Smithfield suburb profile
Smithfield is a vibrant suburb located in the northern beaches region of Cairns, Queensland, known for its lush tropical surroundings and proximity to natural attractions. Situated approximately 15km north of the Cairns CBD, Smithfield offers a blend of suburban living with easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. The suburb is home to James Cook University, making it a hub for students and academics. With a variety of shopping centers, cafes, and recreational facilities, Smithfield provides a convenient lifestyle while maintaining a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere. Its strategic location and natural beauty make it a desirable place for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Smithfield property market performance
Current median dwelling price$627,500Past 3 months
Property growth+14.5%Past 12 months
Smithfield's property market has experienced notable growth over the past 12 months. House values have surged by 13.9%, with the current median house price reaching $892,500. Although unit values have increased by 16.7%, the median unit price remains unavailable, indicating limited sales data.
Sales activity has been moderate, with 32 houses and only 2 units sold in the past 12 months. Houses are selling quickly, with a median of just 16 days on the market, while units are moving even faster at 13 days, suggesting strong demand despite the low volume of unit sales.
The rental market in Smithfield has also seen growth, with average rent for houses increasing by 5.1% to $720, and units rising by 3.5% to $590 over the last 12 months, reflecting a steady demand for rental properties in the area.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | $880K | N/A |
Change in value Past 12 months | 12.3% | 16.7% |
Sold Past 3 months | 31 | 1 |
Median days on market Past 12 months | 18 | N/A |
Average rent Past 12 months | $725 | $593 |
Change in rent Past 12 months | 5.4% | 4.0% |
5 year median price trend for houses and units
Smithfield demographics
Smithfield, located in the northern suburbs of Cairns, Queensland, offers a blend of suburban comfort and natural beauty, making it an appealing choice for families and professionals alike. With a population of 6,664 and a median age of 34, Smithfield is a vibrant community that balances youthful energy with family-friendly amenities. The suburb's proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
The housing landscape in Smithfield is characterized by a strong sense of homeownership, with 43.5% of properties owned with a mortgage and 23.5% owned outright. This reflects a stable community where families are investing in their future. The rental market, comprising 33% of properties, caters to those seeking flexibility, including young professionals and newcomers to the area. The suburb's family-oriented nature is evident, with 43.1% of households being couple families with children, and 39.1% being couple families without children, highlighting its appeal to both growing families and established couples.
Smithfield's community is diverse, with one-parent families making up 16.1% of the population, and a small percentage of other family types contributing to the suburb's inclusive atmosphere. The median total household income of $1,840 per week suggests a comfortable standard of living, supported by local employment opportunities and access to essential services. With its strategic location, community spirit, and access to natural wonders, Smithfield is a desirable suburb for those seeking a balanced lifestyle in the heart of Far North Queensland.
Smithfield infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities
Smithfield continues to evolve as the key transport and infrastructure hub for northern Cairns, with newer estates such as Smithfield Village, Northpoint and Canopy’s Edge expanding local housing supply and modernising the suburb’s residential profile.[3] The established Smithfield Shopping Centre, with major supermarkets, discount department stores, cinemas and more than 100 specialty retailers, anchors the area as a strong retail and lifestyle node, supporting both local employment and sustained buyer and renter demand.[10]
Proximity to the Cairns Northern Beaches, the Kuranda Range and direct road links to the city positions Smithfield as a convenient base for commuters and tourism-related workers, which underpins rental appeal and long-term growth prospects.[3][8] Access to nearby schools and James Cook University within a short drive further enhances the suburb’s attractiveness for families and students, and ongoing road and infrastructure investment around northern Cairns is expected to support property values and livability in Smithfield over the coming years.[1][3]
Smithfield rental market trends
The rental market in Smithfield has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing 5.1% over the past year to $720 per week, while unit rents have risen 3.5% to $590 per week. This steady growth reflects the suburb's appeal, offering a balanced lifestyle with access to local amenities and natural attractions, making it an attractive option for both renters and investors.
Suburbs near Smithfield
Some popular suburbs near Smithfield include:
How does Smithfield compare to nearby suburbs?
- Median house prices: Smithfield’s median house price is 4.1% higher than Trinity Park’s.
- Median unit prices: Smithfield’s median unit price is 3.4% higher than Yorkeys Knob’s.
- House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Smithfield have grown 4.2% higher than in Trinity Park.
- Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Smithfield have grown 1.9% higher than in Kewarra Beach.
- Selling speed for houses: Properties in Smithfield are selling 25.0% faster than in Trinity Park.

