Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Kiama

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Kiama suburb profile

Kiama is a picturesque coastal town located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, approximately 120km south of Sydney. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Kiama is famous for the iconic Kiama Blowhole, pristine beaches, and lush rolling hills. The town offers a relaxed lifestyle with a strong community spirit, attracting families, retirees, and tourists alike. Kiama's charming town centre features a variety of cafes, boutique shops, and local markets, providing a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere. With its rich history, scenic landscapes, and welcoming community, Kiama is a sought-after destination for both residents and visitors.

Kiama property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,153,750Past 3 months

Property growth+1.9%Past 12 months

Kiama’s property market has shown stability in house values and growth in unit values over the past 12 months. The median house price has remained steady at $1.51 million, while unit prices have increased by 6.6% to $797,500, signaling stronger demand for units.

Sales activity included 26 houses and 16 units sold over the past three months. Houses take longer to sell, with a median of 69 days on the market, compared to 57 days for units, suggesting a quicker turnover in the unit market.

The rental market has seen moderate increases, with average house rents rising by 6.7% to $800 and unit rents increasing by 3.3% to $620 over the last 12 months, indicating steady rental demand.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$1.51M$798K
Change in value
Past 12 months
-2.9%6.6%
Sold
Past 3 months
2616
Median days on market
Past 12 months
6957
Average rent
Past 12 months
$800$620
Change in rent
Past 12 months
6.7%3.3%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Kiama demographics

Kiama, a picturesque coastal town in New South Wales, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Kiama Blowhole and pristine beaches. With a population of 7,904, Kiama offers a serene lifestyle that attracts both retirees and families seeking a peaceful environment. The median age of 52 indicates a mature community, with many residents enjoying the town's relaxed pace and scenic surroundings.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 48.6% of properties owned outright. This reflects a stable community with long-term residents who have invested in the area. Additionally, 27.4% of homes are owned with a mortgage, while 24% are rented, offering a mix of housing options for different lifestyles and preferences.

Family life in Kiama is vibrant, with couple families without children making up 53.4% of the family demographic, followed by couple families with children at 33.7%. The presence of one-parent families at 11.6% and other family types at 1.3% adds to the suburb's diverse community fabric. Kiama's appeal lies in its combination of natural beauty, community spirit, and a slower pace of life, making it an ideal location for those seeking a tranquil yet connected lifestyle.

Kiama infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Kiama’s local council is progressing a range of town centre and foreshore improvements, including upgrades to public spaces, walking paths and beachfront amenities, which are expected to enhance the suburb’s appeal to both residents and visitors.[1][4][8] Ongoing investment in tourism infrastructure around attractions such as the Kiama Blowhole and coastal walk is likely to support hospitality and retail activity, underpinning demand for short-stay accommodation and bolstering investor interest.[1][4]

Transport connectivity remains a key strength for Kiama, with rail links to Wollongong and Sydney and access via the Princes Highway supporting commuter buyers and lifestyle relocators.[1][2] The council’s longer-term strategic focus on managing growth while preserving village character and scenic coastal and rural landscapes may constrain high-density development but support capital values by maintaining Kiama’s distinctive appeal.[1][2][8]

Kiama rental market trends

The rental market in Kiama has shown moderate growth, with house rents increasing 6.7% over the past year to $800 per week, and unit rents rising 3.3% to $620 per week. With its scenic coastal location and a steady demand, Kiama continues to be an attractive destination for renters and investors seeking a blend of lifestyle and investment potential.

Suburbs near Kiama

Some popular suburbs near Kiama include:

How does Kiama compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Kiama’s median house price is 15.3% higher than Kiama Downs’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Kiama have grown 12.1% higher than in Kiama Heights.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in nearby Kiama Heights are selling 7.2% faster than in Kiama.

Common questions about Kiama

  • Is Kiama a nice place to live?

    Kiama is a delightful place to live, offering a serene coastal lifestyle that is both charming and inviting. This beautiful suburb is known for its relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families who appreciate a slower pace of life. The community vibe is strong, with a welcoming spirit that makes newcomers feel right at home. Kiama's proximity to essential amenities, including schools, shops, and cafes, ensures that residents have everything they need within easy reach. The suburb's safety and community-oriented environment make it particularly appealing for families looking to settle down in a peaceful setting.

    While Kiama offers a fantastic lifestyle, there are some trade-offs to consider. The focus on preserving its village character and scenic landscapes means that high-density development is limited, which can impact housing availability and variety. However, this also supports property values and maintains the suburb's unique appeal. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Kiama provides plenty of opportunities with its beautiful beaches and parks, perfect for leisurely strolls or family picnics. The suburb's connectivity via rail links to Wollongong and Sydney is a significant advantage for commuters and those seeking a balance between coastal living and city access.

    Overall, Kiama is a wonderful place to call home, especially for families who value a strong community, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. While it may not offer the hustle and bustle of a city, its peaceful environment and friendly atmosphere more than make up for it, providing a unique and fulfilling living experience.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Kiama?

    Living in Kiama can be quite costly, especially when you look at the current property market. The median house price is around $1,510,000, which is significantly high compared to many other areas. If you're considering renting, houses average about $800 per week, while units are slightly more affordable at $620 per week. This indicates that housing, whether buying or renting, demands a significant financial commitment.

    When we compare these figures to the local income data, the average annual wage in Kiama is approximately $78,000. This suggests that a considerable portion of one's income would need to be allocated to housing costs, especially when the median total household income weekly is $1,572. In comparison, the average wage in New South Wales is slightly higher, which means living in Kiama could be more financially challenging for those earning an average salary.

    Overall, while Kiama offers stunning coastal views and a relaxed lifestyle, the cost of living, particularly regarding housing, is on the higher side. If you're thinking of living in Kiama, it's essential to evaluate your financial situation to ensure it aligns with the expenses associated with this picturesque 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.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Kiama a good place to invest?

    Kiama presents an intriguing opportunity for property investors, especially those interested in the unit market. Over the past year, the median unit value in Kiama has increased by 6.6%, indicating a strong demand for this type of property. This growth is complemented by a 3.3% rise in unit rents, suggesting a healthy rental market that could provide consistent income for investors.

    While the median house value has remained stable with no change over the last 12 months, the rental market for houses has seen a significant 6.7% increase. This suggests that while capital growth in house prices may be currently stagnant, the rental demand is robust, offering potential for steady rental returns. Kiama's coastal charm, combined with its relaxed lifestyle and proximity to Sydney, makes it an attractive location for both renters and buyers, which could drive future demand.

    Overall, Kiama offers a balanced investment landscape. The unit market shows promising growth, while the rental market for houses remains strong. For investors seeking a mix of rental income and potential capital appreciation, Kiama could be a worthwhile consideration.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Kiama

Currently, there are 40 real estate agents working in Kiama—but not all agents deliver the same results. The right agent could make a huge difference to your final sale price.

Only 5 out of these 40 agents sold 42.9% of all properties in Kiama over the past year. Choosing one of these top-performing agents means tapping into proven expertise for a better sale outcome.

Real estate agents in Kiama typically charge a commission of 1.63% to 2.63%. Negotiating a fair commission rate and the right structure can motivate your agent to work even harder, helping you sell for more and potentially saving you thousands of dollars.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.