10 Best Northern Beaches Suburbs for First Home Buyers in 2025

Buying a home in Northern Beaches suburbs is a dream for many, and for good reason—it’s where stunning coastlines meet a relaxed, community-driven lifestyle. With excellent schools, recreational spaces, and a strong rental market, it’s an ideal place for first-time buyers looking for both lifestyle and investment potential. 

While some coastal suburbs can be pricey, there are still affordable options with great public transport links to the Sydney CBD. If you decide to settle in Northern Beaches, expert brokers like Mortgage Brokers Northern Beaches can guide you through home loan financing, helping you compare lenders, find competitive rates, and handle the paperwork—making the mortgage process far less stressful.

But which suburb suits you best? Let’s dive into the top 10 Northern Beaches suburbs for first-home buyers in 2025.

Why Choose Northern Beaches for Your First Home?

A Coastal Lifestyle with Strong Community Vibes

The Northern Beaches offers an unmatched coastal lifestyle, with pristine beaches, green spaces, and a relaxed community feel. Unlike expensive suburbs like Bondi Beach or Manly, some areas still provide affordable housing options for first-time buyers. 

The region is known for its family-friendly vibe, recreational opportunities, and excellent schools, making it a great place to settle.

Property Market Trends: 2025 Outlook

• Median house price in Northern Beaches: (approx) $2.1M
• Median unit price: (approx) $995K 
• Projected market growth in 2025: 2-5% increase, with demand rising for investment properties in suburbs with good transport links.

Investment Potential & Affordability

• Days on market for properties: 31 days, reflecting strong demand 
• Rental demand: High, with Manly Beach and Dee Why among the most sought-after rental locations.
• Upcoming infrastructure: The Beaches Link Tunnel (planned for the late 2020s) will improve access to North Sydney and the Sydney CBD, boosting property values.

With its natural beauty, strong community ethos, and long-term capital growth, the Northern Beaches remains a top choice for first-home buyers in 2025.

10 Northern Beaches Suburbs for First Home Buyers

With a mix of affordable options, beachside living, and strong investment potential, Northern Beaches has something for every first-home buyer. Let’s explore the top 10 suburbs that offer the best balance of price, lifestyle, and future growth in 2025.

#1  Dee Why – Best for First-Home Affordability & Lifestyle

Dee Why offers a vibrant beach lifestyle at a more affordable price than nearby Manly, making it a top pick for first-home buyers. With excellent public transport, shopping centres, and future developments, it’s a smart choice for both living and investing.

• *Median unit price: $950,000 | *Median house price: $2.2M
• Transport links: Frequent buses to Sydney CBD & North Sydney
• Why it’s great: A mix of affordable units, a thriving beach culture, and excellent shopping options.

#2  Narrabeen – Ideal for Waterfront Living on a Budget

Narrabeen is a great choice for first-home buyers looking for a more affordable way to enjoy waterfront living, especially with units near the lagoon and beach. With a strong community feel, excellent public transport, and plenty of outdoor activities, it offers a relaxed lifestyle without the price tag of more exclusive coastal suburbs.

• *Median unit price: $1M | *Median house price: $2.8M
• Transport: Buses to Sydney Metro and CBD
• Why it’s great: Stunning lake views, a family-friendly vibe, and plenty of recreational activities.

#3  Avalon Beach – Best for a Relaxed, Coastal Vibe

Avalon Beach is ideal for first-home buyers seeking a laid-back coastal lifestyle, with a charming village atmosphere and a strong community vibe. While houses are on the pricier side, units offer a more affordable entry point, making it a great option for those wanting to enjoy beachside living with a mix of cafés, parks, and boutique shopping.

• *Median unit price: $1.2M | *Median house price: $3M
• Transport: Buses to Manly Beach and city connections
• Why it’s great: Quaint village atmosphere, strong community engagement, and a choice for beach lovers.

#4  Freshwater – A Hidden Gem for First-Time Buyers

Freshwater is a fantastic choice for first-home buyers, offering a beachside lifestyle with a more community-focused feel than nearby Manly. With a mix of older apartments and new developments, it provides a great entry point into the Northern Beaches property market, while still being close to the city and coastal amenities.

• *Median unit price: $1.3M | *Median house price: $3.1M
• Transport: Close to Manly ferry for city access
• Why it’s great: A bustling village hub with a mix of new developments and older properties.

#5  Collaroy – Affordable Beachside Living

Collaroy is a great option for first-home buyers looking for a beachside suburb that’s more affordable than nearby Manly or Freshwater. 

With a mix of apartments and houses, plus easy access to parks, schools, and public transport, it offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle without the premium price tag.

• *Median unit price: $1.1M | *Median house price: $2.7M
• Transport: Buses to CBD, close to Forest Road
• Why it’s great: Offers affordable price options near the beach lifestyle.

#6  Mona Vale – A Well-Connected Suburb with Everything You Need

Mona Vale is perfect for first-home buyers who want a beachside lifestyle with the convenience of great transport links, shopping, and schools. With a mix of apartments and houses, it offers a balanced blend of affordability, amenities, and long-term growth potential in the Northern Beaches.

