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Koonawarra suburb profile

Koonawarra is a picturesque suburb located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, approximately 20km south of Wollongong. Nestled along the western shores of Lake Illawarra, it offers residents stunning water views and a tranquil lifestyle. The suburb is known for its family-friendly environment, with several parks, schools, and recreational facilities catering to the needs of its community. Koonawarra's proximity to Dapto provides convenient access to shopping centers and amenities, while its natural surroundings offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. This serene suburb is ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle.

Koonawarra property market performance

Koonawarra's property market has experienced a notable increase in house values, rising by 6.2% over the past 12 months despite the absence of reported current median house and unit prices. Over this period, six houses were sold, with houses spending an average of 17 days on the market, indicating a brisk demand compared to units which saw no sales activity.

The rental market for houses in Koonawarra has seen a significant 10% rise over the last year, with average rent reaching $660. However, no rental activity was recorded for units, which aligns with the flat change in unit values and remains unchanged over the year.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/AN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
6.2%N/A
Sold
Past 3 months
6N/A
Median days on market
Past 12 months
17N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$660N/A
Change in rent
Past 12 months
10.0%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Koonawarra demographics

Koonawarra, located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, is a suburb that offers a blend of suburban tranquility and accessibility to natural attractions. With a population of 3,732, Koonawarra is a close-knit community where families form a significant part of the demographic. The median age of 36 suggests a balanced mix of young families and established residents, contributing to a stable and welcoming environment.

The suburb's family composition is diverse, with couple families with children making up 35.3% of the households, while couple families without children account for 31.6%. One-parent families also represent a substantial portion at 30.7%, indicating a supportive community for various family structures. This diversity is complemented by a small percentage of other family types, which adds to the suburb's inclusive nature.

In terms of housing, Koonawarra offers a variety of options. A significant portion of properties, 27.1%, are owned outright, reflecting a stable community with long-term residents. Meanwhile, 30.7% of homes are owned with a mortgage, indicating opportunities for new homeowners. The rental market is also active, with 42.2% of properties being rented, appealing to those seeking flexibility or temporary accommodation. The median total household income of $1,258 per week suggests a modest yet comfortable living standard, making Koonawarra an attractive option for families and individuals seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.

Koonawarra infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Koonawarra has a largely established residential character, with environmental living and low-density zoning supporting its appeal for buyers seeking space and a quieter setting. Its proximity to Lake Illawarra and the wider Wollongong area also underpins local desirability, particularly for families and downsizers looking for lifestyle access and reasonable connectivity.

Koonawarra Public School and nearby schooling options remain an important draw for family demand in the suburb. Reliable NBN fibre, 5G coverage, and strong car-based connectivity support day-to-day livability, while current market activity suggests ongoing interest in the area rather than major new supply pressure. At this time, there are no significant announced developments that are likely to materially change the property market in the immediate future.

Koonawarra rental market trends

The rental market in Koonawarra has seen growth, with house rents increasing 10% over the past year to $660 per week. However, the unit rental market remains flat with no change observed. Koonawarra offers opportunities for investors interested in house rentals, driven by the growing demand and limited unit rental activity.

Suburbs near Koonawarra

Some popular suburbs near Koonawarra include:

How does Koonawarra compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Koonawarra’s median house price is 9.9% lower than Kanahooka’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Kanahooka have risen 2.9% more than in Koonawarra over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Koonawarra are selling 32.0% faster than in Kanahooka.

Common questions about Koonawarra

  • Is Koonawarra a nice place to live?

    Koonawarra is a delightful suburb that offers a serene and family-friendly environment, making it a wonderful place to live. With its picturesque setting along the western shores of Lake Illawarra, residents enjoy stunning water views and a tranquil lifestyle that is hard to match. The suburb is known for its peaceful vibe, providing a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life while still being conveniently connected to essential amenities. Families will find Koonawarra particularly appealing, thanks to its abundance of parks, schools, and recreational facilities that cater to the needs of children and adults alike.

    Living in Koonawarra means having access to a range of outdoor activities, from fishing and boating on the lake to picnicking in the lush green spaces. The suburb's proximity to Dapto ensures that shopping centers and other amenities are just a short drive away, adding to the convenience of daily life. Safety is generally not a major concern in this close-knit community, where neighbors often look out for one another, contributing to a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

    While Koonawarra offers a peaceful lifestyle, it's important to consider some trade-offs. The suburb may not have the vibrant nightlife or cultural attractions of larger urban areas, which might be a drawback for those seeking a more dynamic social scene. However, for families and individuals who prioritize a quieter, more relaxed way of living, Koonawarra's charm and natural beauty make it an attractive choice. The suburb's established residential character and diverse family structures further enhance its appeal, providing a stable and inclusive environment for all residents.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Koonawarra?

    Living in Koonawarra may be considered relatively affordable compared to other parts of New South Wales, especially given its distance from a major city. The current median house and unit prices are not available, but the average rent for houses is around $660 per week. This rental cost is a significant consideration for those looking to move to the area.

    When comparing the local income to the state average, the median total household income in Koonawarra is about $1,258 per week, which is notably lower than the NSW state average of approximately $2,200 per week for full-time workers. This discrepancy suggests that while housing costs might be manageable, the lower local income could make it challenging for residents to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without careful budgeting.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in Koonawarra, it's essential to weigh the lower local incomes against the relatively moderate rental costs. While it may not be as expensive as living in a bustling city, potential residents should still consider their financial situation to ensure it aligns with the cost of living in this 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 Koonawarra a good place to invest?

    Koonawarra is showing promising signs as a potential investment suburb, particularly for those interested in the housing market. Over the past year, the median house value has increased by 6.2%, indicating a healthy appreciation in property prices. This growth suggests a steady demand for houses, which is further supported by a significant 10% rise in rental prices for houses. Such an increase in rental yield can be attractive for investors seeking consistent rental income.

    While the unit market in Koonawarra has remained stable with no change in median value or rent over the last 12 months, this stability might appeal to investors looking for less volatility. However, the real opportunity seems to lie in the housing sector, where both capital growth and rental returns are on the rise. The suburb's appeal is likely driven by its affordability and family-friendly environment, making it a desirable location for renters and buyers alike.

    Overall, Koonawarra presents a solid investment opportunity, especially for those focusing on houses. With its steady growth in house values and rental income, it offers a balanced mix of capital appreciation and rental yield potential. This makes Koonawarra an attractive option for investors looking for a reliable and growing market.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Koonawarra

In Koonawarra ,22 agents are actively selling property, but a small number do the heavy lifting. Just 5 agents handled 51.4% of all sales in the past year, giving them a strong presence and deep experience in the local market.

Commission rates usually sit between 1.63% and 2.63%. Comparing agents and understanding what’s included in their fee structure can help you find the right mix of service, value, and motivation—without compromising on outcomes.

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