Question 1

Is Kiama a nice place to live?

Accepted Answer

Kiama is a delightful place to live, offering a serene coastal lifestyle that is both charming and inviting. This beautiful suburb is known for its relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families who appreciate a slower pace of life. The community vibe is strong, with a welcoming spirit that makes newcomers feel right at home. Kiama's proximity to essential amenities, including schools, shops, and cafes, ensures that residents have everything they need within easy reach. The suburb's safety and community-oriented environment make it particularly appealing for families looking to settle down in a peaceful setting.

While Kiama offers a fantastic lifestyle, there are some trade-offs to consider. The focus on preserving its village character and scenic landscapes means that high-density development is limited, which can impact housing availability and variety. However, this also supports property values and maintains the suburb's unique appeal. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Kiama provides plenty of opportunities with its beautiful beaches and parks, perfect for leisurely strolls or family picnics. The suburb's connectivity via rail links to Wollongong and Sydney is a significant advantage for commuters and those seeking a balance between coastal living and city access.

Overall, Kiama is a wonderful place to call home, especially for families who value a strong community, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. While it may not offer the hustle and bustle of a city, its peaceful environment and friendly atmosphere more than make up for it, providing a unique and fulfilling living experience.

Question 2

Is it expensive to live in Kiama?

Accepted Answer

Living in Kiama can be quite costly, especially when you look at the current property market. The median house price is around $1,510,000, which is significantly high compared to many other areas. If you're considering renting, houses average about $800 per week, while units are slightly more affordable at $620 per week. This indicates that housing, whether buying or renting, demands a significant financial commitment.

When we compare these figures to the local income data, the average annual wage in Kiama is approximately $78,000. This suggests that a considerable portion of one's income would need to be allocated to housing costs, especially when the median total household income weekly is $1,572. In comparison, the average wage in New South Wales is slightly higher, which means living in Kiama could be more financially challenging for those earning an average salary.

Overall, while Kiama offers stunning coastal views and a relaxed lifestyle, the cost of living, particularly regarding housing, is on the higher side. If you're thinking of living in Kiama, it's essential to evaluate your financial situation to ensure it aligns with the expenses associated with this picturesque suburb.

Question 3

Is Kiama a good place to invest?

Accepted Answer

Kiama presents an intriguing opportunity for property investors, especially those interested in the unit market. Over the past year, the median unit value in Kiama has increased by 6.6%, indicating a strong demand for this type of property. This growth is complemented by a 3.3% rise in unit rents, suggesting a healthy rental market that could provide consistent income for investors.

While the median house value has remained stable with no change over the last 12 months, the rental market for houses has seen a significant 6.7% increase. This suggests that while capital growth in house prices may be currently stagnant, the rental demand is robust, offering potential for steady rental returns. Kiama's coastal charm, combined with its relaxed lifestyle and proximity to Sydney, makes it an attractive location for both renters and buyers, which could drive future demand.

Overall, Kiama offers a balanced investment landscape. The unit market shows promising growth, while the rental market for houses remains strong. For investors seeking a mix of rental income and potential capital appreciation, Kiama could be a worthwhile consideration.

	Houses	Units
Median price Past 3 months	$1.42M	$835K
Change in value Past 12 months	-0.9%	-2.5%
Sold Past 3 months	30	17
Median days on market Past 12 months	64	58
Average rent Past 12 months	$800	$620
Change in rent Past 12 months	6.7%	3.3%

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

Kiama suburb profile

Kiama property market performance

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Kiama demographics

Suburbs near Kiama

How does Kiama compare to nearby suburbs?

Choose the right real estate agents in Kiama

Get a head start and compare top local agents in Kiama

Not quite ready to sell?

Suburb and property report

Digital estimate for your property

Navigate the market