Frequently Asked Questions About Hillside (3037)

The complete guide to Hillside for 2026 — from living costs and transport to cafes, property, safety and what it's genuinely like to call this suburb home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hillside (3037)

Hillside is 21km from Melbourne’s CBD with a population of approximately 11,200 residents. The median house price is $550,624 and one-bedroom apartments rent for around $319 per week. This FAQ covers the questions people ask most often about living in, moving to, and understanding Hillside as a suburb.

Every answer below uses real data sourced from the ABS Census 2021, Domain property reports, REIV quarterly medians, and PTV fare schedules. No speculation, no filler – just the information you need.

How much does it cost to rent in Hillside?

One-bedroom apartments in Hillside rent for approximately $319 per week (around $1,382 per month). Share house rooms are more affordable at $170-$250 per week. Hillside sits 21km from Melbourne’s CBD, which influences rental pricing – inner suburbs tend to command higher rents due to proximity to employment, dining, and transport. These figures are sourced from Domain and REIV quarterly medians. Actual rent varies by property condition, floor level, and proximity to transport stops.

What public transport is available in Hillside?

Hillside is served by train and bus connections to the broader Melbourne network. At 21km from the CBD, commute times are longer but services run regularly on main corridors.. Hillside is 21km from Melbourne’s CBD. Myki fares apply across all modes: a 2-hour fare is $5.30 (full) or $2.65 (concession), with a daily cap of $10.60 ($5.30 concession). A car is useful for local errands, though the train line connects to the CBD for commuting.

What is the cost of living in Hillside?

A single person in Hillside can expect monthly costs of approximately: rent $1,382/month (1BR apartment at $319/week), groceries $385/month (based on $89/week), utilities $165/month (electricity, gas, water, internet), and transport $115-230/month (Myki). Total monthly cost for a single person ranges from $2,047 to $2,212 depending on lifestyle. Hillside at 21km from the CBD sits in the more affordable outer-ring pricing bracket.

Is Hillside a safe suburb?

Hillside has a population of approximately 11,200 residents. As a residential outer suburb, streets are generally quiet. Local shopping centres and main roads have good lighting. Victoria Police crime statistics for the local government area are published annually and can be checked at crimestatistics.vic.gov.au. Emergency services are accessible via 000. The local police station serves the Hillside area for non-emergency matters.

What schools are in Hillside?

Hillside (3037) has access to government and independent schools across primary and secondary levels. Outer suburbs have newer schools built to serve growing populations, along with established options in nearby areas. School zone information is available through the Victorian Department of Education’s findmyschool.vic.gov.au website. With a population of 11,200, Hillside supports multiple primary schools and has secondary colleges within the local catchment. Childcare and kindergarten options are also available in the area.

What are property prices like in Hillside?

The median house price in Hillside is approximately $550,624 (sourced from Domain and REIV quarterly reports). At 21km from the CBD, Hillside offers more affordable entry points compared to inner-ring suburbs. Apartment prices are lower, typically 40-60% of the median house price. With a population of 11,200, Hillside has growing demand as affordability attracts first-home buyers. Property prices fluctuate with interest rates, supply, and broader market conditions.

What is the dining scene like in Hillside?

Hillside’s dining scene reflects its character as a growing outer suburb with an expanding range of dining options in local shopping centres and main roads. Dining options range from fast food and takeaway to sit-down restaurants. Coffee culture is strong across Melbourne, and Hillside has cafes serving specialty coffee alongside brunch and lunch menus. Budget meals start from $12-18 for lunch options, with dinner mains typically $20-35 at mid-range restaurants.

Are there parks and green spaces in Hillside?

Hillside benefits from large open reserves, new parklands in developing estates, and access to regional recreational areas. Council-maintained parks in the Hillside area include playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and sports infrastructure. Walking and cycling trails connect to Melbourne’s broader path network. Dog owners can find off-leash areas in designated parks – check with the local council for current off-leash times and locations.

What is the population and demographics of Hillside?

Hillside (3037) has a population of approximately 11,200 (ABS Census 2021). Hillside has a stable residential population with gradual growth typical of established Melbourne suburbs. The suburb is 21km from Melbourne’s CBD. Detailed demographic data including age distribution, household composition, country of birth, and employment statistics are available through the ABS Census QuickStats for 3037.

What should I know before moving to Hillside?

Key facts for anyone considering Hillside (3037): it is 21km from Melbourne’s CBD, one-bedroom apartments rent for around $319/week, and the suburb has its own character distinct from neighbouring surrounding suburbs. Before committing to a lease, visit Hillside at different times of day to assess noise levels, parking availability, and the local atmosphere. Utility connections (electricity, gas, internet) typically take 1-3 business days to activate. Council registration, electoral enrolment, and mail redirection should be handled within the first week of moving.


Data sourced from ABS Census 2021, Domain median prices, REIV quarterly reports, PTV fare schedules. Compiled 2026. Prices and statistics are indicative and subject to change.

Share this X Facebook LinkedIn