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Oakleigh East Suburb Guide 2025

12/04/20268 min readAU Guide 编辑部

Oakleigh East is a residential suburb in Melbourne's east, located approx. 21.9 km from the CBD in the City of Monash. According to ABS Census 2021, the suburb has a total population of 6,804, with 15.6% of residents identifying as being of Chinese ancestry — ranking it #54 among Melbourne suburbs for Chinese population share. The median house price sits at approx. $1.2M, while units are priced at approx. $700K. With a crime rate of 3,851 per 100,000 residents (Crime Statistics Agency Victoria 2025), Oakleigh East is classified as safe, with below-average crime compared to the Victorian state average of 6,810 per 100,000. Families in the area have access to several notable secondary schools in neighbouring suburbs, including John Monash Science School with an AU Guide Score of 95.6/100. The suburb offers a compact, family-oriented environment with a population density of approx. 3,306 people per square kilometre across its 2.06 km² area.

Oakleigh East — Key Facts

CategoryDetails
Population6,804 (ABS Census 2021)
Chinese Population1,059 residents (15.6%), ranked #54 in Melbourne
Median House PriceApprox. $1.2M
Median Unit PriceApprox. $700K
Crime Rate3,851 per 100K — Safe, below average (VIC avg: 6,810)
Distance to CBDApprox. 21.9 km (approx. 23 min drive / approx. 59 min transit)

Nearby schools at a glance:

Community and Demographics

According to ABS Census 2021, Oakleigh East has a total population of 6,804 residents, spread across a compact area of 2.06 km², resulting in a population density of approx. 3,306 people per square kilometre. This relatively high density reflects the suburb's mix of detached houses and medium-density townhouse and unit developments.

The Chinese community forms a significant part of the suburb's demographic profile. With 1,059 residents of Chinese ancestry (15.6% of the total population), Oakleigh East ranks #54 among Melbourne suburbs for Chinese population share. This is well above the Melbourne-wide average of approx. 4.3%, placing it in the top 14% of Melbourne suburbs by Chinese population concentration. Residents have access to Asian grocery stores and restaurants in the nearby Oakleigh and Clayton commercial centres, which serve the broader Chinese and multicultural communities of the region.

Oakleigh East sits within the City of Monash, one of Melbourne's most culturally diverse local government areas. The suburb has a distinctly residential character, with quiet tree-lined streets and a mix of older homes alongside newer townhouse developments. While Oakleigh East itself does not have a large commercial strip, its proximity to the Oakleigh shopping precinct and Clayton activity centre provides convenient access to retail, dining, and essential services. The suburb is also within reach of Monash University's Clayton campus, which contributes to the area's multicultural atmosphere and creates demand for rental accommodation.

For families considering Oakleigh East, the community offers a balance of suburban quiet with access to the amenities of larger neighbouring centres. The strong Chinese community presence means families can find culturally familiar services and social networks within a short distance.

Schools and Education

Oakleigh East does not have a secondary school within its boundaries, but several well-regarded schools are located in neighbouring suburbs within practical commuting distance. Below is a summary of the key schools serving the area, based on VCAA 2025 VCE data.

John Monash Science School

  • Type: Government selective co-ed school
  • Location: Clayton
  • Year Range: Year 10-12
  • Enrolment: Approx. 654 students
  • VCE Median Study Score: 35
  • 40+ Percentage: 22.0%
  • AU Guide Score: 95.6/100 (scoring method)

John Monash Science School is one of Victoria's premier selective-entry schools, specialising in science, mathematics, and technology. With an AU Guide Score of 95.6/100, it demonstrates strong academic performance. The school's VCE median study score of 35 and 22.0% of students achieving scores of 40 or above place it among the highest-performing government schools in the state. Entry is competitive and based on academic aptitude testing. Located in Clayton, it is a short drive from Oakleigh East.

