Verdict Box
Best for: Budget‑minded commuters and families Skip if: You want late‑night bars and clubs Rent pressure: Moderate; 1BR ~ $1,600/mo Commute reality: Frankston line; ~30–35 mins to CBD Food scene: Compact but improving on Highett Rd Family fit: Well‑regarded schools and parks Overall score: 7/10 What most guides miss: You’re minutes from the bay without bayfront prices.
At-a-Glance Table
| Metric | Highett | State Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,600 | $1,800 |
| Safety Rating | 85/100 | 78/100 |
| Public Transport | Good | Average |
| Walkability | 85/100 | 75/100 |
| Average Dwell Size | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bedrooms |
Who It Suits
- Young professionals: Direct train, easy parking, and lower rent than nearby Bayside postcodes.
- Families: Access to strong public school zones, parks, and weekend sport at Highett Reserve.
- Retirees: Quiet streets, medical nearby, and a practical shopping strip.
- First‑home buyers: 60s/70s brick units and villas that undercut beachside prices. Here’s the kicker: the closer you are to the station, the faster good listings go.
Rent & Property Reality
Highett is where Bayside convenience doesn’t demand Bayside premiums. A typical 1‑bed sits around $1,600 per month, under the state’s ~$1,800 mark. Stock ranges from 60s brick units to new mid‑rise near the station. Vacancy is slim, so well‑priced listings go in days. Here’s the kicker: Southland proximity can nudge prices up within a short walk.
According to Domain, demand is edging up while listings stay steady. Expect gradual rises, not spikes, and still less than true beachside postcodes. If you’re buying, older walk‑ups remain the value play versus renovated townhouses.
Local Reality & Pockets
One suburb, a few distinct pockets.
- Highett Rd village: everyday retail, cafes, and the quickest station access.
- Station precinct: newer apartments and the easiest commute.
- Southland/Bay Rd side: big‑box retail, weekend traffic, and townhouse builds.
- East of Nepean Hwy: quieter streets and easier parking. What most guides miss: you’re 5–7 minutes to Sandringham Beach by car—without beach‑parking headaches. Bottom line: choose based on train access versus yard size.
Signature Craving
When the craving hits, make it Highett Pizza on Highett Rd. Wood‑fired pies start around $20 and arrive fast. The room is casual, the toppings classic, and the portions fair. You can actually get a table on weeknights. The honest reality: it’s the reliable go‑to locals return to.
Comparisons Table
| Suburb | Rent (1BR) | Cost of Living | Parking | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highett | $1,600 | 100 | Street Parking | Families & Commuters |
| Cheltenham | $1,650 | 105 | Off-Street Parking | Families |
| Sandringham | $1,700 | 110 | Street Parking | Beach Lovers |
| Hampton | $1,800 | 115 | Mixed Parking | Young Professionals |
| Moorabbin | $1,550 | 95 | Street Parking | Budget Shoppers |
Trust Block
Author: Jack Morrison
Data sources: Domain, ABS, City of Bayside Council
Not financial advice.
FAQ
Q: Is Highett cheaper than Cheltenham for rent in 2026? Generally yes. A 1‑bed in Highett is around $1,600/month, about $50 less than Cheltenham.
Q: What’s a realistic 1‑bedroom rent in Highett right now? Around $1,600/month for older stock; newer apartments near the station can be higher.
Q: How long does the Highett train take to Flinders Street? About 30–35 minutes on the Frankston line, with frequent peak services.
Q: Is Highett in Myki Zone 2? Yes. Trips to the CBD are charged at the Zone 1+2 cap once you enter Zone 1.
Q: Which school zones cover Highett? You’ll see Highett Primary locally and Sandringham College for secondary. Always confirm zones before enrolling.
Q: How safe is Highett around the station at night? It rates well (about 85/100 here). Stick to lit routes and main streets like any metro area.
Q: Where are the quietest pockets in Highett? East of Nepean Hwy and streets set back from Highett Rd/Bay Rd tend to have less through‑traffic.
Q: How close is Highett to the beach? Roughly 5–7 minutes by car to Sandringham Beach; 15–20 minutes by bus or bike.
Q: Are there late‑trading supermarkets near Highett? Yes. Large supermarkets in and around Highett and Southland trade late (many to ~10pm).
Q: Are new apartments being built near Highett Station? Yes. Mid‑rise projects have clustered by the rail corridor and Highett Rd in recent years.
Q: Is parking tight on Highett Rd? Daytime parking is often timed with steady turnover; side streets offer more untimed spots—check signage.
Q: What’s happening to house prices in Highett? Listings are steady and demand is firm. Domain data points to gradual growth rather than spikes.
