Imagine waking up to the gentle roar of the ocean, stepping out your door onto golden sands, and breathing in the fresh sea air. Sounds blissful, right? But for many, coastal living seems like a distant fantasy due to sky-high property prices.
However, Australia boasts a treasure trove of affordable beach towns waiting to be discovered.
Australia’s extensive coastline offers a wealth of idyllic towns, from Windale and Yeppoon to Albany and Burnie, where you can enjoy affordable coastal living. Each of these towns provides a unique blend of scenic beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and budget-friendly living.
In this blog, we have listed ten of the cheapest coastal towns to live in Australia, each offering a charming and cost-effective alternative to city living, along with their average housing prices.
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Cheapest Coastal Towns
When choosing the cheapest coastal towns to live in, there are several factors you should consider. Here are some essential factors to consider:
- Location: Consider the geographic location of the coastal town. Coastal towns can vary in terms of accessibility to major cities, transportation networks, and proximity to amenities and services.
- Affordability of Housing: Look for towns with affordable housing options, including rental prices and property prices. Research the local real estate market to get an idea of the average prices in the area.
- Cost of Living: Consider the overall cost of living in the coastal town. This includes expenses such as groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment.
- Employment Opportunities: Research the job market in the coastal town. Consider the availability of industries and job sectors that align with your skills and experience.
- Amenities and Services: Evaluate the availability of essential amenities and services such as schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centres, recreational facilities, and public transportation.
- Climate and Weather: Consider the climate and weather patterns of the coastal town. Think about your preferences and choose a coastal town that aligns with the climate you find most comfortable.
- Community and Social Life: Consider the community and social life in the coastal town. Look for towns with a strong sense of community, local events, and opportunities for socialising.
- Future Development and Investment Potential: Evaluate the potential for future development and growth in the coastal town. Towns with potential for infrastructure improvements, tourism development, or economic growth may offer long-term investment opportunities and potential appreciation of property values.
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10 Cheapest Coastal Towns to Live in Australia, 2024
- Coffs Harbour in New South Wales
- Port Lincoln in South Australia
- Geraldton in Western Australia
- Windale in New South Wales
- Albany in Western Australia
- Victor Harbor in South Australia
- Warrnambool in Victoria
- Burnie in Tasmania
- Esperance in Western Australia
- Yeppoon in Queensland
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Coffs Harbour in New South Wales
Coffs Harbour is renowned for its lower cost of living compared to major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The town offers a variety of affordable housing options, making it accessible for many. The average housing price in Coffs Harbour is around AUD 757,000.
You can enjoy a laid-back lifestyle amidst natural beauty, with stunning beaches and the Solitary Islands Marine Park. The community spirit is strong, and there are excellent schools and healthcare facilities. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities such as surfing, fishing, and hiking in the nearby Dorrigo National Park.
Port Lincoln in South Australia
Port Lincoln is known for its affordability and vibrant seafood industry, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a coastal lifestyle without breaking the bank. With a median housing price of around AUD 450,000, it offers a more economical living option compared to Adelaide while also boasting a lower overall cost of living. This charming town is nestled on the Eyre Peninsula, providing you with stunning coastal views and an abundance of outdoor activities.
The town is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, often referred to as the “Seafood Capital of Australia,” where locals and visitors alike can relish fresh catches from the surrounding waters. One of the most thrilling experiences available is shark cage diving, giving adventurers the opportunity to get up close and personal with great white sharks.
Geraldton in Western Australia
Geraldton combines affordability with a vibrant lifestyle. The average housing price is around AUD 330,000, and the cost of living is lower than in Perth. Geraldton is known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and strong community. The town boasts a rich maritime history, showcased at the Western Australian Museum, and offers a variety of local festivals and markets. You can enjoy a range of activities, including windsurfing, snorkelling at the Abrolhos Islands, and exploring the scenic Chapman Valley.
Windale in New South Wales
Windale in NSW offers affordable living and a diverse community atmosphere. The median price of a house in Windale is around AUD 602,500, making it accessible for families and individuals looking for budget-friendly options near the coast. The town is located close to the city of Lake Macquarie and Newcastle, providing easy access to urban amenities while enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle.
Living in Windale, you can explore nearby beaches, cafes, parks, and recreational facilities, including the Glenrock State Conservation Area, for hiking and cycling. The area is known for its community spirit and local events, contributing to a welcoming environment for new residents.
Albany in Western Australia
Albany stands out for its significantly lower cost of living compared to Perth. This town is known for its stunning coastal scenery, historic sites, and the nearby Stirling Range National Park. Albany offers a welcoming community with a rich history and a growing arts and culture scene. Popular activities include whale watching, hiking, exploring Torndirrup National Park, and visiting the National Anzac Centre. The median house price in Albany is around AUD 735,000, and the cost of living is notably lower than in Perth.
Victor Harbor in South Australia
Victor Harbor offers lower real estate prices and a reduced cost of living compared to Adelaide. This affordable beach suburb provides a beautiful coastal lifestyle with beautiful beaches, Granite Island Recreation Park, and the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Enjoy a relaxed pace of life with a focus on outdoor activities and community events. Activities such as whale watching, horse-drawn tram rides to Granite Island, and visiting local farmers’ markets are popular among the locals. The average housing price in Victor Harbor is around AUD 645,000.
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Warrnambool in Victoria
Warrnambool presents a cost-effective alternative to Melbourne, with affordable housing and a lower overall cost of living. This town is known for its picturesque beaches, the Great Ocean Road, and Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve. Warrnambool is a friendly, family-oriented community with good schools and healthcare. You can enjoy surfing, visiting the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, and attending the annual Whale Watching Festival. The average housing price in Warrnambool is around AUD 595,000.
Burnie in Tasmania
Burnie is recognised for its affordable real estate market and lower cost of living. The town features beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and access to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Burnie has a tight-knit community with a strong focus on arts and culture, including the Burnie Regional Art Gallery. Activities include exploring Burnie Park, visiting the Makers’ Workshop, and enjoying the local food and wine scene. The average housing price in Burnie is around AUD 545,000.
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Esperance in Western Australia
Esperance is famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, including Lucky Bay. This cheapest beach town in Australia offers reasonably priced real estate and a lower cost of living. Esperance provides a quiet, relaxed lifestyle with a strong sense of community. Popular activities include beachcombing, hiking in Cape Le Grand National Park, and wildlife watching. The average housing price in Esperance is around AUD 450,000.
Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Suburbs to rent in Sydney
Yeppoon in Queensland
Yeppoon features affordable housing and lower living costs compared to larger cities. The town in QLD is known for its beautiful beaches, the Southern Great Barrier Reef, and the Keppel Bay Islands. Yeppoon offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a friendly community. You can enjoy snorkelling, diving, boating, and exploring local markets and festivals.
The average housing price in Yeppoon is around AUD 620,000. Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the coastline, enjoying water activities, or engaging in community events, Yeppoon presents a perfect blend of affordability and quality of life for those seeking a coastal retreat.
Summing Up
Whether you’re looking for an affordable tranquil retirement spot, a family-friendly environment, or simply a change from the urban hustle, these coastal gems provide an excellent alternative. Each town, with its unique charm and affordable living costs, makes seaside living accessible to more people than you might have imagined.
Ready to make the move to your dream coastal town? Start exploring these affordable options today and take the first step toward a new, serene chapter of your life. Dive into the local real estate markets, visit these towns, and see for yourself the blend of beauty and affordability they offer. Don’t let high city prices keep you from living the coastal life you’ve always dreamed of.
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