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
Current median dwelling price$718,000Past 3 months
Property growth+0.1%Past 12 months
Dapto's property market has shown modest growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 3.2%, bringing the median house price to $838,000. The unit market remains largely inactive, with no significant change in median value and only one unit sold in the past year.
Sales activity for houses has been relatively strong, with 44 houses sold over the last 12 months. Houses are moving at a steady pace, with a median of 39 days on the market, indicating a consistent demand for houses in the area.
The rental market in Dapto has seen slight changes, with house rents increasing by 0.8% and unit rents rising by 5.0% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is $605, while units average $420, reflecting a stable rental environment.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price Past 3 months | $838K | N/A | 
| Change in value Past 12 months | 3.2% | N/A | 
| Sold Past 3 months | 44 | 1 | 
| Median days on market Past 12 months | 39 | N/A | 
| Average rent Past 12 months | $605 | $420 | 
| Change in rent Past 12 months | 0.8% | 5.0% | 
5 year median price trend for houses and units
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 modest growth, with house rents increasing by 0.8% over the past year to $605 per week, while unit rents have seen a more significant rise of 5% to $420 per week. As a suburb with steady demand and potential for future growth, Dapto offers opportunities for both renters and investors seeking affordable options in the region.
Suburbs near Dapto
Some popular suburbs near Dapto include:
How does Dapto compare to nearby suburbs?
- Median house prices: Dapto’s median house price is 4.8% higher than Berkeley’s.
- Median unit prices: Dapto’s median unit price is 10.7% lower than Albion Park’s.
- House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Dapto have grown 1.4% higher than in Berkeley.
- Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Albion Park have risen 8.4% more than in Dapto over the past year.
- Selling speed for houses: Properties in Dapto are selling 15.2% faster than in Berkeley.

