What is the true cost of buying an apartment in Ballina?

The median apartment in Ballina is $580,000. Including stamp duty ($20,630), strata, council rates, insurance, and mortgage repayments, the true first-year cost is approximately $47,696, or $3,975/month.

What does it really cost to buy a house in Ballina?

The median house in Ballina is $850,000. True first-year cost including stamp duty ($32,780), rates, insurance, maintenance, and mortgage repayments is approximately $60,926.

What is the vacancy rate in Ballina?

Ballina currently has a vacancy rate of 1.2%. Properties average 28 days on market.

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True Cost of Buying in Ballina

2478 NSW · 740km to CBD

Rising

A decision, not just a search · Ballina

Does the lower estimated monthly cost make a property the better buy?

Only under the assumptions entered—and cost is not the whole decision. This model compares scenarios, not lender approval, building condition or personal suitability. Replace defaults with current quotes and documents, then test whether the cost remains manageable when circumstances change.

Questions that could change the answer

Which costs are current supplied figures, and which are model defaults?
What happens to your buffer if interest, repairs or vacancy costs rise?
What finance, contract or inspection condition remains unresolved before an offer?

Evidence to obtain—not yet verified here

Current lender terms and approval conditions, not only a borrowing estimate.
Dated levy notices, rates, insurance quotes and maintenance information.
Contract advice, inspection findings and comparable sales evidence.

Other options: Lower the price limit, compare another property or wait for critical checks. A favourable model result is not a recommendation to make an unconditional offer.

Next action: Re-run the existing calculator with documented inputs, then agree your conditions and walk-away point with the relevant professionals.

When to revisit: Revisit when any input, approval condition, price or property finding changes.

General decision guidance—not a property assessment, personal recommendation or verified client result. Dates on surrounding market content apply to that content, not to checks on your property.

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Market Intelligence

Ballina is a thriving coastal town at the mouth of the Richmond River in northern NSW, serving as a major regional center for the Far North Coast. With a population of 17,800 and median age of 48, it attracts a diverse mix of retirees, families, and professionals seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle. The town has experienced remarkable property growth, with house prices reaching $850,000 (up 52.8% over five years) driven by strong interstate migration and limited supply. Ballina offers excellent amenities including Ballina District Hospital, quality schools, Ballina Byron Gateway Airport just 8km away, and pristine beaches within 2km. The Richmond River provides extensive recreational opportunities for boating and fishing, while Ballina Fair anchors the retail precinct. With low unemployment (4.8%), strong community infrastructure, and proximity to Byron Bay, Ballina represents an attractive lifestyle destination with solid investment fundamentals, though transport connectivity beyond road access remains limited.

Prime coastal location with Richmond River frontage and beach access within 2kmStrong property market performance with 52.8% house price growth over 5 yearsRegional airport providing convenient air connectivity to major citiesComprehensive healthcare with Ballina District Hospital serving the regionLow crime index (25/100) and high safety rating (8/10) creating family-friendly environment

Market Snapshot

Median House

$850K

+8.5% 1yr

Median Apartment

$580K

+7.2% 1yr

Median Townhouse

$720K

Vacancy Rate

1.2%

28 avg DOM

Yield (Apartment)

4.5%

Yield (House)

3.8%

Auction Clearance

68%

Population

17,800

True Cost Breakdown

Based on median prices · 20% deposit · 6.5% interest · 30-year term · Owner-occupier

Apartment

$3,975/mo

Purchase Price

$580,000

Stamp Duty

$20,630

1st Year Total

$47,696

House

$5,077/mo

Purchase Price

$850,000

Stamp Duty

$32,780

1st Year Total

$60,926

Townhouse

$4,483/mo

Purchase Price

$720,000

Stamp Duty

$26,930

1st Year Total

$53,792

Run Your Own Numbers

These are median figures. Plug in the actual property you're looking at to see your real all-in cost — including first-home concessions, investment deductions, or different deposit amounts.

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