Freshwater suburb profile
Freshwater is a picturesque suburb located in the Cairns region of Queensland, known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. Nestled at the base of the rainforest-clad mountains, it offers a serene escape while still being conveniently close to Cairns city, just 8km away. The suburb is characterized by its charming blend of traditional Queenslander homes and modern residences, appealing to families and retirees. Freshwater is home to the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway station, adding a touch of heritage to the area. With its community-focused vibe, local amenities, and natural beauty, Freshwater is a sought-after location for those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle.
Freshwater property market performance
Current median dwelling price$622,062.5Past 3 months
Property growth+40.0%Past 12 months
Freshwater’s property market has experienced significant growth over the past 12 months, with house values soaring by 33.6% and unit values increasing by an impressive 46.3%. The current median house price stands at $915,000, while unit prices have not been recorded, indicating limited unit sales activity.
In terms of sales, 11 houses and 3 units were sold over the last 12 months. Houses are selling rapidly, with a median of just 17 days on the market, while unit sales data is insufficient to determine market trends.
The rental market in Freshwater has also seen notable changes, with house rents increasing by 8.8% and unit rents rising by 5.8% over the past year. The average rent for houses is $653, while units average $550, reflecting strong demand in the rental sector.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | $915K | N/A |
Change in value Past 12 months | 33.6% | 46.3% |
Sold Past 3 months | 11 | 3 |
Median days on market Past 12 months | 17 | N/A |
Average rent Past 12 months | $653 | $550 |
Change in rent Past 12 months | 8.8% | 5.8% |
5 year median price trend for houses and units
Freshwater demographics
Freshwater, located in the tropical region of Cairns, Queensland, is a charming suburb known for its lush surroundings and tranquil lifestyle. With a population of 2,142, Freshwater offers a close-knit community atmosphere, appealing to families and retirees alike. The median age of 42 suggests a mature population, with many residents enjoying the suburb's peaceful environment and proximity to natural attractions such as the Barron Gorge National Park and the Great Barrier Reef.
The suburb's housing market reflects a stable community, with a significant portion of properties owned outright (31.8%) or with a mortgage (39.0%). This indicates a strong sense of homeownership and long-term residency among its inhabitants. Rental properties make up 29.2% of the housing market, providing options for those seeking flexibility or temporary accommodation in this picturesque locale.
Family dynamics in Freshwater are diverse, with couple families without children making up 40.7% of the households, closely followed by couple families with children at 36.8%. One-parent families account for 21.5%, highlighting the suburb's inclusive nature and support for various family structures. The median total household income of $1,867 per week suggests a comfortable standard of living, with residents benefiting from the area's natural beauty and relaxed pace of life.
Freshwater infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities
Freshwater is primarily an established residential suburb, and there are no major publicly listed redevelopments or transport projects currently creating a clear step-change in the local property market. Its appeal remains tied to its leafy setting, access to Cairns amenities, and established family housing stock.
The suburb’s proximity to schools, employment hubs, and everyday services continues to support steady demand from owner-occupiers and families. At present, market movement is more likely to be driven by local supply and broader Cairns housing conditions than by any single large infrastructure project in Freshwater.
Freshwater rental market trends
The rental market in Freshwater has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 8.8% over the past year to $653 per week, while unit rents have risen by 5.8% to $550 per week. This steady growth reflects the suburb's appeal, offering a balanced lifestyle with proximity to natural attractions and essential amenities, making it an attractive option for both renters and investors.
Suburbs near Freshwater
Some popular suburbs near Freshwater include:
How does Freshwater compare to nearby suburbs?
- Median house prices: Freshwater’s median house price is 0.5% higher than Brinsmead’s.
- Median unit prices: Freshwater’s median unit price is 11.4% lower than Redlynch’s.
- House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Freshwater have grown 19.1% higher than in Redlynch.
- Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Freshwater have grown 11.3% higher than in Redlynch.
- Selling speed for houses: Properties in Freshwater are selling 32.0% faster than in Kamerunga.