Sacred Heart Girls' College

  • Type: Catholic girls' school
  • Location: Hughesdale
  • Year Range: Year 7-12
  • Enrolment: Approx. 951 students
  • VCE Median Study Score: 31
  • 40+ Percentage: 8.8%
  • AU Guide Score: 79.7/100 (scoring method)

Sacred Heart Girls' College in Hughesdale offers a Catholic education for girls from Year 7 to Year 12. With an AU Guide Score of 79.7/100, it delivers good academic performance. The school's VCE median of 31 and 8.8% of students scoring 40+ reflect a solid educational standard. It is one of the closest secondary schools to Oakleigh East and is accessible via local bus routes.

Oakleigh Grammar

  • Type: Independent co-ed school
  • Location: Oakleigh
  • Year Range: Prep-12
  • Enrolment: Approx. 694 students
  • VCE Median Study Score: 31
  • 40+ Percentage: 7.6%
  • AU Guide Score: 71.7/100 (scoring method)

Oakleigh Grammar is an independent co-educational school offering classes from Prep through to Year 12. With an AU Guide Score of 71.7/100, it demonstrates good academic performance. The VCE median study score of 31 and 7.6% of students achieving 40+ scores are consistent with a well-rounded educational offering. Located in adjacent Oakleigh, this is one of the most accessible school options for Oakleigh East families.

South Oakleigh College

  • Type: Government co-ed school
  • Location: Oakleigh South
  • Year Range: Year 7-12
  • Enrolment: Approx. 886 students
  • VCE Median Study Score: 29
  • 40+ Percentage: 5.8%
  • AU Guide Score: 57.9/100 (scoring method)

South Oakleigh College is a government co-educational school in neighbouring Oakleigh South. With an AU Guide Score of 57.9/100, it shows average academic performance. The VCE median of 29 and 5.8% scoring 40+ indicate a school serving a broad range of student abilities. As a zoned government school, it provides a no-fee secondary education option for local families.

For a comprehensive ranking of schools in Victoria, see the AU Guide VIC School Rankings.

Property and Rental Market

Oakleigh East's property market positions it as a mid-range suburb within Melbourne's eastern corridor. The median house price of approx. $1.2M is above the Melbourne-wide median of approx. $1.05M, reflecting the suburb's location within the established Monash corridor and proximity to Monash University and major employment centres.

The median unit price of approx. $700K provides an alternative entry point for families and downsizers, though it remains at a premium compared to some outer-eastern suburbs.

Property Price Overview

Property TypeMedian Price10-Year GrowthGrowth Assessment
HouseApprox. $1.2M42%Weak growth (bottom 4%)
UnitApprox. $700K39%Average growth

It is worth noting that the 10-year house price growth of 42% places Oakleigh East in the bottom 4% of Melbourne suburbs for capital growth over that period. This is a notably weak performance relative to the broader market. Unit growth of 39% over the same period is average, sitting around the midpoint for Melbourne suburbs. These growth figures should be considered carefully by families evaluating the suburb's long-term property trajectory.

The rental market in Oakleigh East reflects steady demand, driven in part by its proximity to Monash University. Below is a summary of current weekly rental prices.

Weekly Rental Prices

Property TypeWeekly Rent
2-Bedroom UnitApprox. $600/wk
3-Bedroom UnitApprox. $678/wk
2-Bedroom HouseApprox. $550/wk
3-Bedroom HouseApprox. $640/wk

An interesting feature of the Oakleigh East rental market is that 2-bedroom units command higher rents (approx. $600/wk) than 2-bedroom houses (approx. $550/wk). This may reflect newer unit stock with modern amenities and proximity to public transport corridors. Three-bedroom houses rent for approx. $640/wk, while 3-bedroom units are slightly higher at approx. $678/wk.

For families weighing up purchasing versus renting, the suburb offers options across different price points. The house market suits established families looking for a home in a quiet residential area with access to good schools, while the unit market caters to smaller families, couples, or those seeking a more affordable entry point in the Monash corridor.

Safety and Transport

According to Crime Statistics Agency Victoria 2025 data, Oakleigh East has a crime rate of 3,851 per 100,000 residents. This is well below the Victorian state average of 6,810 per 100,000, placing the suburb in the "safe, below average crime" category. With a safety rank in the top 25% of Melbourne suburbs (lower rank = safer), Oakleigh East is a relatively secure suburb for families.

