Wollongong suburb profile
Wollongong, located on the picturesque coastline of New South Wales, is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, lush escarpment, and dynamic cultural scene. As a major regional centre, it offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, attracting students, families, and professionals. The University of Wollongong is a key feature, contributing to the city's youthful energy and innovation. Wollongong's thriving arts community, diverse dining options, and outdoor recreational activities make it a desirable place to live and visit. Its proximity to Sydney, coupled with a relaxed coastal lifestyle, enhances its appeal as a dynamic and inviting destination.
Wollongong property market performance
Current median dwelling price$981,250Past 3 months
Property growth+6.8%Past 12 months
Wollongong’s property market has experienced positive growth over the past 12 months. House values have increased by 7.9%, bringing the median house price to approximately $1.2 million. Units have also seen a rise of 5.6%, with the median price reaching $768,000. This reflects a strong demand across both property types.
Sales activity has been robust, particularly in the unit market with 141 units sold compared to 22 houses over the past 12 months. Properties are selling relatively quickly, with median days on market at 45 for houses and 36 for units, indicating a competitive environment.
Wollongong's rental market has shown healthy growth over the past year, with house rents increasing by 4.3% and unit rents by 6.6%, highlighting rising demand for rental properties in the area.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | $1.20M | $768K |
Change in value Past 12 months | 7.9% | 5.6% |
Sold Past 3 months | 22 | 141 |
Median days on market Past 12 months | 45 | 36 |
Average rent Past 12 months | $750 | $650 |
Change in rent Past 12 months | 4.3% | 6.6% |
5 year median price trend for houses and units
Wollongong demographics
Wollongong, a vibrant coastal city located south of Sydney, is renowned for its stunning beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and robust educational and employment opportunities. The presence of the University of Wollongong makes it a hub for students and young professionals, while families and retirees are drawn to its unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. With a median age of 35, Wollongong reflects a diverse community of working professionals, families, and long-term residents who appreciate its laid-back yet well-connected atmosphere.
The housing landscape in Wollongong is varied, with 56.6% of properties being rented, making it an attractive option for students, professionals, and those seeking flexible living arrangements. Meanwhile, 25% of households own their homes outright, and 18.4% are owned with a mortgage, indicating a mix of stability and new buyers entering the market. Family households are prominent, with couple families without children making up 58.4% and those with children accounting for 24.7%, showcasing the suburb's appeal to a wide range of residents.
Wollongong's workforce is diverse, with a significant presence of professionals, technicians, and trades workers, reflecting the city's dynamic job market. The combination of coastal charm, affordable living compared to Sydney, and a growing job market makes Wollongong an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and relaxed lifestyle. Its community-oriented environment, coupled with the natural beauty of its surroundings, ensures that Wollongong remains a sought-after place to live for many Australians.
Wollongong infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities
Wollongong continues to benefit from ongoing revitalisation of its city centre, with recent and planned mixed-use projects adding higher-density residential, retail and commercial space that support stronger demand for inner-city apartments and townhouses.[6] The university and health precincts remain major employment hubs, and incremental upgrades to public spaces, cycleways and waterfront amenities are enhancing walkability and overall lifestyle appeal, which typically underpins buyer interest across a range of price points.
Transport connections to Sydney and surrounding Illawarra suburbs remain a key drawcard, with continuing network and road improvements aimed at improving commute reliability and access to jobs.[6] No major new school openings have been announced, but existing education infrastructure, including proximity to the university, keeps the suburb attractive to students, staff and families, supporting both rental and owner-occupier demand. Overall, current changes are evolutionary rather than transformative, but they collectively reinforce Wollongong’s position as a growing regional city with generally positive implications for property values and long-term livability.
Wollongong rental market trends
The rental market in Wollongong has shown moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 4.3% to $750 per week, while unit rents have risen 6.6% to $650 per week. As the region continues to attract residents with its coastal lifestyle and improving infrastructure, Wollongong offers promising opportunities for steady rental returns.
Suburbs near Wollongong
Some popular suburbs near Wollongong include:
How does Wollongong compare to nearby suburbs?
- Median house prices: Wollongong’s median house price is 16.9% lower than Keiraville’s.
- Median unit prices: Wollongong’s median unit price is 8.1% lower than North Wollongong’s.
- House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Wollongong have grown 6.0% higher than in Gwynneville.
- Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby North Wollongong have risen 3.3% more than in Wollongong over the past year.
- Selling speed for houses: Properties in nearby Gwynneville are selling 24.4% faster than in Wollongong.
- Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby North Wollongong are selling 36.1% faster than in Wollongong.

