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Townsville City suburb profile

Townsville City is a vibrant coastal hub in North Queensland, renowned for its tropical climate and stunning natural surroundings. As the unofficial capital of North Queensland, it offers a blend of urban sophistication and laid-back charm. The city is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Magnetic Island, and the Wet Tropics, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts. Townsville City boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, with attractions like the Museum of Tropical Queensland and the Strand waterfront promenade. Its diverse dining options, shopping precincts, and educational institutions make it a dynamic place to live and visit.

Townsville City property market performance

Current median dwelling price$559,000Past 3 months

Property growth+26.0%Past 12 months

Townsville City's property market has shown significant growth over the past 12 months, particularly in the unit sector. While the median house price data is unavailable, house values have surged by 35.6%. The median unit price has risen by 16.5%, reaching $438,000, indicating strong demand for units in the area.

Sales activity has been more robust in the unit market, with 50 units sold compared to just one house in the past 12 months. Both houses and units are experiencing lengthy market times, with median days on market at 93 for houses and 89 for units, suggesting a cautious buyer sentiment.

The rental market in Townsville City has also seen notable increases, with house rents climbing by 9.8% and unit rents by 6.8% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is $585, while units average $550, reflecting a healthy rental demand.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$438K
Change in value
Past 12 months
35.6%16.5%
Sold
Past 3 months
150
Median days on market
Past 12 months
9389
Average rent
Past 12 months
$585$550
Change in rent
Past 12 months
9.8%6.8%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Townsville City demographics

Townsville City, located in the heart of North Queensland, is a vibrant urban center known for its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. With a population of 2,945, it offers a blend of city conveniences and natural attractions, making it an appealing destination for both residents and tourists. The median age of 39 suggests a mature community, with a mix of professionals, families, and retirees who appreciate the city's relaxed yet dynamic lifestyle.

The housing landscape in Townsville City is diverse, with a significant portion of properties being rented, accounting for 57.6% of the market. This high rental rate indicates a strong demand for flexible living arrangements, appealing to students, young professionals, and transient workers. Meanwhile, 23.3% of properties are owned outright, and 19.1% are owned with a mortgage, reflecting a stable base of long-term residents and new homeowners entering the market.

Family dynamics in Townsville City are varied, with couple families without children making up 66.2% of the family households, while couple families with children represent 20.7%. One-parent families account for 10%, highlighting the suburb's inclusive nature. The city's economy is supported by a diverse workforce, with opportunities in sectors such as education, healthcare, and tourism. Townsville City offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty, making it an attractive place for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Townsville City infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Townsville City is seeing increased activity around the Port of Townsville, with recent channel expansions and infrastructure upgrades supporting larger vessels and trade growth, which may enhance long-term employment and economic prospects in the CBD. Development in the surrounding areas, along with the presence of major institutions like Townsville University Hospital and James Cook University, continue to drive demand for both residential and commercial property in the city centre, supporting stable property values.

The local council’s ongoing Local Housing Action Plan prioritises urban renewal, improved public spaces, and housing diversity, aiming to create a vibrant and inclusive precinct. Townsville City’s location near the Strand waterfront, parks, and entertainment options underpins its walkability and livability. No major new school or transport projects are currently reported within Townsville City, but its role as the region’s business and service hub ensures steady interest from home buyers and investors.

Townsville City rental market trends

The rental market in Townsville City has experienced steady growth, with house rents increasing by 9.8% over the past year to $585 per week, while unit rents have risen 6.8% to $550 per week. This growth reflects the suburb's appeal, driven by its strategic location and ongoing development, making it an attractive option for both renters and investors.

Suburbs near Townsville City

Some popular suburbs near Townsville City include:

How does Townsville City compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Townsville City’s median house price is 51.4% higher than Annandale’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Townsville City have grown 14.2% higher than in Annandale.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Wulguru have risen 13.2% more than in Townsville City over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in nearby Annandale are selling 24.7% faster than in Townsville City.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby Cranbrook are selling 40.4% faster than in Townsville City.

Common questions about Townsville City

  • Is Townsville City a nice place to live?

    Townsville City is a delightful place to live, offering a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. This charming coastal suburb is known for its relaxed yet dynamic lifestyle, making it an attractive choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike. The vibrant arts and cultural scene, coupled with its proximity to stunning natural attractions, creates a lively and engaging atmosphere. Residents enjoy a variety of dining options, shopping precincts, and recreational activities, ensuring there's always something to do.

    Families will find Townsville City particularly appealing due to its strong sense of community and access to quality educational institutions. The suburb's walkability and proximity to the Strand waterfront, parks, and entertainment options make it a convenient and enjoyable place for family outings. Safety is generally not a major concern, and the suburb's inclusive nature ensures a welcoming environment for all.

    While Townsville City offers many advantages, there are some trade-offs to consider. The high demand for rental properties can make finding long-term housing challenging for some, and the tropical climate may not suit everyone. Additionally, while the suburb is well-connected as a regional hub, those seeking major new school or transport projects may need to look elsewhere. Despite these considerations, Townsville City's vibrant lifestyle and natural beauty make it a fantastic place to call home for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling life.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Townsville City?

    Living in Townsville City can be considered relatively affordable compared to other major Australian cities. With the current median house price at $0, it appears there is a lack of data for house prices, but the median unit price is $438,000. This suggests that purchasing a unit is a more accessible option for those looking to buy property in the area. Renting is also quite manageable, with the average rent for houses being $585 per week and units at $550 per week.

    When we compare this to the median total household income in Townsville City, which is $2,013 per week, it seems that the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is within reach for many residents. The median annual salary in Queensland is approximately $56,000, which aligns well with the local income data. This indicates that Townsville City offers a more affordable living option compared to larger metropolitan areas, making it an attractive choice for those looking to balance lifestyle and cost.

    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 Townsville City a good place to invest?

    Townsville City is showing promising signs as a potential investment hotspot. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a significant increase in median house values, with a remarkable 35.6% growth. This suggests a strong demand for housing in the area, which is a positive indicator for investors looking for capital appreciation. Units have also seen a healthy increase in value, rising by 16.5%, which highlights a growing interest in more affordable housing options within the suburb.

    In addition to property value growth, rental yields in Townsville City have also been on the rise. House rents have increased by 9.8%, while unit rents have gone up by 6.8% over the last 12 months. This trend indicates a robust rental market, making it an attractive option for investors seeking steady rental income. The combination of rising property values and rental yields suggests that Townsville City is a suburb with strong investment potential.

    Overall, Townsville City offers a compelling mix of capital growth and rental income opportunities. Its recent performance in both property values and rental returns makes it an appealing choice for investors looking to capitalize on a dynamic and evolving market. With its current trajectory, Townsville City could be a wise addition to any property investment portfolio.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Townsville City

In Townsville City, 68 agents are actively selling property, but a small number do the heavy lifting. Just 5 agents handled 32.9% of all sales in the past year, giving them a strong presence and deep experience in the local market.

Commission rates usually sit between 2.47% and 3.09%. 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.

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