Shoalhaven top growth suburbs & what you need to know…

The Shoalhaven region, located on the South Coast of New South Wales, is known for its stunning beaches, national parks, and relaxed lifestyle. In recent years, the region has also experienced significant growth in the property market, making it an attractive destination for both investors and homebuyers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top property growth areas in the Shoalhaven.

Berry

Berry is a charming town located 2 hours south of Sydney and is known for its picturesque countryside, boutique stores, and gourmet cafes. In recent years, Berry has experienced significant growth in the property market, with median house prices increasing by 9.3% in the past year alone. The median house price in Berry is currently $1.28 million, making it one of the more expensive areas in the Shoalhaven.

The town was founded in the 19th century and still retains many of its original historic buildings, including the Berry Courthouse, Post Office, and Railway Station. The town’s historic charm has been preserved, with many of the old buildings repurposed into shops, galleries, and cafes.

Berry is situated in a picturesque rural setting, surrounded by lush green hills, dairy farms, and wineries. The town is just a short drive from the stunning Seven Mile Beach, where visitors can enjoy a day in the sun or a swim in the crystal-clear waters.

The town is well-served by public transport, with regular train and bus services connecting Berry to Sydney, Nowra, and the wider Shoalhaven region. The town also has excellent road links, with the Princes Highway running through the town centre.

Berry has a strong sense of community, with many local events and festivals held throughout the year. These include the Berry Agricultural and Horticultural Show, the Berry Celtic Festival, and the Berry Gardens Festival.

In terms of property, Berry is a highly desirable location, with a mix of historic homes, modern apartments, and new developments. The town’s popularity has led to strong demand for property, with prices generally higher than the wider Shoalhaven region. The town’s median house price is around $1 million, with units and apartments priced around $600,000.

Overall, Berry is a charming town with a rich history, stunning natural scenery, and a vibrant community. Whether you’re looking to visit or make it your home, Berry is definitely worth considering.

Vincentia

Vincentia is a popular beachside suburb located just a few hours south of Sydney. With stunning beaches, national parks, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle, it’s no surprise that Vincentia has experienced significant growth in the property market in recent years. Median house prices in Vincentia have increased by 10.2% in the past year, and the current median house price is $772,000.

One of the key attractions of Vincentia is its beautiful beaches, including the popular Collingwood Beach and Orion Beach. These pristine beaches are known for their crystal clear waters, white sand, and calm surf, making them ideal for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and other water activities.

Vincentia also has a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants to cater to the needs of locals and visitors alike. The suburb has a small shopping centre that includes a supermarket, bakery, pharmacy, and other essential services. There are also several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer a variety of cuisine options, including seafood, Italian, and modern Australian.

In terms of transportation, Vincentia is connected to the neighbouring suburbs and towns via the Jervis Bay Road and the Princes Highway. The nearest train station is located in Bomaderry, approximately 20 km away, which offers services to Sydney, Melbourne, and other major cities.

The housing market in Vincentia offers a range of options for homebuyers, including beachfront properties, family homes, and apartments. The median house price in Vincentia is around $800,000, with prices ranging from $500,000 to over $1 million depending on the location and size of the property.

Overall, Vincentia offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy access to the beach, local amenities, and nearby attractions. Its proximity to Sydney and other major cities also makes it an attractive location for those looking for a sea change or a weekend getaway.

Nowra

Nowra is the largest town in the Shoalhaven region and is located on the banks of the Shoalhaven River. The town has a rich history and is known for its charming heritage buildings and bustling town centre. In recent years, Nowra has experienced significant growth in the property market, with median house prices increasing by 12.4% in the past year. The current median house price in Nowra is $550,000, making it a more affordable option for buyers.

Nowra is a major commercial and administrative centre in the Shoalhaven region, located on the southern coast of New South Wales, Australia. It is situated on the northern shore of the Shoalhaven River, about 160 kilometres south of Sydney and 120 kilometres south-west of Wollongong.

Nowra has a diverse population, with a mix of urban and rural residents. The area is known for its natural beauty, with several national parks and beaches in close proximity. The region is also home to a number of wineries and vineyards, and is well-known for its agricultural produce, including dairy, beef, and horticulture.

Housing in Nowra is varied, with options ranging from apartments and townhouses to larger family homes and rural properties. The median house price in Nowra is around $525,000, with a rental yield of approximately 4.7%.

Nowra is home to a number of schools, including public and private primary and secondary schools, as well as TAFE campuses and a university campus. The area also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several galleries, theaters, and community groups offering a range of events and activities.

Transportation options in Nowra include a regional airport, as well as bus and train services connecting the area to Sydney and other nearby towns and cities. The Princes Highway runs through Nowra, providing easy access to the surrounding region.

