Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Wauchope

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Wauchope suburb profile

Wauchope is a charming town located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, known for its rich timber history and scenic natural surroundings. Nestled near the Hastings River, it offers a relaxed rural lifestyle with a strong community spirit. Wauchope serves as a gateway to the stunning hinterland and national parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. The town features a mix of heritage buildings, local shops, and cafes, reflecting its blend of tradition and modernity. With its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to Port Macquarie, Wauchope is an appealing destination for families and retirees.

Wauchope property market performance

Current median dwelling price$570,000Past 3 months

Property growth+10.8%Past 12 months

Wauchope's property market has shown strong growth over the past 12 months with house values increasing by 9.5%. The median house price now stands at $725,000. Though units have seen a 12% increase in value, the median price remains at $0, likely indicating limited sales. Over the past year, 34 houses and 4 units were sold, with houses selling quickly at a median of 28 days on the market compared to 29 days for units.

Rental prices for houses have risen by 4.4% over the last 12 months, with an average rent now at $595. In contrast, unit rents remained stable at an average of $450, showing no change during the same period, reflecting varied demand across different property types.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$725KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
9.5%12.0%
Sold
Past 3 months
344
Median days on market
Past 12 months
2829
Average rent
Past 12 months
$595$450
Change in rent
Past 12 months
4.4%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Wauchope demographics

Wauchope, nestled in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, is a charming town known for its rich history and close-knit community. With a population of 6,589, Wauchope offers a peaceful lifestyle, appealing to families and retirees alike. The median age of 43 suggests a mature community, with many residents enjoying the town's relaxed pace and natural surroundings, including the nearby Hastings River and lush hinterlands.

The town's housing landscape is characterized by a significant proportion of outright home ownership, with 37.4% of properties owned outright. This reflects a stable community with long-term residents who have established roots in the area. Additionally, 29.2% of homes are owned with a mortgage, indicating a mix of established families and new buyers entering the market. Renting is also a viable option, with 33.4% of properties available for rent, catering to those seeking flexibility.

Family dynamics in Wauchope are diverse, with couple families without children making up 41.8% of the population, while couple families with children account for 31.3%. One-parent families represent 25.2%, highlighting the suburb's inclusive nature. The median total household income of $1,114 per week reflects the town's modest yet comfortable living standards. Wauchope's community spirit, combined with its scenic beauty and historical charm, makes it an attractive place for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Wauchope infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Wauchope is seeing ongoing residential growth, with a mix of established homes and brand new estates adding to local housing supply and modernising the town’s appeal.[4] As part of the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council area, the suburb benefits from broader regional planning focused on accommodating population growth, improving services and strengthening links to nearby employment and coastal lifestyle hubs such as Port Macquarie, which is about a 20-minute drive away.[4][6] This proximity to beaches, national parks and the Hastings hinterland underpins Wauchope’s attractiveness for families and lifestyle buyers.[4][6]

The local centre continues to evolve, with a variety of shops, cafes, pubs and community facilities that support walkability and day-to-day convenience, factors that typically support steady property demand.[4] Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has also advertised proposed development activity in Wauchope’s commercial area, signalling a longer-term intention to intensify and diversify land use, which may gradually lift the suburb’s profile and business base.[7] At present, there are no widely publicised large-scale transport or school infrastructure projects specific to Wauchope, so the main drivers of the property market remain its established amenities, growing residential estates and strong connectivity to the broader Mid North Coast region.[4][6]

Wauchope rental market trends

In Wauchope, the rental market shows modest growth, with house rents increasing 4.4% over the past year to $595 per week, while unit rents remain steady at $450 per week. Despite being a smaller market, Wauchope offers stable rental opportunities, making it an attractive option for both tenants and investors looking for consistent returns without the volatility of larger urban centers.

Suburbs near Wauchope

Some popular suburbs near Wauchope include:

How does Wauchope compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Wauchope’s median house price is 22.3% lower than Thrumster’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Wauchope have grown 8.9% higher than in King Creek.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Wauchope have grown 16.4% higher than in Thrumster.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Wauchope are selling 78.0% faster than in King Creek.

Common questions about Wauchope

  • Is Wauchope a nice place to live?

    Wauchope is a delightful place to call home, offering a peaceful and family-friendly environment with a charming rural vibe. Known for its rich timber history and scenic beauty, this suburb is perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by nature. The community is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place for families to settle down and enjoy a slower pace of life. With its proximity to the Hastings River and lush hinterlands, residents have easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching, which are perfect for family outings.

    In terms of amenities, Wauchope provides a good mix of local shops, cafes, and community facilities that cater to everyday needs. While it may not have the bustling nightlife of a larger city, its charm lies in its simplicity and the strong sense of community that binds its residents. The suburb's proximity to Port Macquarie, just a short drive away, means that beaches and more extensive shopping and dining options are easily accessible, offering the best of both worlds for those who live here.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Wauchope, contributing to its appeal for families and retirees alike. However, the trade-off for this peaceful lifestyle is that the suburb lacks large-scale transport and school infrastructure projects, which might be a consideration for those seeking more urban conveniences. Nonetheless, the ongoing residential growth and proposed developments in the commercial area suggest a promising future for Wauchope, making it a lovely place to live for those who value community, nature, and a balanced lifestyle.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Wauchope?

    Living in Wauchope can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you compare it to other regional areas in New South Wales. With a median house price of $725,000, buying property here requires a significant investment. It's important to note that the median total household income in Wauchope is $1,114 per week, which is lower than the NSW state average weekly wage of approximately $2,080. This discrepancy suggests that the cost of housing in Wauchope might take up a larger portion of a household's income compared to other areas.

    For those considering renting, the average rent for houses in Wauchope is $595 per week, which can be quite a stretch for local incomes. On the other hand, renting a unit is more affordable, averaging $450 per week, although options may be limited given the current median unit price is listed as $0, indicating a lack of available data or units. Overall, if you are thinking of living in Wauchope, it's essential to weigh these housing costs against your income to determine if 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.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Wauchope a good place to invest?

    Wauchope presents an intriguing opportunity for property investors, particularly given its recent performance in the real estate market. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a notable increase in median house values by 9.5% and an even more impressive 12.0% rise in unit values. This suggests a strong demand for property in the area, which can be a positive indicator for potential capital growth.

    While the rental market for houses has seen a modest increase of 4.4%, the rental prices for units have remained stable. This stability in rental returns, combined with the growth in property values, suggests that Wauchope could be a solid choice for investors looking for a balance between capital appreciation and rental income. The suburb's appeal may lie in its community atmosphere and potential for future growth, making it an attractive option for both families and individuals seeking a quieter lifestyle.

    Overall, Wauchope's recent property market performance and its potential for continued growth make it a suburb worth considering for investment. With its rising property values and stable rental market, it offers a promising mix of opportunities for those looking to invest in real estate.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Wauchope

Currently, there are 42 real estate agents working in Wauchope—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 42 agents sold 60.9% of all properties in Wauchope 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 Wauchope typically charge a commission of 2.63% to 3.25%. 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.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.