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Palmerston suburb profile

Palmerston is a well-established suburb in the Gungahlin district of Canberra, ACT, known for its family-friendly environment and convenient amenities. Situated approximately 15km north of Canberra's city centre, Palmerston offers a mix of modern homes and green spaces, making it an attractive option for families and professionals. The suburb features several parks, playgrounds, and walking trails, providing ample recreational opportunities for residents. With its proximity to the Gungahlin Town Centre, Palmerston residents enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and public transport options, contributing to its appeal as a comfortable and connected community.

Palmerston property market performance

Property growth+0.8%Past 12 months

Palmerston's property market has shown positive growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 9.2%. The current median house price stands at $830,000. However, the unit market remains stagnant, with no change in median value and minimal sales activity, reflecting a lack of demand in this sector.

In terms of sales activity, 31 houses were sold over the last 12 months, with houses spending a median of 37 days on the market. The unit market saw only 2 sales, indicating limited interest or availability in this segment.

The rental market for houses in Palmerston has experienced a modest increase, with average rent rising by 3.2% to $640 over the past 12 months. The unit rental market remains inactive, with no reported changes.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$830KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
9.2%N/A
Sold
Past 3 months
312
Median days on market
Past 12 months
37N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$640N/A
Change in rent
Past 12 months
3.2%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Palmerston demographics

Palmerston, located in the northern suburbs of Canberra, offers a family-friendly environment with a strong sense of community. With a population of 5,579 and a median age of 36, it is a suburb that appeals to both young families and established residents. The area is characterized by its spacious homes and green spaces, making it an ideal location for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of Canberra.

The suburb has a high proportion of couple families with children, accounting for 46.2% of the population, which highlights its appeal to families. Additionally, 35% of households are couple families without children, indicating a balanced demographic mix. One-parent families make up 17.2% of the community, contributing to the suburb's diverse family structures.

In terms of property ownership, Palmerston shows a strong inclination towards home ownership, with 28.7% of properties owned outright and 42.6% owned with a mortgage. This reflects a stable residential base, with many residents investing in their homes for the long term. The rental market is also present, with 28.7% of properties being rented, providing options for those seeking flexibility.

Overall, Palmerston offers a harmonious blend of family-oriented living and community spirit, supported by its well-maintained parks, local schools, and convenient access to Canberra's city center. Its combination of affordability, community, and lifestyle makes it a desirable suburb for many Australians looking to settle in the nation's capital.

Palmerston infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Palmerston benefits from its proximity to the growing Gungahlin town centre, giving residents access to expanding retail, dining, and employment options, which generally supports buyer demand and underpins property values.[4] The suburb is well serviced by local shops, community facilities and Palmerston Primary School, while nearby independent and public secondary schools in the wider Gungahlin area add to its appeal for families.[4] Frequent bus services link Palmerston with Gungahlin, Belconnen and the city, and ongoing investment in the broader Canberra light rail and road network continues to improve regional connectivity, indirectly enhancing Palmerston’s livability.[4][8]

There are currently no widely publicised major new infrastructure or redevelopment projects specific to Palmerston itself, so short-term market dynamics are more influenced by its established amenities, school catchments and access to nearby growth precincts.[4][8] As Gungahlin and surrounding suburbs continue to densify and attract new services and employment, Palmerston’s position as an established, family-oriented area close to these hubs is likely to remain a key driver of local property demand.[4][7]

Palmerston rental market trends

The rental market in Palmerston has experienced modest growth, with house rents increasing by 3.2% over the past year to $640 per week. Unit rents have remained stable with no change, reflecting a potential lack of available units in the area. Palmerston continues to offer a stable rental environment for families and investors seeking steady returns in the ACT region.

Suburbs near Palmerston

Some popular suburbs near Palmerston include:

How does Palmerston compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Palmerston’s median house price is 12.6% lower than Franklin’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Palmerston have grown 5.1% higher than in Franklin.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Franklin have risen 3.4% more than in Palmerston over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Palmerston are selling 15.9% faster than in Franklin.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Palmerston are selling 51.9% faster than in Franklin.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Palmerston have grown 16.0% lower than the average rate of growth across Canberra.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Palmerston have grown 7.4% higher than the average rate of growth for units across Canberra.

Common questions about Palmerston

  • Is Palmerston a nice place to live?

    Palmerston is a delightful suburb that offers a charming blend of suburban tranquility and convenient urban access, making it a wonderful place to live. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong community spirit, Palmerston provides a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. The suburb is characterized by its spacious homes and abundant green spaces, offering a serene backdrop for daily life. Residents enjoy the benefits of being close to the Gungahlin Town Centre, which provides a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, ensuring that all essential amenities are within easy reach.

    For families, Palmerston is particularly appealing due to its family-friendly vibe and access to quality educational facilities. The suburb is home to Palmerston Primary School, and there are several other reputable schools in the surrounding Gungahlin area, catering to the educational needs of children of all ages. The abundance of parks and playgrounds provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and family outings, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Palmerston, contributing to its reputation as a secure and comfortable suburb. However, one trade-off of living in Palmerston is that, while it offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle, it may lack the vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions found in more central areas. Additionally, while public transport options are available, those who prefer the convenience of city living might find the commute to Canberra's city centre a consideration.

    Overall, Palmerston is a fantastic choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle that combines the benefits of suburban living with the convenience of nearby urban amenities. Its strong sense of community, family-oriented environment, and access to green spaces make it a highly desirable place to call home.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Palmerston?

    Living in Palmerston can be considered moderately expensive, especially when compared to other suburbs in the ACT. The current median house price is around $830,000, which is a significant investment for homebuyers. However, it's worth noting that there are no units available, which limits options for those seeking more affordable housing. Renting a house in Palmerston averages $640 per week, which might be a bit steep for some.

    When we compare the average wage in Palmerston, which is approximately $59,000 per year, to the median household income of $2,316 per week, it suggests that many households have multiple income earners. This helps in managing the cost of living in the suburb. However, for individuals relying solely on the average wage, the cost of housing could consume a large portion of their income.

    Overall, Palmerston offers a suburban lifestyle with the associated costs that come with it. If you're thinking of living in Palmerston, it's important to consider your financial situation and whether the housing costs align with your income. While the suburb may not be the most affordable option, it provides a balance of community living and accessibility to the amenities of the ACT.

    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 Palmerston a good place to invest?

    Palmerston is showing promising signs as a potential investment suburb, particularly for those interested in the housing market. Over the past 12 months, the median house value has increased by an impressive 9.2%, indicating strong demand and a healthy growth trajectory. This kind of growth suggests that Palmerston is becoming increasingly attractive to buyers, which could lead to continued appreciation in property values.

    While the unit market has remained stable with no change in median value, this stability can be appealing for investors seeking a less volatile option. The rental market for houses has also seen a modest increase of 3.2% over the past year, which is a positive indicator for those looking to generate rental income. Although the rental market for units hasn't experienced growth, the steady nature of the market might still appeal to investors looking for consistent returns.

    Overall, Palmerston presents a balanced investment opportunity. The strong growth in house values combined with stable rental returns makes it an attractive option for investors seeking both capital growth and rental income. As the suburb continues to develop and attract more residents, it could offer solid long-term investment potential.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Palmerston

Choosing the right real estate agent in Palmerston can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 64 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 26.5% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.3% to 2.85%, 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.

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