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.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | $940K | N/A |
Change in value Past 12 months | 3.0% | N/A |
Sold Past 3 months | 31 | 3 |
Median days on market Past 12 months | 69 | N/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
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.

