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Kelso suburb profile

Kelso is a suburban area located in the city of Townsville, Queensland, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and natural surroundings. Situated approximately 20km southwest of the Townsville CBD, Kelso offers a peaceful residential environment with a mix of modern homes and established properties. The suburb is bordered by the Ross River, providing residents with scenic views and recreational opportunities such as walking trails and parks. Kelso is well-serviced by local amenities, including schools, shopping centers, and public transport, making it a convenient choice for families and individuals seeking a relaxed lifestyle within reach of urban conveniences.

Kelso property market performance

Property growth+24.6%Past 12 months

Kelso’s property market has experienced significant growth over the past 12 months, particularly in the housing sector. House values have surged by 21.6%, with the current median house price reaching $630,000. The unit market, however, remains stagnant with no change in median value, reflecting limited activity in this segment.

Sales activity has been robust for houses, with 51 sold in the past year, and they are moving quickly with a median of just 15 days on the market. In contrast, the unit market has seen minimal activity, with only one unit sold and no median days on market data available, indicating a lack of demand or supply.

The rental market for houses in Kelso has also seen positive movement, with average rents increasing by 8.2% over the last 12 months, now averaging $530. The unit rental market remains inactive, with no change in rent prices.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$625KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
20.2%N/A
Sold
Past 3 months
521
Median days on market
Past 12 months
16N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$530$490
Change in rent
Past 12 months
7.5%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Kelso demographics

Kelso, located in the Townsville region of Queensland, is a suburb that offers a blend of suburban tranquility and family-friendly living. With a population of 10,599 and a median age of 34, Kelso is home to a mix of young families and established residents. The suburb's appeal is evident in its family-oriented community, with 39.7% of households being couple families with children, and 34.4% being couple families without children. This balance of family types contributes to a supportive and cohesive neighborhood atmosphere.

The housing landscape in Kelso is characterized by a significant proportion of home ownership, with 23.5% of properties owned outright and 43.8% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with a strong sense of investment in the area. Additionally, 32.7% of properties are rented, providing options for those seeking more flexible living arrangements. The median total household income of $1,626 per week reflects a comfortable standard of living for many residents.

Kelso's community is further enriched by its diverse family structures, including 24.2% one-parent families and a small percentage of other family types. This diversity is complemented by the suburb's proximity to essential amenities, schools, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive location for families and individuals alike. With its welcoming environment and convenient location, Kelso continues to be a desirable place for those seeking a balanced lifestyle in the Townsville region.

Kelso infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Kelso benefits from its position within the wider Townsville growth corridor, with ongoing upgrades to key arterial roads and bridge connections along the Ross River improving access to employment hubs and retail centres in nearby suburbs. Enhanced connectivity to major shopping centres, health services and the Townsville CBD supports Kelso’s appeal to buyers seeking more affordable, larger-block housing while maintaining reasonable commuter links.

Local schools and community facilities in surrounding areas continue to receive incremental investment, which underpins Kelso’s family-friendly reputation and helps sustain steady demand from owner-occupiers. There are currently no widely publicised, game-changing infrastructure or planning announcements specific to Kelso itself, so the property market is being driven more by broader Townsville economic conditions, lifestyle appeal and affordability than by major new local developments at this time.

Kelso rental market trends

The rental market in Kelso has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 8.2% over the past year to $530 per week. However, there has been no change in unit rents, which remain at $0, indicating a potential lack of available units. Kelso continues to attract interest with its affordable housing options and community-focused lifestyle.

Suburbs near Kelso

Some popular suburbs near Kelso include:

How does Kelso compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Kelso’s median house price is 1.1% higher than Rasmussen’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Kelso have grown 3.2% higher than in Rasmussen.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Kelso have grown 4.5% higher than in Condon.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Kelso are selling 5.9% faster than in Rasmussen.

Common questions about Kelso

  • Is Kelso a nice place to live?

    Kelso is a delightful suburb that offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment, making it a charming place to call home. Nestled along the Ross River, this suburb provides residents with scenic views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking trails and parks. The natural surroundings contribute to a serene atmosphere, perfect for families and individuals seeking a relaxed lifestyle. Kelso's community vibe is warm and welcoming, with a mix of modern homes and established properties that cater to a variety of preferences.

    Families will find Kelso particularly appealing due to its proximity to essential amenities, including schools, shopping centers, and public transport options. The suburb's location within the Townsville growth corridor ensures that residents have convenient access to employment hubs and retail centers in nearby areas. Safety is generally not a major concern, allowing families to enjoy a secure and nurturing environment. While Kelso may not offer the bustling nightlife of more urban areas, it compensates with its strong sense of community and the tranquility of suburban living.

    One trade-off of living in Kelso is the distance from the Townsville CBD, which is approximately 20km away. This means that while the suburb offers a peaceful retreat, commuting to the city center may require some planning. However, the ongoing upgrades to key arterial roads and bridge connections along the Ross River are enhancing connectivity, making travel more convenient. For those who prioritize a balanced lifestyle with access to nature and a supportive community, Kelso is a wonderful choice.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Kelso?

    Living in Kelso can be considered relatively affordable compared to other parts of Queensland. The median house price in Kelso is currently around $630,000, which is quite reasonable when compared to the more expensive suburbs in the state. However, it's worth noting that there are no units available in the area, which might limit options for those looking for smaller or more affordable housing.

    When it comes to renting, the average rent for houses in Kelso is approximately $530 per week. This is a manageable figure for many, especially when you consider the median total household income in the area is $1,626 per week. However, when comparing this to Queensland's average weekly earnings of $1,995, it's evident that Kelso households earn below the state average, which might make the cost of living feel a bit tighter for some residents.

    Overall, Kelso offers a balance of affordability and suburban living, making it a viable option for those who are looking to settle in a more budget-friendly area without sacrificing the comforts of a house. If you're thinking of living in Kelso, it's important to weigh these costs against your personal financial situation to ensure it aligns with your budget and lifestyle needs.

    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 Kelso a good place to invest?

    Kelso is showing promising signs as a potential investment suburb, especially for those interested in the housing market. Over the past year, the median house value in Kelso has surged by an impressive 21.6%, indicating strong demand and a healthy growth trajectory. This significant increase suggests that the suburb is becoming more desirable, likely due to factors such as lifestyle appeal, amenities, or proximity to key areas.

    While the unit market in Kelso hasn't experienced the same level of growth, with no change in median unit values or rents over the past year, the housing market tells a different story. Rental prices for houses have risen by 8.2%, reflecting a solid demand for rental properties and offering potential for steady rental income. This makes Kelso an attractive option for investors looking to capitalize on both capital growth and rental yield in the housing sector.

    Overall, Kelso presents a compelling case for investment, particularly in houses. The strong increase in house values and rental prices suggests a vibrant market with potential for continued growth. Investors seeking opportunities in a suburb with upward momentum might find Kelso to be a worthwhile consideration.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Kelso

There are 111 real estate agents in Kelso, but they don’t all deliver the same results.

Some agents have a much stronger presence in the suburb, with just 5 agents handling around 23.2% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in Kelso typically range from 2.47% to 3.09%. Comparing agents—including what they charge, what’s included, and how they structure their fees—is not only important when choosing an agent, the right structure can help ensure your chosen agent is motivated to achieve the best possible result.

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