Market Data
Introduction to East Brighton: A Suburb of Contrasts
East Brighton, my home, is a charming suburb located just 12 kilometres south-east of Melbourne’s CBD. Nestled alongside the Nepean Highway, it is a short stroll from the bay, offering a mix of tranquility and convenience. While it’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, Brighton, East Brighton has its own unique character, making it a beloved home for families, retirees, and even an old Goth like me. The suburb is dotted with beautiful parks and excellent schools, but don’t let its quiet, family-friendly vibe fool you—it’s not all about luxury and glamour. East Brighton is distinctly different from Brighton’s opulent Church and Bay streets, which are lined with designer stores, chic cafes, and the iconic Brighton bathing boxes. Here, life is simpler, yet no less fulfilling.
A Community with Personality
While Brighton is often associated with its upscale shopping strips, East Brighton tells a different story. This side of the highway is more laid-back and down-to-earth, with a strong sense of community. It’s a place where you can walk to the train station, the gym, or one of the many beautiful parks without a second thought. The beach is close by, though I admit, as someone who identifies as part of the Goth subculture, I don’t frequent it often—sun, sand, and fish and chips just aren’t my thing. Still, it’s nice to know the option is there for those who enjoy it.
Despite being divided by the Nepean Highway, East Brighton manages to maintain a cohesive, neighbourly feel. Real estate agents often boast about properties being on the “beach side” of the suburb, but I’ve yet to see an ad highlight the “non-beach” side. Perhaps that’s part of its charm—it doesn’t need to rely on coastal prestige to stand out.
A Blend of Practicality and Lifestyle
East Brighton is incredibly practical for daily living. Everything you need is either a short walk or a quick drive away. The suburb is well-connected to public transport, with the train station just a stroll away, making commuting to Melbourne’s CBD a breeze. For those who prefer driving, the highway is right there, and it’s just a short trip to nearby attractions like the Southland Shopping Centre or the Moorabbin Bowls Club, now rebranded as Zone Bowling.
When it comes to dining and shopping, East Brighton may not have the luxury boutiques of Brighton, but it makes up for it with its own unique offerings. The suburb is surrounded by excellent cafes, restaurants, and shops, ensuring that residents never feel deprived. Within the borders of East Brighton itself, the shopping options are more limited, but the nearby options are plentiful, offering something for every taste and budget.
Notable Residents and Local Legends
East Brighton isn’t just about its amenities—it also has its fair share of colourful characters. The suburb is home to sporting identities, WAGs, influencers, and even minor celebrities. These well-known residents often fly under the radar until their properties pop up in real estate listings or their profiles appear in lifestyle magazines. I’ve been surprised more than once to discover who lives just down the street.
Then there are the more notorious locals. One neighbour, for instance, seems to have a constant stream of visitors arriving at all hours of the day and night. Some stay for just five minutes, while others linger longer. While I’m not one to gossip, I do wonder if they’re running some kind of Uber Eats empire.
What Makes East Brighton Special
At the heart of East Brighton’s charm are the simple, everyday things that make life here so enjoyable. For families, the excellent schools and public golf course are major draws. The golf course even has plans to build a warm water pool, adding another recreational option for residents. The beach, while not a daily haunt for everyone, is still a lovely spot for a stroll or a picnic.
The suburb’s parks are another highlight, offering green spaces where families can gather, kids can play, and dogs can run freely. These parks are the heartbeat of the community, fostering a sense of connection among residents. The cafes and restaurants in and around East Brighton also play a big role in bringing people together, providing cozy spots for coffee, meals, and socialising.
A Personal Perspective: Life in East Brighton
Having grown up on the other side of the highway in Moorabbin, I can appreciate how much East Brighton has to offer. The convenience of being able to walk to so many amenities has been a game-changer for me. Whether it’s grabbing groceries, meeting friends at a café, or simply enjoying some fresh air in the park, I love how easy it is to live here.
Of course, no suburb is perfect, and East Brighton has its quirks. The constant traffic on the Nepean Highway can be a hassle, and the occasional noise from passing cars is a reminder that we’re not entirely removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. Still, these minor drawbacks are far outweighed by the benefits of living here.
In the end, East Brighton is a personal choice, and one that I’m glad I’ve made. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. For me, it’s the perfect balance of convenience, community, and quiet charm. Whether you call it Brighton East or East Brighton, as I prefer, this little pocket of Melbourne has a way of growing on you. And as someone who’s proud to call it home, I’ll always make sure to emphasise the East.
