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Rockdale suburb profile

Rockdale is a bustling suburb located in Sydney's southern region, approximately 13km from the CBD. Known for its diverse community and vibrant atmosphere, Rockdale offers a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The suburb is well-served by public transport, including a major train station, making it a convenient location for commuters. Rockdale Plaza provides ample shopping and dining options, while nearby parks and beaches offer leisure opportunities. With a blend of modern apartments and traditional homes, Rockdale attracts families, professionals, and retirees seeking a dynamic yet accessible urban lifestyle.

Rockdale property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,344,500Past 3 months

Property growth+5.7%Past 12 months

Rockdale’s property market has shown varied performance over the past 12 months. House values have surged by 13.5%, with the median house price reaching $2.03 million. In contrast, unit values have seen a modest increase of 1.5%, bringing the median unit price to $663,000.

Sales activity has been more robust in the unit market, with 35 units sold compared to just 10 houses over the past three months. However, both houses and units are taking longer to sell, with median days on market at 63 for houses and 77 for units, indicating a cautious buyer sentiment.

The rental market in Rockdale has remained relatively stable, with house rents increasing by 1.2% and unit rents by 1.5% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is $850, while units average $690, reflecting steady demand in the rental sector.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$664K
Change in value
Past 12 months
10.9%0.4%
Sold
Past 3 months
626
Median days on market
Past 12 months
6972
Average rent
Past 12 months
$850$695
Change in rent
Past 12 months
1.2%2.2%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Rockdale demographics

Rockdale, located in Sydney's southern suburbs, is a vibrant and diverse community known for its convenient access to both the city and the coast. With a population of 15,475 and a median age of 34, Rockdale attracts a mix of young professionals, families, and long-term residents who appreciate its balance of urban amenities and suburban charm. The suburb's proximity to Rockdale Plaza and the train station makes it a practical choice for those commuting to the Sydney CBD or exploring the surrounding areas.

The suburb's housing landscape is varied, with nearly half of the properties being rented, reflecting its appeal to those seeking flexible living arrangements. Meanwhile, 23.1% of homes are owned outright, and 28.3% are owned with a mortgage, indicating a stable community with a mix of established homeowners and new buyers. Family life is prominent in Rockdale, with 41.6% of households being couple families with children and an equal percentage being couple families without children, showcasing the suburb's appeal to both growing families and couples.

Rockdale's community is enriched by its cultural diversity, with a variety of dining options, parks, and recreational facilities contributing to a lively and inclusive atmosphere. The suburb's median household income of $1,906 per week suggests a comfortable standard of living, supported by a range of employment opportunities in the area. Overall, Rockdale offers a dynamic and welcoming environment for residents seeking a well-rounded lifestyle with easy access to both urban and coastal experiences.

Rockdale infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Rockdale is undergoing notable transformation with several mixed-use and residential developments near transport and retail hubs, increasing local housing supply and urban convenience. The suburb benefits from proximity to major transport corridors and the railway line, supporting strong commuter connectivity and likely enhancing demand for both owner-occupier and investor properties.

Recent upgrades at Rockdale Plaza and improvements to nearby public spaces continue to improve daily amenities and recreational offerings in the area. Council planning under the Bayside Council is focused on improved walkability, revitalisation of commercial precincts, and ongoing community facility enhancements, which may further contribute to Rockdale’s long-term appeal and property market resilience.

Rockdale rental market trends

The rental market in Rockdale has experienced modest growth, with house rents increasing by 1.2% over the past year to $850 per week, while unit rents have seen a 1.5% rise to $690 per week. Despite the slower growth, Rockdale remains an attractive suburb for renters and investors due to its strategic location and ongoing development projects.