Overall, Nowra is a vibrant and diverse community offering a range of lifestyle options, from urban living to rural tranquillity. Its natural beauty, thriving arts and culture scene, and close proximity to major centre’s make it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Huskisson

Huskisson is a picturesque coastal town located just a few hours south of Sydney. With stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle, it’s no surprise that Huskisson has experienced significant growth in the property market in recent years. Median house prices in Huskisson have increased by 9.9% in the past year, and the current median house price is $872,000.

Huskisson is situated on the western side of Jervis Bay, a large natural harbour and popular tourist destination known for its clear waters and white sandy beaches.

Huskisson is a small town with a population of approximately 800 people. It is a popular destination for holidaymakers, particularly during the summer months, and offers a range of accommodation options including hotels, motels, and holiday homes.

One of the main attractions of Huskisson is the beautiful beaches that surround the town. The most popular beach is Huskisson Beach, which is located in the centre of town and is patrolled during the summer months. Other nearby beaches include Hyams Beach, Green Patch Beach, and Murray’s Beach, all of which are known for their crystal-clear waters and white sand.

In addition to its beaches, Huskisson is also home to a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops. The town’s main street, Owen Street, is lined with boutique stores and eateries, making it a popular spot for visitors to browse and dine.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Huskisson is an excellent base for exploring the nearby Jervis Bay National Park. The park is home to a range of hiking trails, picnic areas, and lookout points, offering visitors the chance to experience the region’s natural beauty up close.

Huskisson is also known for its whale and dolphin watching tours. Between May and November, humpback whales can be seen migrating along the coast, and a number of tour operators in Huskisson offer whale watching cruises. Dolphins are a common sight in the waters around Jervis Bay throughout the year, and visitors can take a dolphin watching tour to see them up close.

Overall, Huskisson is a beautiful coastal town that offers visitors a range of attractions and activities. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the outdoors, or dine in some of the region’s best cafes and restaurants, Huskisson has something to offer.

Mollymook

Mollymook is a popular beachside suburb located just a few hours south of Sydney. With stunning beaches, a beautiful golf course, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle, it’s no surprise that Mollymook has experienced significant growth in the property market in recent years. Median house prices in Mollymook have increased by 10.9% in the past year, and the current median house price is $972,000.

Location and Demographics:

Mollymook is situated around three hours south of Sydney and two and a half hours east of Canberra. It is part of the Shoalhaven Local Government Area and is located just north of the larger town of Ulladulla.

The population of Mollymook is around 1,500 people, with a median age of 56. The majority of residents are older couples and families, with around 75% of households being occupied by couples or families. The median weekly household income in Mollymook is $1,036, which is slightly lower than the national average.

Real Estate:

Mollymook is known for its high-end real estate, with many luxury homes and apartments available for sale. The median house price in Mollymook is around $970,000, which is significantly higher than the median house price for the Shoalhaven region as a whole.

The suburb offers a mix of older-style homes and newer, more modern properties. Many homes in the area have ocean views, and there are a number of beachfront and waterfront properties available.

Lifestyle and Attractions:

Mollymook is known for its beautiful beaches, with Mollymook Beach being the most popular. The beach offers great swimming, surfing, and fishing opportunities and is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months.

There are a number of golf courses in the area, including the renowned Mollymook Golf Club, which has two championship courses. The club also features a restaurant and bar, making it a popular spot for both golfers and non-golfers alike.

Other popular attractions in Mollymook include the local markets, which are held on the second Sunday of each month, and the Mollymook Surf Life Saving Club, which offers a range of activities for both adults and children.

Mollymook is also close to a number of other popular tourist destinations, including Jervis Bay, the Kangaroo Valley, and the historic town of Milton.

Ulladulla

Ulladulla is a charming coastal town located just a few hours south of Sydney. With stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle, Ulladulla has become an increasingly popular destination for homebuyers and investors in recent years. Median house prices in Ulladulla have increased by 9.3% in the past year, and the current median house price is $647,000.

Real Estate:

The real estate market in Ulladulla offers a range of options, including coastal properties, townhouses, apartments, and rural acreage. The median house price in Ulladulla is around $670,000, making it an affordable option for those looking to buy property in a coastal location.

Transport:

Ulladulla is located approximately three hours’ drive south of Sydney and two and a half hours’ drive east of Canberra. The Princes Highway runs through the town, making it easily accessible by car. There are also regular bus services to and from Sydney and Canberra, with a number of stops in the Shoalhaven region.

Lifestyle:

Ulladulla offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with a range of beaches, parks, and outdoor recreational activities available. The town is known for its picturesque harbour, which is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Ulladulla also has a range of shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, providing residents with all the amenities they need for a comfortable lifestyle.

Education:

Ulladulla has a number of primary and secondary schools, including Ulladulla Public School, Ulladulla High School, and St Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School. The town also has a TAFE campus, offering a range of vocational courses.

Healthcare:

Ulladulla has a range of healthcare facilities, including Ulladulla Community Health Centre, Ulladulla Medical Centre, and Milton Ulladulla Hospital. The hospital provides a range of acute and sub-acute services, including emergency care, medical and surgical services, and aged care.

