Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Oak Flats

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Oak Flats suburb profile

Oak Flats is a picturesque suburb located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, offering a serene lakeside lifestyle. Situated on the shores of Lake Illawarra, it provides residents with stunning water views and ample opportunities for water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. The suburb is known for its friendly community atmosphere, with a mix of established homes and modern developments. Oak Flats boasts convenient access to local amenities, including schools, shopping centres, and public transport, making it an attractive choice for families and retirees seeking a peaceful yet connected environment.

Oak Flats property market performance

Current median dwelling price$822,500Past 3 months

Property growth+2.4%Past 12 months

Oak Flats has experienced a robust increase in house values, with an 8.9% rise over the past 12 months, bringing the current median house price to $942,500. Units showed no change in median value, reflecting unique market dynamics, as indicated by their $0 median price in this period.

Sales activity has been notable, with 48 houses and only 8 units sold in the past 12 months. Houses are moving quickly on the market with a median time of 22 days, while units take longer at 42 days, suggesting differing levels of demand.

The rental market in Oak Flats also saw significant growth, with house rents increasing by 8.8% and units by 2.5% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses stands at $740, while units average at $500.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$943KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
8.9%-4.1%
Sold
Past 3 months
488
Median days on market
Past 12 months
2242
Average rent
Past 12 months
$740$500
Change in rent
Past 12 months
8.8%2.5%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Oak Flats demographics

Oak Flats, located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, is a charming suburb known for its family-friendly environment and close-knit community. With a population of 6,840, it offers a peaceful lifestyle while still being conveniently connected to larger urban centers. The median age of 42 suggests a mature community, with many residents likely enjoying the suburb's tranquil setting and family-oriented amenities.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 42.5% of properties owned outright and 32.8% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with long-term residents who value the security and investment of home ownership. Rental properties make up 24.7% of the housing market, providing options for those seeking flexibility or new to the area.

Family life is a significant aspect of Oak Flats, with couple families with children comprising 37.5% of the population and couple families without children making up 39.3%. One-parent families account for 20.6%, reflecting a diverse range of family structures. The suburb's community-oriented atmosphere is further supported by local schools, parks, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive choice for families and retirees alike.

Oak Flats infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Oak Flats benefits from its lakeside setting on the shores of Lake Illawarra, with ongoing improvements to foreshore parks, walking tracks and recreational facilities in the broader Shellharbour area enhancing lifestyle appeal and supporting buyer demand.[3] The suburb’s established residential character, combined with steady population growth in the Illawarra region, is encouraging incremental infill development and townhouse projects, which may gradually increase housing density and diversify dwelling stock over time.[3][6]

Access to nearby employment hubs in Shellharbour City Centre and Wollongong via existing road and rail links continues to underpin Oak Flats’ attractiveness for commuters, with its train station offering connectivity across the region.[3] Local schools and community amenities are largely established rather than newly built, and there are currently no widely publicised major new infrastructure or transport projects specific to Oak Flats; as a result, no single development is expected to significantly shift the property market in the short term, though broader regional upgrades are likely to provide a gradual lift in demand and values.[3][6]

Oak Flats rental market trends

The rental market in Oak Flats has shown modest growth, with house rents increasing 8.8% over the past year to $740 per week, while unit rents have risen 2.5% to $500 per week. The suburb continues to attract interest due to its community feel and access to coastal amenities, making it appealing for both renters and investors.

Suburbs near Oak Flats

Some popular suburbs near Oak Flats include:

How does Oak Flats compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Oak Flats’s median house price is 15.6% higher than Albion Park Rail’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Oak Flats have grown 6.4% higher than in Albion Park Rail.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Albion Park Rail have risen 18.5% more than in Oak Flats over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Oak Flats are selling 18.5% faster than in Mount Warrigal.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby Barrack Heights are selling 64.3% faster than in Oak Flats.

Common questions about Oak Flats

  • Is Oak Flats a nice place to live?

    Oak Flats is a delightful suburb that offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, making it a wonderful place to call home. Nestled on the shores of Lake Illawarra, this charming suburb is perfect for those who appreciate a peaceful environment with stunning water views. The community vibe is welcoming and friendly, with a mix of established homes and modern developments that cater to a variety of lifestyles. Families will find Oak Flats particularly appealing due to its strong sense of community and the availability of local schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

    Living in Oak Flats means enjoying the best of both worlds: a tranquil lakeside setting with convenient access to essential amenities. The suburb is well-connected to larger urban centers, providing easy access to shopping centers, public transport, and nearby employment hubs. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the suburb's family-friendly atmosphere. While Oak Flats may not offer the bustling nightlife of a city center, it compensates with its natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking.

    However, there are some trade-offs to consider. The suburb's established character means that while local amenities are largely in place, there are currently no major new infrastructure projects on the horizon. This stability can be seen as a positive for those seeking a consistent and secure environment, but it may also mean that significant changes or developments are not expected in the short term. Overall, Oak Flats is an attractive choice for families and retirees seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle, with the added benefit of a close-knit community and beautiful natural surroundings.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Oak Flats?

    Living in Oak Flats can be considered somewhat expensive, especially when compared to other regional areas in New South Wales. The median house price in Oak Flats is currently $942,500, which is quite significant for a regional suburb. For those looking to rent, the average rent for houses is $740 per week, while units are more affordable at $500 per week.

    When we look at income, the average wage in Oak Flats is approximately $79,000 per year. This is slightly above the average for regional NSW, but when you consider the high property prices and rental costs, it can still be a stretch for many residents. With the median total household income sitting at $1,488 per week, a large portion of income would need to be allocated to housing expenses.

    Overall, while Oak Flats offers a pleasant lifestyle with its proximity to the coast and a more relaxed pace compared to city living, the cost of housing can be a significant factor. If you are thinking of living in Oak Flats, it's important to carefully consider your financial situation to ensure it aligns with the costs associated with residing 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.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Oak Flats a good place to invest?

    Oak Flats presents an interesting opportunity for property investors, particularly those focused on houses. Over the past 12 months, the suburb has experienced a notable 8.9% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and potential for capital growth. This is complemented by an 8.8% rise in house rents, suggesting a healthy rental market that could provide a steady income stream for investors.

    While the median unit value has remained stable with no change over the past year, the modest 2.5% increase in unit rents suggests a more subdued market for units. This stability might appeal to investors seeking lower-risk, steady returns without the volatility sometimes seen in other markets.

    Overall, Oak Flats offers a promising investment landscape, particularly for those interested in houses. The combination of rising property values and rental yields makes it an attractive option for investors looking for both capital growth and rental income. The suburb's appeal is further enhanced by its community vibe and proximity to local amenities, making it a desirable location for both renters and buyers alike.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Oak Flats

Choosing the right real estate agent in Oak Flats can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 56 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 43.5% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 1.63% to 2.63%, 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.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.