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Dapto suburb profile

Dapto is a growing suburb located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, approximately 15km southwest of Wollongong. Known for its picturesque setting, Dapto offers a blend of suburban living with easy access to natural attractions like Lake Illawarra and the escarpment. The suburb features a mix of residential developments, including family homes and modern estates, catering to a diverse community. Dapto Mall serves as the central shopping hub, while local schools and parks enhance its family-friendly appeal. With convenient transport links to Wollongong and Sydney, Dapto is an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Dapto property market performance

Dapto's property market has shown positive growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 8.8% and unit values rising by 3.8%. The current median house price stands at $786,000, while the median unit price is $648,500, indicating a healthy demand for both property types.

Sales activity has been robust, with 45 houses and 6 units sold over the last 12 months. Houses are selling relatively quickly, with a median of 23 days on the market, compared to 30 days for units, suggesting a slightly stronger demand for houses.

The rental market in Dapto has also seen increases, with average rents for houses rising by 4.3% and units by 5.8% over the past year. The average rent for houses is $600, while units command an average of $550, reflecting a steady rental demand in the area.

Median price - houses$780KPast 3 months

Median price - units$649KPast 3 months

Change in value - houses8.8%12 months

Change in value - units3.8%12 months

Houses sold35Past 3 months

Units sold6Past 3 months

Median DOM - houses21Past 12 months

Median DOM - units24Past 12 months

Average rent - houses$600Past 12 months

Average rent - units$550Past 12 months

Change in rent - houses3.9%Past 12 months

Change in rent - units3.8%Past 12 months

Dapto demographics

Dapto, located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, is a suburb known for its family-friendly environment and community-oriented lifestyle. With a population of 10,954 and a median age of 39, Dapto attracts a mix of families, professionals, and retirees who appreciate its balance of suburban tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities. The suburb's proximity to Wollongong and the natural beauty of the surrounding escarpment and Lake Illawarra make it an appealing choice for those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle.

Housing in Dapto is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 35.6% of properties owned outright and 39.0% owned with a mortgage. This reflects a stable community with a significant number of long-term residents. The rental market, comprising 25.4% of properties, offers options for those seeking flexibility, including young families and professionals. The suburb's family-oriented nature is further highlighted by the composition of households, with 40.9% being couple families with children and 37.0% being couple families without children.

Dapto's community is diverse, with one-parent families making up 20.4% of the population, indicating a supportive environment for various family structures. The median total household income of $1,475 per week suggests a comfortable standard of living, with residents enjoying the benefits of a suburban lifestyle while maintaining access to employment opportunities in nearby Wollongong. Overall, Dapto offers a welcoming and inclusive community, making it an attractive place for families and individuals seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Dapto infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Dapto is experiencing significant developments that are likely to impact its property market. The ongoing expansion of Horsley, a sprawling medium-density suburb to the west of Dapto's rail line, has made this area the fastest-growing part of the greater Wollongong region. This rapid growth is increasing housing supply and attracting new residents to the area, potentially driving up demand for properties in Dapto and surrounding suburbs.

The suburb's strategic location, with easy access to Lake Illawarra and proximity to Wollongong, continues to be a draw for homebuyers. Recent infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to the Princes Highway and ongoing development of commercial areas like Dapto Mall, are enhancing the suburb's livability and connectivity. These factors, combined with Dapto's historical significance and mix of residential and commercial zones, are likely to sustain interest in the local property market and potentially drive future growth in property values.

Dapto rental market trends

The rental market in Dapto has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 4.3% over the past year to $600 per week, while unit rents have risen by 5.8% to $550 per week. This steady growth reflects Dapto's appeal as a suburban area offering affordability and accessibility, making it an attractive option for both renters and investors.

Suburbs near Dapto

Some popular suburbs near Dapto include:

Common questions about Dapto

  • Is Dapto a nice place to live?

    Dapto is a delightful suburb that offers a charming blend of suburban tranquility and natural beauty, making it a wonderful place to call home. Nestled in the picturesque Illawarra region, Dapto is surrounded by the stunning escarpment and the serene waters of Lake Illawarra, providing residents with a peaceful and scenic environment. The suburb is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a strong sense of community that welcomes families of all shapes and sizes. Local amenities such as schools, parks, and the central Dapto Mall ensure that everything you need is conveniently close by, enhancing the overall livability of the area.

    The vibe in Dapto is relaxed and community-oriented, making it an ideal place for families looking to settle down. The suburb offers a variety of recreational activities, from leisurely strolls along the lake to enjoying a day out in one of the many local parks. While Dapto may not have the bustling nightlife of a city center, its proximity to Wollongong means that entertainment and dining options are just a short drive away. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the suburb's appeal as a secure and welcoming environment for raising children.

    However, living in Dapto does come with some trade-offs. The rapid development in the area, particularly in nearby Horsley, means that the suburb is experiencing growth, which could lead to increased demand for housing and potential changes in the local landscape. While this growth brings improved infrastructure and amenities, it may also result in a busier atmosphere over time. Despite these changes, Dapto remains a fantastic choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle, with the perfect mix of suburban comfort and access to natural attractions. Families will find Dapto to be a nurturing and supportive community, making it a truly nice place to live.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Dapto?

    Living in Dapto might be considered moderately expensive, especially when compared to other areas in New South Wales. The current median house price is $786,000, while units are slightly more affordable at $648,500. For those looking to rent, the average rent for houses is around $600 per week, and for units, it's about $550 per week. These figures suggest that housing costs in Dapto are significant but not as high as in some of the more central or coastal suburbs.

    When we look at the income side of things, the average wage in Dapto is approximately $74,000 per year, which is fairly close to the national average. The median total household income weekly is $1,475. If you compare this to the average wage in New South Wales, it indicates that while Dapto's housing prices are substantial, they are somewhat balanced by the local income levels. This means that living in Dapto might be manageable for those earning an average income, but it would still require careful budgeting, especially if you're planning to buy a property.

    Overall, Dapto offers a blend of affordability and lifestyle, making it a viable option for those seeking a suburban environment without the hefty price tag of more metropolitan areas. However, potential residents should consider their financial situation and housing needs to ensure they can comfortably afford the costs associated with living in 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 Dapto a good place to invest?

    Dapto is showing promising signs as a solid investment suburb, particularly with its recent growth in property values. Over the last 12 months, the median house value in Dapto has increased by 8.8%, which is a strong indicator of capital growth potential. This growth is complemented by a 3.8% rise in median unit values, suggesting that both houses and units are gaining traction among buyers and investors.

    Rental yields in Dapto are also on the rise, with house rents increasing by 4.3% and unit rents by 5.8% over the past year. This upward trend in rental income is appealing for investors seeking steady cash flow. The suburb's affordability compared to nearby areas, along with its family-friendly environment and ongoing infrastructure developments, make it an attractive option for both renters and buyers.

    Overall, Dapto presents a balanced investment opportunity with its combination of capital growth and rental yield potential. While it may not be the fastest-growing suburb in the region, its consistent performance and appeal to a broad demographic make it a reliable choice for those looking to invest in the real estate market.

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