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Macleay Island suburb profile

Macleay Island is a serene and picturesque island located in Moreton Bay, Queensland, offering a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly community, the island is a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning waterfront views, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife, Macleay Island attracts nature lovers and retirees. The island provides essential amenities, including shops, cafes, and a golf course, while regular ferry services connect residents to the mainland. Its unique charm and laid-back vibe make Macleay Island an appealing destination for those looking to enjoy a slower pace of life.

Macleay Island property market performance

Macleay Island's property market has shown robust growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 11%, bringing the median house price to $490,000. The unit market remains largely inactive, with no significant sales or price changes recorded. Over the past three months, 43 houses were sold, while only one unit transaction took place, highlighting a strong preference for houses in the area.

Houses on Macleay Island are taking longer to sell, with a median of 85 days on the market, indicating a slower pace in buyer decision-making. The unit market's inactivity is reflected in the absence of median days on market data.

The rental market for houses has seen a notable increase, with average rents rising by 8.3% to $455 over the last 12 months. The unit rental market remains stagnant, with no recorded changes in rent prices, underscoring the limited activity in this segment.

Median price - houses$513KPast 3 months

Median price - units$0Past 3 months

Change in value - houses19.1%12 months

Change in value - unitsN/A12 months

Houses sold38Past 3 months

Units sold1Past 3 months

Median DOM - houses73Past 12 months

Median DOM - unitsN/APast 12 months

Average rent - housesN/APast 12 months

Average rent - unitsN/APast 12 months

Change in rent - houses12.2%Past 12 months

Change in rent - unitsN/APast 12 months

Macleay Island demographics

Macleay Island, located in Queensland's Moreton Bay, offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, attracting a predominantly older population. With a median age of 62, the island is a haven for retirees and those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The island's natural beauty, combined with its relaxed atmosphere, makes it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy their golden years in tranquility.

The community on Macleay Island is characterized by a high percentage of couple families without children, accounting for 64.5% of the population. This demographic trend is indicative of the island's appeal to empty nesters and retirees. The median total household income is $755 per week, reflecting the island's laid-back lifestyle and the prevalence of retirees who may rely on fixed incomes.

Property ownership on Macleay Island is predominantly outright, with 53.3% of homes owned without a mortgage. This high rate of outright ownership underscores the stability and long-term commitment of residents to the island. Additionally, 23.9% of properties are owned with a mortgage, while 22.9% are rented, offering a mix of housing options for those considering a move to this idyllic location. The island's community spirit, combined with its natural charm, makes Macleay Island a unique and appealing place to call home.

Macleay Island infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Macleay Island is experiencing several developments that could impact its property market. The Macleay Island Foreshore Project, set to be completed in 2024, aims to enhance public spaces and improve accessibility along the waterfront, potentially increasing property values in nearby areas. Additionally, upgrades to the island's ferry terminal and parking facilities are underway, which could boost connectivity and attract more residents and visitors.

The island's growing arts community and recent investments in local galleries and studios are enhancing its cultural appeal. This, combined with ongoing improvements to essential services like healthcare and education, is likely to sustain demand for properties. While no major commercial developments have been announced, the steady population growth and increasing interest in island living post-pandemic may drive future infrastructure projects, potentially influencing long-term property values and desirability on Macleay Island.

Macleay Island rental market trends

The rental market on Macleay Island has experienced growth, with house rents increasing by 8.3% over the past year to $455 per week. However, there is no data available for unit rents, indicating a limited or non-existent unit rental market. Macleay Island offers a unique lifestyle, attracting those seeking a tranquil environment with potential for future development.

Suburbs near Macleay Island

Some popular suburbs near Macleay Island include:

Common questions about Macleay Island

  • Is Macleay Island a nice place to live?

    Macleay Island is a delightful place to live, offering a unique blend of island charm and community warmth. Nestled in Moreton Bay, it provides a peaceful and picturesque setting that is perfect for families and individuals seeking a slower pace of life. The island's natural beauty, with its lush landscapes and stunning waterfront views, creates a serene environment that is both relaxing and invigorating. The community is known for its friendliness and welcoming spirit, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.

    Families will find Macleay Island to be a supportive and safe environment, with essential amenities such as shops, cafes, and recreational facilities readily available. The island's proximity to the mainland, thanks to regular ferry services, ensures that residents can easily access additional services and entertainment options when needed. While the island may not offer the bustling nightlife of a city, its tranquil lifestyle and community-focused events provide ample opportunities for socializing and leisure.

    One trade-off of living on Macleay Island is the limited availability of certain amenities compared to urban areas. However, this is balanced by the island's charm and the opportunity to enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle. The ongoing developments, such as the Macleay Island Foreshore Project, promise to enhance the island's appeal further, making it an increasingly attractive place to live. For those who value a strong sense of community, natural beauty, and a peaceful environment, Macleay Island is a wonderful choice.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Macleay Island?

    Living on Macleay Island can be seen as relatively affordable, especially when compared to more urban areas in Queensland. The current median house price is $490,000, which is quite reasonable compared to the higher property prices found in larger cities. However, it's important to note that the average wage on Macleay Island is approximately $38,000 per year, significantly lower than the Queensland state average of $85,000. This lower income level might make the cost of living feel more burdensome for some residents, despite the lower property prices.

    Renting on Macleay Island is also quite affordable, with the average rent for houses being $455 per week. This can be a viable option for those who are not ready to purchase a home. The median weekly household income is $755, equating to about $39,000 annually, which means that a significant portion of income could go towards housing costs. While Macleay Island offers a more budget-friendly option compared to many parts of Queensland, potential residents should consider the income disparity and ensure their financial situation aligns with the living expenses on the island.

    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 Macleay Island a good place to invest?

    Macleay Island presents an intriguing investment opportunity, particularly for those interested in the unique lifestyle and potential growth of island living. Over the past year, the suburb has seen a significant 11% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and a promising trend for capital growth. This surge suggests that the island is becoming more attractive to buyers, possibly due to its serene environment and affordability compared to mainland suburbs.

    While unit values and rents have remained stable, the rental market for houses has experienced an 8.3% increase, reflecting a growing interest in long-term living on the island. This trend could be appealing for investors looking for consistent rental income, especially as more people seek out tranquil, community-focused living spaces away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

    Overall, Macleay Island offers a unique blend of potential for capital appreciation and rental income, particularly for houses. Its appeal lies in its lifestyle offerings and the growing interest in island living, making it a worthwhile consideration for investors looking to diversify their portfolios with a distinctive property market.

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