Spotswood isn’t the biggest suburb in Melbourne’s west, but it’s one that people are starting to notice. Only a few kilometres from the CBD, it’s a mix of period homes, modern townhouses, and an easygoing neighbourhood feel. The kind of place where you’ll find families, first-home buyers, and long-time locals sharing the same cafés and parks.
At JAS Stephens, we’ve seen Spotswood real estate shift quietly but steadily. Homes here don’t sit on the market for long, and more people are looking for something with character and good connections to the city. If you’re thinking about buying in the area, it’s worth understanding how the market works here, what to look out for, and what makes certain streets more sought after than others.
This guide covers what you should know before making a move. Simple and clear.
Where is Spotswood suburb exactly?
Spotswood is an inner-west suburb of Melbourne, located approximately 7 kilometres southwest of the Central Business District (CBD). It falls within the City of Hobsons Bay local government area and is bordered by the Newport Sunshine freight railway line to the west, the West Gate Freeway to the north, the Yarra River to the east, and Burleigh Street to the south.
The Spotswood suburb covers an area of about 3.2 square kilometres. Spotswood had a population of 2,820 according to the 2021 census. The suburb is well-connected by public transport, with the Spotswood railway station serviced by the Werribee and Williamstown lines, and several bus routes traversing the area.
Spotswood is known for its mix of residential and industrial zones, featuring a combination of heritage homes and newer developments. The suburb also boasts several parks, contributing to its community-friendly atmosphere
What is the population of Spotswood Victoria?
According to the 2021 Census, the suburb of Spotswood in Victoria had a population of 2,820 people.
Pros of the Spotswood suburb in Melbourne
- Close to Melbourne CBD: Only 7 km from the city, making it one of the more affordable inner-west options for people who work in town.
- Good public transport: Spotswood railway station connects to the Werribee and Williamstown suburban lines, plus several bus routes run through the suburb.
- Strong rental demand: Low vacancy rates around 1.3%
- Parks and open space: 11 parks covering about 14.5% of the suburb’s total area, including popular spots like Donald McLean Reserve.
- Increasing popularity: Steady population growth and ongoing gentrification, with older homes being renovated and new developments arriving.
- Mixed housing stock: A good mix of period homes, modern townhouses, and apartments, offering different options for buyers.
Types of properties in the Spotswood suburb
Spotswood, VIC 3015, offers a diverse range of property types, catering to various preferences and investment strategies. Here’s an overview of the main property types available in the suburb:
Houses in Spotswood
Spotswood is known for its mix of classic weatherboard homes, 1960s brick houses, and new architect-designed builds. Many older homes have been renovated, while some streets still have untouched period properties. The median price for a house is about $1,140,000. Houses here typically have land sizes between 300m² to 600m², especially around The Avenue and Hudsons Road.
Townhouses in Spotswood
Townhouses have become popular in the area over the past decade. These offer a modern, low-maintenance option for families and professionals who want to live close to the city without the upkeep of a large block. Prices usually start from $900,000 and can exceed $1.6 million, depending on the number of bedrooms, land size, and street location.
Apartments and units in Spotswood
Though not as common as in neighbouring suburbs like Footscray or Yarraville, Spotswood does have a small selection of low-rise apartment complexes and older-style brick units. The median price for a unit is around $610,000, with weekly rent averaging $595, giving a rental yield of about 4.5%. Most apartments are one- or two-bedroom layouts, popular with singles, couples, and investors.
Industrial and commercial properties in Spotswood
Spotswood has industrial areas, particularly north of Hudsons Road and near the West Gate Freeway. Some of these properties have been repurposed into creative studios, breweries, and warehouses, with potential for commercial redevelopment.
Note: Of course, property prices are always moving. If you’re thinking about buying in the area, it’s worth getting up-to-date advice. The JAS Stephens team can help you navigate the current market and find a home that suits what you’re after.
What you should check before buying a house in Spotswood
At JAS Stephens, we work with people buying in Spotswood every week. If you’re thinking of making a move here, these are the steps we always recommend before signing a contract:
Steps to take before buying a house in Spotswood
If you’re looking to buy in Spotswood, here’s what we recommend you get sorted before making an offer:
Get your finance pre-approved
Speak to your bank or broker and secure pre-approval so you know your budget before you start house hunting.
Book a building and pest inspection
Especially important for older homes in Spotswood. This will uncover any structural issues or pest problems before you commit.
Confirm local school and childcare options
If this matters to you, check availability and catchment zones ahead of time.
Get a market appraisal from a local expert
Prices move quickly in Spotswood, so it’s smart to have an up-to-date view of what homes are selling for. The JAS Stephens team can arrange this for you.
Review contract terms carefully
Before you sign anything, have your conveyancer review the contract for unusual clauses or settlement terms.
Learn more about leasing, buying, and property prices in Spotswood
Local property buying tips for Spotswood real estate
If you’re planning to buy in Spotswood, there are a few local details worth knowing before you start making offers. Here’s what we tell buyers at JAS Stephens when they’re looking at Spotswood real estate:
- Stick to streets with long-term value. Properties around The Avenue, Hudsons Road, and Hope Street tend to hold their value better.
- Look out for heritage overlays. Certain parts of Spotswood have restrictions on what you can demolish or alter. Your conveyancer can check this, but it’s smart to ask before making an offer.
- Get clear on parking restrictions. Some streets near Spotswood Station and Hudsons Road require permits. If you have multiple cars or frequent guests, this matters more than you’d expect.
- Compare recent sales, not just asking prices. In Spotswood real estate, sale prices often differ from listing prices. A local agent can help you access up-to-date results so you know what homes are actually selling for on each street.
- If you’d like a clear market appraisal or need help narrowing down the best streets for your budget, the team at JAS Stephens knows Spotswood real estate inside out.
Final thoughts on buying in Spotswood
Buying a house in Spotswood isn’t like buying in every other suburb. Between the mix of older homes, industrial pockets, and its growing reputation, it takes a bit of local knowledge to make a smart move here. The market moves quickly, and properties can vary a lot street to street.
If you’re serious about buying in Spotswood, take the time to check the things that matter. Look beyond price and photos. Inspect the structure, understand the soil, check for overlays, and make sure you know what it’s like at different times of day. These small steps can save you from big problems later.
The good news is, when you buy well in Spotswood, you’re getting into a suburb that’s on the rise, with a strong rental market, a good community feel, and easy access to the city. And if you need clear, local advice on where to start or what to watch for, the team at JAS Stephens is here to help you make a move with confidence.