Parkes
Investment Score
72
/100
AI Intelligence Summary
Parkes is a regional city in central west NSW, approximately 365km west of Sydney, serving as the administrative center of Parkes Shire Council. The town is famous for the Parkes Radio Telescope (The Dish) and hosts the annual Elvis Festival, attracting thousands of visitors. With a population of around 12,000, Parkes serves as a key service center for the surrounding agricultural region and has strong connections to the mining industry. The property market remains highly affordable compared to major NSW cities, with house prices significantly below metropolitan averages. The town offers excellent regional amenities including multiple schools, a regional hospital, sporting facilities, and strong transport connections via the Newell Highway and Main Western Railway Line. The community benefits from a stable economy based on agriculture, mining, and government services, with ongoing infrastructure improvements including the future Inland Rail project enhancing freight connectivity.
Strengths
- •Home to the iconic Parkes Radio Telescope and annual Elvis Festival
- •Strong transport connectivity via Newell Highway and railway
- •Excellent regional amenities including hospital and schools
- •Highly affordable property market with good rental yields
Opportunities
- •Inland Rail project enhancing freight and connectivity
- •Growing tourism from Elvis Festival and radio telescope
- •Potential for mining sector workforce accommodation
- •Regional development initiatives and government investment
Considerations
- •Limited population growth constraining property appreciation
- •Distance from major employment centers
- •Dependence on agricultural and mining sector volatility
- •Limited new housing development activity
Property Market
$285K
+3.2% 1yr
$185K
+2.8% 1yr
$235K
$320/wk
$230/wk
65
1.8%
65.0%
Price Growth
| Type | 1 Year | 3 Year | 5 Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| House | +3.2% | +8.5% | +15.2% |
| Unit | +2.8% | +6.2% | +12.5% |
Rental Yields
House Yield
5.8%
Unit Yield
6.5%
Townhouse Yield
6.1%
Investment Scorecard
Demand/Supply Ratio: 1.20
Demand exceeds supply — favourable for sellers
Tax & Financial Intelligence
CPA-grade analysis for Parkes at median house price
Save $8,145
+8% surcharge
$320/wk
Negatively geared
Reduces taxable income
~$62/week
Based on 3.0% 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)
$8,145
After-tax yield
3.54%
Weekly holding cost
$62/wk
10yr CGT (est.)
$17,538
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
12,000
42
$58K
per annum
62.0%
32.0%
18.0%
4.8%
15.0%
Dwelling Mix
Lifestyle & Community
18
8
1
365.0 km
Nearest Station: Parkes Railway Station
Regional lifestyle with good amenities, outdoor recreation, cultural events, and strong community spirit. Access to golf course, parks, and sporting facilities.
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Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 28 March 2026.