Once considered a quiet residential pocket of Newcastle, Waratah NSW is now one of the most in-demand inner suburbs — and for good reason.
From strong capital growth and rental demand to its unbeatable access to schools, healthcare, shops, and the beach, Waratah is firmly on the radar for buyers, sellers and investors alike.
Here’s why people are making moves in Waratah — and why you should be watching this suburb closely.
THE NUMBERS SPEAK VOLUMES (September 2025)
- House Median Price: $945,299
- Unit Median Price: $673,592
- Rental Yield: 3.9% for houses
- Median Rent: $650/week for houses, $523/week for units
- Median Days on Market: 16.5 days
Waratah has seen consistent value growth over the past decade. Rental demand is high, days on market are low, and investors are starting to compete with owner-occupiers for listings.
WHAT MAKES WARATAH SO APPEALING?
Location
You’re less than 10 minutes to the Newcastle CBD and beaches, but without the inflated prices or congestion.
The Essentials
- Mater Hospital: One of Newcastle’s key private hospitals, drawing medical professionals and ongoing demand.
- University of Newcastle: Just nearby, feeding consistent rental demand from students and staff.
- Waratah Village: Local shops, Coles and convenience stores make this a suburb people stay in, not just pass through.
Education Options
The suburb is home to a number of sought-after schools including Waratah Public School, Corpus Christi, St Philip’s Christian College and is within reach of selective and private school options.
Green Space
Despite being just 1.9 km² in size, over 10% of the land is parkland. Five parks and open green space make this a family-friendly, lifestyle-rich area.
WHY IT WORKS FOR INVESTORS
It’s not just price growth — though that alone makes a compelling case.
Value growth
House prices have nearly doubled in the last decade. In 2016, the median house price was $477,670. Now it’s $945,299.
Tight rental market
Low vacancy, high competition, and short days on market mean your property doesn’t sit idle.
Dual appeal
Owner-occupiers and renters are almost evenly split in Waratah, giving flexibility for those buying with long-term goals in mind.
Affordability meets accessibility
Compared to neighbouring suburbs closer to Newcastle CBD, Waratah is more affordable, without compromising on access.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Waratah is no longer a hidden gem — it’s a high-performing, high-demand suburb with real long-term potential.
Whether you’re looking to invest, sell at the right time or get your foot into a suburb with excellent fundamentals, Waratah ticks every box.