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Charlestown suburb profile

Charlestown is a bustling suburb located in the Lake Macquarie region of New South Wales, approximately 10km southwest of Newcastle's CBD. Known for its vibrant commercial hub, Charlestown Square, the largest shopping centre in the region, it offers a wide array of retail, dining, and entertainment options. The suburb is characterized by its mix of residential areas, including family homes and modern apartments, catering to diverse lifestyles. With its proximity to beautiful beaches, parks, and excellent schools, Charlestown is a popular choice for families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle with urban conveniences and natural attractions.

Charlestown property market performance

Current median dwelling price$842,500Past 3 months

Property growth+6.3%Past 12 months

Charlestown's property market has shown positive growth over the past 12 months, with both houses and units experiencing value increases. House values have risen by 4.5%, bringing the median house price to $1 million, while unit values have increased by 4.1%, with a median price of $680,000. This indicates a steady demand for both property types in the area.

Sales activity has been robust, with 54 houses and 15 units sold over the past three months. Houses are selling slightly faster than units, with a median of 49 days on the market compared to 55 days for units, suggesting a healthy interest in the housing market.

The rental market in Charlestown has seen significant growth, with house rents increasing by 13.3% and unit rents by 12.5% over the last 12 months. This reflects a strong demand for rental properties in the suburb.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$1M$680K
Change in value
Past 12 months
5.3%7.4%
Sold
Past 3 months
4019
Median days on market
Past 12 months
5058
Average rent
Past 12 months
$690$540
Change in rent
Past 12 months
15.0%12.5%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Charlestown demographics

Charlestown, located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, is a bustling suburb known for its family-friendly environment and convenient amenities. With a population of 13,601 and a median age of 38, Charlestown attracts a diverse mix of families, professionals, and retirees. The suburb's proximity to Newcastle and its comprehensive shopping and recreational facilities make it a popular choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

The suburb's housing market is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 35.2% of properties owned outright and 38.1% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with many long-term residents. The rental market, comprising 26.7% of properties, offers options for those seeking flexibility, including young professionals and families transitioning into home ownership.

Family life is a significant aspect of Charlestown, with 42.5% of households being couple families with children and 39.0% being couple families without children. The presence of one-parent families, making up 17.5% of households, adds to the suburb's diverse family dynamics. Charlestown's community-oriented atmosphere, combined with its accessibility to schools, parks, and shopping centers, makes it an attractive location for families and individuals alike.

Charlestown infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Charlestown is undergoing significant developments that are likely to impact its property market. The ongoing expansion and renovation of Charlestown Square, the largest shopping center in the Hunter Region, continues to enhance the suburb's retail and entertainment offerings, potentially boosting property values in the surrounding areas. Additionally, the recent upgrade of the Charlestown Swim Centre has improved local recreational facilities, making the area more attractive to families and fitness enthusiasts.

Infrastructure improvements are also noteworthy, with the completion of road upgrades along the Pacific Highway improving traffic flow and connectivity. The Charlestown Library and Cultural Centre serves as a new community hub, offering educational resources and cultural events. These developments, combined with Charlestown's strategic location approximately 10 kilometers from Newcastle's CBD and its proximity to beaches and the Glenrock State Conservation Area, continue to enhance the suburb's appeal for both residents and investors.

Charlestown rental market trends

The rental market in Charlestown has experienced significant growth, with house rents increasing by 13.3% over the past year to $680 per week, while unit rents have risen 12.5% to $540 per week. This upward trend reflects strong demand and the suburb's appeal, making Charlestown an attractive option for both renters and investors seeking promising returns in a vibrant community.

Suburbs near Charlestown

Some popular suburbs near Charlestown include:

How does Charlestown compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Charlestown’s median house price is 3.8% higher than Kotara’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Charlestown have grown 0.8% higher than in Kotara.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Charlestown have grown 2.8% higher than in New Lambton.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Charlestown are selling 10.7% faster than in New Lambton.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby New Lambton are selling 53.4% faster than in Charlestown.

Common questions about Charlestown

  • Is Charlestown a nice place to live?

    Charlestown is a delightful suburb that offers a fantastic blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty, making it a wonderful place to live. With its vibrant atmosphere and strong sense of community, Charlestown is particularly appealing to families. The suburb is known for its welcoming environment and offers a variety of housing options, from spacious family homes to modern apartments, catering to diverse lifestyles. Its proximity to Newcastle ensures that residents have easy access to city amenities while enjoying the tranquility of suburban life.

    The suburb's lively vibe is complemented by a range of amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Charlestown Square, a major commercial hub, provides residents with everything they need right at their doorstep. Families will appreciate the excellent schools and parks in the area, which contribute to a high quality of life. Safety is generally not a major concern, and the community-oriented atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging among residents.

    While Charlestown offers many advantages, there are some trade-offs to consider. The bustling nature of the suburb can mean increased traffic, particularly around the commercial areas. Additionally, while the suburb is close to beautiful beaches and natural attractions, the popularity of these spots can lead to crowded conditions during peak times. However, for those who value a balanced lifestyle with access to both urban and natural amenities, Charlestown is a charming choice that continues to attract families and individuals seeking a vibrant yet peaceful place to call home.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Charlestown?

    Living in Charlestown can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you compare it to other areas in New South Wales. The median house price in Charlestown is currently $930,000, while units are priced at a median of $646,000. If you're thinking of renting, the average rent for houses is $650 per week, and for units, it's $550 per week. These figures suggest that housing costs in Charlestown are on the higher side, particularly when compared to the average wage in the area.

    The average annual wage in Charlestown is $91,000, which is relatively close to the average salary in New South Wales. However, with the median total household income weekly at $1,839, a significant portion of income would need to be allocated towards housing, whether buying or renting. This could make living in Charlestown challenging for those on an average salary, as housing expenses could consume a large part of their earnings.

    Overall, while Charlestown offers a pleasant lifestyle with its proximity to the coast and amenities, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, can be a financial stretch for many. It's important to carefully consider your budget and financial situation if you're planning to move to this suburb.

    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 Charlestown a good place to invest?

    Charlestown is shaping up to be a promising investment suburb, particularly for those interested in rental income. Over the past year, the suburb has seen a notable increase in rental prices, with house rents climbing by 12.6% and unit rents by 10.0%. This suggests a strong demand for rental properties, making it an attractive option for investors seeking steady rental returns.

    While the capital growth in median house and unit values has been moderate, with increases of 3.4% and 2.4% respectively, Charlestown's appeal lies in its rental market dynamics. The suburb's consistent rental demand indicates a stable tenant base, which can provide reliable income streams for property investors. Additionally, Charlestown's location and amenities contribute to its desirability, further supporting its potential as a solid investment choice.

    Overall, Charlestown offers a balanced investment opportunity with its combination of rental yield potential and gradual property value appreciation. For investors looking to capitalize on rental income while benefiting from steady growth, Charlestown presents a compelling option.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Charlestown

Currently, there are 129 real estate agents working in Charlestown—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 129 agents sold 28.5% of all properties in Charlestown 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 Charlestown typically charge a commission of 1.87% to 3.25%. 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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