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Goonellabah suburb profile

Goonellabah is a vibrant suburb located on the eastern outskirts of Lismore in New South Wales. Known for its lush landscapes and elevated position, it offers stunning views of the surrounding hinterland. The suburb is a hub of activity, featuring a range of amenities including shopping centres, schools, and recreational facilities. Goonellabah is popular with families and retirees due to its community-oriented atmosphere and access to essential services. Its proximity to Lismore provides residents with additional urban conveniences while maintaining a relaxed, semi-rural lifestyle. The blend of natural beauty and modern infrastructure makes Goonellabah a desirable place to live.

Goonellabah property market performance

Current median dwelling price$637,500Past 3 months

Property growth+12.1%Past 12 months

Goonellabah’s property market has seen notable growth over the past 12 months. House values have increased by 8.1%, with the median house price reaching $735,000. Although few units have been sold, unit values rose by 16.1%, reflecting strong demand despite limited supply.

Sales activity shows 79 houses and a mere 5 units sold in recent months. Houses are selling briskly at a median of 37 days on the market, slightly slower than units at 35 days, indicating quick turnover across the board.

Rents have risen substantially in Goonellabah, with house rents climbing by 8.3% and units by 9.1%, suggesting strong rental demand across both property types.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$735KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
8.1%16.1%
Sold
Past 3 months
795
Median days on market
Past 12 months
3735
Average rent
Past 12 months
$650$480
Change in rent
Past 12 months
8.3%9.1%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Goonellabah demographics

Goonellabah, located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, is a suburb known for its family-friendly environment and scenic surroundings. With a population of 13,351, it offers a blend of suburban tranquility and access to natural beauty, making it an attractive place for families and retirees. The median age of 41 suggests a mature community, with many residents enjoying the peaceful lifestyle that Goonellabah provides.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a significant proportion of home ownership, with 37.1% of properties owned outright and 33.1% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with a strong sense of homeownership. Renting is also a viable option, with 29.8% of properties being rented, catering to those who prefer flexibility or are new to the area.

Family dynamics in Goonellabah are diverse, with couple families with children making up 36.5% of the population, while couple families without children account for 39.9%. One-parent families represent 22.2%, reflecting a supportive community for various family structures. The suburb's median total household income of $1,318 per week aligns with its family-oriented nature, providing a comfortable living standard for its residents. Goonellabah's appeal lies in its balance of community spirit, natural beauty, and accessibility, making it a desirable location for those seeking a harmonious lifestyle.

Goonellabah infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Goonellabah continues to consolidate its role as Lismore’s main residential growth area, with elevated land prized for being above the flood-prone valley floor and offering long-range views, which supports buyer demand and underpins values.[1][4][6] The established shopping centre precinct, including major supermarkets and local services, functions as a de facto town hub, reducing reliance on the Lismore CBD and adding to day-to-day convenience for residents.[1][4][6]

Local schools and sporting facilities, along with proximity to the regional hospital and university in nearby Lismore, enhance Goonellabah’s appeal to families and health and education workers.[2][4] Council offices located within the suburb signal its importance in the wider area’s planning framework, while ongoing infill and fringe residential development indicate continued long-term growth rather than one-off projects, gradually increasing housing supply and reinforcing the suburb’s position as a key Northern Rivers residential node.[1][2][6]

Goonellabah rental market trends

The rental market in Goonellabah is experiencing steady growth, with house rents increasing 8.3% over the past year to $650 per week, and unit rents rising 9.1% to $480 per week. Ongoing development and a strong rental demand make Goonellabah an attractive option for both renters and investors seeking long-term returns in a thriving suburban area.

Suburbs near Goonellabah

Some popular suburbs near Goonellabah include:

  • Chilcotts Grass: Known for its rural charm and spacious properties, Chilcotts Grass is located to the northeast of Goonellabah.
  • Lismore Heights: Offering elevated views and a peaceful atmosphere, Lismore Heights is situated to the west of Goonellabah.
  • East Lismore: Known for its established homes and community facilities, East Lismore lies directly west of Goonellabah.
  • Lismore: Serving as a regional hub with diverse amenities and services, Lismore is located southwest of Goonellabah.
  • Richmond Hill: Featuring scenic landscapes and a semi-rural lifestyle, Richmond Hill is situated to the southeast of Goonellabah.

How does Goonellabah compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Goonellabah’s median house price is 6.5% higher than Lismore Heights’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Goonellabah have grown 2.6% higher than in Lismore Heights.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Goonellabah have grown 10.5% higher than in East Lismore.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Goonellabah are selling 5.1% faster than in East Lismore.

Common questions about Goonellabah

  • Is Goonellabah a nice place to live?

    Goonellabah is a delightful suburb that offers a harmonious blend of suburban tranquility and natural beauty, making it a charming place to call home. Nestled on the eastern outskirts of Lismore, it boasts a peaceful, semi-rural vibe that is perfect for families seeking a serene environment. The suburb is known for its lush landscapes and elevated position, providing residents with stunning views of the surrounding hinterland. This picturesque setting is complemented by a strong community spirit, making it a welcoming place for both families and retirees.

    Living in Goonellabah means enjoying the convenience of modern amenities while being surrounded by nature. The suburb features a variety of shopping centres, schools, and recreational facilities, ensuring that all essential services are within easy reach. Families will appreciate the proximity to local schools and sporting facilities, as well as the nearby regional hospital and university in Lismore. The suburb's relaxed atmosphere is ideal for those who value a slower pace of life, yet it remains well-connected to urban conveniences.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Goonellabah, contributing to its family-friendly appeal. However, residents should be mindful of the trade-offs that come with living in a semi-rural area, such as the potential for limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to more urbanized locations. Despite this, the suburb's community-oriented atmosphere and access to natural beauty make it a desirable location for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Goonellabah is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful, community-focused environment with the added benefit of modern infrastructure and amenities.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Goonellabah?

    Living in Goonellabah can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you compare it to other parts of New South Wales. The median house price in Goonellabah is currently $735,000, which is a significant investment, particularly for those earning the average New South Wales salary of around $108,000 per year. The absence of unit prices suggests limited options for more affordable housing types, which can impact overall affordability.

    When it comes to renting, the average rent for houses is $650 per week, while units, when available, average around $480 per week. These rental prices can take up a large portion of the median total household income in Goonellabah, which stands at $1,318 weekly. This suggests that while the area offers a pleasant lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of a capital city, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, may be a stretch for some.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in Goonellabah, it's important to weigh these housing costs against your income. While the suburb provides a peaceful environment, the expenses associated with living there might require careful budgeting and financial planning.

    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 Goonellabah a good place to invest?

    Goonellabah is showing promising signs as a solid investment suburb, with both house and unit values experiencing significant growth over the past year. The median house value has increased by 8.1%, while units have seen an even more impressive rise of 16.1%. This upward trend indicates a strong demand for properties in the area, making it an attractive option for investors looking for capital appreciation.

    In addition to property value growth, rental returns in Goonellabah have also been on the rise. Rent for houses has increased by 8.3%, and units have seen a 9.1% rise. This suggests a healthy rental market, which is appealing for investors seeking steady rental income. The combination of rising property values and rental yields makes Goonellabah a compelling choice for those looking to invest in real estate.

    Overall, Goonellabah offers a balanced mix of growth potential and rental income opportunities. Its recent performance in both property values and rental returns highlights its potential as a reliable investment suburb. For investors seeking a location with strong growth indicators and a robust rental market, Goonellabah is definitely worth considering.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Goonellabah

Choosing the right real estate agent in Goonellabah can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 64 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 35.2% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.17% to 3.25%, 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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