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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.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$915KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
33.6%46.3%
Sold
Past 3 months
113
Median days on market
Past 12 months
17N/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

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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.

Common questions about Freshwater

  • Is Freshwater a nice place to live?

    Freshwater is a delightful suburb that offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, making it a wonderful place to call home. Nestled amidst lush greenery and rainforest-clad mountains, it provides a peaceful retreat while maintaining convenient access to the vibrant city life of Cairns, just a short drive away. The suburb's charming blend of traditional Queenslander homes and modern residences creates a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families and retirees alike. With its community-focused vibe, Freshwater is known for its friendly and inclusive environment, making it an ideal location for those seeking a tranquil yet connected lifestyle.

    Families will find Freshwater particularly appealing due to its proximity to quality schools and local amenities. The suburb's relaxed pace and natural beauty offer a perfect backdrop for raising children, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the suburb's family-friendly reputation. While Freshwater may not offer the bustling nightlife of a city center, it compensates with its strong sense of community and access to nearby natural attractions like the Barron Gorge National Park and the Great Barrier Reef.

    One of the trade-offs of living in Freshwater is the limited availability of rental properties, as the suburb is primarily an established residential area with a strong sense of homeownership. This stability, however, contributes to the suburb's charm and appeal, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. For those who value a peaceful environment and easy access to both nature and city amenities, Freshwater is a fantastic choice. Its unique blend of tranquility and connectivity makes it a sought-after location for families and individuals looking to enjoy the best of both worlds.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Freshwater?

    Living in Freshwater can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you look at the housing market. With the current median house price at $915,000, purchasing a home in this suburb requires a significant financial commitment. For those considering renting, the average rent for houses is $653 per week, which is a substantial portion of the median total household income in Freshwater, which stands at $1,867 weekly.

    When compared to the Queensland average wage of $2,000 per week, the median income in Freshwater is slightly below average. This means that while the suburb offers a beautiful and serene living environment, the cost of housing might feel a bit steep for some, especially if your income is around the median level for the area. It's important to weigh these factors if you're thinking of living in Freshwater, as the cost of housing can significantly impact your overall budget.

    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 Freshwater a good place to invest?

    Freshwater is showing impressive growth, making it an attractive option for property investors. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a remarkable increase in property values, with median house prices rising by 33.6% and unit values surging by 46.3%. This significant appreciation indicates strong demand and a competitive market, which is appealing for those looking to invest in real estate.

    In addition to the capital growth, Freshwater also offers promising rental returns. House rents have increased by 8.8%, while unit rents have gone up by 5.8% over the last 12 months. This steady rise in rental income suggests a healthy rental market, which is beneficial for investors seeking consistent returns.

    Overall, Freshwater's combination of substantial property value growth and rising rental income makes it a compelling choice for investors. The suburb's strong performance in both the sales and rental markets indicates a robust investment environment, appealing to those looking to capitalize on both capital appreciation and rental yield.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Freshwater

Choosing the right real estate agent in Freshwater can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 29 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 44.2% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.5% to 3.13%, 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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