Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in East Ballina

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

East Ballina suburb profile

East Ballina is a picturesque coastal suburb located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, known for its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle. Nestled along the Pacific Ocean, it offers residents and visitors access to beautiful sandy shores, such as Shelly Beach and Lighthouse Beach, ideal for surfing, swimming, and leisurely walks. The suburb is characterized by its lush parks, scenic walking trails, and a welcoming community atmosphere. With its proximity to Ballina's town center, East Ballina provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it a sought-after destination for families, retirees, and holidaymakers.

East Ballina property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,088,750Past 3 months

Property growth+9.7%Past 12 months

East Ballina’s property market has shown positive growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 12.1%. The current median house price is $1.35 million, reflecting continued demand for housing in the area. In contrast, the median unit value has risen by a modest 3.7% over the same period.

Sales activity indicates that 15 houses and 9 units were sold in the last 12 months. Houses are selling relatively quickly with a median of 28 days on the market, while units are taking longer, with a median of 49 days, hinting at a softer demand for units.

The rental market in East Ballina has seen a moderate increase over the past year. Average rent for houses has risen by 4%, reaching $780, whereas unit rents have climbed by 8.3%, now averaging $650.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$1.41MN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
15.8%3.7%
Sold
Past 3 months
186
Median days on market
Past 12 months
2633
Average rent
Past 12 months
$780$650
Change in rent
Past 12 months
4.0%8.3%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

East Ballina demographics

East Ballina, located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, is a picturesque suburb known for its stunning coastal views and relaxed lifestyle. With a population of 5,882, it offers a serene environment that attracts both retirees and families looking for a peaceful place to call home. The median age of 48 reflects a mature community, with many residents enjoying the area's natural beauty and slower pace of life.

The suburb's housing market is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 46.1% of properties owned outright. This suggests a stable community with long-term residents who have settled in the area. Additionally, 25.3% of homes are owned with a mortgage, while 28.6% are rented, indicating a balanced mix of ownership and rental opportunities. The median total household income of $1,554 per week aligns with the area's appeal to those seeking a comfortable lifestyle without the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Family dynamics in East Ballina are diverse, with 33.9% of families being couples with children and 48.7% being couples without children. One-parent families make up 16.5% of the community, highlighting the suburb's inclusive nature. The area's natural attractions, such as beaches and parks, provide ample recreational opportunities for families and individuals alike, making East Ballina a desirable location for those seeking a harmonious blend of community and nature.

East Ballina infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

East Ballina continues to benefit from broader investment across the Ballina area, with ongoing upgrades to foreshore areas, shared paths and beach access around Angels, Shelly and Lighthouse beaches enhancing walkability and lifestyle appeal for residents.[1][7] Proximity to coastal recreation, the Richmond River and established retail and services in nearby Ballina supports strong local amenity, which in turn underpins buyer demand and premium house prices in the suburb.[4][8]

Improvements to local road connections and cycling routes linking East Ballina to the town centre and nearby employment hubs are gradually improving accessibility, which is a positive for both owner-occupiers and investors over the medium term.[7] There are currently no widely publicised major new transport lines, school builds or large-scale commercial redevelopments specific to East Ballina, but incremental enhancements to public spaces, paths and coastal infrastructure are likely to sustain the suburb’s desirability and property values.[1][7]

East Ballina rental market trends

The rental market in East Ballina shows moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 4.0% to $780 per week, and unit rents up 8.3% to $650 per week. This coastal suburb continues to attract attention due to its desirable lifestyle, making it a favorable choice for both tenants and investors seeking steady returns.

Suburbs near East Ballina

Some popular suburbs near East Ballina include:

How does East Ballina compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: East Ballina’s median house price is 44.1% higher than Ballina’s.
  • Median unit prices: East Ballina’s median unit price is 2.0% higher than Ballina’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in East Ballina have grown 5.1% higher than in Ballina.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Ballina have risen 8.7% more than in East Ballina over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in East Ballina are selling 39.5% faster than in Ballina.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in East Ballina are selling 21.4% faster than in West Ballina.

Common questions about East Ballina

  • Is East Ballina a nice place to live?

    East Ballina is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a serene and picturesque environment, making it a wonderful place to live. Known for its charming beaches and lush green spaces, the suburb provides a peaceful lifestyle that appeals to families and retirees alike. The community vibe is warm and welcoming, with a strong sense of belonging among residents. The suburb's proximity to Ballina's town center ensures that all necessary amenities, such as shopping, dining, and healthcare, are conveniently accessible, enhancing the overall livability of the area.

    For families, East Ballina is particularly appealing due to its safe and friendly atmosphere, coupled with ample recreational opportunities. The suburb's parks and scenic walking trails offer plenty of space for outdoor activities, making it an ideal setting for children to play and explore. While East Ballina may not have the bustling nightlife of larger urban areas, it compensates with its tranquil setting and community-focused lifestyle. The trade-off for this peaceful environment is the lack of major new transport lines or large-scale commercial developments, which some may see as a limitation in terms of rapid connectivity and urban amenities.

    Overall, East Ballina is a charming suburb that offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and community spirit. Its relaxed coastal lifestyle, combined with the convenience of nearby amenities, makes it a highly desirable place to call home. Whether you're a family seeking a nurturing environment or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, East Ballina provides a unique and appealing living experience.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in East Ballina?

    Living in East Ballina can be considered expensive, especially when you take into account the current property market. The median house price is around $1,350,000, which is quite high compared to many other areas in New South Wales. Renting isn't much cheaper either, with houses averaging $780 per week and units at $650 per week. These figures suggest that a significant portion of income would be needed to cover housing costs.

    When you look at the local earnings, the median personal income in East Ballina is approximately $42,000 per year, or around $814 per week. This is lower than the median total household income of $1,554 per week, indicating that dual-income households may find it more manageable. However, compared to the state average, these earnings might not stretch as far due to the high cost of housing in the area.

    Overall, if you're thinking of living in East Ballina, it's important to consider the financial implications. While the suburb offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is quite high, and you'll need to ensure your income can comfortably cover these expenses.

    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.
    Down Pointer
  • Is East Ballina a good place to invest?

    East Ballina is showing promising signs as a good place to invest, especially if you're looking for a mix of capital growth and rental yield. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a notable 12.1% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and potential for capital appreciation. While the growth in unit values has been more modest at 3.7%, the rental market for units is thriving, with an impressive 8.3% increase in rent over the same period. This suggests a healthy demand for rental properties, making it appealing for investors seeking rental income.

    The suburb's coastal charm and lifestyle appeal continue to attract both renters and buyers, contributing to its steady growth. The 4.0% rise in house rents also highlights the suburb's desirability and potential for consistent rental returns. East Ballina's combination of strong house price growth and robust rental market makes it an attractive option for investors looking for a balanced investment opportunity. With its beautiful beaches and relaxed lifestyle, East Ballina is well-positioned to maintain its appeal, offering a solid foundation for long-term investment success.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in East Ballina

There are 34 real estate agents in East Ballina, 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 61.2% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in East Ballina typically range from 1.88% to 3.25%. 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.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.