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Grafton suburb profile

Grafton is a picturesque regional city in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, renowned for its historic architecture and vibrant Jacaranda Festival. Situated on the banks of the Clarence River, Grafton offers a charming blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The city is known for its tree-lined streets, heritage-listed buildings, and a strong sense of community. With a variety of local shops, cafes, and recreational facilities, Grafton provides a relaxed lifestyle while maintaining connectivity to larger urban centers. Its scenic landscapes and annual events make it a delightful destination for residents and visitors alike.

Grafton property market performance

Current median dwelling price$456,250Past 3 months

Property growth+13.2%Past 12 months

Grafton’s property market has shown robust growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 13.8% and unit values rising by 12.7%. The median house price has reached $515,000, while units stand at $397,500, indicating strong buyer interest in both sectors.

Sales activity over the last year has been noteworthy, with 62 houses and 11 units sold. Houses and units are spending similar time on the market, with median days of 42 and 39, respectively, suggesting steady demand.

The rental market in Grafton has also seen significant growth, with house rents increasing by 10.4% and unit rents by 10.0%, reflecting a vibrant and competitive rental market.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$515K$398K
Change in value
Past 12 months
13.8%12.7%
Sold
Past 3 months
6211
Median days on market
Past 12 months
4239
Average rent
Past 12 months
$530$440
Change in rent
Past 12 months
10.4%10.0%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Grafton demographics

Grafton, nestled in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, is a charming town known for its historic architecture, vibrant jacaranda trees, and a strong sense of community. With a population of 10,563, Grafton offers a relaxed lifestyle that appeals to families, retirees, and those seeking a quieter pace of life. The median age of 44 reflects a mature community, with many residents enjoying the town's scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

The housing landscape in Grafton is diverse, with a significant portion of properties owned outright (36.3%), indicating a stable and established community. Additionally, 28.7% of homes are owned with a mortgage, while 35% are rented, providing options for both long-term residents and newcomers. The suburb's family composition is varied, with 32.7% of households being couple families with children and 41.4% being couple families without children, highlighting its appeal to a broad demographic.

Grafton's economy is supported by a mix of agriculture, retail, and public services, with the Clarence River playing a central role in the town's identity and lifestyle. The median total household income of $1,179 per week reflects the town's affordability compared to larger urban centers. Grafton's annual Jacaranda Festival, historic buildings, and natural attractions make it a unique and inviting place to live, offering a blend of tradition and tranquility.

Grafton infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Grafton is seeing ongoing investment in health and justice infrastructure, with the relatively recent Grafton Base Hospital upgrades and the modern correctional facility south of the city supporting stable local employment and underpinning housing demand. Continued works on the Pacific Highway and Clarence Valley road network have improved regional connectivity to larger employment hubs, which may enhance Grafton’s appeal for commuters and businesses over the longer term.

Council planning in the broader Clarence Valley continues to focus on flood resilience, town centre renewal, and protection of heritage streetscapes, which is likely to support buyer confidence in established residential areas. Proximity to the Clarence River, local parks, schools, and the regional gallery and civic precinct helps maintain Grafton’s attractiveness for families and retirees, supporting steady demand for both houses and units. Overall, there are no single transformative projects at present, but incremental upgrades and strategic planning are contributing to gradual improvements in livability and long-term property market stability.

Grafton rental market trends

The rental market is experiencing healthy growth, with house rents increasing 10.4% over the past year to $530 per week, while unit rents have climbed by 10.0% to $440 per week. Grafton's appeal continues to rise, supported by its community charm and potential for investment, making it a favorable option for both tenants and investors.

Suburbs near Grafton

Some popular suburbs near Grafton include:

How does Grafton compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Grafton’s median house price is 4.1% higher than South Grafton’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Grafton have grown 4.9% higher than in South Grafton.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Grafton are selling 6.7% faster than in Junction Hill.

Common questions about Grafton

  • Is Grafton a nice place to live?

    Grafton is a delightful place to call home, offering a peaceful and family-friendly environment that is perfect for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle. This charming town is known for its welcoming community and scenic beauty, making it an ideal location for families and retirees alike. With its tree-lined streets and heritage buildings, Grafton exudes a sense of history and tradition that adds to its unique charm. The town provides easy access to local amenities, including shops, cafes, and recreational facilities, ensuring that residents have everything they need within reach.

    Families will find Grafton particularly appealing due to its strong community spirit and the availability of quality schools and parks. The town's proximity to the Clarence River offers opportunities for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls along the riverbanks. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the overall sense of tranquility that Grafton provides. While the town may not offer the bustling nightlife of larger urban centers, it compensates with its rich cultural heritage and annual events that bring the community together.

    Living in Grafton does come with some trade-offs. The town's quieter pace may not suit those seeking the excitement and convenience of city living. Additionally, while Grafton is well-connected to larger employment hubs, the commute might be a consideration for those working outside the area. However, for those who value a serene lifestyle with a strong sense of community and access to natural beauty, Grafton is a wonderful place to live.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Grafton?

    Living in Grafton is relatively affordable compared to many other areas in New South Wales. The current median house price is $515,000, and for units, it's $397,500. These prices are quite reasonable when you consider the broader property market across the state. Renting is also manageable, with the average rent for houses being $530 per week and units at $440 per week.

    When it comes to income, households in Grafton have a median total income of $1,179 per week. This is lower than the New South Wales state average salary of about $108,000 per year for full-time adult workers. Given these figures, the cost of living in Grafton, particularly in terms of housing, is more accessible than in many other parts of the state. If you are thinking of living in Grafton, it offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing the charm and amenities of a regional town.

    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 Grafton a good place to invest?

    Grafton is showing promising signs as a good place to invest, especially with the recent growth in property values and rental returns. Over the past year, the median house value in Grafton has increased by 13.8%, while units have seen a 12.7% rise. This indicates a strong demand for properties in the area, which is a positive sign for potential investors looking for capital growth.

    Additionally, rental yields in Grafton have been on the rise, with house rents increasing by 10.4% and unit rents by 10.0% over the last 12 months. This suggests a healthy rental market, making it an attractive option for those seeking steady rental income. The combination of rising property values and rental returns points to a robust investment environment.

    Overall, Grafton offers a compelling mix of growth potential and rental income opportunities. Its recent performance in both property value and rental increases makes it a suburb worth considering for investors looking to capitalize on the current market trends. With its strong growth trajectory, Grafton stands out as a solid investment choice.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Grafton

In Grafton ,25 agents are actively selling property, but a small number do the heavy lifting. Just 5 agents handled 53.3% of all sales in the past year, giving them a strong presence and deep experience in the local market.

Commission rates usually sit between 1.88% and 3.25%. Comparing agents and understanding what’s included in their fee structure can help you find the right mix of service, value, and motivation—without compromising on outcomes.

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