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East Ballina suburb profile

East Ballina is a picturesque coastal suburb in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, known for its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle. Situated just a short drive from the Ballina town centre, it offers residents a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. The suburb is home to popular beaches like Shelly Beach and Lighthouse Beach, attracting surfers, families, and nature enthusiasts. With its scenic coastal walks, parks, and proximity to the Richmond River, East Ballina provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Its tranquil environment and community-focused atmosphere make it an appealing choice for those seeking a coastal retreat.

East Ballina property market performance

Current median dwelling price$940,000Past 3 months

Property growth-2.3%Past 12 months

East Ballina's property market has remained stable over the past 12 months, with no change in median house or unit values. The median house price stands at $1.27 million, while unit prices have not been recorded. Sales activity has been moderate, with 22 houses and 6 units sold in the past year. Houses are taking slightly longer to sell, with a median of 76 days on the market, compared to 74 days for units.

The rental market in East Ballina has seen some growth, with house rents increasing by 7.1% and unit rents by 4.7% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is $750, while units average $628, indicating a steady demand for rental properties in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$1.17MN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
-2.0%-2.6%
Sold
Past 3 months
183
Median days on market
Past 12 months
7174
Average rent
Past 12 months
$750$645
Change in rent
Past 12 months
7.1%7.5%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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East Ballina demographics

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

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 46.1% of properties owned outright. This reflects a stable community with long-term residents who have settled in the area. Additionally, 25.3% of properties are owned with a mortgage, while 28.6% are rented, providing a mix of housing options for different lifestyles and needs.

Family dynamics in East Ballina are diverse, with 33.9% of families being couples with children and 48.7% being couples without children. The presence of one-parent families, making up 16.5% of the community, adds to the suburb's family-friendly appeal. The median total household income of $1,554 per week suggests a comfortable standard of living, supported by the area's amenities and natural attractions. East Ballina's blend of coastal charm, community spirit, and lifestyle opportunities make it a desirable location for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling life by the sea.

East Ballina infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

East Ballina’s proximity to popular beaches and scenic riverfront continues to underpin strong local desirability, but there are currently no major new infrastructure projects or redevelopment announcements directly impacting the suburb. The wider Ballina region has seen some public space improvements and minor upgrades to local amenities, contributing positively to lifestyle appeal for home buyers and investors.

Recent trends indicate steady demand, supported by quality local schools, established retail options, and access to green spaces, while ongoing council maintenance of foreshore parks and walkways enhances liveability. No significant changes to transport, schooling, or large commercial developments are reported at this time. The area remains attractive due to its recreational amenities and lifestyle offerings, which continue to support property values and future growth potential.

East Ballina rental market trends

The rental market in East Ballina has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 7.1% over the past year to $750 per week, while unit rents have risen 4.7% to $628 per week. This coastal suburb continues to attract renters and investors alike, offering a desirable lifestyle with its proximity to beaches and local amenities.

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 15.8% higher than Ballina’s.
  • Median unit prices: East Ballina’s median unit price is 12.7% higher than Ballina’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in East Ballina have grown 8.3% higher than in Yamba.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Ballina have risen 18.8% more than in East Ballina over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in East Ballina are selling 12.3% faster than in Ballina.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in East Ballina are selling 33.3% faster than in 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 call home. Known for its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle, it provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. The suburb's charm lies in its community-focused atmosphere, where families and retirees alike can enjoy a peaceful yet connected lifestyle. With popular beaches like Shelly Beach and Lighthouse Beach nearby, residents have ample opportunities for surfing, swimming, and enjoying the coastal scenery.

    Families will find East Ballina particularly appealing due to its safe and welcoming environment. The suburb offers a range of housing options, catering to different lifestyles and needs, which is ideal for both growing families and those looking to settle down in a tranquil setting. The presence of quality local schools and established retail options further enhances its family-friendly appeal. While East Ballina does not boast the bustling nightlife of larger urban areas, it compensates with its strong sense of community and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

    Living in East Ballina does come with some trade-offs. The lack of major new infrastructure projects or large commercial developments means that while the suburb retains its charm and appeal, those seeking rapid urban growth or extensive public transport options might need to look elsewhere. However, the ongoing maintenance of foreshore parks and walkways ensures that the suburb remains a desirable location for those who value outdoor activities and a slower pace of life. Overall, East Ballina is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a balanced and fulfilling life by the sea.

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  • Is it expensive to live in East Ballina?

    Living in East Ballina can be seen as quite costly, especially when you consider the local property market. The median house price is around $1,270,000, which is a significant investment. If you're thinking of renting, the average rent for houses is $750 per week, while units average $628 weekly. These figures suggest that housing costs in East Ballina are on the higher side, particularly when compared to other areas.

    When we look at income, the median total household income in East Ballina is $1,554 per week. This translates to an annual income of about $80,808, which is slightly below the New South Wales state average wage of $85,000 per year. Given the high property prices and rents, residents may find that a significant portion of their income is dedicated to housing costs. This could make living in East Ballina a stretch for those earning around the average wage.

    Overall, while East Ballina offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is relatively high. If you are considering making East Ballina your home, it's essential to carefully evaluate your financial situation to ensure it aligns with the expenses associated with living in this desirable 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 East Ballina a good place to invest?

    East Ballina presents a stable investment opportunity, particularly for those interested in rental income. While the median house and unit values have remained unchanged over the past year, the rental market has shown significant growth. House rents have increased by 7.1%, and unit rents by 4.7%, indicating a strong demand for rental properties in the area. This makes East Ballina an attractive option for investors seeking steady rental returns.

    The suburb's appeal lies in its coastal lifestyle, offering beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere that attracts both families and retirees. This consistent demand for rental properties ensures a reliable income stream for investors. Although the property values have not seen growth recently, the rental market's performance suggests that East Ballina is a resilient choice for those prioritizing rental yield over immediate capital gains.

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Choose the right real estate agents in East Ballina

There are 29 real estate agents working 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 57.3% 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.

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