Overall, Ulladulla offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a range of amenities and services. It’s an attractive option for those looking to buy property in a coastal location, as well as those seeking a holiday destination or a place to retire. ( you can also read Why Would You Need A Buyer’s Agents If Purchasing In Ulladulla?here)

In conclusion, the Shoalhaven region has become an increasingly popular destination for homebuyers and investors in recent years, with significant growth in the property market in many areas. While Berry and Vincentia are more expensive options, areas like Nowra and Ulladulla offer more affordable options for buyers. With its stunning beaches, national parks, and relaxed coastal lifestyle, it’s no surprise that the Shoalhaven region is attracting more attention from property buyers.

One of the biggest drivers of long-term property growth is not always a new apartment building or shopping centre.

Sometimes, it is something far more valuable: lifestyle.

The Miami Arts Depot (MAD) is a proposed creative and mixed-use precinct designed to bring together culture, hospitality, employment, public spaces and community activity.

Projects of this scale can become catalysts for broader neighbourhood transformation. For property buyers and investors, that makes MAD worth watching closely.

Key Takeaways

  • MAD is proposed as a major creative and lifestyle precinct in Miami.
  • The project could improve local amenity, employment and community activity.
  • Lifestyle infrastructure can strengthen long-term owner-occupier demand.
  • No single development guarantees capital growth.
  • Buyers should consider both the opportunities and potential local impacts.

What Is the Miami Arts Depot?

The Miami Arts Depot is intended to be more than a traditional arts venue. Its proposed vision incorporates creative industries, public spaces, hospitality, employment and community facilities within one destination.

You can read more about the emerging project vision in this detailed Miami Arts Depot project update.

If you are considering purchasing nearby, our Mermaid Waters Suburb Spotlight explores another highly desirable central Gold Coast location and the forces shaping its future appeal.

“People do not simply buy homes. They buy the lifestyle surrounding them.”

Why Projects Like MAD Matter

Property values do not rise simply because a suburb becomes more expensive. Long-term demand often strengthens because more people want to live, work and spend time there.

Community and Culture

Events, creative spaces and public areas can give a suburb a stronger identity and attract greater community participation.

Local Business Activity

More visitors and workers may support cafés, restaurants, retailers and other surrounding businesses.

Improved Liveability

Well-designed public spaces and lifestyle amenities can make an area more enjoyable and convenient for residents.

Long-Term Buyer Demand

Suburbs offering strong lifestyle fundamentals often attract enduring owner-occupier interest.

What This Could Mean for Property

No single infrastructure or lifestyle project guarantees property growth. However, major investment can contribute to improved suburb recognition, amenity and long-term desirability.

When buyers see better public spaces, more dining options, employment opportunities, cultural activity and improved liveability, demand can follow.

For broader market context, CoreLogic Research regularly examines how housing demand, limited supply, interest rates and buyer behaviour influence Australian property values.

What Buyers Should Consider

  • Distance from the proposed precinct
  • Potential traffic and parking changes
  • Noise and disruption during construction
  • Future zoning and surrounding development
  • Long-term owner-occupier appeal
  • Rental demand and tenant demographics

It is also important not to let excitement surrounding a new project replace proper research. Our guide to the most common mistakes home buyers make explains why location analysis, due diligence and objective decision-making remain essential.

Considering Buying on the Southern Gold Coast?

Our team can help you assess locations, uncover opportunities and understand the factors influencing long-term buyer demand.

Book Your Free Strategy Session

Why Empire Is Watching This Project

At Empire Buyers Agents, we look beyond recent comparable sales. We monitor infrastructure, transport, employment, retail, schools and lifestyle investment because these factors can influence where people want to live over the next five, ten and twenty years.

MAD is another example of how the Gold Coast continues to evolve. For owner-occupiers, it may contribute to an improved lifestyle. For investors, it may support stronger demand over time.

Market conditions also influence how opportunities are secured. Our article What’s Happening at Auctions? explains how changing buyer behaviour is creating new negotiating opportunities across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Final Thoughts

The Miami Arts Depot may not transform Miami overnight, but well-planned cultural and lifestyle projects can gradually reshape how people live, work and invest within a suburb.

The strongest property decisions are never based on one development alone. They consider the complete picture: location, supply, demand, infrastructure, lifestyle and the quality of the individual property.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Miami Arts Depot?

MAD is a proposed creative and mixed-use precinct in Miami designed to support culture, employment, community activity and public spaces.

Will MAD increase Miami property values?

No development can guarantee price growth. However, improved amenity and lifestyle infrastructure can contribute to stronger long-term buyer demand.

Is Miami a good suburb in which to buy?

Miami remains highly sought after due to its coastal lifestyle, central location, established amenities and strong owner-occupier appeal. Every property should still be assessed individually.

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