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City suburb profile

City, also known as Canberra City or Civic, is the central business district of Canberra, the capital city of Australia. It serves as the vibrant heart of the city, offering a mix of commercial, cultural, and entertainment venues. The area is characterized by its modern architecture, bustling shopping precincts, and a wide array of dining options. City is home to key landmarks such as the Canberra Centre, a major shopping destination, and the Canberra Theatre Centre, which hosts a variety of performances. With its central location, City provides easy access to public transport and is a hub for government, business, and tourism activities.

City property market performance

City’s property market has shown stability in the unit sector over the past 12 months, with no change in median unit values, maintaining a median price of $590,000. The house market remains inactive, with no sales or price changes recorded. Over the past three months, 41 units were sold, but they are taking longer to sell, with a median of 117 days on the market, indicating a cautious buyer sentiment.

The rental market for units has seen a modest increase, with average rents rising by 3.3% to $630 over the last 12 months. The house rental market remains inactive, with no recorded changes or activity, reflecting the overall stagnation in the house sector.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$560K
Change in value
Past 12 months
N/A-2.4%
Sold
Past 3 months
N/A39
Median days on market
Past 12 months
N/A125
Average rent
Past 12 months
N/A$645
Change in rent
Past 12 months
N/A4.0%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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City demographics

City, located in the heart of Canberra, is a bustling suburb known for its vibrant urban lifestyle and youthful population. With a median age of 27, it attracts a mix of students, young professionals, and those seeking the excitement of city living. The suburb's central location offers easy access to government offices, educational institutions, and cultural attractions, making it a popular choice for those who value convenience and connectivity.

Housing in City is predominantly rental-based, with 62.9% of properties being rented. This high rental rate reflects the suburb's appeal to transient populations, including students and young professionals who prefer flexible living arrangements. The area is characterized by a significant proportion of couple families without children, accounting for 78% of the family composition, which adds to the dynamic and diverse community atmosphere.

The workforce in City is diverse, with many residents employed in professional and administrative roles, reflecting the suburb's proximity to Canberra's central business district and government hubs. The median total household income of $2232 per week indicates a relatively affluent community, drawn to the suburb's modern amenities and vibrant lifestyle. City offers a unique blend of urban convenience and cultural richness, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a lively and engaging environment.

City infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

City is experiencing continued evolution as Canberra’s central business district, with recent upgrades to public spaces, retail hubs, and dining precincts reinforcing its position as the ACT’s social and commercial centre. The completion and ongoing leasing of prominent mixed-use projects, such as those along City Walk and in the New Acton precinct, are enhancing amenities and providing new residential and commercial opportunities, likely supporting long-term property demand and urban vibrancy.

Accessibility remains a strength for City, with established transport links via Canberra’s light rail, major bus interchanges, and walkable connections to Lake Burley Griffin and parklands, which underpin its broad appeal among professionals and students. No significant new schools have been announced recently, but proximity to key educational institutions, including the Australian National University, is a notable draw. No major council or infrastructure changes impacting the property market have been reported at this time.

City rental market trends

The rental market in City, ACT 2601, shows stability in house rents with no change over the past year, while unit rents have experienced a modest increase of 3.3% to $630 per week. This indicates a steady demand for units, making it a viable option for renters seeking accommodation in the area.

Suburbs near City

Some popular suburbs near City include:

How does City compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median unit prices: City’s median unit price is 13.1% higher than Belconnen’s.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby O'Connor have risen 18.9% more than in City over the past year.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby O'Connor are selling 24.8% faster than in City.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in City have grown 5.1% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Canberra.

Common questions about City

  • Is City a nice place to live?

    City, nestled in the heart of Canberra, is a fantastic place to live for those who thrive in an energetic and dynamic environment. Known for its vibrant urban lifestyle, the suburb offers a delightful mix of modern amenities and cultural richness. With its central location, residents enjoy unparalleled access to a plethora of dining options, shopping precincts, and entertainment venues, making it a lively hub for both work and play. The suburb's proximity to key landmarks and public transport ensures that everything you need is just a stone's throw away, adding to its appeal for young professionals and students.

    Families considering a move to City will find a community that, while predominantly youthful, is welcoming and diverse. The suburb's vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its accessibility to green spaces like Lake Burley Griffin, providing a perfect balance between urban living and outdoor relaxation. Safety is generally not a major concern, although, as with any bustling city center, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during peak hours.

    However, living in City does come with a few trade-offs. The high rental rate reflects its appeal to transient populations, which might not suit those looking for long-term stability. Additionally, while the suburb is rich in amenities, the lack of significant new schools might be a consideration for families with young children. Despite these trade-offs, City remains an attractive choice for those seeking a lively, engaging environment with the convenience of urban living right at their doorstep.

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  • Is it expensive to live in City?

    Living in the City, ACT, can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you look at the cost of units and renting. The median price for a unit is around $590,000, which is a significant investment. Renting a unit will set you back about $630 per week, which is a considerable expense for many.

    In comparison, the average wage in the City, ACT, is approximately $113,000 per year, which is relatively high. The median total household income weekly is $2,232. When you compare this to the average wage across Australia, which is generally lower, it suggests that while incomes are higher in the City, ACT, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, aligns with these higher earnings.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in the City, ACT, you should be prepared for housing costs that reflect its urban setting. However, the higher average wage in the area helps to balance out these expenses, making it a feasible option for those earning a good income. It's important to weigh these factors to ensure that living in this central location fits within your financial plans.

    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 City a good place to invest?

    City presents a unique investment opportunity, especially for those interested in the rental market. While the median house and unit values have remained stable over the past year, the rental market for units has shown a promising increase of 3.3%. This suggests a growing demand for rental properties, particularly units, which could be appealing for investors looking for steady rental income.

    The stability in property values indicates a low-risk environment, making City an attractive option for investors who prioritize consistency over rapid capital growth. The suburb's central location and proximity to key amenities and employment hubs contribute to its appeal, ensuring a steady stream of potential tenants. This makes City a viable choice for those seeking reliable rental returns and a foothold in a stable market.

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Choose the right real estate agents in City

There are 87 real estate agents working in City, but they don’t all deliver the same results.

Some agents have a much stronger presence in the suburb, with just 5 agents handling around 22.5% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in City typically range from 2.13% to 2.56%. Comparing agents—including what they charge, what’s included, and how they structure their fees—is not only important when choosing an agent, the right structure can help ensure your chosen agent is motivated to achieve the best possible result.

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