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Smithfield suburb profile

Smithfield is a vibrant suburb located in the northern region of Cairns, Queensland, known for its blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Nestled between the lush rainforest and the Coral Sea, Smithfield offers residents a unique lifestyle with easy access to outdoor adventures and coastal activities. The suburb is home to the James Cook University campus, contributing to its youthful and dynamic atmosphere. With a variety of shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities, Smithfield caters to families, students, and professionals alike. Its strategic location near the Captain Cook Highway ensures convenient connectivity to Cairns CBD and surrounding attractions.

Smithfield property market performance

Current median dwelling price$643,750Past 3 months

Property growth+12.0%Past 12 months

Smithfield’s property market has shown robust growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 11.9% and unit values by 12.2%. The current median house price stands at $852,500, reflecting strong demand in the area. Despite a limited number of unit sales, the market has seen a notable increase in unit values.

Sales activity has been active, with 36 houses and 5 units sold over the last 12 months. Houses are selling quickly, with a median of just 16 days on the market, while units are taking slightly longer at 18 days, indicating a competitive market environment.

The rental market in Smithfield has experienced significant changes, particularly for units, which saw a 27% increase in average rent over the last 12 months. House rents have also risen, albeit more modestly, by 3.6%, suggesting a strong rental demand across the board.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$853KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
11.9%12.2%
Sold
Past 3 months
365
Median days on market
Past 12 months
1618
Average rent
Past 12 months
$710$593
Change in rent
Past 12 months
3.6%27.0%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Smithfield demographics

Smithfield, located in the northern suburbs of Cairns, Queensland, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and access to natural attractions. With a population of 6,664, Smithfield is a family-friendly area, as evidenced by the 43.1% of couple families with children. The suburb's median age of 34 suggests a youthful yet mature community, appealing to both young families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.

The housing landscape in Smithfield is characterized by a significant proportion of home ownership, with 23.5% of properties owned outright and 43.5% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable residential base, with many families choosing to settle down in the area. Renting is also a viable option, with 33% of properties available for rent, catering to those who prefer flexibility or are new to the area.

Smithfield's proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest makes it an attractive location for nature enthusiasts and those seeking outdoor adventures. The suburb's median total household income of $1,840 per week reflects a comfortable standard of living, supporting a community that values both work and leisure. With its mix of family-oriented amenities, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, Smithfield is a desirable place for those looking to enjoy the best of both suburban and natural environments.

Smithfield infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Smithfield continues to attract attention due to the presence of major amenities, including the Smithfield Shopping Centre, quality local schools, and proximity to James Cook University, all contributing to sustained demand from families and students. The suburb also benefits from regular upgrades to community facilities, parks, and walking/cycling paths, enhancing lifestyle appeal for residents and potential buyers.

Smithfield’s strategic location, with easy access to the Captain Cook Highway and efficient links to Cairns CBD, supports strong commuter appeal and increases connectivity with broader employment and leisure hubs. The area’s mix of new residential developments and established homes, combined with ongoing investment in public infrastructure, is likely to support continued growth in property values and high desirability among home buyers.

Smithfield rental market trends

The rental market in Smithfield has experienced varied growth, with house rents increasing by 3.6% over the past year to $710 per week, while unit rents have surged by 27.0% to $593 per week. This significant rise in unit rents highlights a strong demand for more affordable living options, making Smithfield an attractive suburb for renters and investors alike.

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 19.2% higher than Mooroobool’s.
  • Median unit prices: Smithfield’s median unit price is 19.2% higher than Holloways Beach’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Smithfield have grown 6.0% higher than in Clifton Beach.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Smithfield have grown 17.9% higher than in Kewarra Beach.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Smithfield are selling 15.8% faster than in Kewarra Beach.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Smithfield are selling 37.9% faster than in Holloways Beach.

Common questions about Smithfield

  • Is Smithfield a nice place to live?

    Smithfield is a delightful suburb that offers a harmonious blend of suburban tranquility and vibrant living, making it a wonderful place to call home. Nestled in the northern region of Cairns, it boasts a charming atmosphere with a backdrop of lush rainforests and the Coral Sea, providing residents with a unique lifestyle that is both serene and invigorating. The suburb is known for its youthful and dynamic vibe, thanks in part to the presence of the James Cook University campus, which injects a lively energy into the community. Families will find Smithfield particularly appealing due to its excellent schools, recreational facilities, and a strong sense of community.

    Living in Smithfield comes with the advantage of being close to a variety of amenities, including shopping centers and cafes, which cater to everyday needs and leisure activities. The suburb's strategic location near the Captain Cook Highway ensures convenient access to Cairns CBD and surrounding attractions, making commuting a breeze. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the suburb's family-friendly reputation. However, it's worth noting that while Smithfield offers a peaceful lifestyle, it may not have the bustling nightlife of more urban areas, which could be a consideration for those seeking a more vibrant social scene.

    For families, Smithfield provides an ideal environment with its blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. The suburb's proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. While the area is predominantly residential, the ongoing development and investment in public infrastructure promise continued growth and desirability. Overall, Smithfield is a charming suburb that offers a balanced lifestyle, making it a nice place to live for those who appreciate both suburban comforts and natural wonders.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Smithfield?

    Living in Smithfield can be somewhat expensive, especially when considering the local housing market. The median house price is currently $772,000, which is quite significant. For those considering renting, the average rent for houses is $685 per week, while units are slightly more affordable at $610 per week. These figures suggest that housing costs in Smithfield are a major financial consideration for anyone planning to live there.

    When we compare these housing costs to the average wage in Smithfield, which is approximately $61,000 per year and aligns with the Queensland state average, it becomes clear that a considerable portion of one's income would be needed to cover housing expenses. This could make it challenging for those earning an average salary to comfortably afford living in Smithfield without careful budgeting.

    Overall, while Smithfield offers a beautiful environment and a relaxed lifestyle, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, can be a financial strain. If you're thinking of living in Smithfield, it's important to weigh these costs against your income and financial goals to ensure it fits within your budget.

    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 Smithfield a good place to invest?

    Smithfield is showing promising signs as a great place to invest, especially if you're looking at the real estate market. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a significant increase in property values, with median house values rising by 11.2% and unit values climbing even higher at 12.4%. This upward trend suggests strong demand and a healthy market, which is always a good indicator for potential investors.

    Additionally, the rental market in Smithfield is thriving, particularly for units. Rents for units have surged by an impressive 24.5% over the last 12 months, indicating a high demand for rental properties. This could mean a steady stream of rental income for investors, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in rental properties. While the increase in house rents is more modest at 3.3%, it still reflects a stable rental market.

    Overall, Smithfield's combination of rising property values and a strong rental market makes it a compelling choice for investment. Whether you're considering buying a house or a unit, the suburb's recent performance suggests it could offer solid returns. With its growing appeal and demand, Smithfield stands out as a suburb worth considering for your next investment.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Smithfield

Currently, there are 63 real estate agents working in Smithfield—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 63 agents sold 38.9% of all properties in Smithfield 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 Smithfield typically charge a commission of 2.5% to 3.13%. 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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