All Suburbs

Fairlight

NSW 2094LGA: Northern Beaches Council

Investment Score

78

/100

AI Intelligence Summary

Fairlight is an exclusive beachside suburb located on Sydney's prestigious Northern Beaches peninsula, positioned between Manly and Balgowlah. This small, established residential enclave offers a premium lifestyle with direct access to pristine beaches including Fairlight Beach and close proximity to iconic Manly Beach. The suburb is characterized by a mix of older apartment blocks and well-maintained houses, many with stunning harbour and ocean views. With a population of approximately 1,800 residents, Fairlight attracts affluent professionals, downsizers, and families seeking a coastal lifestyle within easy reach of Sydney CBD via ferry and bus connections. The area maintains a strong community feel with local parks, quality schools, and access to Manly's extensive dining and entertainment options. Property values remain consistently high due to the premium beachside location, limited housing stock, and strong ongoing demand. The suburb's narrow tree-lined streets and established character create an intimate village atmosphere while offering all the benefits of Northern Beaches living.

Strengths

  • Premium beachside location with direct beach access
  • Close proximity to Manly's amenities and transport links
  • Strong property values with consistent demand
  • Established community with village-like atmosphere

Opportunities

  • Renovation potential in older housing stock
  • Growing demand from downsizers seeking coastal lifestyle
  • Potential for luxury apartment developments
  • Increasing value of beachside locations post-pandemic

Considerations

  • Very high property prices limiting affordability
  • Limited parking due to narrow streets
  • Minimal new development opportunities
  • Higher living costs typical of premium locations

Property Market

Median House

$2.85M

+8.5% 1yr

Median Unit

$1.45M

+7.2% 1yr

Rent (House)

$1,550/wk

Rent (Unit)

$950/wk

Days on Market

42

Vacancy Rate

1.8%

Auction Clearance

72.0%

Price Growth

Type1 Year3 Year5 Year
House+8.5%+22.8%+45.2%
Unit+7.2%+19.5%+38.7%

Rental Yields

House Yield

2.8%

Unit Yield

3.4%

Investment Scorecard

Overall Investment Score78/100
Growth Potential75/100
Cashflow Score65/100
Risk Score (lower = safer)75/100
Affordability Index45/100

Demand/Supply Ratio: 1.80

Demand exceeds supply — favourable for sellers

Tax & Financial Intelligence

CPA-grade analysis for Fairlight at median house price

Standard transfer
$139,140
First Home Buyer
$139,140
Foreign buyer surcharge
$228,000

+8% surcharge

Annual rent income
$80,600

$1550/wk

Interest (80% LVR @ 6.5%)
-$148,200
Other expenses (~2.5%)
-$71,250
Net rental position
-$138,850

Negatively geared

Tax benefit (39% MTR)
+$54,152

Reduces taxable income

After-tax holding cost
$84,699/yr

~$1,629/week

Based on 9.0% p.a. growth (from 5-year trend), 50% CGT discount, 39% MTR

5-Year Hold

Est. value
$4.39M
Capital gain
$1.39M
After discount
$694,870
CGT payable
$270,999

10-Year Hold

Est. value
$6.77M
Capital gain
$3.77M
After discount
$1.88M
CGT payable
$734,837

Investor Quick Summary

Entry cost (stamp duty)

$139,140

After-tax yield

1.71%

Weekly holding cost

$1629/wk

10yr CGT (est.)

$734,837

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

Population

1,800

Median Age

48

Median Income

$95K

per annum

Family Households

58.0%

Professionals

52.0%

University Educated

48.0%

Unemployment

3.2%

Born Overseas

38.0%

Dwelling Mix

Houses: 45%Units: 52%Townhouses: 3%Total: 920

Lifestyle & Community

Walkability75/100
Public Transport7/10
Schools Rating8/10
Safety9/10
Family Friendly8/10
Cafes & Restaurants

15

Parks

6

Hospitals

1

Distance to CBD

17.0 km

Nearest Station: Wynyard (via ferry from Manly)

Premium beachside living with access to water sports, coastal walks, quality dining in nearby Manly, and a relaxed community environment perfect for families and professionals.

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Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 26 March 2026.

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