Ocean Shores suburb profile
Ocean Shores is a picturesque coastal suburb in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, known for its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle. Situated just north of Byron Bay, it offers a serene escape with its lush landscapes and ocean views. The suburb features a mix of residential areas, including modern homes and holiday accommodations, catering to both locals and visitors. Ocean Shores is home to a vibrant community, with amenities such as shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities. Its proximity to natural attractions and a laid-back atmosphere make it a desirable destination for families and retirees seeking tranquility by the sea.
Ocean Shores property market performance
Current median dwelling price$833,750Past 3 months
Property growth-1.3%Past 12 months
Ocean Shores has seen a positive shift in its property market, with house values rising by 8.2% over the last 12 months, setting the median house price at approximately $1.28 million. Unit values have remained unchanged, indicating a stable but less dynamic unit sector.
Over the past three months, 19 houses were sold, reflecting a steady market presence, while unit sales were minimal with only 3 sold. Houses are experiencing an average of 50 median days on the market, with no current data for units.
The rental market in Ocean Shores shows a sharp contrast with house rents remaining stable, while unit rents have surged by 26.3%, signalling a heightened demand for rental units despite a static sales market.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | $1.27M | N/A |
Change in value Past 12 months | 8.2% | -10.7% |
Sold Past 3 months | 19 | 3 |
Median days on market Past 12 months | 50 | N/A |
Average rent Past 12 months | $900 | $610 |
Change in rent Past 12 months | N/A | 26.3% |
5 year median price trend for houses and units
Ocean Shores demographics
Ocean Shores, nestled in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, is a picturesque coastal suburb known for its serene lifestyle and natural beauty. With a population of 5,777, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, attracting families, retirees, and those seeking a peaceful environment. The median age of 43 reflects a mature community, with many residents enjoying the suburb's relaxed pace and scenic surroundings.
The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a significant proportion of home ownership, with 38.1% of properties owned outright and 34.8% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with a strong sense of permanence and investment in the area. Renting is less common, with only 27.1% of properties being rented, appealing to those who prefer long-term settlement and home ownership.
Family dynamics in Ocean Shores are diverse, with couple families with children making up 36.5% of the population, while couple families without children account for 39.3%. One-parent families represent 23.1%, highlighting a supportive community structure. The suburb's appeal lies in its balance of family-friendly amenities, natural attractions, and a close-knit community atmosphere, making it an ideal location for those seeking a harmonious blend of coastal living and community spirit.
Ocean Shores infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities
Ocean Shores is influenced by several broader Byron Shire initiatives, including ongoing work on the Residential Strategy and town/village growth plans, which aim to manage population growth, protect environmental values and guide future housing supply across the shire, including coastal settlements like Ocean Shores.[5] The suburb benefits from proximity to upgraded health services such as the newly renovated Ocean Shores Medical Centre, which has expanded into a larger medical hub with multiple GPs and allied health services, supporting growing demand from local residents and retirees.[8]
Improved digital infrastructure, including the rollout of NBN fibre-to-the-premises to many streets in Ocean Shores, is enhancing work-from-home viability and attracting buyers seeking lifestyle locations with strong connectivity.[5] Aside from these incremental upgrades and shire-wide planning work, there are currently no widely reported major new transport, school, or large-scale commercial redevelopment projects specific to Ocean Shores that are expected to materially reshape the local property market in the immediate term.
Ocean Shores rental market trends
Ocean Shores' rental market shows contrasting trends, with house rents remaining stable at $900 per week, while unit rents have surged 26.3% to $610 per week. This dynamic shift highlights the increasing demand for units, making Ocean Shores an attractive option for renters seeking more affordable housing options in a desirable coastal location.
Suburbs near Ocean Shores
Some popular suburbs near Ocean Shores include:
How does Ocean Shores compare to nearby suburbs?
- Median house prices: Ocean Shores’s median house price is 13.8% higher than Mullumbimby’s.
- House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Ocean Shores have grown 17.4% higher than in Brunswick Heads.
- Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Brunswick Heads have risen 30.9% more than in Ocean Shores over the past year.
- Selling speed for houses: Properties in Ocean Shores are selling 27.5% faster than in Brunswick Heads.

