Fern Bay, NSW

OVERVALUED

1,863 sales · 35 years of data · NSW, Australia

$962,500
Median (All)
$965,000
Median (Houses)
$678,000
Median (Apartments)
13.8%
10yr CAGR
6.3%
35yr CAGR
1.3%
Strata %
35 years of data · 1,863 sales analysed · 2,500+ suburbs · Updated weekly

Fern Bay, NSW Property Market Overview

Fern Bay, NSW, postcode 2295, is a coastal suburb that offers a unique blend of relaxed living and proximity to larger urban centres. Located in the Newcastle region, Fern Bay has seen significant property market activity over the past 35 years, with a total of 1,863 recorded sales. The current median property price for all dwellings in Fern Bay is $962,500, while houses command a median of $965,000 and apartments a median of $678,000.

Fern Bay's property market has demonstrated consistent growth, reflected in its historical capital appreciation. The suburb is particularly known for its coastal lifestyle, family-friendly environment, and expanding amenities. With a diverse range of housing options, Fern Bay appeals to a wide demographic, from young families to retirees.

Currently overvalued
Relative to the long-term price trend line
$500K invested 10yr ago → $1,821,347
Based on the 10-year compound annual growth rate of 13.8%
Predominantly houses1% apartments
99% of sales are houses and other non-strata properties
Loading chart...

Property Mix

99%
Houses 99%$965,000Apartments 1%$678,000

Data You Can Trust

Every figure backed by NSW government sale records

7 million+
verified sale records
2,500+
NSW suburbs covered
35 years
of market history
Weekly
NSW Gov. data updates

What Subscribers See

A preview of the full analysis available for Fern Bay

Street Rankings

Top streets in Fern Bay, NSW by median sale price

See which streets command the highest prices and how many sales back each ranking.

#StreetTypeSalesMedian Price
1Apple StHouse10$906,500
2Popplewell RdHouse5$885,000
3Foxtail StHouse8$1,085,000
4Uralla StHouse6$950,000

... and 52 more streets available

Subscribers also see:

  • Street price per m² analysis
  • Street annual growth rates (CAGR)
  • Premium vs discount % comparison
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Price per m²

Streets by price per square metre

Compare land and building value across streets — essential for finding underpriced pockets.

#StreetTypeSalesMedian $/m²
1Groundsel StHouse3$2,108/m²
2Foxtail StHouse8$2,050/m²
3Dune DrHouse5$2,159/m²
4Plover StHouse3$2,095/m²

... and more $/m² rankings

View full $/m² data
Growth Rates

Fastest growing streets by median price

10-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) by street — see which streets are outperforming the suburb.

#StreetType10yr CAGR
1Norfolk StHouse+14.1%
2Paperbark CtHouse+6.0%
3Apple StHouse+12.3%
4Dune DrHouse+9.4%

... and more street growth rates

See all growth rates

Past growth rates are not indicative of future performance. This data is for informational purposes only.

Building Analytics

Building-by-building comparison

3
apartment buildings analysed

Compare individual buildings by price per sqm, median unit price, and sales volume. Identify which buildings are gaining or losing value relative to the suburb average.

View full building data
Risk Indicator

Flipper risk & hold period analysis

Available with full access
 

Properties resold within 2 years may signal problems — structural issues, noisy locations, or overpayment. See hold period distribution and flagged streets.

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Risk Indicator

Settlement times & problem streets

87
average days to settlement

Extended settlement times can indicate building defects, financing difficulties, or legal issues. See which streets have the longest settlement periods.

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Suburb Change

Density & development tracking

1%
apartments across 3 buildings

Track which streets are converting from houses to apartments. Understand how density is changing the suburb's character and property values over time.

