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Shoalhaven Heads suburb profile

Shoalhaven Heads is a picturesque coastal village located on the South Coast of New South Wales, approximately 160km south of Sydney. Known for its stunning beaches, river access, and natural beauty, it offers a tranquil lifestyle ideal for families, retirees, and holidaymakers. The area is renowned for its outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, surfing, and bushwalking, with the Shoalhaven River and Seven Mile Beach National Park nearby. The local community is vibrant and welcoming, with a range of amenities such as cafes, shops, and a golf course. Its serene environment and scenic landscapes make Shoalhaven Heads a sought-after destination for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat.

Shoalhaven Heads property market performance

Current median dwelling price$712,500Past 3 months

Property growth+7.1%Past 12 months

Shoalhaven Heads has experienced a steady property market, with median house values rising by 5.9% over the past year to $950,000. Unit values have increased by 8.3%, although the sample size is limited. Sales over the last year included 15 houses and 6 units, indicating moderate activity.

Houses in this suburb had a median market time of 60 days over the last three months, contrasting with units which sold faster in 29 days, reflecting differing buyer demand.

Rental demand has been strong, with house rents increasing by 12.6% and unit rents by 10.9% over the past 12 months. Average house rent stands at $670, while units average $510, suggesting rental investments are appealing in this market.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$950KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
5.9%8.3%
Sold
Past 3 months
156
Median days on market
Past 12 months
6029
Average rent
Past 12 months
$670$510
Change in rent
Past 12 months
12.6%10.9%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Shoalhaven Heads demographics

Shoalhaven Heads, located on the picturesque South Coast of New South Wales, is a serene coastal suburb known for its natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle. With a population of 3,248, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an attractive destination for retirees and families seeking a peaceful environment. The median age of 56 reflects a mature community, with many residents enjoying the area's scenic beaches, golf courses, and nature reserves.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 56.6% of properties owned outright. This indicates a stable and established community, with many long-term residents. Additionally, 24.5% of homes are owned with a mortgage, while only 18.9% are rented, highlighting the suburb's appeal to those seeking permanent residence rather than transient living arrangements.

Family dynamics in Shoalhaven Heads are diverse, with 57.8% of couple families having no children, reflecting the suburb's appeal to empty nesters and retirees. Meanwhile, 27.6% of couple families have children, and 13% are one-parent families, indicating a supportive community environment for families of all types. The median total household income of $1,066 per week suggests a modest yet comfortable lifestyle, with residents enjoying the benefits of a close-knit community and the natural beauty that surrounds them.

Shoalhaven Heads infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Shoalhaven Heads benefits from its position between Seven Mile Beach, the Shoalhaven River and nearby wineries, with ongoing tourism promotion and upgrades to local holiday parks and foreshore amenities supporting demand for both holiday homes and permanent residences.[1][2][5][6] The suburb’s appeal as a quiet coastal village within easy driving distance of larger centres in the Shoalhaven region and Berry reinforces its attractiveness to lifestyle buyers and retirees, which can underpin property values over the longer term.[1][6]

Local schooling is anchored by Shoalhaven Heads Public School, and stable education and community facilities contribute to the area’s family-friendly profile and steady buyer interest.[4] At present there are no widely reported major new transport corridors, large commercial redevelopments or significant council-led infrastructure projects specific to Shoalhaven Heads, so market trends are being driven more by its coastal amenity, tourism, and broader regional growth than by suburb-changing construction.[1][2][6]

Shoalhaven Heads rental market trends

The rental market in Shoalhaven Heads is experiencing robust growth, with house rents rising 12.6% to $670 per week and unit rents increasing 10.9% to $510 per week over the past year. The suburb offers an attractive mix of coastal living and community amenities, making it appealing for both investors and prospective tenants seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Suburbs near Shoalhaven Heads

Some popular suburbs near Shoalhaven Heads include:

How does Shoalhaven Heads compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Shoalhaven Heads’s median house price is 16.4% lower than Culburra Beach’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Shoalhaven Heads have grown 5.9% higher than in Greenwell Point.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Shoalhaven Heads are selling 13.0% faster than in Greenwell Point.

Common questions about Shoalhaven Heads

  • Is Shoalhaven Heads a nice place to live?

    Shoalhaven Heads is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, making it a wonderful place to live. Nestled along the stunning South Coast, it is known for its breathtaking beaches and lush natural surroundings. The suburb exudes a peaceful vibe, perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace of life and the beauty of nature. Families will find Shoalhaven Heads particularly appealing, as it provides a safe and welcoming environment with a strong sense of community. The local amenities, including charming cafes, shops, and a golf course, cater to the needs of residents while maintaining the suburb's relaxed atmosphere.

    Living in Shoalhaven Heads comes with the benefit of being close to a variety of outdoor activities. Whether it's enjoying a day at the beach, exploring the nearby national parks, or partaking in water sports on the Shoalhaven River, there is no shortage of things to do. The suburb's proximity to larger centers like Berry ensures that residents have access to additional amenities and services without sacrificing the tranquility of their home environment. However, it's worth noting that the area lacks major new transport corridors and large commercial developments, which might be a consideration for those seeking more urban conveniences.

    For families, Shoalhaven Heads offers a supportive community with local schooling options like Shoalhaven Heads Public School, contributing to its family-friendly appeal. While the suburb is ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat, the trade-off is that it may not suit those looking for a bustling nightlife or extensive shopping options. Nonetheless, for those who value natural beauty, a close-knit community, and a relaxed lifestyle, Shoalhaven Heads is a charming choice that promises a fulfilling living experience.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Shoalhaven Heads?

    Shoalhaven Heads, nestled along the picturesque South Coast of New South Wales, offers a serene lifestyle with its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. However, when it comes to affordability, living in Shoalhaven Heads can be a bit of a mixed bag. The current median house price is around $950,000, which is quite substantial, especially when compared to the NSW state average wage of approximately $108,000 per year. While the suburb doesn't have a median unit price, the average rent for houses is about $670 per week, and for units, it's $510 per week.

    Looking at the median total household income in Shoalhaven Heads, which is $1,066 per week, it's clear that a significant portion of one's income would be dedicated to housing costs, whether buying or renting. This can make living in Shoalhaven Heads relatively expensive, particularly for those earning around the average income. While the suburb offers a charming lifestyle, it's important to weigh the financial implications and ensure your budget aligns with the cost of living in this coastal haven.

    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 Shoalhaven Heads a good place to invest?

    Shoalhaven Heads is showing promising signs as a good place to invest, especially if you're looking for a balance of capital growth and rental yield. Over the last 12 months, the suburb has seen a 5.9% increase in median house values and an even more impressive 8.3% rise in unit values. This indicates a healthy demand for properties in the area, which is always a positive sign for potential investors.

    Moreover, the rental market in Shoalhaven Heads is thriving, with house rents jumping by 12.6% and unit rents by 10.9% over the past year. This suggests that the suburb is attractive to renters, which can provide a steady rental income stream for investors. The combination of rising property values and strong rental growth makes Shoalhaven Heads an appealing option for those looking to invest in real estate.

    Overall, Shoalhaven Heads offers a compelling mix of growth potential and rental demand. While it may not be the fastest-growing suburb in terms of property values, its consistent performance and strong rental market make it a solid choice for investors seeking both capital appreciation and reliable rental returns.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Shoalhaven Heads

There are 21 real estate agents in Shoalhaven Heads, 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 73.6% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in Shoalhaven Heads typically range from 2% to 2.86%. 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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