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Rushcutters Bay suburb profile

Rushcutters Bay is a picturesque harbourside suburb in Sydney, located just 3km east of the CBD. Known for its stunning waterfront views and lush parklands, it offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The suburb is home to the iconic Rushcutters Bay Park, a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and sailing enthusiasts. With a mix of modern apartments and historic terraces, Rushcutters Bay attracts professionals and families seeking a sophisticated urban lifestyle. Its proximity to the vibrant nightlife of Kings Cross and the shopping precincts of Paddington adds to its appeal, making it a desirable location for residents and visitors alike.

Rushcutters Bay property market performance

Rushcutters Bay's property market is primarily driven by units, with the median unit price increasing by 14.6% over the past 12 months to $1.13 million. The area saw 24 units sold in this period, with units typically spending 41 days on the market, indicating a healthy demand. The market for houses remains inactive with minimal transactions.

In terms of rentals, the unit market is strong, with average rents increasing by 14.0% over the past year, reaching $750. This reflects a high demand for rental units in the area, while the house rental market remains static.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$895K
Change in value
Past 12 months
N/A1.1%
Sold
Past 3 months
118
Median days on market
Past 12 months
N/A41
Average rent
Past 12 months
N/A$750
Change in rent
Past 12 months
N/A13.1%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Rushcutters Bay demographics

Rushcutters Bay, nestled in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, is a picturesque locale known for its stunning waterfront views and proximity to the city. With a population of 2,335, this suburb offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle while still being conveniently close to the Central Business District. The median age of 38 suggests a mature community, with a blend of professionals and families who appreciate the area's tranquil yet connected lifestyle.

The housing landscape in Rushcutters Bay is predominantly rental-based, with 64.7% of properties being rented. This high rental rate indicates a transient population, likely comprising young professionals and those seeking flexible living arrangements. The suburb's appeal is further enhanced by its scenic parks and vibrant café culture, making it a desirable spot for those who enjoy an active and social lifestyle.

Family dynamics in Rushcutters Bay are diverse, with 70.4% of couple families having no children, reflecting a preference for a more urban, low-maintenance lifestyle. Meanwhile, 19.1% of families are couples with children, and 9.5% are one-parent families, showcasing a mix of family structures. The suburb's charm lies in its balance of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it a sought-after destination for those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Rushcutters Bay infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Rushcutters Bay is seeing selective high-end infill development, most notably “The Rushcutters” on Bayswater Road, a boutique seven-storey project delivering 13 luxury 2 and 3 bedroom residences by late 2027, which is likely to reinforce the suburb’s premium positioning and support upper-end apartment values.[4] The suburb’s compact size and tightly held stock mean that even small new projects can influence local pricing and buyer competition, particularly for downsizers and professionals seeking harbour access and proximity to Potts Point and the CBD.[1][4]

Existing amenities such as Rushcutters Bay Park, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and nearby retail and dining in surrounding inner-city precincts continue to underpin strong lifestyle appeal and rental demand.[1][3][7] With established transport links via nearby train stations and bus routes, and no major new transport corridors or school redevelopments currently announced at a suburb level, the property market in Rushcutters Bay is likely to be driven primarily by its ongoing desirability, incremental luxury redevelopment and scarcity of land rather than large-scale infrastructure change.[1][3][4]

Rushcutters Bay rental market trends

The rental market in Rushcutters Bay shows a focus on unit living, with unit rents increasing by 14% over the past year to $750 per week. The lack of available house rental data suggests limited supply, reaffirming units as the primary choice for residents and investors in this vibrant area.

Suburbs near Rushcutters Bay

Some popular suburbs near Rushcutters Bay include:

How does Rushcutters Bay compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median unit prices: Rushcutters Bay’s median unit price is 16.7% lower than Elizabeth Bay’s.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Rushcutters Bay have grown 8.5% higher than in Paddington.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Rushcutters Bay are selling 21.2% faster than in Elizabeth Bay.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Rushcutters Bay have grown 0.6% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Sydney.

