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River Heads suburb profile

River Heads is a tranquil coastal suburb located at the mouth of the Mary River in Queensland, offering stunning views of Fraser Island and the Great Sandy Strait. Known for its serene environment and natural beauty, River Heads is a gateway to Fraser Island, with regular ferry services available for visitors. The suburb is popular among nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting. Its close-knit community and proximity to Hervey Bay provide residents with essential amenities while maintaining a relaxed, rural atmosphere. River Heads is an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy the best of coastal living.

River Heads property market performance

River Heads has experienced a notable increase in house values over the past 12 months, with a 7.4% rise bringing the median house price to $802,500. In contrast, unit values have remained stable, with the median unit price holding at $300,000. This stability in the unit market is reflected in the low sales volume, with only one unit sold in the past year.

The housing market has seen moderate activity, with 16 houses sold over the last 12 months. Houses are spending a median of 61 days on the market, indicating a steady demand. The unit market, however, shows limited activity, with no recent sales data available.

Rental prices in River Heads have shown significant growth, particularly for houses, which have seen a 17.3% increase in average rent over the last year, reaching $575. Units have experienced a modest 4% rise, with average rents at $260, suggesting stronger demand for house rentals in the area.

Median price - houses$670KPast 3 months

Median price - units$300KPast 3 months

Change in value - houses6.5%12 months

Change in value - unitsN/A12 months

Houses sold13Past 3 months

Units sold1Past 3 months

Median DOM - houses52Past 12 months

Median DOM - unitsN/APast 12 months

Average rent - houses$580Past 12 months

Average rent - units$260Past 12 months

Change in rent - houses18.4%Past 12 months

Change in rent - units4.0%Past 12 months

River Heads demographics

River Heads, located in Queensland, is a serene coastal suburb known for its picturesque views and tranquil lifestyle. With a population of 2,044, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The median age of 54 indicates a mature community, often attracting retirees and those seeking a quieter environment. The suburb's proximity to Fraser Island and the Great Sandy Strait makes it a popular spot for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.

The housing landscape in River Heads is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 47.8% of properties owned outright and 35.7% owned with a mortgage. This reflects a stable community with long-term residents who value the security and investment of home ownership. The rental market is relatively small, with only 16.5% of properties being rented, which may appeal to those looking for a more settled and community-focused environment.

Family structures in River Heads are predominantly couple families without children, making up 61.4% of the households. This is indicative of the suburb's appeal to empty nesters and retirees. Couple families with children account for 25.6%, while one-parent families make up 13.0% of the community. The absence of other family types highlights the traditional family structures prevalent in the area. Overall, River Heads offers a relaxed lifestyle with a strong sense of community, ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal living experience.

River Heads infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

River Heads is experiencing steady growth and development that may impact its property market. The suburb's population has increased significantly, rising from 1,539 in 2016 to 2,044 in 2021, indicating growing demand for housing in the area. River Heads' strategic location as a major departure point for Fraser Island continues to attract tourists and potential property investors, enhancing its appeal as a coastal destination.

The local real estate market shows positive trends, with the median house price reaching $750,500, representing a 13.79% increase over the past year and a 20.95% rise over two years. This price growth, combined with a low vacancy rate of 1.01%, suggests a strong and competitive property market. The suburb's proximity to Hervey Bay, stunning water views, and access to natural attractions like the Great Sandy Strait contribute to its desirability for both permanent residents and holiday-home buyers.

River Heads rental market trends

The rental market in River Heads has experienced notable growth, with house rents increasing 17.3% over the past year to $575 per week, while unit rents have seen a modest rise of 4.0% to $260 per week. This coastal suburb offers a blend of affordability and potential, making it an attractive option for both renters and investors seeking value in a serene environment.

Suburbs near River Heads

Some popular suburbs near River Heads include:

Common questions about River Heads

  • Is River Heads a nice place to live?

    River Heads is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty and a peaceful environment. Nestled at the mouth of the Mary River, it boasts stunning views of Fraser Island and the Great Sandy Strait, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The suburb's relaxed vibe is complemented by its close-knit community, providing a welcoming atmosphere for families and retirees alike. With easy access to essential amenities in nearby Hervey Bay, residents enjoy the convenience of suburban living while being surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

    For families, River Heads offers a tranquil setting to raise children, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting. The suburb's safety and community-focused environment make it an appealing choice for those seeking a quieter lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, it's worth noting that the area may not offer the same level of nightlife or entertainment options as more urban locales, which could be a consideration for those who enjoy a vibrant social scene.

    While River Heads provides an idyllic coastal retreat, potential residents should be aware of the trade-offs. The suburb's growing popularity and strategic location as a gateway to Fraser Island have led to a competitive property market, with rising house prices and limited rental options. This may pose challenges for those looking to enter the housing market or seeking rental accommodation. Nonetheless, for those who value a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle with access to stunning natural attractions, River Heads is a charming place to call home.

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  • Is it expensive to live in River Heads?

    Living in River Heads can be seen as relatively affordable compared to other parts of Queensland, especially when you consider its serene coastal setting. The current median house price is $802,500, which is quite reasonable compared to the more urbanized areas of the state. If you're looking at units, the median price is even more budget-friendly at $300,000. Renting in River Heads is also on the affordable side, with houses averaging $575 per week and units at $260 per week.

    When you compare these housing costs to the average weekly household income in River Heads, which is $1,243, it suggests that living here is quite manageable for many residents. In contrast, the average income in larger Queensland cities tends to be higher, but so are the living costs. This balance makes River Heads an attractive option for those seeking a quieter lifestyle without the hefty price tag associated with city living.

    Overall, River Heads offers a cost-effective living environment, with housing prices and rental costs that align well with local income levels. It's an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more laid-back lifestyle, with the added benefit of being easier on the wallet compared to more densely populated areas.

    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 River Heads a good place to invest?

    River Heads is showing promising signs as a potential investment suburb. Over the past year, the median house value has increased by 7.4%, indicating a healthy demand for properties in the area. This growth suggests that the suburb is gaining traction among buyers, which is a positive indicator for future capital appreciation. While the median unit value has remained stable, the rental market tells a different story.

    The rental market in River Heads is particularly strong, with house rents experiencing a significant 17.3% increase over the last 12 months. This surge in rental prices highlights the suburb's appeal to renters, potentially driven by its scenic location and lifestyle offerings. Although unit rents have only seen a modest 4.0% rise, the overall rental growth suggests a robust demand for housing in the area.

    Overall, River Heads presents a compelling opportunity for investors, especially those interested in properties that offer strong rental yields. The combination of rising house values and increasing rental demand makes it an attractive option for those looking to invest in a suburb with potential for both capital growth and rental income.

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