Suburbs near Rockdale

Some popular suburbs near Rockdale include:

How does Rockdale compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Rockdale’s median house price is 26.6% higher than Bexley’s.
  • Median unit prices: Rockdale’s median unit price is 0.9% lower than Bexley’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Rockdale have grown 10.3% higher than in Bexley.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Rockdale have grown 2.8% higher than in Bexley.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Rockdale are selling 24.2% faster than in Arncliffe.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby Bexley are selling 44.4% faster than in Rockdale.
  • Investment considerations: In Rockdale, the rental yield for house is 2.4% lower than the Sydney average, while the rental yield for units is 7.1% lower.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Rockdale have grown 2.6% lower than the average rate of growth across Sydney.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Rockdale have grown 23.6% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Sydney.

Common questions about Rockdale

  • Is Rockdale a nice place to live?

    Rockdale is a delightful suburb that offers a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle, making it a wonderful place to live. Its charming blend of urban and suburban elements creates a lively atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of residents. Families, in particular, will find Rockdale appealing due to its strong community feel and the availability of various amenities. The suburb is well-equipped with schools, parks, and recreational facilities, providing ample opportunities for family activities and outdoor enjoyment.

    One of Rockdale's standout features is its excellent connectivity. The suburb is conveniently located near major transport corridors, making commuting to the Sydney CBD and other parts of the city a breeze. This accessibility is complemented by the presence of Rockdale Plaza, which offers a variety of shopping and dining options, ensuring that residents have everything they need within easy reach. Additionally, the nearby beaches provide a perfect escape for those looking to unwind by the coast.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Rockdale, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly suburb. However, as with any urban area, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. While Rockdale offers a vibrant lifestyle, it may not have the same level of tranquility as some quieter suburbs, which could be a consideration for those seeking a more peaceful environment. Nonetheless, the suburb's cultural diversity and ongoing developments promise a bright future, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a well-rounded and accessible lifestyle.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Rockdale?

    Living in Rockdale can be quite costly, especially when it comes to housing. The median house price in Rockdale is approximately $2,025,000, which is significantly high compared to many other suburbs. If you're considering renting, the average rent for houses is around $850 per week, while units are slightly more affordable at $690 per week.

    Looking at the income side of things, the average wage in Rockdale is about $68,000 per year. When you compare this to the median total household income weekly of $1,906, it becomes clear that a large portion of income could be consumed by housing costs, whether you're buying or renting. This can make living in Rockdale challenging for those earning around the average wage, as it requires careful budgeting to manage the high cost of living.

    Overall, while Rockdale offers the convenience of being close to Sydney and has its own local amenities, the expense of living here is something to seriously consider. If you're thinking of living in Rockdale, it's important to weigh your financial situation against the high property prices and rental costs to ensure it's a feasible option for you.

    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 Rockdale a good place to invest?

    Rockdale is showing promising signs as a good place to invest, especially for those interested in the housing market. Over the past 12 months, the suburb has experienced a significant 13.5% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and potential for capital growth. This upward trend suggests that Rockdale is becoming increasingly attractive to buyers, which can be a positive indicator for future investment returns.

    While the growth in unit values has been more modest at 1.5%, this still reflects a stable market. The rental market in Rockdale has also seen slight increases, with house rents rising by 1.2% and unit rents by 1.5%. These figures suggest a steady demand for rental properties, which can provide a reliable income stream for investors.

    Overall, Rockdale presents a balanced investment opportunity. The strong growth in house values highlights its potential for capital appreciation, while the steady rental market offers a degree of income stability. For investors looking for a suburb with a mix of growth potential and rental demand, Rockdale could be a solid choice.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Rockdale

Currently, there are 123 real estate agents working in Rockdale—but not all agents deliver the same results. The right agent could make a huge difference to your final sale price.

Only 5 out of these 123 agents sold 39.3% of all properties in Rockdale over the past year. Choosing one of these top-performing agents means tapping into proven expertise for a better sale outcome.

Real estate agents in Rockdale typically charge a commission of 1.58% to 2.14%. Negotiating a fair commission rate and the right structure can motivate your agent to work even harder, helping you sell for more and potentially saving you thousands of dollars.

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