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Lismore suburb profile

Lismore is a vibrant regional city located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, known for its lush landscapes and strong community spirit. As a cultural and economic hub, Lismore offers a diverse range of amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The city is surrounded by stunning natural attractions, such as national parks and the nearby beaches of Byron Bay. Lismore is also home to a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theatres, and festivals contributing to its dynamic cultural life. Its blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty makes Lismore an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.

Lismore property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,103,750Past 3 months

Property growth+15.9%Past 12 months

Lismore's property market has experienced notable changes over the past 12 months. House values have appreciated by 5.9%, with the current median house price at $617,500. Interestingly, unit values surged by 25.9%, although sales activity for units was minimal.

In the last three months, 28 houses were sold, with properties spending a median of 53 days on the market, highlighting a steady demand for houses. The unit market had limited sales, indicating less activity in this sector.

The rental market in Lismore has seen moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 6.4% and unit rents rising by 5% over the past year, pointing to a consistent demand for rental properties.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$618KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
5.9%25.9%
Sold
Past 3 months
281
Median days on market
Past 12 months
53N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$585$420
Change in rent
Past 12 months
6.4%5.0%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Lismore demographics

Lismore, located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, is a charming town known for its vibrant arts scene, lush hinterland, and welcoming community. With a population of 3,656, Lismore offers a blend of rural tranquility and cultural vibrancy, making it an attractive place for families, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life. The median age of 41 suggests a mature community, with a mix of long-term residents and newcomers drawn to its unique lifestyle.

The suburb's housing landscape is diverse, with nearly half of the properties being rented, indicating a flexible living environment that appeals to a variety of residents, including young families and individuals seeking temporary accommodation. Property ownership is fairly balanced, with 24.6% of homes owned outright and 25.8% owned with a mortgage, reflecting a stable housing market that accommodates both established homeowners and new buyers.

Family dynamics in Lismore are varied, with a significant proportion of one-parent families (36.5%), highlighting the suburb's supportive community environment. Couple families with children make up 28.5% of the population, while those without children account for 32.0%, showcasing a diverse family structure. Lismore's community is enriched by its cultural events, local markets, and natural beauty, making it a desirable location for those seeking a harmonious blend of community spirit and natural surroundings.

Lismore infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Lismore is undergoing a long-term rebuild and revitalisation following the 2022 flood events, with the council’s “Rebuilding Lismore” and broader CBD renewal strategies focused on restoring commercial activity, improving flood resilience and attracting new investment, all of which are expected to support property values over the medium to long term.[1][5] Council planning work on revised flood mapping and development controls, including temporary measures debated in local forums, is influencing where and how new housing and commercial projects can proceed and may shift demand towards less flood-prone parts of the suburb.[1][8]

Education and community facilities remain a drawcard, with established schools such as Our Lady Help of Christians in South Lismore supporting continued family demand despite recent disruptions.[9] Lismore’s role as the main regional centre in the Northern Rivers, with major retail, health, and employment services plus reasonable access to coastal areas like Ballina, underpins its attractiveness for buyers seeking affordability and amenity compared with nearby coastal towns.[3][5]

Lismore rental market trends

The rental market in Lismore has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing 6.4% over the past year to $585 per week, while unit rents have climbed 5.0% to $420 per week. As infrastructure develops and demand remains steady, Lismore offers promising opportunities for investors and renters alike seeking value in a regional setting.

Suburbs near Lismore

Some popular suburbs near Lismore include:

How does Lismore compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Lismore’s median house price is 76.4% higher than South Lismore’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Lismore have grown 1.8% higher than in East Lismore.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Lismore have grown 20.2% higher than in East Lismore.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Lismore are selling 15.9% faster than in Girards Hill.

Common questions about Lismore

  • Is Lismore a nice place to live?

    Lismore is a delightful place to live, offering a unique blend of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty. Nestled in the Northern Rivers region, this charming town is known for its lush hinterland and welcoming community. The suburb exudes a peaceful yet lively vibe, making it a fantastic choice for families and individuals seeking a harmonious lifestyle. With a strong arts scene, Lismore is a haven for creatives, boasting galleries, theatres, and festivals that enrich the local culture.

    Families will find Lismore particularly appealing due to its supportive community environment and access to quality education facilities. The suburb offers a diverse range of amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options, ensuring that residents have everything they need within reach. Safety is generally not a major concern, and the community spirit is palpable, making it a nurturing place for children to grow up.

    However, living in Lismore does come with some trade-offs. The area is undergoing a long-term rebuild and revitalisation following recent flood events, which may impact certain parts of the suburb. While this presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for growth and improvement, with new investments and developments enhancing the suburb's resilience and appeal. Additionally, while Lismore may not offer the immediate coastal lifestyle of nearby towns, its proximity to stunning natural attractions and beaches provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.

    Overall, Lismore is a wonderful place to call home, especially for those who appreciate a blend of rural tranquility and cultural vibrancy. Its strong community spirit, coupled with the ongoing revitalisation efforts, ensures that Lismore remains a desirable location for families and individuals seeking a unique and fulfilling lifestyle.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Lismore?

    Living in Lismore can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you compare it to the average income levels in the area. The median house price in Lismore is currently $617,500, which is relatively affordable compared to the Sydney market but can still be a significant expense for local residents. For those looking to rent, the average rent for houses is $585 per week, while units average around $420 per week.

    When we look at the income data, the median total household income in Lismore is $1,035 per week, which is significantly lower than the state average wage in New South Wales of about $2,085 per week. This discrepancy suggests that a larger portion of household income in Lismore would be allocated to housing costs compared to other parts of the state.

    Overall, while Lismore offers a regional lifestyle with its unique charm and community feel, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, can be a stretch for those earning the local median income. If you're thinking of living in Lismore, it's important to consider your financial situation and how it aligns with the housing market and average income levels in the area.

    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 Lismore a good place to invest?

    Lismore is showing promising signs as a potential investment hotspot, particularly for those interested in units. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a significant 25.9% increase in median unit values, indicating a strong demand and appreciation in this segment. This surge suggests that units in Lismore are becoming increasingly attractive to both buyers and renters, likely due to affordability and lifestyle factors.

    While the median house value has also risen by 5.9%, it's the unit market that stands out with its impressive growth. Rental yields are also on the rise, with house rents increasing by 6.4% and unit rents by 5.0% over the last year. This trend points to a healthy rental market, providing investors with the potential for steady rental income.

    Lismore's appeal lies in its balance of growth and affordability, making it an enticing option for investors looking for both capital appreciation and rental returns. The suburb's ongoing development and community amenities contribute to its attractiveness, ensuring it remains a desirable location for a diverse range of residents. Overall, Lismore presents a compelling case for investment, particularly in the unit market, where growth and demand are currently thriving.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Lismore

Currently, there are 36 real estate agents working in Lismore—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 36 agents sold 36.6% of all properties in Lismore 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 Lismore typically charge a commission of 2.17% to 3.25%. 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.

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