One of Australia’s most liveable coastal regions, just over an hour's flight from Sydney
Coffs Harbour is ideally positioned on Australia’s east coast, offering direct air connections to Sydney and Brisbane while maintaining the affordability and lifestyle balance that attracts professionals and families alike. With a median house price of approximately $770,000, Coffs Harbour provides strong value compared with capital city markets while delivering the services and amenities of a growing regional centre.
Where work-life balance actually exists
Coffs Harbour has evolved from a relaxed seaside town into one of regional New South Wales’ most resilient and diverse economies. Picture morning walks along Park Beach, productive afternoons in the city centre, and evenings enjoying coastal paths and harbour views that stretch for kilometres in both directions.
The region offers something increasingly rare: professional opportunity without metropolitan pressure. With unemployment around 3.4% and steady employment growth across health, education and tourism, Coffs Harbour blends career progression with coastal living in ways larger cities struggle to match.
Smart financial living
Your income stretches further in Coffs Harbour. With median rents around $620 per week for houses and everyday living costs well below major capitals, the region offers genuine financial breathing room. Many professionals find that a salary of $75,000 here supports a lifestyle comparable to earning well over $100,000 in a metropolitan city—without congestion, long commutes or inflated housing costs.
The Coffs Harbour advantage
This is not about trading culture for affordability. Coffs Harbour delivers a growing food scene, regional galleries, live performance venues and year-round events, all framed by pristine beaches and nearby rainforest. The city combines modern amenities with regional warmth, where connections feel personal and workdays can naturally end by the sea.
Coastal professional living
Professionals in Coffs Harbour don’t simply live near the coast—they build it into daily life. Morning swims, lunchtime foreshore walks and weekend surf sessions are part of the local rhythm. Employers increasingly recognise the link between wellbeing and productivity, supporting a work culture that values flexibility, health and long-term fulfilment.
Lifestyle essentials
Coffs Harbour’s housing market remains accessible by NSW standards. Median house prices sit around $770,000, with units typically ranging between $500,000 and $620,000. Rental demand remains steady, supported by population growth and lifestyle appeal. For current listings and market insights, visit Domain↗ or Realestate.com.au↗.
Education excellence
Coffs Harbour supports education pathways from early learning through to secondary schooling, with a broad mix of public, Catholic and independent schools serving a growing family population across the region.
Higher education is anchored by Southern Cross University, offering courses across health, education, business, science and sustainability. TAFE NSW complements this with vocational training aligned to local workforce needs.
Coffs Harbour offers a strong early childhood education sector with long day-care centres, preschools and community-run services. Families benefit from play-based learning, qualified educators and a focus on early development and wellbeing. Many centres provide extended hours to support working parents. For more information, visit the NSW Department of Education’s Early Childhood Education page ↗.
