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Cardwell suburb profile

Cardwell is a picturesque coastal town in Far North Queensland, nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Cardwell offers breathtaking views of Hinchinbrook Island and is a gateway for exploring the surrounding marine and rainforest environments. The town features a relaxed atmosphere, with a charming esplanade, local cafes, and fishing spots that attract both residents and visitors. Cardwell's unique location makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil lifestyle amidst some of Australia's most iconic landscapes.

Cardwell property market performance

Current median dwelling price$356,950Past 3 months

Property growth+25.0%Past 12 months

Cardwell’s property market has experienced notable growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 19.2% and unit values surging by 30.8%. Despite this growth, the median house and unit prices remain at $0, indicating a unique market situation. Sales activity has been limited, with only 7 houses and 2 units sold in the past year, reflecting a potentially tight market.

Properties in Cardwell are taking longer to sell, with houses spending a median of 135 days on the market and units 91 days, suggesting a slower pace in buyer decision-making. The rental market has remained relatively stable, with house rents unchanged over the last 12 months at $430, while unit rents have increased by 5.7% to $370, indicating a slight uptick in demand for rental units.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/AN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
19.2%30.8%
Sold
Past 3 months
72
Median days on market
Past 12 months
13591
Average rent
Past 12 months
$430$370
Change in rent
Past 12 months
-16.5%5.7%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Cardwell demographics

Cardwell, a charming coastal town in Far North Queensland, is known for its stunning natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle. Nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, it offers residents and visitors alike a unique blend of marine and rainforest experiences. With a population of 1,320, Cardwell is a tight-knit community where the median age is 60, reflecting a significant proportion of retirees and older residents who are drawn to its tranquil environment and scenic views.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 45.1% of properties owned outright, indicating a stable and established community. Meanwhile, 40.4% of properties are rented, providing options for those seeking temporary or flexible living arrangements. The median total household income is $846 per week, which aligns with the demographic profile of retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Family structures in Cardwell are predominantly couple families without children, making up 61.2% of the family demographic, while couple families with children account for 20.6%. This distribution highlights the suburb's appeal to older couples and retirees. The presence of the Cardwell Jetty, Hinchinbrook Island, and various walking trails offers ample recreational opportunities, making Cardwell an attractive destination for those who appreciate nature and a slower pace of life.

Cardwell infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Cardwell’s foreshore and esplanade have undergone substantial revitalisation in recent years, including upgraded walkways, picnic areas, playgrounds and public art, which has improved the suburb’s appeal to sea-changers, retirees and tourists and may support long-term property demand.[6] The presence of Port Hinchinbrook marina and associated boating infrastructure continues to position Cardwell as a gateway to Hinchinbrook Island and the wider marine environment, underpinning demand from lifestyle buyers and holiday accommodation investors.[5][6]

Local amenities such as the small shopping strip, cafes, essential services and Cardwell State School provide day-to-day convenience, while proximity to national parks, the Cardwell Forest Drive and other outdoor attractions enhances the suburb’s lifestyle offering.[1][6] There are currently no widely publicised major new transport, school or hospital projects specific to Cardwell, so in the near term the property market is more likely to be influenced by tourism trends, retiree migration and broader regional planning by Cassowary Coast Regional Council than by large-scale infrastructure changes.[1]

Cardwell rental market trends

The rental market in Cardwell has remained stable, with house rents holding steady over the past year at $430 per week, while unit rents have experienced a modest increase of 5.7% to $370 per week. This stability, combined with the suburb's coastal charm and lifestyle appeal, makes Cardwell an attractive option for renters seeking affordability and a relaxed environment.

Suburbs near Cardwell

Some popular suburbs near Cardwell include:

How does Cardwell compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Cardwell’s median house price is 45.7% higher than Tully’s.
  • Median unit prices: Cardwell’s median unit price is 24.4% lower than Wongaling Beach’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Cardwell have grown 1.3% higher than in South Mission Beach.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Cardwell have grown 24.1% higher than in Wongaling Beach.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in nearby South Mission Beach are selling 57.8% faster than in Cardwell.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby Wongaling Beach are selling 8.8% faster than in Cardwell.

Common questions about Cardwell

  • Is Cardwell a nice place to live?

    Cardwell is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a unique and tranquil lifestyle, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and a slower pace of life. With its charming atmosphere and stunning views, Cardwell is a haven for families and individuals seeking a peaceful retreat. The suburb is known for its welcoming community vibe, where residents enjoy the benefits of a close-knit environment. Families will find Cardwell appealing due to its safe and serene setting, with local amenities such as cafes, essential services, and the Cardwell State School providing convenience and a sense of community.

    Living in Cardwell means embracing a lifestyle rich in outdoor activities and natural wonders. The suburb's proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether it's fishing, boating, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the revitalized esplanade, there's always something to do. The presence of the Cardwell Jetty and nearby walking trails further enhances the suburb's appeal to nature enthusiasts and families looking for recreational options.

    However, living in Cardwell does come with some trade-offs. While the suburb offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, it lacks the bustling nightlife and extensive shopping options found in larger cities. Additionally, there are currently no major new transport, school, or hospital projects specific to Cardwell, which may limit some conveniences. Despite these trade-offs, Cardwell remains an attractive place to live for those who value a serene lifestyle amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Its appeal to retirees and families seeking a quieter life is undeniable, making it a charming choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban living.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Cardwell?

    Living in Cardwell is surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to other parts of Queensland. With the current median house and unit prices sitting at $0, it suggests that purchasing property here is exceptionally accessible, likely due to a lack of recent sales data or a unique market situation. Renting is also quite reasonable, with the average rent for houses at $430 per week and units at $370 per week.

    When you look at the income side of things, the median total household income in Cardwell is $846 per week, which is significantly lower than the Queensland state average wage of about $104,000 per year. This indicates that while the income levels in Cardwell are below the state average, the lower cost of housing helps balance out the affordability for residents.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in Cardwell, you'll find it to be a cost-effective option, particularly in terms of housing. The affordability in this regional town makes it an attractive choice for those looking to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle without the financial pressures found in larger cities.

    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.
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  • Is Cardwell a good place to invest?

    Cardwell is showing promising signs as a potential investment hotspot, with significant growth in property values over the past year. The median house value has increased by 19.2%, while units have seen an even more impressive rise of 30.8%. This indicates a strong demand for properties in the area, which could be driven by its coastal charm and appeal to both locals and tourists.

    While the rental market for houses has remained stable with no change in rent, units have experienced a 5.7% increase in rental prices. This suggests that units might be particularly attractive for investors seeking rental income, as they are becoming more desirable among renters. The combination of rising property values and increasing rental returns for units makes Cardwell an intriguing option for those looking to invest in real estate.

    Overall, Cardwell's recent growth in property values and the uptick in unit rental prices highlight its potential as a solid investment choice. With its picturesque location and growing appeal, it could offer both capital appreciation and rental income opportunities for savvy investors.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Cardwell

Currently, there are 9 real estate agents working in Cardwell—but not all agents deliver the same results. The right agent could make a huge difference to your final sale price.

Only 5 out of these 9 agents sold 94.7% of all properties in Cardwell over the past year. Choosing one of these top-performing agents means tapping into proven expertise for a better sale outcome.

Real estate agents in Cardwell typically charge a commission of 2% to 2.84%. Negotiating a fair commission rate and the right structure can motivate your agent to work even harder, helping you sell for more and potentially saving you thousands of dollars.

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