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.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | $515K | $398K |
Change in value Past 12 months | 13.8% | 12.7% |
Sold Past 3 months | 62 | 11 |
Median days on market Past 12 months | 42 | 39 |
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
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.