Common questions about Rushcutters Bay

  • Is Rushcutters Bay a nice place to live?

    Rushcutters Bay is a delightful suburb that offers a charming blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it a wonderful place to live. Its harbourside location provides a serene atmosphere with stunning waterfront views, perfect for those who appreciate a tranquil escape while still being close to the city. The suburb is known for its lush green spaces, including the beloved Rushcutters Bay Park, which is ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors. The vibrant café culture and proximity to the bustling nightlife of nearby areas add to the suburb's lively vibe, making it a popular choice for both professionals and families.

    Families will find Rushcutters Bay appealing due to its peaceful environment and the availability of modern apartments and historic terraces that cater to various lifestyle preferences. The suburb's strong sense of community and safety make it a welcoming place for families with children, although the predominance of rental properties suggests a more transient population. While the area may not offer the expansive backyards found in more suburban locales, the abundance of nearby parks and recreational facilities provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

    One trade-off of living in Rushcutters Bay is the premium property prices, which reflect its desirable location and limited housing stock. The ongoing luxury developments may further drive up prices, making it a more suitable option for those who can afford the upscale lifestyle. However, the suburb's excellent transport links and proximity to the CBD ensure that residents enjoy the convenience of city living without sacrificing the tranquility of a harbourside retreat. Overall, Rushcutters Bay is a fantastic choice for those seeking a sophisticated urban lifestyle with easy access to both nature and city amenities.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Rushcutters Bay?

    Living in Rushcutters Bay is generally considered expensive, especially when it comes to housing. With no current median house price available, it's clear that units are the primary residential option here. The median unit price is approximately $1,133,500, which is quite steep compared to other areas. Renting a unit isn't cheap either, with the average rent sitting at $750 per week. This reflects the suburb's desirable inner-city location and the amenities that come with it.

    When we look at the income side of things, the average weekly earnings in Rushcutters Bay align with Sydney's average of about $2,084 per week, or roughly $108,000 annually. While these earnings are relatively high, the cost of housing in Rushcutters Bay means that a significant portion of income would go towards accommodation. This makes living in Rushcutters Bay a financial stretch for many, especially when compared to the broader Sydney area where housing might be more affordable.

    Overall, if you're thinking of living in Rushcutters Bay, it's important to consider the high cost of housing relative to income. The suburb offers a vibrant lifestyle and convenient location, but these come at a premium price. Assessing your financial situation is crucial to ensure it aligns with the expenses associated with living in this attractive inner-city suburb.

    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 Rushcutters Bay a good place to invest?

    Rushcutters Bay is shaping up to be an attractive spot for property investors, particularly those interested in units. Over the past year, the suburb has seen a significant 14.6% increase in median unit values, which is a strong indicator of demand and potential for capital growth. This uptick is mirrored by a 14.0% rise in unit rents, suggesting that the rental market is thriving and offering promising returns for landlords.

    While house values and rents have remained stable, the unit market's performance highlights Rushcutters Bay as a vibrant and appealing area for young professionals and renters. Its proximity to the city and the picturesque views of the harbor make it a desirable location, contributing to the strong demand for units. The suburb's lifestyle offerings, including parks, cafes, and easy access to public transport, further enhance its appeal.

    Overall, Rushcutters Bay presents a compelling opportunity for investors, especially those focusing on units. The combination of rising unit values and rents, along with the suburb's desirable location and lifestyle, makes it a solid choice for those looking to invest in the Sydney property market.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Rushcutters Bay

There are 49 real estate agents in Rushcutters Bay, but they don’t all deliver the same results.

Some agents have a much stronger presence in the suburb, with just 5 agents handling around 36.5% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in Rushcutters Bay typically range from 1.77% to 2.03%. Comparing agents—including what they charge, what’s included, and how they structure their fees—is not only important when choosing an agent, the right structure can help ensure your chosen agent is motivated to achieve the best possible result.

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