Dapto suburb profile
Dapto is a growing suburb located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, approximately 15km south of Wollongong. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Dapto offers a mix of suburban living with easy access to natural attractions like the Illawarra Escarpment and Lake Illawarra. The suburb features a variety of housing options, from established homes to new developments, catering to diverse lifestyles. Dapto's community spirit is evident in its local events and amenities, including shopping centres, schools, and recreational facilities. Its convenient transport links to Wollongong and Sydney make it an appealing choice for commuters and families alike.
Dapto property market performance
Current median dwelling price$842,500Past 3 months
Property growth+9.3%Past 12 months
Dapto’s property market has shown positive momentum in the housing sector over the past 12 months, with house values rising by 6.2%. The current median house price is $910,000. The unit market remains stagnant with no change in value, showing limited activity with only one unit sold.
House sales have been robust, with 44 houses sold in the last 12 months. Houses also spend less time on the market, with a median of 21 days compared to 22 days for units, indicating stronger demand for houses.
Rentals in Dapto have seen a noticeable increase for houses, with a 9.7% rise in rent, averaging $680, while unit rents have remained unchanged at $500 over the past year.
| Houses | Units | |
|---|---|---|
Median price Past 3 months | $895K | N/A |
Change in value Past 12 months | 6.4% | 12.1% |
Sold Past 3 months | 46 | 4 |
Median days on market Past 12 months | 21 | 23 |
Average rent Past 12 months | $680 | $500 |
Change in rent Past 12 months | 9.7% | N/A |
5 year median price trend for houses and units
Dapto demographics
Dapto, located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, is a suburb known for its family-friendly environment and community-oriented lifestyle. With a population of 10,954, Dapto offers a blend of suburban tranquility and accessibility to the larger city of Wollongong. The median age of 39 suggests a mature community, with a significant number of families choosing to settle here due to its appealing mix of amenities and natural surroundings.
The suburb's housing market is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 35.6% of properties owned outright and 39.0% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with many long-term residents. The rental market, comprising 25.4% of properties, provides options for those seeking more flexible living arrangements. Dapto's family composition is diverse, with 40.9% of households being couple families with children, and 37.0% being couple families without children, reflecting its appeal to both growing families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Dapto's median household income of $1,475 per week aligns with its suburban character, offering a cost-effective alternative to the more expensive urban centers. The suburb's community spirit is evident in its local events and recreational facilities, making it an attractive place for families and individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle. With its proximity to both the coast and the escarpment, Dapto provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live.
Dapto infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities
Dapto is experiencing ongoing urban growth as part of Wollongong’s broader expansion, with continued residential subdivision in nearby growth areas supporting steady demand for family housing and townhouses.[3] The suburb benefits from proximity to Lake Illawarra, local shopping at Dapto Mall, and established community services, which together enhance overall livability and convenience for residents.[3][2]
Transport connectivity via the nearby rail line and Princes Highway provides access to major employment hubs in Wollongong and beyond, underpinning Dapto’s appeal for commuters.[3] There are no widely reported new major infrastructure or school projects specific to Dapto at this time, so property market dynamics are currently driven more by incremental residential development, population growth, and its established amenity base than by single transformative projects.[3]
Dapto rental market trends
In Dapto, the rental market has experienced a steady increase with house rents rising 9.7% over the past year to $680 per week, while unit rents have remained stable at $500 per week. Dapto offers a balanced investment environment, appealing to both new residents and those seeking consistent rental returns in a suburban setting.
Suburbs near Dapto
Some popular suburbs near Dapto include:
How does Dapto compare to nearby suburbs?
- Median house prices: Dapto’s median house price is 16.7% lower than Horsley’s.
- House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Dapto have grown 1.0% higher than in Koonawarra.
- Selling speed for houses: Properties in Dapto are selling 8.7% faster than in Horsley.

