Kempsey suburb profile
Kempsey is a charming town located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, known for its rich history and vibrant community spirit. Nestled along the banks of the Macleay River, Kempsey offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with a range of outdoor activities and historical sites to explore. The town serves as a gateway to the stunning beaches of South West Rocks and the lush hinterlands, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. With a strong agricultural base and a growing arts scene, Kempsey provides a welcoming environment for families, retirees, and visitors seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Kempsey property market performance
Kempsey's property market has shown no significant activity over the past 12 months. Median house and unit prices have remained unchanged, with values and rental rates stable at $0, indicating minimal market transactions. In the last three months, there have been only 5 house sales, and no unit sales, reflecting a quiet market environment. There is currently no data on median days on the market for both houses and units, signaling limited real estate activity in the area.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | N/A | N/A |
Change in value Past 12 months | N/A | N/A |
Sold Past 3 months | 3 | N/A |
Median days on market Past 12 months | N/A | N/A |
Average rent Past 12 months | N/A | N/A |
Change in rent Past 12 months | N/A | N/A |
Kempsey demographics
Kempsey, located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, is a small yet vibrant community with a population of 483. Known for its rich history and scenic landscapes, Kempsey offers a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The median age of 43 suggests a mature population, with many residents enjoying the tranquility and slower pace of life that the area provides.
The suburb's household income is modest, with a median total household income of $881 per week, reflecting the area's relaxed lifestyle and the presence of retirees and long-term residents. Family dynamics in Kempsey are diverse, with a significant proportion of one-parent families, accounting for 40.6% of the community. Couple families with and without children make up 27.7% and 31.7% respectively, indicating a balanced mix of family types.
Housing in Kempsey is varied, with a notable portion of properties being rented, comprising 53.6% of the housing market. This high rental rate suggests a demand for flexible living arrangements, appealing to both transient residents and those seeking temporary accommodation. Meanwhile, 30.4% of properties are owned outright, and 16% are owned with a mortgage, highlighting a stable base of long-term homeowners who value the area's affordability and community spirit.
Kempsey infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities
Kempsey continues to benefit from its role as the main service and administrative centre for the wider Macleay Valley, with ongoing investment in health, education and community facilities supporting steady local employment and underpinning housing demand.[4][8] The town’s position on the Pacific Highway and North Coast railway line ensures strong regional connectivity, supporting local businesses and making the area more attractive for commuters and families seeking relative affordability compared with larger coastal centres.[4][9]
Tourism-related amenities such as the Slim Dusty Centre, riverfront recreation areas and access to nearby beaches and national parks enhance lifestyle appeal, which can help sustain buyer interest in both residential and holiday properties.[4][9] Kempsey Shire Council’s broader vision for an “inspired, connected Macleay Valley” includes incremental upgrades to public spaces, transport links and community infrastructure, which is likely to gradually improve livability and support long-term property values, even in the absence of a single dominant redevelopment project.[8]
Kempsey rental market trends
The rental market in Kempsey shows stability with no change in both house and unit rents over the past year, remaining at $0. This stagnant rental environment suggests a lack of movement in demand and supply, requiring potential tenants to explore the local dynamics further.
Suburbs near Kempsey
Some popular suburbs near Kempsey include:

