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Katoomba suburb profile

Katoomba is a picturesque town located in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant arts scene. As the gateway to the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and the expansive Blue Mountains National Park, Katoomba attracts nature enthusiasts and tourists year-round. The town boasts a rich history, with charming heritage buildings, eclectic shops, and a thriving café culture. Its elevated position offers breathtaking views and a cooler climate, making it a popular retreat from the hustle and bustle of Sydney. Katoomba's blend of natural wonders and cultural attractions ensures its status as a beloved destination for both locals and visitors.

Katoomba property market performance

Current median dwelling price$570,000Past 3 months

Property growth-5.1%Past 12 months

Katoomba's property market has shown modest growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 4.1%, bringing the median house price to $858,000. The unit market remains stagnant with no change in median value, reflecting limited activity in this segment.

Sales activity has been relatively low, with 56 houses and only 3 units sold over the past 12 months. Houses are taking longer to sell, with a median of 107 days on the market, indicating a slower pace in the housing sector.

The rental market in Katoomba has seen some movement, with house rents increasing by 5.5% and unit rents experiencing a significant rise of 13.4% over the last 12 months, suggesting a stronger demand for rental properties, particularly units.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$862KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
5.1%-15.3%
Sold
Past 3 months
483
Median days on market
Past 12 months
103N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$580$440
Change in rent
Past 12 months
5.5%15.8%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Katoomba demographics

Katoomba, nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With a population of 8,268, this suburb offers a serene lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The median age of 48 suggests a mature community, with many residents enjoying the tranquility and scenic beauty that Katoomba provides. The area is a popular destination for retirees and those seeking a peaceful environment, while still being within reach of Sydney.

The housing landscape in Katoomba is diverse, with a significant portion of properties owned outright (36.2%), reflecting a stable and established community. Additionally, 29.3% of homes are owned with a mortgage, indicating a mix of long-term residents and newer homeowners. The rental market, comprising 34.5% of properties, caters to those who prefer flexibility, including young families and individuals drawn to the area's natural attractions and community spirit.

Family dynamics in Katoomba are varied, with 31.6% of families being couples with children and 45.3% being couples without children. One-parent families make up 21.7% of the community, highlighting the suburb's inclusive nature. The median total household income of $1,171 per week reflects the area's affordability compared to metropolitan regions, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Katoomba's unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and community warmth makes it a cherished place to call home.

Katoomba infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Katoomba’s property market continues to benefit from its status as the administrative centre of the Blue Mountains, with recent upgrades to the Blue Mountains Hospital supporting local health infrastructure and enhancing appeal for families and retirees. The well-serviced train station on the Blue Mountains Line, combined with direct road links via the Great Western Highway, ensures strong connectivity for both commuters and visitors, underlining ongoing demand in the region.

While there are no recently announced large-scale residential or retail redevelopments, the suburb’s walkability, thriving retail and hospitality scene, and world-famous natural attractions such as the Three Sisters and Grand Cliff Top Walk maintain its desirability for home buyers and investors. Stable school options and the region’s focus on preserving lifestyle, amenity, and natural beauty continue to support consistent interest and long-term livability in Katoomba, with no significant council planning changes currently impacting property fundamentals.

Katoomba rental market trends

The rental market in Katoomba has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 5.5% over the past year to $580 per week, while unit rents have seen a significant rise of 13.4% to $440 per week. This picturesque suburb continues to attract renters and investors alike, offering a blend of natural beauty and a growing rental demand.

Suburbs near Katoomba

Some popular suburbs near Katoomba include:

How does Katoomba compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Katoomba’s median house price is 28.2% lower than Leura’s.
  • Median unit prices: Katoomba’s median unit price is 33.0% lower than Penrith’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Katoomba have grown 7.2% higher than in Leura.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Glenmore Park have risen 8.9% more than in Katoomba over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Katoomba are selling 38.3% faster than in Leura.
  • Investment considerations: In Katoomba, the rental yield for house is 33.4% lower than the Sydney average, while the rental yield for units is 41.2% lower.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Katoomba have grown 54.2% lower than the average rate of growth across Sydney.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Katoomba have grown 44.4% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Sydney.

Common questions about Katoomba

  • Is Katoomba a nice place to live?

    Katoomba is a delightful place to live, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountains, it provides a serene and picturesque environment that is perfect for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The suburb is known for its charming heritage buildings and eclectic shops, creating a quaint and inviting atmosphere. With a thriving café culture and a strong arts scene, Katoomba has a lively vibe that appeals to both locals and visitors alike. The cooler climate and breathtaking views make it an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, while still being within reach of Sydney.

    For families, Katoomba offers a welcoming community with a variety of housing options to suit different needs. The suburb's stable school options and recent upgrades to local health infrastructure enhance its appeal for families and retirees. While Katoomba may not have the large-scale residential or retail developments found in more urban areas, its walkability and thriving retail and hospitality scene provide plenty of amenities and activities. The suburb is well-connected by a train station on the Blue Mountains Line and direct road links via the Great Western Highway, ensuring easy access for commuters and visitors.

    Living in Katoomba does come with some trade-offs. While it offers a peaceful and scenic lifestyle, it may lack the nightlife and trendiness of inner-city suburbs. However, the suburb's focus on preserving lifestyle, amenity, and natural beauty makes it a cherished place to call home. Safety is generally not a major concern, and the community's warmth and inclusivity make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for a tranquil place to raise a family, Katoomba is a wonderful place to live.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Katoomba?

    Living in Katoomba can be considered moderately expensive, especially when compared to other areas in New South Wales. The median house price is currently $858,000, which is relatively high, particularly given that the median total household income in Katoomba is $1,171 per week. This suggests that a significant portion of household income would be required to cover mortgage repayments or rent.

    For renters, the average rent for houses is $580 per week, while units average $440 per week. This rental cost is substantial when compared to the average wage in Katoomba, which is approximately $92,000 per year. This wage is slightly below the average income in New South Wales, indicating that housing costs in Katoomba could strain the budget of an average earner in the area.

    While Katoomba offers a unique lifestyle with its stunning natural surroundings and cultural attractions, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, can be a challenge. If you are thinking of living in Katoomba, it's important to carefully evaluate your financial situation to ensure it aligns with the expenses involved in residing in this picturesque Blue Mountains suburb.

    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 Katoomba a good place to invest?

    Katoomba presents an intriguing opportunity for property investors, particularly those interested in rental income. Over the past year, the suburb has seen a modest increase in median house values by 4.1%, indicating steady growth in the housing market. While unit values have remained stable, the rental market tells a different story. Rental prices for houses have risen by 5.5%, and units have experienced a significant 13.4% increase in rent. This suggests a strong demand for rental properties, making it an attractive option for investors seeking reliable rental returns.

    The appeal of Katoomba extends beyond just numbers. Known for its stunning natural beauty and proximity to the Blue Mountains, the suburb attracts both tourists and residents who appreciate its scenic landscapes and relaxed lifestyle. This unique charm contributes to its desirability, ensuring a steady stream of potential tenants. While the capital growth for units has been flat, the substantial rise in rental prices indicates a robust rental market, which can be particularly appealing for investors focused on generating rental income.

    Overall, Katoomba offers a balanced investment opportunity. The combination of steady house price growth and strong rental demand, especially for units, makes it a promising choice for investors looking to capitalize on rental yields. Its picturesque setting and lifestyle appeal further enhance its investment potential, providing a unique blend of stability and opportunity in the real estate market.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Katoomba

Choosing the right real estate agent in Katoomba can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 52 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 35.9% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2% to 2.75%, 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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