All Suburbs

Lake Cargelligo

NSW 2672LGA: Lachlan Shire

Investment Score

68

/100

AI Intelligence Summary

Lake Cargelligo is a small rural town in central NSW, approximately 550km west of Sydney, serving as a service center for surrounding agricultural areas. With a population of around 1,200, this lakeside community offers affordable housing with median house prices between $180,000-$250,000, making it one of NSW's most affordable markets. The town features a recreational lake providing fishing, boating, and water sports opportunities, supported by Lake Cargelligo Central School offering K-12 education. While the community demonstrates strong local spirit with volunteer organizations and events, it faces challenges from rural-urban migration and limited employment opportunities. The property market is characterized by low transaction volumes, extended marketing periods, and predominantly older homes requiring renovation. Infrastructure includes connection via Kidman Way (B87) and basic NBN coverage, though public transport options are minimal. The town attracts retirees, agricultural families, and those seeking affordable rural lifestyle, though investment potential is limited by population decline and restricted economic diversification opportunities.

Strengths

  • Extremely affordable housing market with median prices under $250,000
  • Recreational lake offering fishing, boating and water sports
  • Strong community spirit with active volunteer organizations
  • K-12 education available locally through Central School

Opportunities

  • Tourism development around lake recreation facilities
  • Agricultural services and value-adding businesses
  • Retirement community development
  • Remote work opportunities with improved internet

Considerations

  • Population decline due to rural-urban migration
  • Limited employment opportunities outside agriculture
  • Extended property marketing periods
  • Minimal public transport connectivity

Property Market

Median House

$215K

-1.2% 1yr

Median Unit

$140K

-0.8% 1yr

Rent (House)

$250/wk

Rent (Unit)

$190/wk

Days on Market

125

Vacancy Rate

8.5%

Auction Clearance

45.0%

Price Growth

Type1 Year3 Year5 Year
House-1.2%+2.8%+8.5%
Unit-0.8%+1.5%+5.2%

Rental Yields

House Yield

6.2%

Unit Yield

7.1%

Investment Scorecard

Overall Investment Score68/100
Growth Potential62/100
Cashflow Score78/100
Risk Score (lower = safer)58/100
Affordability Index85/100

Demand/Supply Ratio: 0.80

Supply exceeds demand — favourable for buyers

Tax & Financial Intelligence

CPA-grade analysis for Lake Cargelligo at median house price

Standard transfer
$5,695
First Home Buyer
Exempt

Save $5,695

Foreign buyer surcharge
$17,200

+8% surcharge

Annual rent income
$13,000

$250/wk

Interest (80% LVR @ 6.5%)
-$11,180
Other expenses (~2.5%)
-$5,375
Net rental position
-$3,555

Negatively geared

Tax benefit (39% MTR)
+$1,386

Reduces taxable income

After-tax holding cost
$2,169/yr

~$42/week

Based on 1.7% p.a. growth (from 5-year trend), 50% CGT discount, 39% MTR

5-Year Hold

Est. value
$233,907
Capital gain
$12,137
After discount
$6,069
CGT payable
$2,367

10-Year Hold

Est. value
$254,477
Capital gain
$32,707
After discount
$16,353
CGT payable
$6,378

Investor Quick Summary

Entry cost (stamp duty)

$5,695

After-tax yield

3.78%

Weekly holding cost

$42/wk

10yr CGT (est.)

$6,378

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

1,200

Median Age

47

Median Income

$45K

per annum

Family Households

58.0%

Professionals

25.0%

University Educated

18.0%

Unemployment

6.2%

Born Overseas

8.0%

Dwelling Mix

Houses: 85%Units: 12%Townhouses: 3%Total: 580

Lifestyle & Community

Walkability45/100
Public Transport2/10
Schools Rating6/10
Safety9/10
Family Friendly8/10
Cafes & Restaurants

3

Parks

4

0
Distance to CBD

550.0 km

Nearest Station: Parkes Station

Peaceful rural lifestyle with lake recreation, fishing, boating, community events, and outdoor activities in a safe, low-stress environment.

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Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 27 March 2026.

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