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Darwin City suburb profile

Darwin City, the vibrant capital of the Northern Territory, is renowned for its tropical climate, multicultural atmosphere, and stunning waterfront views. Situated on the Timor Sea, it serves as a gateway to Asia and offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. The city is a hub for cultural festivals, outdoor markets, and a burgeoning food scene, reflecting its diverse population. With attractions like the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, Mindil Beach Sunset Market, and proximity to national parks, Darwin City is a dynamic and appealing destination for residents and tourists alike, offering a relaxed yet cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Darwin City property market performance

Darwin City's property market has shown stability over the past 12 months, with no change in median values for both houses and units. The median unit price stands at $405,000, while house sales have been minimal, with only 4 transactions recorded. The unit market has been more active, with 188 units sold, although units are taking longer to sell, with a median of 192 days on the market.

The rental market in Darwin City has seen some movement, with house rents increasing by 4.6% over the last year, averaging $680. In contrast, unit rents have remained stable at $600, indicating a steady demand for rental properties in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$400K
Change in value
Past 12 months
N/A-7.0%
Sold
Past 3 months
3175
Median days on market
Past 12 months
N/A195
Average rent
Past 12 months
$680$600
Change in rent
Past 12 months
4.6%N/A

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Darwin City demographics

Darwin City, the vibrant heart of Australia's Northern Territory, is known for its tropical climate, multicultural community, and dynamic lifestyle. With a population of 7,149 and a median age of 33, it attracts a youthful and diverse demographic, including professionals, families, and students. The city's proximity to Asia and its role as a gateway to the Outback make it a unique and appealing place to live.

The housing landscape in Darwin City is predominantly rental-based, with 77.3% of properties being rented. This high rental rate reflects the transient nature of the population, with many residents drawn to the city for work opportunities in industries such as tourism, government, and defense. The median total household income of $2,151 per week indicates a relatively high earning potential, supporting a comfortable urban lifestyle.

Family structures in Darwin City are varied, with 25.6% of households being couple families with children and 62.9% being couple families without children. The presence of one-parent families and other family types adds to the suburb's diverse community fabric. Despite the high rental rates, there is still a significant portion of the population who own their homes outright (7.6%) or with a mortgage (15.1%), reflecting a stable core of long-term residents who appreciate the city's unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.

Darwin City infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Darwin City has recently seen significant investment in public spaces and commercial infrastructure. Upgrades to the Darwin Waterfront precinct have improved recreational amenities, including expanded parklands and enhanced pedestrian access, that contribute to the suburb’s overall livability and attractiveness for both residents and visitors. The continued redevelopment of mixed-use commercial sites in the CBD is adding retail and hospitality venues, supporting employment growth and increasing foot traffic, which may boost demand for residential properties in the area.

Ongoing upgrades to key civic infrastructure, such as roads and urban landscaping along major corridors, further enhance the suburb’s appeal for both home buyers and investors. Darwin City benefits from proximity to government, education and cultural institutions, as well as the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens and waterfront amenities, supporting its status as a vibrant, walkable urban hub. There are currently no major changes to local school facilities or public transport routes, but long-term council plans continue to emphasise improved connectivity and urban renewal, underpinning steady property demand in Darwin City.

Darwin City rental market trends

The rental market in Darwin City has experienced modest growth, with house rents increasing by 4.6% over the past year to $680 per week, while unit rents have remained stable at $600 per week. As the capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin City continues to attract renters and investors with its unique lifestyle and economic opportunities.

Suburbs near Darwin City

Some popular suburbs near Darwin City include:

Common questions about Darwin City

  • Is Darwin City a nice place to live?

    Darwin City is a fantastic place to live, offering a unique blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty. This charming suburb is known for its tropical climate and multicultural atmosphere, making it a lively and welcoming community. The city's dynamic lifestyle is complemented by its proximity to stunning waterfront views and lush green spaces, providing residents with a perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. Families will find Darwin City appealing due to its strong sense of community and access to various amenities, including schools, shops, and recreational facilities.

    The suburb's vibe is enriched by its cultural diversity, with numerous festivals, outdoor markets, and a burgeoning food scene that reflect its eclectic population. Safety is generally not a major concern, and the suburb's walkability adds to its appeal, making it easy for residents to enjoy the local attractions. While Darwin City offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle, it does come with some trade-offs. The high rental rates and transient nature of the population may not suit everyone, particularly those looking for long-term stability. However, the suburb's ongoing investment in public spaces and infrastructure continues to enhance its livability and attractiveness.

    For families, Darwin City provides a vibrant environment with plenty of things to do, from exploring the Darwin Waterfront Precinct to enjoying the nearby national parks. The suburb's relaxed yet dynamic atmosphere is ideal for those seeking a balance between urban living and natural beauty. While the nightlife and trendiness of inner-city areas may be less pronounced, the strong community feel and access to cultural and recreational amenities make Darwin City a delightful place to call home.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Darwin City?

    Living in Darwin City can be considered moderately expensive, especially when it comes to housing costs. With the current median unit price sitting at $405,000, buying property here is relatively affordable compared to other Australian cities, particularly given that the median house price is currently unavailable. However, renting is where costs can add up, with the average rent for houses at $680 per week and units at $600 per week.

    When comparing this to the average wage in Darwin City, which is $78,000 per year, slightly above the national average of $73,000, it suggests that while the income level is decent, a significant portion of earnings might still go towards housing expenses. The median total household income weekly is $2,151, which indicates that many households might manage these costs comfortably, but it could be a stretch for individuals relying solely on an average salary.

    Overall, while Darwin City offers a unique lifestyle with its tropical climate and vibrant community, the cost of living, particularly in terms of rental prices, can be challenging. If you are thinking of living in Darwin City, it's important to weigh these costs against the benefits of residing in this dynamic and diverse urban environment.

    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 Darwin City a good place to invest?

    Darwin City presents a unique investment opportunity, particularly for those interested in rental income. While the median house and unit values have remained stable over the past year, the rental market tells a different story. Houses have experienced a 4.6% increase in rent, indicating a growing demand for rental properties. This trend suggests that investors could benefit from steady rental returns, especially in the housing sector.

    The stability in property values, combined with the rise in rental prices for houses, makes Darwin City an appealing choice for investors seeking consistent rental income. The lack of change in unit values and rents might indicate a more stable market, which could appeal to those looking for a less volatile investment. Overall, Darwin City's rental market dynamics offer a promising opportunity for investors focused on generating rental income, particularly through houses.

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