Oakleigh East does not have its own train station. However, train stations in neighbouring suburbs — including Oakleigh and Huntingdale stations on the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines — provide rail access to the CBD. Bus services connect Oakleigh East to these stations and to other local destinations.

The commute to Melbourne CBD takes approx. 23 minutes by car and approx. 59 minutes by public transit. The suburb is approx. 21.9 km from the city centre. Major road connections include the Monash Freeway (M1) and Princes Highway, both of which provide relatively direct routes to the CBD and to south-eastern employment hubs. For families who commute to Monash University, the Clayton campus is only a short drive away.

While the lack of a local train station is a consideration, the suburb's road connectivity and bus network partially offset this limitation. Families who rely heavily on public transport may want to consider whether the walk or bus ride to the nearest station fits their daily routine.

Summary: Who Is This Suburb For?

Oakleigh East suits several types of families and residents:

  • Families seeking a quiet, safe residential area — with below-average crime and a compact suburban layout, it offers a secure environment for raising children.
  • Chinese-Australian families — the 15.6% Chinese population share and proximity to Asian amenities in Oakleigh and Clayton make it culturally convenient.
  • Families prioritising school access — proximity to John Monash Science School (AU Guide Score 95.6/100) and several other secondary schools provides genuine educational options.
  • Those working at Monash University or south-eastern employment centres — the location provides a short commute to Clayton and the Monash Freeway corridor.

Oakleigh East may be less suitable for:

  • Commuters who depend on train travel — the suburb does not have its own station, and the approx. 59-minute transit time to the CBD is relatively long.
  • Buyers focused on strong capital growth — the 10-year house price growth of 42% ranks in the bottom 4% of Melbourne suburbs.
  • Those seeking a vibrant local commercial precinct — the suburb is primarily residential, with major retail and dining concentrated in neighbouring Oakleigh and Clayton.

In summary, Oakleigh East is a practical choice for families who value safety, cultural community, and proximity to good schools, and who are comfortable with a car-oriented commute to the CBD.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median house price in Oakleigh East?

The median house price in Oakleigh East is approx. $1.2M, which is above the Melbourne-wide median of approx. $1.05M. The median unit price is approx. $700K. Over the past 10 years, house prices have grown by 42%, though this ranks in the bottom 4% of Melbourne suburbs for growth. Unit prices have grown by 39%, which is around average.

Is Oakleigh East a safe suburb?

Yes. According to Crime Statistics Agency Victoria 2025 data, Oakleigh East has a crime rate of 3,851 per 100,000 residents, which is well below the Victorian state average of 6,810 per 100,000. The suburb ranks in the top 25% of Melbourne suburbs for safety, making it a relatively safe place to live for families.

What schools are near Oakleigh East?

Nearby secondary schools include John Monash Science School (selective, AU Guide Score 95.6/100), Sacred Heart Girls' College (Catholic, 79.7/100), Oakleigh Grammar (independent, 71.7/100), and South Oakleigh College (government, 57.9/100). All scores are based on VCAA 2025 VCE data.

What is the Chinese population in Oakleigh East?

According to ABS Census 2021, 1,059 residents of Oakleigh East identify as being of Chinese ancestry, representing 15.6% of the total population. This is well above the Melbourne average of approx. 4.3% and ranks Oakleigh East #54 among Melbourne suburbs for Chinese population share, placing it in the top 14% of the city.

How much does it cost to rent in Oakleigh East?

Weekly rents in Oakleigh East are approx. $550/wk for a 2-bedroom house, approx. $640/wk for a 3-bedroom house, approx. $600/wk for a 2-bedroom unit, and approx. $678/wk for a 3-bedroom unit. The suburb's proximity to Monash University contributes to steady rental demand.

Does Oakleigh East have a train station?

Oakleigh East does not have its own train station. The nearest stations are in neighbouring suburbs, including Oakleigh and Huntingdale stations on the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines. The commute to Melbourne CBD takes approx. 23 minutes by car or approx. 59 minutes by public transit.

Data Sources and References

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