Can't afford Byron? Try these new property hotspots
Byron Bay might be famous for its surf culture and A-list appeal, but with soaring prices and limited supply, savvy property hunters are now looking beyond the bubble.
According to Compass, a leading buyers' agency specialising in Northern NSW, demand is growing fast in the surrounding towns and hinterland pockets where lifestyle, space and value intersect.
"Buyers want more space, stronger communities and easier access to essential services, without losing connection to the coast," said Nick Goldsbrough-Reardon, Director and Buyers Advocate at Compass.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy."These towns offer lifestyle without the congestion or price premium of Byron, while still delivering strong capital growth."
From surf-side villages to peaceful hinterland enclaves, here are the locations attracting increasing attention:
- Lennox Head & Skennars Head: Just south of Byron, these laid-back coastal communities offer great surf, local schools and a tight-knit vibe that's proving irresistible for families and seachangers alike.
- Suffolk Park: Often dubbed Byron's quieter cousin, Suffolk offers a family-friendly layout, easy beach access and a more accessible entry point into the region.
- Newrybar & Tintenbar: These boutique hinterland destinations are drawing buyers looking for rural privacy with convenience. Both are within quick reach of the M1 and Byron Bay but feel worlds away.
- Yamba & Broadwater: Further up the coast, these emerging lifestyle towns are fast gaining traction with buyers seeking relaxed living, good surf and rising investment potential.
- Casuarina, Kingscliff, Cabarita Beach & Pottsville: Northern coastal hubs with booming infrastructure, appealing schools and high-end developments are luring both locals and out-of-area buyers alike.
The new normal
Post-COVID, the market has settled. "The heat has eased, with price growth stabilising and buyer demand becoming more measured," Goldsbrough-Reardon said.
"That said, well-positioned coastal or hinterland properties are still moving fast when priced right."
Cotality data confirms that since March 2020 to 2025, regional values have risen more than 56 per cent.
Post pandemic boom, the regions have continued to show overall resilience. In the recent two quarters, for example, they are outperforming capital cities (1.6 per cent compared to 1.4 per cent).
Many metro and regional areas are also currently experiencing record highs, according to Cotality's July Housing Chart Pack.
What's trending now are homes with flexibility. Buyers are looking for dual-occupancy options, secondary dwellings, eco-conscious builds or self-contained studios that support lifestyle or rental income.
Prices typically range from $1.5 million to $4 million, depending on location and land size.
Predicting the next hotspot
Compass's edge lies in staying ahead of the curve. "We maintain constant dialogue with local agents, councils and developers," said Goldsbrough-Reardon.
"We're tracking early indicators like school openings, retail development, DA approvals and demographic shifts."
That groundwork means Compass often helps clients secure homes 12 to 24 months before an area hits the mainstream radar.
For those priced out of Byron or simply looking for more value, these neighbouring suburbs may not be secret for long.
Originally published as Can't afford Byron? Try these new property hotspots