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56 streets and 3 buildings to explore

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3 street rankings
All 56 streets ranked
Cycle chart preview
Full chart — all years
Basic median prices
Price per m² by street
Suburb-level growth only
10-year CAGR by street
Building count only
3 buildings compared
Summary stats only
Flipper risk + settlement data

Based on 1,863 verified property sales across 35 years · Last updated: February 2026

Trusted by 100+ property investors across NSW

Fern Bay at a Glance

Region
Hunter Region
CBD Distance
Approximately 25km northeast of Newcastle CBD
Train Station
Warabrook Station (Hunter Line)
Council
Port Stephens Council
Property Character
Coastal residential with low-density development
Community
Families and retirees seeking coastal lifestyle

Fern Bay, NSW

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Local Amenities


Living in Fern Bay, NSW

Living in Fern Bay offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy access to natural beauty. The suburb is close to Stockton Beach and the Hunter Wetlands National Park, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. For families, Fern Bay Public School and nearby schools such as Tomaree High School cater to educational needs.

While Fern Bay itself doesn't have a major shopping centre, nearby centres in Salamander Bay and Newcastle offer a wide range of retail and dining options. The community in Fern Bay is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of local pride, making it an appealing place to call home.


Who Buys in Fern Bay?

The buyer profile in Fern Bay is diverse, but skewed towards families and established couples. The high median house price of $965,000 suggests the suburb appeals to those with established financial resources. With a low strata percentage of 1.3%, Fern Bay primarily attracts buyers seeking houses rather than apartments. The strong 10-year CAGR of 13.8% indicates that the area has been popular with those seeking capital growth.

Market Analysis

As of early 2026, Fern Bay's property market cycle position is assessed as being above its long-term trend, placing it in overvalued territory. This indicates that current property prices in Fern Bay are higher than what historical trends might suggest.

This market position can influence buyer and seller behaviour. It's important for potential buyers to carefully consider the historical data and current market dynamics when making property decisions in Fern Bay. Sellers might find this to be an opportune time, but should also be mindful of market conditions.


Is Fern Bay a Good Investment?

Fern Bay's property market has shown strong growth over the past decade, driven by its coastal location, family-friendly environment, and increasing amenities. The 10-year CAGR of 13.8% demonstrates a significant appreciation in property values. The fact that the market is currently above its long-term trend suggests strong recent performance.

However, potential buyers and sellers should be aware of the current market cycle position. While historically strong, market conditions can change, and it's crucial to consider all available data before making any decisions in Fern Bay. The predominantly housing market, indicated by the low strata percentage, contributes to the suburb's unique investment dynamics.


Fern Bay Market Outlook

As of early 2026, Fern Bay's property market is positioned above its long-term trend. Recent price trends indicate a market that has experienced substantial growth. While the market remains dynamic, potential buyers and sellers should carefully analyse all available data to make informed decisions in Fern Bay. It's important to stay informed about market conditions and consult with professionals.

Streets & Location in Fern Bay, NSW

Located near the coast in the Newcastle region, Fern Bay offers residents a unique lifestyle. Notable streets in Fern Bay, based on median property prices, include SEASIDE BVD, SYGNA ST, and NORFOLK ST. The suburb encompasses 56 streets, providing a range of residential options. The 2295 postcode represents a sought-after area known for its proximity to beaches and natural reserves.

Market Dynamics

The average settlement time for properties in Fern Bay is 87 days, providing an indication of the pace of transactions. Currently, data on quick-flips (properties resold within a short timeframe) is not available, suggesting this isn't a prominent market feature in Fern Bay. This longer settlement timeframe could reflect a more considered approach by buyers and sellers in the Fern Bay market.

Development & Density

Fern Bay features a relatively low density of apartment buildings, with only 3 apartment buildings recorded in the suburb. This contributes to the predominantly residential character of Fern Bay, with houses making up the majority of the property landscape. This low strata percentage reflects the suburb's focus on detached housing and larger blocks, catering to families and those seeking more space.

