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Ultimo suburb profile

Ultimo is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, situated just 2km southwest of the CBD. Known for its educational institutions, including the University of Technology Sydney and TAFE NSW, it attracts a diverse student population. The suburb boasts a mix of historic and modern architecture, with heritage-listed buildings alongside contemporary developments. Ultimo is home to the Powerhouse Museum, offering cultural and educational experiences. Its proximity to Darling Harbour and Chinatown provides residents with a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. With excellent public transport links, Ultimo is a convenient and dynamic place to live.

Ultimo property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,096,250Past 3 months

Ultimo's property market is predominantly unit-focused, with no significant house sales activity reported. The median unit price has increased by 5.7% over the past 12 months, reaching $700,000. Sales figures show 43 units sold with a substantial median time on market of 68 days, indicating a balanced demand.

The rental market in Ultimo has seen considerable shifts, with house rents soaring by 15% to an average of $1,150 per week. Unit rents have also risen by 5.3%, now averaging $790 per week, reflecting ongoing interest in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
N/A$700K
Change in value
Past 12 months
N/A5.7%
Sold
Past 3 months
743
Median days on market
Past 12 months
N/A68
Average rent
Past 12 months
$1150$790
Change in rent
Past 12 months
15.0%5.3%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Ultimo demographics

Ultimo, located in the heart of Sydney, is a bustling suburb known for its proximity to the Central Business District and its vibrant, youthful atmosphere. With a median age of 30, Ultimo is home to a dynamic mix of students, young professionals, and families. The suburb's close proximity to educational institutions like the University of Technology Sydney and TAFE NSW makes it a popular choice for students seeking convenience and accessibility.

Housing in Ultimo is predominantly rental-based, with 73.4% of properties being rented. This high rental rate reflects the suburb's appeal to those seeking flexible living arrangements, particularly students and young professionals who value the convenience of living close to the city center. The suburb's household composition is diverse, with a significant proportion of couple families without children (59.8%), highlighting its appeal to young couples and professionals.

The workforce in Ultimo is varied, with many residents employed in professional and technical fields, reflecting the suburb's proximity to Sydney's business and technology hubs. The median total household income of $1805 per week indicates a relatively comfortable standard of living, attracting individuals and families who appreciate the blend of urban convenience and vibrant community life. Ultimo's mix of modern apartments, cultural attractions, and green spaces makes it a desirable location for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.

Ultimo infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Ultimo continues to benefit from its role within the broader Tech Central innovation precinct, with ongoing investment around Central Station and South Eveleigh supporting demand from students and technology workers and underpinning rental and buyer interest in the suburb.[4] Major education providers including the University of Technology Sydney and TAFE NSW Ultimo keep a steady flow of domestic and international students in the area, supporting high-density living and sustained demand for smaller apartments and rental stock.[4][7]

Proximity to Central Station, the CBD, Darling Harbour and Chinatown ensures strong public transport connectivity and walkability, which remains a key driver of buyer appeal for investors and owner-occupiers seeking car-light lifestyles.[4][5] There are no widely publicised new rail lines, schools or hospital projects within Ultimo itself at this time, but incremental upgrades to nearby public spaces and education precincts, combined with its established cultural and employment hubs, continue to support the suburb’s long-term desirability and property values.[4][7]

Ultimo rental market trends

The rental market in Ultimo has experienced significant growth, with house rents increasing 15% over the past year to $1,150 per week and unit rents rising 5.3% to $790 per week. Ultimo's strategic location, coupled with ongoing development and vibrant community life, continues to attract both renters and investors seeking robust returns in an urban setting.

Suburbs near Ultimo

Some popular suburbs near Ultimo include:

How does Ultimo compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Ultimo’s median house price is 3.6% higher than Redfern’s.
  • Median unit prices: Ultimo’s median unit price is 22.5% lower than Chippendale’s.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Ultimo have grown 3.9% higher than in Haymarket.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Ultimo are selling 2.9% faster than in Chippendale.
  • Investment considerations: In Ultimo, the rental yield for house is 27.4% higher than the Sydney average, while the rental yield for units is 1.5% higher.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Ultimo have grown 9.2% lower than the average rate of growth across Sydney.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Ultimo have grown 18.4% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Sydney.

Common questions about Ultimo

  • Is Ultimo a nice place to live?

    Ultimo is a fantastic place to live, especially for those who thrive in a lively and urban environment. Its vibrant atmosphere is complemented by a rich blend of historic charm and modern convenience, making it a delightful suburb for residents who appreciate both culture and contemporary living. The suburb's proximity to Sydney's Central Business District ensures that everything you need is just a stone's throw away, from shopping and dining to entertainment and cultural experiences.

    Families will find Ultimo appealing due to its strong community vibe and the abundance of educational opportunities. While the suburb is predominantly known for its student population, it also offers a welcoming environment for young families who enjoy the convenience of city living. The presence of green spaces provides a refreshing contrast to the urban setting, offering families and individuals alike a place to relax and unwind.

    Safety in Ultimo is generally not a major concern, although, like any bustling urban area, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings. The suburb's excellent public transport links make it easy to navigate without a car, which is a significant advantage for those who prefer a car-light lifestyle. However, the high demand for rental properties can mean that housing options are more limited and competitive, which is a trade-off for the convenience and vibrancy that Ultimo offers.

    Overall, Ultimo is a dynamic and exciting place to live, particularly for those who value accessibility, cultural richness, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or a family looking for a lively urban environment, Ultimo has much to offer.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Ultimo?

    Living in Ultimo, an inner-city suburb of Sydney, can be quite pricey, especially when you consider the housing market. While there are no current median house prices, the median unit price stands at $700,000. Renting a unit is somewhat more affordable, with an average rent of $790 per week, compared to houses which average $1,150 per week. These figures highlight the significant cost of living in this bustling area.

    When you compare the average annual wage in Ultimo, which is around $106,000, to the median total household income of $1,805 per week, it becomes clear that a substantial portion of income would be required to cover housing costs. This contrasts with the broader Sydney average salary, making Ultimo a more expensive option for those considering living in the area.

    In summary, while Ultimo offers the convenience and excitement of inner-city living, the cost of housing and rent can be a significant financial commitment. If you are thinking of living in Ultimo, it's essential to evaluate your budget to ensure it aligns with the expenses associated with this vibrant suburb.

    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 Ultimo a good place to invest?

    Ultimo is shaping up to be an intriguing option for property investors, especially those eyeing the unit market. Over the last year, the median unit value in Ultimo has increased by 5.7%, indicating a healthy demand for units in the area. This growth is complemented by a 5.3% rise in unit rents, suggesting that rental demand is also on the rise. For investors, this combination of capital growth and rental yield can be quite appealing, as it points to a balanced market with potential for steady returns.

    While the median house value in Ultimo has remained stable over the past year, the rental market for houses has seen a significant 15% increase. This surge in rental prices could make houses an attractive option for those looking to capitalize on rental income, even if capital growth has been flat. Ultimo's proximity to the CBD and its vibrant urban lifestyle make it a desirable location for renters, which helps sustain demand in both the house and unit markets.

    Overall, Ultimo presents a promising opportunity for investors, particularly in the unit segment. With its central location and strong rental market, it offers a mix of stability and growth potential. Whether you're looking for rental income or capital appreciation, Ultimo's dynamic property market could be worth considering for your investment portfolio.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Ultimo

Currently, there are 80 real estate agents working in Ultimo—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 80 agents sold 38.2% of all properties in Ultimo 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 Ultimo typically charge a commission of 1.95% to 3.07%. 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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