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Carlton vs Fitzroy — University Precinct Investment Comparison 2026

June 25, 2026

Carlton and Fitzroy sit side by side immediately north of the CBD. Carlton’s student population drives some of Melbourne’s strongest unit yields; Fitzroy’s heritage and cafe culture drives strong owner-occupier competition and capital growth.

Median Price Comparison

Metric Carlton Fitzroy
Median House Price $1,580,000 $1,580,000
Median Unit Price $480,000 $610,000
House Yield 2.0% 1.9%
Unit Yield 5.2% 3.9%
5-Year Growth 28% 37%
GeeVee Score 7.8/10 8.1/10

Which Suburb Wins for Unit Yield?

Carlton wins decisively on unit yield (5.2% vs 3.9%) driven by University of Melbourne student demand and a large supply of affordable sub-$500,000 apartments.

Which Suburb Wins for Capital Growth?

Fitzroy wins strongly on capital growth (37% vs 28%) driven by heritage scarcity, renovation demand and stronger owner-occupier competition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Carlton better for investment than Fitzroy?

Depends on your strategy. Carlton wins on yield; Fitzroy wins on capital growth. Carlton units are among Melbourne’s strongest yielding at 5.2% gross.

What is driving Carlton unit yields?

Melbourne University enrolments of 65,000+ students within walking distance of Carlton create structural rental demand that keeps vacancy rates below 2% year-round.

Find off-market investment properties in Carlton and Fitzroy through the Collings Property Platform. Join free at collings.com.au/portal

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