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Waratah suburb profile

Waratah is a well-established suburb located in the city of Newcastle, New South Wales, known for its rich history and community-oriented atmosphere. Situated approximately 6km from Newcastle's CBD, Waratah offers a blend of residential charm and urban convenience. The suburb is home to the University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus and features a variety of amenities, including shopping centres, parks, and schools. Waratah's leafy streets and heritage homes contribute to its appeal, attracting families, students, and professionals. With its strong sense of community and proximity to both the city and coast, Waratah remains a desirable place to live.

Waratah property market performance

Current median dwelling price$661,750Past 3 months

Property growth+16.4%Past 12 months

Waratah’s property market has demonstrated varied trends over the past 12 months. House values have increased by 6.2%, reaching a median price of $975,000, while unit values have surged by 26.7%, despite there being no recorded median unit price. Over the past three months, the suburb has seen 11 houses sold, with houses moving swiftly at a median of 18 days on the market.

Although unit sales have been minimal with only three transactions, and no specific median days on market recorded, the high increase in value suggests burgeoning interest or unique sales activity in this property type.

The rental market has seen modest growth, with house rents increasing by 3.7% to an average of $695 and unit rents soaring by 9.6% to $493. This suggests a strong demand for units, aligning with the significant rise in unit values in Waratah.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$975KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
6.2%26.7%
Sold
Past 3 months
113
Median days on market
Past 12 months
18N/A
Average rent
Past 12 months
$695$493
Change in rent
Past 12 months
3.7%9.6%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Waratah demographics

Waratah, a suburb located in the city of Newcastle, New South Wales, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. With a population of 4,927, Waratah is characterized by its mature demographic, with a median age of 41, indicating a community of established families and long-term residents. The suburb's family-oriented nature is evident, with 33.1% of households being couple families with children and 40.4% being couple families without children. This balance of family types contributes to a stable and nurturing environment, ideal for raising children or enjoying a quieter lifestyle.

The housing landscape in Waratah is diverse, with a significant portion of properties being rented, accounting for 48.4% of the suburb's dwellings. This high rental rate suggests a demand for flexible living arrangements, appealing to both young professionals and families seeking temporary accommodation. Meanwhile, 22.2% of properties are owned outright, and 29.3% are owned with a mortgage, reflecting a mix of financial stability and new homeowners entering the market.

Waratah's community is supported by a median total household income of $1,511 weekly, which aligns with the suburb's moderate cost of living. The presence of the University of Newcastle nearby adds to the suburb's appeal, providing educational opportunities and contributing to the local economy. With its combination of family-friendly amenities, accessible housing options, and proximity to Newcastle's city center, Waratah offers a balanced lifestyle for its residents.

Waratah infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Waratah continues to benefit from its proximity to the Callaghan education and health precinct, including the university campus and major hospital facilities nearby, which underpins steady housing demand from students, healthcare workers, and families. Ongoing improvements within the Newcastle city centre and surrounding employment hubs are also enhancing accessibility and job opportunities for Waratah residents, supporting both rental and owner-occupier demand.

There are currently no widely reported, large-scale new transport or retail infrastructure projects specific to Waratah beyond routine road upgrades and council maintenance programs, so short-term market impacts from new construction are limited. However, Waratah’s established rail access, bus links, schools and local shopping, combined with Newcastle City Council’s broader focus on urban renewal and increased housing supply across inner suburbs, are likely to maintain Waratah’s appeal as a convenient, well-serviced suburb over the medium term.

Waratah rental market trends

The rental market in Waratah has experienced modest growth, with house rents increasing 3.7% over the past year to $695 per week and unit rents rising 9.6% to $493 per week. With its community appeal and proximity to essential amenities, Waratah remains an attractive choice for renters and investors seeking steady returns.

Suburbs near Waratah

Some popular suburbs near Waratah include:

How does Waratah compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Waratah’s median house price is 1.6% higher than Waratah West’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Waratah have grown 1.1% higher than in Waratah West.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Waratah have grown 12.8% higher than in Mayfield.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Waratah are selling 37.9% faster than in Georgetown.

Common questions about Waratah

  • Is Waratah a nice place to live?

    Waratah is a charming suburb that offers a delightful blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it a lovely place to call home. Its leafy streets and heritage homes provide a picturesque setting that is both welcoming and serene. The suburb is known for its strong sense of community, which is evident in the friendly interactions among residents and the various community events that bring people together. Families will find Waratah particularly appealing, as it offers a nurturing environment with access to good schools and plenty of green spaces for children to play and explore.

    Living in Waratah means enjoying the best of both worlds: the peacefulness of a suburban lifestyle with the convenience of being close to Newcastle's city center. The suburb is well-serviced by public transport, making it easy to commute to work or explore the surrounding areas. Residents have access to a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, cafes, and parks, ensuring that all daily needs are met without having to venture far from home. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the suburb's family-friendly atmosphere.

    However, there are a few trade-offs to consider when living in Waratah. While the suburb offers a peaceful lifestyle, it may lack the vibrant nightlife and cultural events found in more urban areas. Additionally, the high demand for rental properties can make finding long-term accommodation a bit competitive. Despite these minor drawbacks, Waratah remains a desirable place to live, particularly for families and those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Its proximity to educational institutions and healthcare facilities further enhances its appeal, making it a suburb that caters to a diverse range of residents.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Waratah?

    Living in Waratah can be a bit pricey, especially when you consider the housing market. The median house price in Waratah is currently around $975,000, which is quite significant. Renting isn't exactly cheap either, with the average rent for houses sitting at $695 per week. Units are a bit more affordable with an average rent of $493 per week, but it's important to note that there are currently no median unit prices available, which might limit options for those looking to buy a unit.

    When you compare this to the average wage in Waratah, which is about $70,000 per year, it becomes clear that a substantial portion of one's income would need to be allocated to housing costs. The median total household income weekly is $1,511, which is in line with the average wage, but still suggests that living in Waratah might require some financial planning. If you're thinking of living in Waratah, it's crucial to weigh these costs against your income to ensure it fits within your budget. Despite the expenses, Waratah offers a charming lifestyle with its community vibe and convenient access to amenities, which might justify the costs for some. However, it's essential to carefully consider your financial situation before making the move.

    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 Waratah a good place to invest?

    Waratah is shaping up to be an exciting suburb for property investment, especially for those looking at units. Over the past year, the median unit value has skyrocketed by 26.7%, indicating a strong demand and a vibrant market. This surge in unit prices suggests that Waratah is becoming increasingly popular, possibly due to its appealing lifestyle and proximity to key amenities.

    While house values have also seen a healthy increase of 6.2%, it's the rental market that adds another layer of attractiveness to Waratah. With rents for units climbing by 9.6% over the last year, investors can expect solid rental returns, making it a great option for those looking to generate income from their property. The rental growth for houses, at 3.7%, also indicates a steady demand, ensuring that properties remain tenanted.

    Overall, Waratah offers a compelling mix of capital growth and rental yield, particularly in the unit market. Its recent performance suggests that it is a suburb on the rise, making it a promising choice for investors seeking both appreciation and income potential.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Waratah

Choosing the right real estate agent in Waratah can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 35 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 51.4% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 1.87% to 3.25%, depending on the agent and what’s included. Comparing both performance and fee structures can help you find someone who's well-suited to your needs, and set them up for a successful result.

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