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South Johnstone suburb profile

South Johnstone is a quaint rural town in Far North Queensland, nestled within the Cassowary Coast Region. Known for its lush landscapes and agricultural heritage, the town is surrounded by sugarcane fields and tropical rainforest. South Johnstone offers a peaceful lifestyle with a strong sense of community, making it an ideal location for those seeking a quieter pace of life. The town is home to the South Johnstone Sugar Mill, a key part of the local economy and history. Its proximity to the stunning natural attractions of the region, including the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, adds to its charm.

South Johnstone property market performance

South Johnstone’s property market has remained static over the past 12 months, with no change in median house or unit values. The median house price and unit price both stand at $0, indicating a lack of market activity or available data. Over the past year, only 4 houses have been sold, and no units have been transacted, reflecting limited sales activity in the area.

The market appears inactive, with no recorded median days on market for either houses or units in the last three months. Additionally, there has been no change in rental prices, with average rents for both houses and units remaining at $0 over the past year, suggesting a stagnant rental market.

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Sold
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4N/A
Median days on market
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Average rent
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Change in rent
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South Johnstone demographics

South Johnstone, a small rural town in Queensland, is nestled in the lush landscapes of the Cassowary Coast Region. With a population of just 456, it offers a tight-knit community atmosphere where residents enjoy a slower pace of life. The median age of 44 suggests a mature population, with many families and long-term residents who appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.

The town's housing market is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 43.3% of properties owned outright and 32.5% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with a significant number of residents who have settled in for the long term. Renting is less common, with only 24.2% of properties being rented, which may appeal to those looking for a more permanent place to call home.

Family life is central to South Johnstone, with couple families without children making up 44.7% of the family demographic, followed by couple families with children at 31.6%. The presence of one-parent families and other family types adds to the diversity of the community. The median household income of $1125 per week reflects the town's rural setting, where employment is often tied to agriculture and local businesses. Overall, South Johnstone offers a peaceful lifestyle with a strong sense of community, ideal for those seeking a rural retreat.

South Johnstone infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

South Johnstone remains a small rural community with limited large-scale residential or commercial redevelopment, so immediate infrastructure-driven shifts in the property market are modest. The presence of the South Johnstone Research Facility, a key hub for banana, sugar cane and tropical crop research, underpins local employment and supports steady demand for housing linked to the agricultural sector.[8] Local education needs are met by South Johnstone State School, which helps maintain the suburb’s appeal for families seeking a village-style environment close to Innisfail.[9]

There are currently no major new transport projects or large infrastructure programs announced specifically for South Johnstone, with residents continuing to rely on road links to nearby regional centres.[7] Proximity to agricultural jobs, research facilities and services in surrounding towns remains the primary driver of property demand and livability, rather than new urban development. At this time, there are no significant additional developments reported that are likely to materially change the suburb’s property market in the near term.

South Johnstone rental market trends

The rental market in South Johnstone has remained stable over the past year, with no change in both house and unit rents, which have stayed at $0 per week. This indicates a lack of rental activity or data in the area, suggesting limited demand or availability in this regional suburb.

Suburbs near South Johnstone

Some popular suburbs near South Johnstone include:

Common questions about South Johnstone

  • Is South Johnstone a nice place to live?

    South Johnstone is a charming and peaceful place to live, offering a delightful rural lifestyle that is perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace of life. Nestled within the lush landscapes of the Cassowary Coast Region, this quaint town is known for its strong sense of community and agricultural heritage. The surrounding sugarcane fields and tropical rainforest create a picturesque setting that is ideal for families seeking a serene environment to raise their children. The town's proximity to stunning natural attractions, such as the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, adds to its allure, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration.

    While South Johnstone offers a tranquil lifestyle, it does come with a few trade-offs. The town's rural setting means that amenities such as shopping centers, cafes, and entertainment options are limited, requiring residents to travel to nearby regional centers for a wider range of services. However, this is balanced by the town's close-knit community and the availability of local education through the South Johnstone State School, which is a significant draw for families. Safety is generally not a concern, as the town's small size and community-focused atmosphere contribute to a secure environment.

    For those who value a strong community connection and a peaceful lifestyle, South Johnstone is a wonderful place to call home. The town's reliance on road links to nearby centers means that residents can enjoy the benefits of rural living while still having access to essential services and employment opportunities in agriculture and local businesses. While it may not offer the hustle and bustle of urban areas, South Johnstone provides a unique and fulfilling living experience for families and individuals seeking a rural retreat.

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  • Is it expensive to live in South Johnstone?

    Living in South Johnstone, a rural town in Queensland, is quite affordable, especially when compared to the state average. Interestingly, the current median house and unit prices, as well as rental prices, are reported as $0, which suggests that property transactions might be limited or data is unavailable, possibly due to the town's rural nature.

    The median total household income in South Johnstone is approximately $1,125 per week. When compared to the Queensland state average full-time wage of about $2,000 per week, it's clear that residents in South Johnstone earn less than the average Queenslander. However, the low or nonexistent property and rental prices could mean that the cost of living is significantly lower, making it an affordable place to reside.

    Overall, if you're thinking of living in South Johnstone, the lower income levels relative to the state average might be offset by the minimal housing costs, offering a more budget-friendly lifestyle compared to urban areas in Queensland.

    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 South Johnstone a good place to invest?

    South Johnstone presents a unique investment opportunity, especially for those looking for stability rather than rapid growth. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced no change in median house and unit values, as well as rental prices. This stability can be appealing for investors who prefer a low-risk environment where property values and rental income are not subject to significant fluctuations.

    While the lack of growth might not attract those seeking quick returns, South Johnstone's steady market conditions can be ideal for investors focused on long-term strategies. The suburb's consistent property values suggest a resilient market that can withstand broader economic changes. Additionally, the stable rental market indicates a reliable demand for housing, which is crucial for maintaining consistent rental income.

    Overall, South Johnstone offers a dependable investment landscape for those who value consistency and are willing to invest with a long-term perspective. The suburb's steady market conditions provide a solid foundation for investors looking to build a reliable property portfolio without the volatility seen in more dynamic markets.

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