Ballina
Investment Score
78
/100
AI Intelligence Summary
Ballina is a thriving coastal town at the mouth of the Richmond River in northern NSW, serving as a major regional center for the Far North Coast. With a population of 17,800 and median age of 48, it attracts a diverse mix of retirees, families, and professionals seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle. The town has experienced remarkable property growth, with house prices reaching $850,000 (up 52.8% over five years) driven by strong interstate migration and limited supply. Ballina offers excellent amenities including Ballina District Hospital, quality schools, Ballina Byron Gateway Airport just 8km away, and pristine beaches within 2km. The Richmond River provides extensive recreational opportunities for boating and fishing, while Ballina Fair anchors the retail precinct. With low unemployment (4.8%), strong community infrastructure, and proximity to Byron Bay, Ballina represents an attractive lifestyle destination with solid investment fundamentals, though transport connectivity beyond road access remains limited.
Strengths
- •Prime coastal location with Richmond River frontage and beach access within 2km
- •Strong property market performance with 52.8% house price growth over 5 years
- •Regional airport providing convenient air connectivity to major cities
- •Comprehensive healthcare with Ballina District Hospital serving the region
Opportunities
- •Continued interstate migration driving population and property demand
- •Tourism sector expansion leveraging coastal location and airport access
- •Infrastructure improvements including CBD revitalization projects
- •Ballina Island development providing significant residential expansion
Considerations
- •Limited public transport options with no passenger rail service
- •Tight rental market with 1.2% vacancy rate creating affordability pressures
- •Distance from major employment centers may limit job diversity
- •Aging population (median age 48) may impact long-term economic dynamism
Property Market
$850K
+8.5% 1yr
$580K
+7.2% 1yr
$720K
$620/wk
$485/wk
28
1.2%
68.0%
Price Growth
| Type | 1 Year | 3 Year | 5 Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| House | +8.5% | +35.2% | +52.8% |
| Unit | +7.2% | +28.5% | +45.3% |
Rental Yields
House Yield
3.8%
Unit Yield
4.5%
Townhouse Yield
4.1%
Investment Scorecard
Demand/Supply Ratio: 1.80
Demand exceeds supply — favourable for sellers
Tax & Financial Intelligence
CPA-grade analysis for Ballina at median house price
Save $24,585
+8% surcharge
$620/wk
Negatively geared
Reduces taxable income
~$390/week
Based on 10.6% p.a. growth (from 5-year trend), 50% CGT discount, 39% MTR
5-Year Hold
10-Year Hold
Investor Quick Summary
Entry cost (stamp duty)
$32,780
After-tax yield
2.32%
Weekly holding cost
$390/wk
10yr CGT (est.)
$279,337
Estimates based on FY2025 NSW rates at median house price. Assumes 80% LVR, 6.5% interest rate, 39% marginal tax rate ($135K-$190K bracket). Individual circumstances vary. This is general information only and not personal financial advice. Consult your CPA before making investment decisions. Local Knowledge Pty Ltd — Registered Tax Agent.
Demographics
17,800
48
$58K
per annum
58.0%
38.0%
32.0%
4.8%
28.0%
Dwelling Mix
Lifestyle & Community
35
12
1
740.0 km
Nearest Station: Casino Station
Coastal living with river access, regular markets and festivals, active sporting clubs, quality dining, and proximity to Byron Bay cultural attractions
Interested in Ballina?
Get a personalised buyer brief with AI-powered property intelligence for this suburb.
Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 26 March 2026.