Northern Rivers Property Trends in 2025: What Buyers Should Know
The Northern Rivers—spanning Byron Bay, Ballina, Lennox Head, Lismore, and nearby towns—is a vibrant coastal and hinterland region that continues to attract lifestyle-seeking buyers. In 2025, we’re seeing clear patterns shaping property demand, prices, and buyer preferences. Whether you’re chasing coastal charm or rural retreat, here’s a snapshot of what’s really happening on the ground.
1. Demand Holds Strong: Lifestyle Moves & Population Growth
The region remains a top destination for “sea-changers” and “tree-changers” moving from Brisbane, Sydney and beyond. Remote work opportunities continue drawing buyers into Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Bangalow and Lismore, fuelling consistent demand for coastal and hinterland homes.
2. Low Supply = Competitive Market
Tight listing volumes remain the dominant trend. Homes and acreage properties are especially scarce in sought-after suburbs. Buyers must be ready to act fast, often before listings hit the public market.
3. Strong Price Growth Continues (But Slowing)
Property values rose about 12% across the region in 2024, driven by persistent demand and limited supply.
Year-on-year increases (to mid‑2024) show:
Lennox Head: ~23% growth to a median of ~$1.65 million (houses)
Ballina region: ~6 % growth, median ~$971,000
Byron Bay: ~2 % growth, median ~$1.398 million
While price rises have slowed, experts expect modest growth to continue in 2025—particularly if interest rates ease.
4. Days on Market & Negotiation Trends
According to July 2025 data:
Average Days on Market (DOM): 32 days
Lennox Head: 60 days, -3.9% discount from original list price
Byron Bay: 52 days, -1.6% discount
This indicates a strong market—but also buyer opportunity to negotiate slightly below asking price, particularly in Lennox Head.
5. Shifting Buyer Priorities: More than Just Location
A growing number of buyers now prioritise sustainability and lifestyle features over lot size. Think solar power, rainwater systems, work-from-home spaces and walkability to local shops or parks. These trends are especially notable in Byron, Bangalow and Lennox Head.
6. Rental Market Still in Crisis
The rental vacancy rate remains severely limited, creating high pressure on existing tenants and driving rents upward. Byron and Tweed Shire have recorded extremely high rental stress and homelessness figures, while new short-term stay regulations are reducing rental stock even further.
Combined with limited affordable housing supply, the rental market is under serious strain—impacting both tenants and potential investors.
7. Flood Recovery & Housing Strategy Under Scrutiny
Flood-affected towns like Lismore continue to see slow progress in the state government’s relocation and rebuild programs. Some residents are calling out unnecessary demolitions and ongoing housing shortages. Only a small fraction of affected homes have been relocated since 2022.
This adds complexity to property buying in flood-prone areas and is an important factor for buyers opting for hinterland blocks.
What This Means for Buyers in 2025
Be ready to move quickly:
With limited stock and strong competition, the best properties often sell fast—sometimes before they’re even publicly listed.
Consider a broader search area:
Expanding your search to towns like Ballina, Mullumbimby or Brunswick Heads may offer better value or more availability compared to Byron Bay itself.
Check rental viability:
For investors, tight rental supply means high demand—but also limited options and increasing pressure on pricing and availability.
Prioritise sustainable features:
Homes with solar panels, rainwater systems, or dedicated work-from-home spaces are more appealing to modern buyers and may deliver stronger resale value.
Understand flood-related risks:
It's essential to review flood overlay maps and council resilience plans, especially when considering properties in Lismore or low-lying parts of Byron Shire.
