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: