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Lake Cathie suburb profile

Lake Cathie is a picturesque coastal suburb located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, approximately 15km south of Port Macquarie. Known for its stunning lake and beachfront, the suburb offers a relaxed lifestyle with ample opportunities for water-based activities such as fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The area is popular with families and retirees, drawn by its natural beauty and community-oriented atmosphere. With local shops, cafes, and essential services, Lake Cathie provides a convenient yet tranquil living environment. Its proximity to larger towns ensures residents enjoy both serenity and accessibility.

Lake Cathie property market performance

Lake Cathie’s property market has shown modest growth, with house values rising by 4.3% over the past 12 months, setting the median house price at $925,000. The unit market remains stagnant, evidenced by a 0% change in both value and sales.

House sales activity has been consistent, with 40 houses sold, but properties are taking longer to sell, with a median time on the market of 76 days. The limited unit sales highlight subdued demand in this sector.

The rental market in Lake Cathie has experienced minimal movement, with house rents increasing by 2.9%, averaging $700. Unit rents remain unchanged, illustrating stable rental demand.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$940KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
3.0%N/A
Sold
Past 3 months
313
Median days on market
Past 12 months
69N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$700$420
Change in rent
Past 12 months
2.9%-6.7%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Lake Cathie demographics

Lake Cathie, a serene coastal suburb in New South Wales, offers a tranquil lifestyle with its picturesque beaches and natural surroundings. With a population of 4,296, it is a close-knit community that attracts retirees and families seeking a peaceful environment. The median age of 52 reflects a mature population, with many residents enjoying the relaxed pace of life away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 54% of properties owned outright, indicating a stable and settled community. Additionally, 28.3% of homes are owned with a mortgage, while only 17.7% are rented, highlighting the suburb's appeal to long-term residents and those looking to establish roots.

Family dynamics in Lake Cathie are diverse, with 31.6% of families being couples with children and 54.4% being couples without children. This mix of family types contributes to a balanced community atmosphere. The suburb's median total household income of $1,275 per week suggests a modest yet comfortable standard of living, aligning with the laid-back lifestyle that Lake Cathie is known for. Overall, Lake Cathie is an ideal location for those seeking a harmonious blend of coastal beauty and community spirit.

Lake Cathie infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Lake Cathie is seeing steady local change, with ongoing housing growth and lifestyle-oriented development adding to its appeal for buyers seeking a coastal family area. The suburb’s established shops, primary school and medical services support day-to-day livability, while its proximity to Port Macquarie continues to underpin demand.

A new primary school is reportedly planned, which would be a positive for family demand if delivered as expected. The local lake’s environmental decline has also been a recurring issue in public discussion, and any future management of this asset could influence amenity and longer-term buyer confidence. Overall, Lake Cathie remains attractive for its beachside setting and small-town feel, with infrastructure and community upgrades likely to support property interest over time.

Lake Cathie rental market trends

The rental market in Lake Cathie shows moderate stability, with house rents increasing 2.9% to $700 per week, while unit rents remain unchanged at $430 per week. The area's coastal appeal and relaxed lifestyle continue to attract residents, maintaining steady demand and presenting a balanced investment environment.

Suburbs near Lake Cathie

Some popular suburbs near Lake Cathie include:

How does Lake Cathie compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Lake Cathie’s median house price is 8.0% higher than Crestwood’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Lake Cathie have grown 2.5% higher than in Thrumster.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Lake Cathie are selling 26.6% faster than in North Haven.

Common questions about Lake Cathie

  • Is Lake Cathie a nice place to live?

    Lake Cathie is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle, making it a charming place to call home. With its beautiful beaches and serene natural surroundings, it provides a picturesque backdrop for daily life. The suburb is known for its friendly and welcoming community, which is particularly appealing to families and those seeking a slower pace away from the hustle and bustle of larger urban areas. The local amenities, including shops, cafes, and essential services, ensure that residents have everything they need within easy reach, while the proximity to Port Macquarie offers additional conveniences and opportunities.

    Families will find Lake Cathie an inviting place to settle, with its safe and community-oriented atmosphere. The suburb's ongoing development, including the anticipated new primary school, promises to enhance its appeal for young families. While the area is predominantly residential, the natural beauty of the lake and beachfront provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a haven for those who enjoy fishing, swimming, and kayaking. However, it's worth noting that the environmental health of the local lake has been a topic of concern, and future management of this asset will be crucial for maintaining the suburb's charm and livability.

    While Lake Cathie offers a tranquil lifestyle, it does come with some trade-offs. The slower pace and limited nightlife may not suit those seeking a more vibrant social scene. Additionally, while the suburb is well-equipped for day-to-day living, residents may need to travel to nearby Port Macquarie for more extensive shopping and entertainment options. Nonetheless, for those who value a close-knit community, stunning natural beauty, and a laid-back coastal vibe, Lake Cathie is a wonderful place to live.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Lake Cathie?

    Living in Lake Cathie can be quite a financial commitment, especially if you're considering purchasing a home. The current median house price is $925,000, which is a significant investment. This price point is relatively high, particularly when you compare it to the median total household income in the suburb, which stands at $1,275 per week. This means that a large portion of household income would likely go towards mortgage repayments.

    When we look at renting, houses in Lake Cathie average around $700 per week, while units are more affordable at $430 per week. Compared to the NSW state average wage of approximately $85,000 per year, the cost of renting a house would still take up a substantial portion of an individual's income. However, renting a unit might be a more budget-friendly option for those not ready to buy.

    Overall, while Lake Cathie offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, can be quite demanding. If you're thinking of living in Lake Cathie, it's important to consider your financial situation and how it aligns with the local property market and rental prices.

    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 Lake Cathie a good place to invest?

    Lake Cathie presents a stable investment opportunity, particularly for those seeking steady growth rather than rapid gains. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a 4.3% increase in median house values, indicating a positive trend in property appreciation. While unit values have remained unchanged, this stability can appeal to investors looking for less volatility in their portfolio.

    The rental market in Lake Cathie has seen modest growth, with house rents increasing by 2.9% over the last year. Although unit rents have not changed, the overall rental market remains steady, providing a reliable income stream for property investors. The suburb's coastal charm and relaxed lifestyle make it an attractive choice for families and retirees, contributing to consistent demand.

    While Lake Cathie may not offer the fastest capital growth, its steady appreciation and stable rental market make it a dependable choice for investors seeking long-term returns. The suburb's appeal lies in its tranquil environment and community feel, which continue to attract a steady population, ensuring ongoing demand for both houses and units.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Lake Cathie

Choosing the right real estate agent in Lake Cathie can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 43 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 57.8% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.63% to 3.25%, 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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