Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Shearwater

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Shearwater suburb profile

Shearwater is a picturesque coastal suburb located on the north-west coast of Tasmania, approximately 20km east of Devonport. Known for its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle, Shearwater is a popular destination for families, retirees, and holidaymakers. The suburb offers a range of amenities, including shopping centres, cafes, and recreational facilities, making it a convenient place to live. Its proximity to the scenic Rubicon Estuary and Narawntapu National Park provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bushwalking. With its serene environment and growing community, Shearwater is an appealing choice for those seeking a coastal lifestyle.

Shearwater property market performance

Current median dwelling price$477,500Past 3 months

Property growth+11.8%Past 12 months

Shearwater's property market has shown varied performance over the past 12 months. The median house price has remained stable at $660,000, while unit values have surged by 26.8%, indicating a strong demand for units despite their lower sales volume. Over the past three months, 12 houses and 4 units were sold, with houses taking a median of 73 days on the market compared to 33 days for units, suggesting quicker turnover in the unit sector.

The rental market in Shearwater has experienced notable growth, with house rents increasing by 12.2% and unit rents rising by 15.7% over the last year. The average rent for houses is now $550, while units command an average of $478, reflecting a robust rental demand across both property types.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$660KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
-3.2%26.8%
Sold
Past 3 months
124
Median days on market
Past 12 months
7333
Average rent
Past 12 months
$550$478
Change in rent
Past 12 months
12.2%15.7%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Shearwater demographics

Shearwater, located in Tasmania, is a serene coastal suburb known for its tranquil lifestyle and picturesque surroundings. With a population of 2,051, it offers a close-knit community atmosphere, making it an ideal location for retirees and those seeking a peaceful environment. The median age of 58 reflects a mature population, with many residents enjoying the suburb's natural beauty and relaxed pace of life.

The housing landscape in Shearwater is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 53.5% of properties owned outright. This indicates a stable community with long-term residents who have settled into the area. Additionally, 24.6% of properties are owned with a mortgage, while 22% are rented, providing a mix of housing options for different preferences and life stages.

Family structures in Shearwater are predominantly couple families without children, accounting for 61.2% of the population. This is complemented by 25.3% of couple families with children and 12.3% of one-parent families, highlighting the suburb's appeal to both established families and those looking to downsize. The median total household income of $1,104 per week reflects the suburb's modest yet comfortable living standards, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.

Shearwater infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Shearwater continues to benefit from its position within the Latrobe council area, which has been actively planning for growth across the Port Sorell–Shearwater coastal corridor, supporting steady residential development and renewed investor interest.[1][6] Ongoing subdivision and infill housing around the established township are gradually increasing dwelling supply, while the area’s popularity as a holiday and lifestyle destination helps underpin demand, particularly for low-maintenance homes and properties close to the waterfront and local retail.[5][6]

Local amenities such as nearby schools in the broader Port Sorell catchment and established shopping and service hubs make Shearwater an attractive option for families and downsizers, and continuing private development activity signals confidence in the suburb’s long-term appeal.[1][6] At this time there are no widely publicised major new transport, school or hospital projects specific to Shearwater beyond incremental council-led upgrades, so property performance is likely to remain driven primarily by lifestyle appeal, tourism influence and broader regional infrastructure improvements rather than a single transformative project.[5][6]

Shearwater rental market trends

The rental market in Shearwater has experienced notable growth, with house rents increasing by 12.2% over the past year to $550 per week, while unit rents have surged 15.7% to $478 per week. This vibrant suburb continues to attract interest from both renters and investors, driven by its appealing lifestyle and strong rental demand.

Suburbs near Shearwater

Some popular suburbs near Shearwater include:

How does Shearwater compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Shearwater’s median house price is 13.2% lower than Port Sorell’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Port Sorell have risen 21.6% more than in Shearwater over the past year.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Shearwater have grown 21.0% higher than in Latrobe.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Shearwater are selling 24.7% faster than in Port Sorell.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby Latrobe are selling 27.3% faster than in Shearwater.

Common questions about Shearwater

  • Is Shearwater a nice place to live?

    Shearwater is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a serene and picturesque environment, making it a charming place to call home. Known for its relaxed lifestyle, Shearwater is perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and the tranquility of seaside living. The suburb's proximity to stunning beaches and the scenic Rubicon Estuary provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, and bushwalking, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

    The community in Shearwater is warm and welcoming, with a strong sense of togetherness that makes it particularly appealing to families and retirees. The suburb boasts a range of amenities, including shopping centers, cafes, and recreational facilities, ensuring that residents have everything they need within easy reach. Safety is generally not a concern here, contributing to the peaceful atmosphere that many find so attractive.

    While Shearwater offers a fantastic lifestyle, there are some trade-offs to consider. The suburb's peaceful nature means it lacks the hustle and bustle of a larger city, which might not suit those seeking a vibrant nightlife or extensive cultural activities. Additionally, while there are schools in the broader Port Sorell catchment, families may need to travel a bit further for certain educational or healthcare facilities. However, for those who prioritize a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a strong community feel, Shearwater is a wonderful choice.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Shearwater?

    Living in Shearwater can be considered relatively affordable compared to some other parts of Tasmania. The median house price is around $660,000, which is quite reasonable when you consider the average wage in Shearwater is approximately $97,000 per year. This wage is in line with the Tasmanian state average, suggesting that the cost of living in Shearwater is manageable for those earning an average income in the area.

    Renting in Shearwater is also quite accessible, with the average rent for houses being $550 per week. This is a significant portion of the median household income, which is $1,104 weekly, but it still leaves room for other living expenses. For those looking to rent units, the average rent is slightly lower at $478 per week, providing a more budget-friendly option.

    Overall, Shearwater offers a balance of affordability and lifestyle, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in a coastal suburb without the hefty price tag associated with more urban areas. If you're thinking of living in Shearwater, it's worth considering the financial benefits of this charming Tasmanian 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.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Shearwater a good place to invest?

    Shearwater presents an intriguing opportunity for property investors, particularly those interested in units. Over the past year, the median unit value in Shearwater has surged by an impressive 26.8%, indicating strong demand and potential for capital growth in this segment. This is complemented by a significant increase in rental returns, with unit rents climbing by 15.7%. Such trends suggest a robust rental market, making units an attractive option for investors seeking both capital appreciation and rental income.

    While the median house value has remained stable over the past year, the rental market for houses has seen a healthy increase of 12.2%. This suggests that while capital growth for houses may be slower, there is still a strong demand for rental properties, providing a steady income stream for investors. The combination of stable house prices and rising rents could appeal to those looking for a more conservative investment with reliable returns.

    Overall, Shearwater offers a compelling mix of opportunities for investors, particularly in the unit market. The suburb's strong rental demand and impressive unit value growth make it a promising choice for those looking to invest in a market with potential for both income and capital gains.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Shearwater

In Shearwater ,21 agents are actively selling property, but a small number do the heavy lifting. Just 5 agents handled 59.3% of all sales in the past year, giving them a strong presence and deep experience in the local market.

Commission rates usually sit between 2.38% and 3.25%. Comparing agents and understanding what’s included in their fee structure can help you find the right mix of service, value, and motivation—without compromising on outcomes.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.