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Wonthaggi suburb profile

Wonthaggi is a charming regional town located in Victoria's Bass Coast Shire, approximately 132km southeast of Melbourne. Known for its rich coal mining history, Wonthaggi has evolved into a vibrant community hub offering a blend of rural and coastal living. The town features a variety of amenities, including shopping centres, schools, and healthcare facilities, catering to both residents and visitors. Its proximity to stunning coastal attractions like Cape Paterson and Inverloch makes it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Wonthaggi's welcoming atmosphere and growing infrastructure continue to attract families and retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Wonthaggi property market performance

Current median dwelling price$478,125Past 3 months

Property growth-0.4%Past 12 months

Wonthaggi’s property market has shown stability and modest growth over the past 12 months. The median house price has remained steady at $550,000, while unit values have seen a slight increase of 3.9%, bringing the median unit price to $406,250. This indicates a steady demand for units in the area.

Sales activity has been moderate, with 37 houses and 14 units sold over the past 12 months. However, properties are taking longer to sell, with houses spending a median of 69 days on the market and units taking even longer at 93 days, suggesting a more cautious buyer sentiment.

The rental market in Wonthaggi has experienced some growth, with house rents increasing by 4.3% and unit rents by 5.1% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is now $480, while units average $415, reflecting a healthy demand for rental properties.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$550K$406K
Change in value
Past 12 months
-4.8%3.9%
Sold
Past 3 months
3714
Median days on market
Past 12 months
6993
Average rent
Past 12 months
$480$415
Change in rent
Past 12 months
4.3%5.1%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Wonthaggi demographics

Wonthaggi, located in Victoria's Bass Coast region, is a charming town known for its rich history and close-knit community. With a population of 5,215, it offers a peaceful lifestyle, attracting retirees and families seeking a quieter pace of life. The median age of 55 reflects its appeal to older residents, who enjoy the town's relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings.

The housing landscape in Wonthaggi is characterized by a high rate of outright home ownership, with 47.7% of properties owned outright. This indicates a stable community with many long-term residents. Additionally, 22.1% of homes are owned with a mortgage, while 30.2% are rented, providing a mix of housing options for different needs and preferences.

Family structures in Wonthaggi are diverse, with 49.5% of couple families having no children, and 27% having children. One-parent families make up 22.1% of the community, highlighting the suburb's family-friendly nature. The median total household income of $852 per week suggests a modest but comfortable living standard, aligning with the town's laid-back lifestyle. Wonthaggi's combination of affordability, community spirit, and natural beauty makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a serene and fulfilling life.

Wonthaggi infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Wonthaggi is consolidating its role as a key regional service centre, with ongoing investment in health, education and retail facilities that underpins steady property demand.[2][5] The town already hosts a major hospital with emergency services, multiple primary schools and a secondary college, and local feedback points to anticipated tertiary or university-style facilities in future, all of which support population growth and make the area more attractive to families and long-term residents.[2][5][6]

Improved road connections via the Bass Highway and South Gippsland Highway provide efficient access to Melbourne, Phillip Island and nearby employment hubs, enhancing Wonthaggi’s appeal for commuters and lifestyle buyers.[2][5] Proximity to coastal destinations such as Inverloch and Cape Paterson, combined with established retail, big-box outlets and community amenities, continues to drive interest from value-focused buyers compared with higher-priced neighbouring coastal suburbs.[2]

Wonthaggi rental market trends

The rental market in Wonthaggi has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 4.3% over the past year to $480 per week, while unit rents have risen by 5.1% to $415 per week. As a regional hub with expanding amenities and a relaxed lifestyle, Wonthaggi continues to attract both renters and investors seeking steady returns.

Suburbs near Wonthaggi

Some popular suburbs near Wonthaggi include:

How does Wonthaggi compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Wonthaggi’s median house price is 12.1% lower than North Wonthaggi’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby South Dudley have risen 5.9% more than in Wonthaggi over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Wonthaggi are selling 31.7% faster than in Cape Paterson.
  • Investment considerations: In Wonthaggi, the rental yield for house is 23.6% lower than the Melbourne average, while the rental yield for units is 28.9% lower.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Wonthaggi have grown 51.3% lower than the average rate of growth across Melbourne.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Wonthaggi have grown 31.8% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Melbourne.

Common questions about Wonthaggi

  • Is Wonthaggi a nice place to live?

    Wonthaggi is a delightful place to live, offering a unique blend of rural charm and coastal allure. This vibrant town is known for its welcoming community and laid-back lifestyle, making it an attractive choice for families and retirees alike. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Wonthaggi provides a serene environment that many find appealing. The town's strong community spirit is evident in its diverse family structures, which include a mix of couple families with and without children, as well as one-parent families.

    Living in Wonthaggi means enjoying the convenience of a variety of amenities, including shopping centres, schools, and healthcare facilities. The town's proximity to stunning coastal attractions like Cape Paterson and Inverloch offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the overall sense of security and comfort for residents. However, those seeking a bustling nightlife might find the town's quieter pace a trade-off for its tranquil lifestyle.

    For families, Wonthaggi offers a supportive environment with access to good educational facilities and a strong sense of community. The town's ongoing investment in infrastructure, including potential future tertiary education facilities, enhances its appeal for long-term residents. While the town provides a modest but comfortable living standard, the improved road connections to Melbourne and nearby employment hubs make it a practical choice for commuters seeking a balance between work and a relaxed home life. Overall, Wonthaggi's combination of affordability, community spirit, and natural beauty makes it a charming and fulfilling place to call home.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Wonthaggi?

    Living in Wonthaggi can be considered relatively affordable, especially when compared to other parts of Victoria. With a current median house price of $550,000 and a median unit price of $406,250, property prices in Wonthaggi are quite reasonable. Renting is also on the affordable side, with the average rent for houses being $480 per week and units at $415 per week.

    However, when you compare these figures to the average personal wage in Wonthaggi, which is about $27,000 per year or roughly $515 per week, the cost of living might seem a bit tight for some. The median total household income is $852 per week, which suggests that dual-income households might find it easier to manage expenses. In contrast, the average wage in Victoria is generally higher, which means that while Wonthaggi offers lower property prices, the local wages are also lower.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in Wonthaggi, it offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to many other suburbs in Victoria, especially in terms of property prices. However, it's important to consider your income and budget carefully to ensure it aligns with the living costs in this charming regional town.

    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 Wonthaggi a good place to invest?

    Wonthaggi presents an interesting opportunity for property investors, particularly those looking at units. While the median house value has remained stable over the past year, units have experienced a notable increase of 3.9%. This suggests a growing demand for more affordable housing options, which could be appealing to both first-time buyers and investors seeking rental properties.

    The rental market in Wonthaggi is also showing positive signs, with rents for houses increasing by 4.3% and units by 5.1% over the last 12 months. This indicates a healthy demand for rental properties, which can provide a steady income stream for investors. The suburb's appeal is likely bolstered by its coastal location and community vibe, making it attractive for families and retirees alike.

    Overall, Wonthaggi offers a balanced investment landscape. While house prices have not seen significant growth recently, the rental market's strength and the rise in unit values suggest potential for steady returns. Investors looking for a mix of affordability and rental yield might find Wonthaggi a worthwhile consideration.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Wonthaggi

Choosing the right real estate agent in Wonthaggi can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 30 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 50.5% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.13% to 2.71%, 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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