Growth & Property Mix

Fern Bay's historical growth rates provide valuable context for understanding its property market. The suburb has experienced a 10-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.8%, a 20-year CAGR of 7.1%, and a full-period CAGR of 6.3% over the past 35 years. With only 1.3% of properties being apartments, Fern Bay is predominantly a housing market, influencing its investment dynamics.

All data on this page is sourced from NSW government property sale records. Market analysis, cycle positions, growth rates, and all other metrics are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, legal, or property advice. Always seek independent professional advice before making any property or financial decisions.

This information is based on historical sales data and does not constitute financial, investment, or property advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Always consult a qualified professional before making property decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fern Bay, NSW

What is the median property price in Fern Bay?
The current median property price in Fern Bay is $962,500 for all dwellings. For houses, the median price is $965,000, while apartments have a median price of $678,000. This indicates a varied price range depending on the property type.
Is Fern Bay overvalued or undervalued?
Currently, Fern Bay's property market is above its long-term trend, placing it in overvalued territory. This suggests that property prices are higher than what historical trends might indicate. It's important to consider this when evaluating property in Fern Bay.
How has the Fern Bay property market performed over 10 years?
The Fern Bay property market has experienced significant growth over the past 10 years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.8%. This indicates strong capital appreciation during this period. This growth rate is a key factor for those considering property in Fern Bay.
What percentage of Fern Bay is apartments vs houses?
Apartments make up a small percentage of the property market in Fern Bay, with a strata percentage of only 1.3%. This indicates that the majority of properties in Fern Bay are houses. This characterises the suburb as predominantly a housing market.
Where is Fern Bay in the property cycle?
Fern Bay's property market is currently positioned above its long-term trend. This indicates that the market is in a phase where prices are elevated compared to historical averages. This position should be considered when evaluating market conditions.
What schools are near Fern Bay?
Fern Bay Public School is located within the suburb, providing primary education. Nearby schools include Tomaree High School and other options in the surrounding Newcastle region, catering to a range of educational needs. This makes Fern Bay a desirable location for families.
What is Fern Bay like to live in?
Fern Bay offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a strong community feel. Residents enjoy access to beaches, parks, and natural reserves, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The suburb provides a peaceful environment while still being within reach of urban amenities.
Is Fern Bay good for families?
Fern Bay is generally considered a good option for families due to its schools, parks, and relatively safe environment. The availability of houses and larger blocks also appeals to families seeking space. The coastal lifestyle adds to the appeal for those with children.
How far is Fern Bay from Sydney CBD?
Fern Bay is located approximately 170 kilometres north of Sydney CBD. While not a commutable distance for daily work, it's accessible via the Pacific Highway and is a manageable drive for weekend trips or holidays.
What transport options are in Fern Bay?
While Fern Bay itself doesn't have a train station, the nearest station is Warabrook Station on the Hunter Line. Bus services connect Fern Bay to surrounding areas, and the Pacific Highway provides access to Newcastle and other major centres. The suburb is also serviced by local roads.
How does Fern Bay compare to nearby suburbs?
Compared to nearby suburbs in the Newcastle region, Fern Bay offers a unique coastal lifestyle with a predominantly housing market. Median property prices in Fern Bay are generally competitive, reflecting its desirability. Growth rates have been strong compared to some other regional areas.
Is Fern Bay a good first home buyer suburb?
The median property price in Fern Bay is $962,500, which may present a challenge for some first home buyers. However, the availability of apartments at a lower median price of $678,000 could provide an entry point. The suburb's growth potential and lifestyle factors may also be appealing.
What are the best streets in Fern Bay?
Based on median property prices, some of the top streets in Fern Bay include SEASIDE BVD, SYGNA ST, and NORFOLK ST. These streets are likely to offer desirable locations and property types within the suburb. Further street-level data is available with a premium AusPropertyInsights.app subscription.
How many properties have been sold in Fern Bay?
Over the past 35 years, a total of 1,863 properties have been sold in Fern Bay. This indicates a consistent level of market activity in the suburb.
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