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Empire Bay suburb profile

Empire Bay is a picturesque suburb located on the Central Coast of New South Wales, offering a serene lifestyle amidst natural beauty. Known for its tranquil waterways and lush surroundings, it is a popular choice for families and retirees seeking a peaceful retreat. The suburb features a mix of charming cottages and modern homes, with easy access to local amenities and recreational activities. Empire Bay's close-knit community and proximity to beaches, national parks, and the vibrant town of Woy Woy make it an attractive destination for those looking to enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle while still being within reach of urban conveniences.

Empire Bay property market performance

Empire Bay has experienced a significant increase in house values over the past 12 months, with a 17.6% rise, yet the median house price and median unit price remain reported as $0, likely due to data limitations or low transaction volumes. Over this period, 8 houses were sold, whereas no unit sales were recorded, impacting market transparency.

Houses have been on the market for a median of 49 days. In the rental sector, the average rent for houses has stayed stable at $650, with no recorded change over the past year. No data is available for units, suggesting limited activity in the rental market for units.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/AN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
17.6%N/A
Sold
Past 3 months
8N/A
Median days on market
Past 12 months
49N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$650N/A
Change in rent
Past 12 months
-6.5%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Empire Bay demographics

Empire Bay, nestled on the Central Coast of New South Wales, offers a serene lifestyle with its picturesque waterfront views and close-knit community feel. With a population of 2,522, this suburb is characterized by its mature demographic, reflected in the median age of 42. This suggests a community that includes both established families and retirees who appreciate the tranquil environment and natural beauty of the area.

The suburb is predominantly composed of family households, with 46.1% being couple families with children and 37.2% being couple families without children. This indicates a strong family presence, supported by the area's family-friendly amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities. One-parent families make up 15.6% of the community, adding to the diverse family structures within Empire Bay.

Property ownership in Empire Bay is notably high, with 39.2% of homes owned outright and 43.0% owned with a mortgage. This reflects a stable housing market and a community invested in long-term residency. Only 17.8% of properties are rented, suggesting a preference for home ownership and a stable, settled population. The median total household income of $1,884 per week supports a comfortable lifestyle, making Empire Bay an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet connected community on the Central Coast.

Empire Bay infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Empire Bay benefits from established transport links, with regular bus services connecting residents to Woy Woy Station, nearby shopping centres and coastal villages, as well as ferry services operating from the local wharf, which supports commuter appeal and holiday-home demand.[6] Proximity to beaches, national parks and walking and cycling trails continues to underpin the suburb’s lifestyle appeal, which is a key driver of buyer interest in the area.[6]

Local amenities such as Empire Bay Public School and community sporting facilities, including the Empire Bay Tennis Courts, provide family-friendly infrastructure that supports stable owner-occupier demand.[4][8] There are currently no widely publicised major new infrastructure or redevelopment projects specific to Empire Bay, so near-term property market performance is likely to be driven more by its established coastal lifestyle, transport connectivity and broader Central Coast market trends than by suburb-specific construction activity.[6]

Empire Bay rental market trends

The rental market in Empire Bay has remained stable, with house rents maintaining steady at $650 per week and no significant change in unit rents. The absence of unit rental data may indicate limited availability, suggesting a strong emphasis on house rentals in the area.

Suburbs near Empire Bay

Some popular suburbs near Empire Bay include:

How does Empire Bay compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Empire Bay’s median house price is 14.9% lower than Davistown’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Empire Bay have grown 8.1% higher than in Davistown.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Empire Bay are selling 40.2% faster than in Daleys Point.

Common questions about Empire Bay

  • Is Empire Bay a nice place to live?

    Empire Bay is a delightful suburb that offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, making it a wonderful place to call home. Nestled on the Central Coast, it is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, providing residents with a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The suburb's charming mix of cottages and modern homes, coupled with its lush surroundings, creates a welcoming environment that is particularly appealing to families and retirees. The close-knit community vibe is one of Empire Bay's standout features, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its residents.

    Living in Empire Bay means enjoying the best of both worlds: a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy access to urban conveniences. The suburb is well-connected with established transport links, including regular bus services and ferry options, making commuting to nearby towns and cities convenient. Families will appreciate the local amenities, such as Empire Bay Public School and community sporting facilities, which cater to the needs of children and adults alike. The abundance of outdoor recreational activities, from beaches to national parks, ensures that there is always something to do, whether it's a leisurely walk or a day at the beach.

    While Empire Bay offers a tranquil and idyllic lifestyle, there are a few trade-offs to consider. The suburb does not have major new infrastructure projects on the horizon, which means that property market performance may rely more on broader Central Coast trends rather than local developments. Additionally, while the peaceful environment is a major draw, those seeking a vibrant nightlife or extensive shopping options might find the suburb quieter than desired. However, for those who value a stable, family-friendly community with a strong emphasis on outdoor living, Empire Bay is a charming and attractive place to live.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Empire Bay?

    Living in Empire Bay can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you look at the rental market. With the average rent for houses sitting at $650 per week, it can take a significant chunk out of the average household income. The median total household income in Empire Bay is around $1,884 per week, which translates to roughly $98,000 per year. This income level is slightly above the average wage in New South Wales, which means residents might find managing their expenses a bit easier compared to other parts of the state.

    However, it's important to note that the property market in Empire Bay currently shows a median house and unit price of $0, which might indicate a lack of available data or listings at the moment. This can make it challenging for potential buyers to gauge the real estate market's affordability. If you're thinking of living in Empire Bay, it's crucial to consider these factors and assess whether the rental costs align with your financial situation. Despite the higher rental prices, the suburb offers a peaceful lifestyle, making it a desirable place for those who can manage the costs.

    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 Empire Bay a good place to invest?

    Empire Bay presents an intriguing investment opportunity, particularly for those interested in capital growth. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a significant 17.6% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and potential for future appreciation. This growth suggests that Empire Bay is becoming increasingly attractive to buyers, possibly due to its appealing coastal lifestyle and proximity to larger urban centers.

    However, it's important to note that the rental market in Empire Bay has remained stable, with no change in rent for both houses and units over the last 12 months. This stability might appeal to investors seeking consistent rental income, although it also suggests that rental demand hasn't surged in the same way as property values. The lack of change in unit values could indicate a more cautious approach for those considering investing in units, as the market hasn't shown the same growth as houses.

    Overall, Empire Bay offers a promising opportunity for investors focused on capital growth, particularly in the housing market. While rental returns have remained flat, the significant increase in house values highlights the suburb's potential for long-term appreciation. As always, it's essential to consider your investment goals and conduct thorough research before making any decisions.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Empire Bay

Choosing the right real estate agent in Empire Bay can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 22 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 56.4% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.25% to 3%, depending on the agent and what’s included. Comparing both performance and fee structures can help you find someone who's well-suited to your needs, and set them up for a successful result.

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