• *Median unit price: $1.3M | *Median house price: $2.9M
• Transport: Direct buses to North Sydney and the CBD
• Why it’s great: Ample job opportunities, shopping centres, and educational institutions.

#7  Warriewood – Best for New Developments and Modern Living

Warriewood is a great choice for first-home buyers looking for modern homes in a growing suburb with a strong community feel. With new developments, green spaces, and easy access to beaches and shopping centres, it offers a contemporary coastal lifestyle at a more affordable price than neighbouring suburbs.

• *Median unit price: $1M | *Median house price: $2.4M
• Transport: Close to Church Point, frequent buses
• Why it’s great: Modern apartments, recreational spaces, and extensive parks.

#8  Forestville – Best for First-Home Buyers Seeking More Space

Forestville is ideal for first-home buyers wanting more space and greenery while still being within easy reach of the city and beaches. With its family-friendly vibe, excellent schools, and bushland surroundings, it offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle at a more affordable price than many coastal areas.

• *Median unit price: $1.2M | *Median house price: $2.5M
• Transport: Buses to Lane Cove and the CBD
• Why it’s great: A leafy suburb with a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.

#9  Manly – High Demand but Worth the Investment

Manly is a dream location for first-home buyers who want the best of coastal living while staying well-connected to North Sydney and the CBD. While prices are higher, its strong rental demand, vibrant café scene, and easy transport options make it a smart long-term investment.

• *Median unit price: $1.2M | *Median house price: $2.5M
• Transport: Buses to Lane Cove and the CBD, plus ferry access
• Why it’s great: A perfect blend of beach lifestyle, city convenience, and strong investment potential.
  
  

#10  Fairlight – A Premium Option for First-Home Buyers

Fairlight is ideal for first-home buyers looking for a quieter, more exclusive alternative to Manly, with stunning harbour views and a boutique community feel. With easy access to beaches, transport, and shops, it’s a premium choice for those wanting coastal beauty and strong capital growth potential.

• *Median unit price: $1.2M | *Median house price: $2.5M
• Transport: Buses to Lane Cove and the CBD
• Why it’s great: A leafy suburb with a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty.

**Sources: CoreLogic, Domain. Note that the above figure is an approximation of the current property market value and fluctuates over time. For real-time estimates, it’s always best to talk with your real estate agent.

Buying a home is exciting, but finding the right home loan can be overwhelming. Mortgage Brokers Northern Beaches helps first-home buyers secure great rates and stress-free financing so you can focus on your dream home.

FAQs

Is Northern Beaches a good place for first-home buyers?

Yes! Northern Beaches offers a high-quality living environment with leafy streets, suburban tranquillity, and numerous parks, making it ideal for first-home buyers. Plus, with a wide range of properties at competitive prices, it provides an affordable alternative to the North Shore and other high-demand areas.

How is the housing market in Northern Beaches for 2025?

According to the Domain House Price Report, housing prices in Northern Beaches have seen substantial price increases, but certain residential suburbs still offer affordable regions for first-time buyers. Experts predict an increase in property prices in 2025, with the property market forecast showing steady annual growth due to rising demand for property.

What are the key lifestyle benefits of living in Northern Beaches?

Living in Northern Beaches means enjoying a coastal region with beach access, recreational facilities, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for water sports and family outings or someone who enjoys a dynamic living experience with a range of activities and dining options, this area has something for everyone.

What suburbs offer the best affordability for first-home buyers?

Suburbs like Dee Why, Collaroy, and Warriewood provide affordable regions with convenient access to shopping facilities, railway stations, and reliable bus services. These areas also feature community events and engaging communities, making them an ideal choice for first-home buyers looking for both lifestyle and value.

How do home loans work for first-home buyers in Northern Beaches?

First-home buyers can access a wide range of home loans with benefits like lower deposits, government incentives, and competitive interest rates. Working with a mortgage broker can help average buyers and experienced buyers avoid costly mistakes by finding the best loan to match their needs.

What are the future property price forecasts for Northern Beaches?

The real estate market in Northern Beaches is expected to grow due to population growth, economic growth, and increased access to employment. While some suburbs may see slower growth, areas with railway stations, train station access, and suburban tranquillity are predicted to have strong property price forecasts.

How does Northern Beaches compare to Southern Suburbs for first-home buyers?

Compared to Southern Suburbs, Northern Beaches offers a more peaceful suburb setting with a stronger sense of community and engaging community events. While the cost of living may be higher, the high-quality living environment, convenient transport, and access to employment make it a favourite spot for first-home buyers looking for a balanced lifestyle.

Conclusion

Buying your first home in Northern Beaches in 2025 is an exciting step toward a coastal lifestyle with strong investment potential. With a wide range of suburbs offering affordable options, beach access, and great amenities, there’s something for every first-home buyer. 

To make the process easier and stress-free, expert brokers at Mortgage Brokers Northern Beaches can help you find the best home loan for your needs. Call 0403 316 686 or visit our website for a free consultation today!