Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Bonnells Bay

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Bonnells Bay suburb profile

Bonnells Bay is a picturesque suburb located on the western shores of Lake Macquarie in New South Wales, offering a serene lakeside lifestyle. Known for its natural beauty and tranquil environment, it attracts families, retirees, and nature enthusiasts. The suburb provides a mix of modern homes and traditional residences, with easy access to water-based activities such as boating and fishing. Local amenities include parks, schools, and shopping facilities, ensuring convenience for residents. Its proximity to the larger town of Morisset and major transport links makes Bonnells Bay a desirable location for those seeking a peaceful yet connected community.

Bonnells Bay property market performance

Bonnells Bay has seen a strong upswing in its property market over the last 12 months, with house values increasing by 11.9%, bringing the median house price to $930,000. The unit market remains inactive, reflecting a lack of data and sales in this segment.

Sales activity in Bonnells Bay shows 20 houses sold in the past year, with houses selling swiftly with a median of 21 days on the market. This indicates a high demand for houses and a quick turnaround time.

In the rental market, house rents have surged by 12.1% over the last 12 months, averaging $650, suggesting a strong demand for rental properties. The unit rental market remains dormant, with no significant activity recorded.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$930KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
11.9%N/A
Sold
Past 3 months
201
Median days on market
Past 12 months
21N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$650N/A
Change in rent
Past 12 months
12.1%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Bonnells Bay demographics

Bonnells Bay, located in the picturesque Lake Macquarie region of New South Wales, offers a serene lifestyle with its beautiful lakeside views and community-oriented atmosphere. With a population of 4,066, the suburb is characterized by a slightly older median age of 42, reflecting a community that includes a mix of families, retirees, and long-term residents who appreciate the tranquil environment and natural beauty of the area.

The suburb's housing landscape is predominantly owner-occupied, with 40.7% of properties owned outright and 32.8% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with a significant number of residents having long-term ties to the area. The rental market, comprising 26.5% of properties, provides options for those seeking flexibility or looking to experience the lakeside lifestyle before committing to purchase.

Family life is a central aspect of Bonnells Bay, with couple families with children making up 36% of the households, while 43.2% are couple families without children. One-parent families account for 20.1%, highlighting the suburb's family-friendly nature and supportive community environment. The median total household income of $1,460 per week suggests a comfortable living standard, making Bonnells Bay an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle within reach of larger urban centers.

Bonnells Bay infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Bonnells Bay continues to benefit from its lakeside setting and proximity to Morisset, with incremental residential infill and small-scale estate-style developments enhancing local housing choice and modernising the suburb’s streetscape.[2][5] Ongoing upgrades to retail and service offerings around the local shopping village and along key approach roads are improving day-to-day amenity, which is likely to support buyer demand from families and downsizers seeking convenient access to Lake Macquarie, shops and medical services.[5]

Access to nearby employment and education hubs via the broader Lake Macquarie and Morisset road network remains a key drawcard, with reasonable connectivity to the M1 enabling commuting to larger regional centres.[2][4] At present there are no major new transport corridors, hospitals or large-scale public infrastructure projects specifically announced for Bonnells Bay, so changes to property values are expected to be driven more by steady population growth, lifestyle appeal and local private development than by transformative government-led projects.

Bonnells Bay rental market trends

The rental market in Bonnells Bay shows growth, with house rents increasing by 12.1% over the past year to $650 per week. There are no unit rentals, indicating limited availability. Bonnells Bay presents potential opportunities for further development and investment in housing due to increased demand.

Suburbs near Bonnells Bay

Some popular suburbs near Bonnells Bay include:

How does Bonnells Bay compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Bonnells Bay’s median house price is 7.9% lower than Dora Creek’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Bonnells Bay have grown 7.5% higher than in Windermere Park.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Bonnells Bay are selling 34.4% faster than in Windermere Park.

Common questions about Bonnells Bay

  • Is Bonnells Bay a nice place to live?

    Bonnells Bay is a delightful suburb that offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment, making it a wonderful place to call home. Nestled on the western shores of Lake Macquarie, the suburb is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil lakeside setting. The community vibe is warm and welcoming, attracting families, retirees, and nature enthusiasts who appreciate the serene lifestyle and the close-knit community feel. With its charming mix of modern and traditional homes, Bonnells Bay provides a picturesque backdrop for a comfortable and relaxed way of life.

    Residents of Bonnells Bay enjoy convenient access to a range of amenities, including local parks, schools, and shopping facilities, which cater to everyday needs. The suburb's proximity to the larger town of Morisset and major transport links ensures that while it offers a peaceful retreat, it remains well-connected to larger urban centers. This balance of tranquility and accessibility makes it an appealing choice for families looking for a safe and nurturing environment to raise children.

    While Bonnells Bay offers an idyllic lifestyle, there are some trade-offs to consider. The absence of major new transport corridors or large-scale public infrastructure projects means that changes in property values are likely to be gradual, driven by steady population growth and the suburb's inherent lifestyle appeal. Additionally, those seeking a bustling nightlife or extensive entertainment options may find the suburb's quieter pace less suited to their preferences. However, for those who value a serene lakeside lifestyle with a strong sense of community, Bonnells Bay is a charming and inviting place to live.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Bonnells Bay?

    Living in Bonnells Bay can be quite a financial commitment, especially when considering the local property market. The median house price in Bonnells Bay is currently around $930,000, which is a significant investment. For those looking to rent, the average weekly rent for houses is about $650. It's important to note that there are no current median prices or rents available for units, which suggests that houses are the primary option for accommodation in this suburb.

    When comparing the average wage in Bonnells Bay, which is approximately $69,000 per year, to the median total household income weekly of $1,460, it becomes evident that the cost of housing could consume a large portion of one's income. This average wage is slightly higher than the older ATO average of $62,000 for the fiscal year 2023, yet it still presents a challenge when matched against the high housing costs.

    Overall, if you're thinking of living in Bonnells Bay, it's crucial to carefully consider your financial situation. The suburb offers a picturesque lakeside lifestyle, but the cost of housing is relatively high compared to the average household income, which may make it less affordable for some residents. Balancing the desire for a serene environment with the financial demands of the area is key to making an informed decision about living in Bonnells Bay.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Bonnells Bay a good place to invest?

    Bonnells Bay is showing promising signs as a potential investment hotspot, especially for those interested in the housing market. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a significant 11.9% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and a healthy market. This growth is complemented by a 12.1% rise in rent for houses, suggesting that rental demand is robust and could provide a steady income stream for investors.

    While the unit market in Bonnells Bay has remained stable with no change in median values or rent, the housing sector's performance highlights the suburb's appeal, particularly for families and long-term residents. The area's natural beauty, proximity to Lake Macquarie, and community-focused lifestyle make it an attractive choice for both buyers and renters, contributing to its steady growth.

    Overall, Bonnells Bay appears to be a solid investment choice, particularly for those focusing on houses. The combination of rising property values and rental yields, along with the suburb's appealing lifestyle, positions it well for continued growth and investment potential.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Bonnells Bay

In Bonnells Bay ,35 agents are actively selling property, but a small number do the heavy lifting. Just 5 agents handled 49.5% of all sales in the past year, giving them a strong presence and deep experience in the local market.

Commission rates usually sit between 1.92% and 2.88%. Comparing agents and understanding what’s included in their fee structure can help you find the right mix of service, value, and motivation—without compromising on outcomes.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.