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Port Macquarie suburb profile

Port Macquarie is a picturesque coastal town located on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and vibrant community. As a popular holiday destination, it offers a relaxed lifestyle with a mix of natural attractions and modern amenities. The town is home to the iconic Koala Hospital, beautiful coastal walks, and a thriving arts and dining scene. With its mild climate, excellent schools, and growing infrastructure, Port Macquarie attracts families, retirees, and tourists alike, making it a desirable place to live and visit.

Port Macquarie property market performance

Port Macquarie's property market has shown stability over the past 12 months, with house values remaining unchanged and unit values experiencing a slight increase of 0.8%. The median house price has averaged $860,000, while units have averaged $605,000, indicating steady demand in the area.

Sales activity has been robust, with 191 houses and 98 units sold over the last 12 months. Houses are selling faster than units, with a median of 39 days on the market compared to 47 days for units, suggesting a stronger demand for houses.

The rental market in Port Macquarie has seen notable growth, with house rents increasing by 7.2% and unit rents by 8.9% over the past 12 months, reflecting a healthy demand for rental properties in the suburb.

Median price - houses$860KPast 3 months

Median price - units$623KPast 3 months

Change in value - houses0.7%12 months

Change in value - units-0.7%12 months

Houses sold182Past 3 months

Units sold96Past 3 months

Median DOM - houses39Past 12 months

Median DOM - units47Past 12 months

Average rent - houses$630Past 12 months

Average rent - units$495Past 12 months

Change in rent - houses6.8%Past 12 months

Change in rent - units7.6%Past 12 months

Port Macquarie demographics

Port Macquarie, located on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, is a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and relaxed lifestyle. With a population of 47,693, it is a popular destination for retirees and families seeking a slower pace of life. The median age of 48 reflects its appeal to older residents, many of whom are drawn to the area's natural beauty and community-oriented atmosphere.

The suburb's housing market is characterized by a significant proportion of properties owned outright, accounting for 41.3% of all dwellings. This high rate of outright ownership suggests a stable community with many long-term residents. Additionally, 25.9% of properties are owned with a mortgage, while 32.8% are rented, indicating a balanced mix of ownership and rental opportunities. This diversity in housing options caters to a range of lifestyles, from families to retirees.

Family dynamics in Port Macquarie are varied, with 33.1% of households being couple families with children and 48.4% being couple families without children. One-parent families make up 17.4% of the community, highlighting the suburb's inclusivity and support for different family structures. The median total household income of $1282 per week reflects the area's affordability compared to larger urban centers, making it an attractive option for those seeking a coastal lifestyle without the high costs associated with city living.

Port Macquarie infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Port Macquarie is experiencing significant development that may impact its property market. The $1 billion redevelopment of Port Central shopping precinct is set to revitalize the town center with new retail, dining and entertainment options by 2026. Additionally, several residential projects are underway, including apartment complexes near Town Beach, aimed at increasing housing supply in prime locations.

Infrastructure improvements include upgrades to Port Macquarie Base Hospital, expansion of the airport, and ongoing work on the Pacific Highway bypass. The council is also investing in coastal walkways and cycleways to enhance livability. These developments, combined with Port Macquarie's desirable coastal location and growing population, are likely to sustain strong demand for properties in the area.

Port Macquarie rental market trends

The rental market in Port Macquarie has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 7.2% over the past year to $632 per week, while unit rents have risen by 8.9% to $490 per week. This coastal suburb continues to attract renters and investors alike, offering a balanced lifestyle with its scenic beauty and growing amenities.

Suburbs near Port Macquarie

Some popular suburbs near Port Macquarie include:

Common questions about Port Macquarie

  • Is Port Macquarie a nice place to live?

    Port Macquarie is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a charming blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences, making it a wonderful place to call home. With its stunning beaches and lush green spaces, it provides a serene environment that is perfect for families looking to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. The suburb's vibrant community is known for its welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home. The presence of excellent schools and a range of amenities, including shopping centers and cafes, ensures that families have everything they need within easy reach.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Port Macquarie, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly suburb. The area is well-serviced by public transport, making it convenient for residents to access nearby attractions and essential services. While the suburb may not offer the bustling nightlife of larger cities, it more than compensates with its thriving arts scene and numerous outdoor activities, such as coastal walks and cycling paths, which are perfect for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

    However, living in Port Macquarie does come with some trade-offs. The ongoing development projects, while promising to enhance the suburb's infrastructure and amenities, may lead to increased property prices and a busier town center in the future. Additionally, while the suburb offers a peaceful lifestyle, those seeking the excitement and variety of a big city might find it somewhat quieter. Despite these considerations, Port Macquarie remains a highly desirable location for families and retirees who value a coastal lifestyle with a strong sense of community and access to nature.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Port Macquarie?

    Living in Port Macquarie can be considered moderately expensive, especially when compared to other regional areas in New South Wales. The current median house price is about $860,000, and for those looking at units, the median price is $605,000. Renting in Port Macquarie also reflects this trend, with average rents for houses at $632 per week and units at $490 per week.

    When you compare these figures to the average wage in Port Macquarie, which is approximately $98,000 per year, it becomes clear that a significant portion of income would be dedicated to housing costs. This is particularly noticeable when you consider that the median total household income weekly is $1,282. While this income level is relatively robust for the area, the high property prices and rents mean that living in Port Macquarie could stretch the budget of those earning average wages.

    Overall, while Port Macquarie offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle with its beaches and relaxed atmosphere, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is on the higher side. If you're thinking of living in Port Macquarie, it's important to weigh these costs against the lifestyle benefits to determine if it fits within your financial means.

    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 Port Macquarie a good place to invest?

    Port Macquarie presents a unique investment opportunity, particularly for those interested in rental income. While the median house and unit values have remained relatively stable over the past year, the rental market has shown significant growth. With house rents increasing by 7.2% and unit rents by 8.9%, the suburb is clearly experiencing strong demand from tenants, which is a positive sign for potential investors looking for steady rental returns.

    The stability in property values suggests that Port Macquarie is not subject to the volatile swings seen in some other markets, making it a potentially safer choice for those looking to invest in real estate. The consistent rental growth indicates a healthy demand for housing, likely driven by the suburb's appealing coastal lifestyle, local amenities, and community feel. This makes it an attractive option for both families and retirees, ensuring a diverse tenant pool.

    Overall, while Port Macquarie may not offer rapid capital growth at the moment, its strong rental market and stable property values make it a solid choice for investors seeking reliable income and a low-risk investment environment. The suburb's charm and lifestyle appeal are likely to continue attracting residents, supporting long-term rental demand and gradual property appreciation.

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