City of Boroondara
Hawthorn
vic 3122
About Hawthorn
Demographics & Lifestyle
Hawthorn is home to a mixture of families, couples without children, students, and professionals, with an average household size of around 2.1 people.
The cultural mix is cosmopolitan, including families, retirees, students (due to Swinburne University and Melbourne University’s Hawthorn campus), and young professionals. Residents enjoy a casual café culture along Glenferrie Road, boutique shopping, diverse restaurants, heritage parks like Grace Park Estate and Central Gardens, and recreational trails along the Yarra River.
Transport
Hawthorn is exceptionally well connected. It has multiple train stations including Hawthorn and Glenferrie, both on the Lilydale, Belgrave, and Alamein lines, providing access to the CBD in under 10 minutes. Tram services are extensive, with routes including 16, 48, 70, 72, 75, and 109 servicing major roads such as Glenferrie, Burwood, and Riversdale Roads. Bus connections are available, and the suburb also features a range of walking and cycling paths along the Yarra, making it easy to get around sustainably.
Schools & Education
Hawthorn offers a wide selection of high-performing public and private schools, making it popular among families.
Key public schools include Hawthorn West Primary School, Glenferrie Primary School, and Auburn High School. Camberwell High School, located nearby, is also within zoning for parts of Hawthorn.
Private and independent options include Scotch College, Bialik College, Rossbourne School, and Alia College. In addition, prestigious institutions in nearby suburbs, such as Xavier College and MLC, are easily accessible.
Tertiary education is a highlight of Hawthorn, with Swinburne University of Technology’s main campus located in the suburb, as well as a campus of the University of Melbourne.
Housing & Real Estate
Hawthorn’s streets are lined with elegant Victorian and Edwardian estates, interspersed with heritage cottages, modern apartments, and townhouses. The suburb balances old-world charm with new development, appealing to a wide demographic of buyers and renters.
Recreation & Community
Hawthorn features a lively events calendar and community spirit. Annual highlights include the Glenferrie Festival and Hawthorn Craft Market, with the Hawthorn Arts Centre hosting regular exhibitions and performances. Parks, river walks, and green spaces are plentiful.
Local sports clubs and facilities are abundant, including football, tennis, cricket, and hockey clubs. The Hawthorn Aquatic and Leisure Centre is a hub for fitness and family activity. The Hawthorn Football Club, one of the AFL’s most successful teams, maintains strong roots in the area.