glenferrie roads cafes, restaurants and retail, and those in Camberwell such as the Rivoli theatre and Camberwell food market.
While its access to a railway station is not “central” within the suburb, Auburn station being located on its northwest border and Camberwell station on its northeast, there are two stations relatively nearby in neighbouring suburbs – Camberwell station and Glenferrie station.
Trams (routes 70 – Waterfront city to Wattle Park, 72 – Camberwell to Melbourne University and 75 – Victoria Harbour to Vermont South) are an alternate for CBD access.
Relatively easy freeway access but can be relatively congested within the suburb itself.
Very well-serviced in terms of parks including Fritsch Holzer Park, Cato park, Victoria Road Reserve and Anderson park whose panoramic views of the Melbourne CBD make it a popular spot including for picnic dinners and fireworks viewing on New Year’s Eve.
It is also well serviced educationally with well-regarded state primary and secondary schools and Bialik College, a co-educational early learning, primary and secondary Jewish school.
It is relatively close to numerous private schools in Kew, Canterbury, Malvern and Hawthorn.
As a Melbourne Buyers Agent, I see it as a suburb that appeals to a broad demographic, including families, young professionals and downsizers.
This broad buyer appeal has resulted in consistently high capital growth for houses which looks set to continue relative to the performance of the general Melbourne market.
Last update: 29 Mar 2023
