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Nowra suburb profile

Nowra is a picturesque town located on the South Coast of New South Wales, approximately 160km south of Sydney. Known for its stunning natural surroundings, Nowra is nestled along the Shoalhaven River, offering a perfect blend of rural charm and modern amenities. The town serves as a regional hub, providing a range of services, shopping, and dining options. Its proximity to beautiful beaches, national parks, and wineries makes it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts. With a strong sense of community and a relaxed lifestyle, Nowra is an appealing place for families and retirees alike.

Nowra property market performance

Current median dwelling price$558,750Past 3 months

Property growth-0.5%Past 12 months

Nowra’s property market has experienced notable growth, particularly in the housing sector. Over the past 12 months, house values have surged by 13.4%, with the median house price now at $745,000. While there has been significant house sales activity, with 42 properties sold, the unit market has seen less activity, with only 7 units sold and no change in unit prices.

Houses in Nowra are selling faster with a median of 35 days on the market, compared to 76 days for units, indicating a stronger demand for houses. The rental market has also seen some movement, with a 3.8% increase in house rents, now averaging $540, while unit rents remain unchanged at $420.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$748KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
12.5%-13.4%
Sold
Past 3 months
469
Median days on market
Past 12 months
3572
Average rent
Past 12 months
$550$420
Change in rent
Past 12 months
5.8%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Nowra demographics

Nowra, located in the picturesque Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, is a charming town known for its natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle. With a population of 9,956, Nowra offers a blend of urban convenience and rural tranquility, making it an attractive place for families, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life. The median age of 40 reflects a mature community, with a significant portion of residents enjoying the town's scenic surroundings and community-oriented atmosphere.

Housing in Nowra is diverse, with nearly half of the properties being rented, indicating a flexible housing market that caters to a variety of needs, from young families to retirees. A substantial 29.5% of homes are owned outright, showcasing a stable community with long-term residents. Meanwhile, 22.8% of properties are owned with a mortgage, reflecting a mix of established homeowners and new buyers entering the market.

Family dynamics in Nowra are varied, with couple families without children making up 39.6% of the population, followed by couple families with children at 30.5%. One-parent families also form a significant part of the community, accounting for 27.1%. This diversity in family structures contributes to a rich community fabric, supported by local amenities, schools, and recreational facilities. Nowra's combination of affordability, natural beauty, and community spirit makes it a desirable location for those looking to enjoy a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Nowra infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Nowra continues to benefit from its role as the main commercial and service centre for the Shoalhaven, which supports steady local demand for housing and rental accommodation. Its compact CBD, access to retail, health and everyday services, and proximity to the Shoalhaven River and South Coast beaches remain key lifestyle drawcards for buyers.

The suburb also benefits from regional employment linked to major local institutions and nearby transport connections at Bomaderry, while surrounding tourism, recreation and cultural amenities add to its appeal. At present, there are no major new developments in the available information that would materially change the local property market, but Nowra’s established infrastructure and service role should continue to underpin long-term interest.

Nowra rental market trends

In the Nowra rental market, house rents have experienced a modest increase of 3.8% over the past year, reaching $540 per week. Unit rents have remained stable at $420 per week, indicating a balanced market. Nowra's affordability and steady demand make it an attractive option for both renters and investors looking for consistency in returns.

Suburbs near Nowra

Some popular suburbs near Nowra include:

How does Nowra compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Nowra’s median house price is 6.6% lower than Bomaderry’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Nowra have grown 3.1% higher than in Bomaderry.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Nowra have grown 3.8% higher than in North Nowra.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Nowra are selling 2.8% faster than in North Nowra.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby Bomaderry are selling 45.8% faster than in Nowra.

Common questions about Nowra

  • Is Nowra a nice place to live?

    Nowra is a delightful place to live, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. Nestled along the Shoalhaven River, this charming town is known for its serene atmosphere and strong community spirit. The lush landscapes and proximity to stunning beaches and national parks make it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The town's vibrant community is complemented by a range of amenities, including shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants, ensuring residents have everything they need within easy reach.

    For families, Nowra provides a welcoming environment with access to quality schools and recreational facilities. The suburb's relaxed pace and community-oriented vibe make it an ideal place for raising children. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the overall appeal for families and retirees alike. However, those accustomed to the hustle and bustle of city life might find Nowra's quieter lifestyle a trade-off, as it lacks the nightlife and cultural events of larger urban areas.

    While Nowra offers a picturesque and tranquil setting, it's important to consider the trade-offs. The town's distance from Sydney means that commuting to the city can be time-consuming, which might not suit everyone. However, for those who prioritize a balanced lifestyle with access to nature and a strong sense of community, Nowra is a wonderful place to call home. Its established infrastructure and role as a regional hub ensure that residents enjoy a fulfilling and connected lifestyle, making it a truly nice place to live.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Nowra?

    Living in Nowra can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you look at the housing market. The median house price is currently around $745,000, which is significant given the average yearly wage in Nowra is about $54,000. This wage is slightly below the average for New South Wales, which means that buying property in Nowra could take up a substantial portion of one's income.

    Renting in Nowra is somewhat more affordable, with the average rent for houses being $540 per week and units at $420 per week. These rental prices are manageable compared to larger cities but still require careful budgeting, especially when considering the median total household income in Nowra is $1,037 per week. This income level suggests that while some may find living in Nowra within reach, others might need to plan their finances carefully to afford the cost of living comfortably.

    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 Nowra a good place to invest?

    Nowra presents an intriguing opportunity for property investors, especially those interested in houses. Over the past 12 months, the suburb has experienced a significant 13.4% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and potential for capital growth. This rise suggests that Nowra is becoming increasingly attractive to buyers, possibly due to its appealing lifestyle and proximity to natural attractions like the Shoalhaven River and nearby beaches.

    While the median unit values and rents have remained stable, the growth in house values and rental prices suggests a healthy market for those looking to invest in houses. The 3.8% increase in house rents over the past year also points to a steady rental demand, which can be appealing for investors seeking reliable rental income. Nowra's blend of regional charm and growing popularity makes it a suburb worth considering for those looking to invest in the property market.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Nowra

Choosing the right real estate agent in Nowra can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 43 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 38.8% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2% to 2.86%, 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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