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The best suburbs to live in

Published on 11 November 2024

Lake Macquarie is fast becoming a popular living destination for those opting for a sea-change or to escape the bustle of nearby Sydney.

Lake Macquarie City, which spans 757 square kilometres, features beautiful nature reserves, idyllic beaches, trendy cafes and world-renowned education opportunities.

Here, we share the best suburbs to suit first home buyers, families and those looking for luxury living.

First home buyers - Toronto

Situated on the northern edge of Australia’s largest salt-water lagoon lies Toronto, an up and coming suburb which offers affordable living.

“Toronto offers a huge amount of shopping convenience and great schools for future family value,” Ray White Director Troy McLennan said.

70 per cent of sales in Toronto through 2021 were under the $700,000 mark.

“It still holds great value for money when compared to the Eastern side of the lake, which is much higher in price.”

Toronto acts as the main commercial hub on the western shore of the lake and is home to several hip eateries and major supermarket chains.

Toronto Foreshore drone

Convenient living – Charlestown

On the north-east side of the lake lies Charlestown. The suburb offers a central living space conveniently located near two major shopping centres.

In addition to leisure, the popular suburb sits within a range of businesses, giving residents a diverse range of employment options and entrepreneurs a space to collaborate.

The Corner Charlestown

Family home- Eastern Lake Macquarie

With its impressive selection of schools in Floraville, Warners Bay, Eleebana and Valentine, the eastern side of the lake is luring families from near and far.

Valentine hosts a small, stunning village where locals can take a short stroll to parks and shops – attractive to the modern family.

“Locals are met idyllic views from the water’s edge while nature reserves offer even more serenity, altogether offering laid-back lifestyle living,” Ray White Director Ty Zink said.

Further north lies Eleebana, a central suburb which offers much the same for families with direct water access.

It borders onto Croudace Bay which is home to fun, family events.

Luxury living – Catherine Hill Bay and Caves Beach

Catherine Hill Bay offers old-school charm with a pristine shoreline and historic buildings which date back to the 19^th century.

However, the latest wave of homes offers luxury living with thought-out architectural design integrating the old style with a modern edge.

“Catherine Hill Bay is only 20 minutes from everything you need. The beach is at your doorstep, Sydney is only a short commute,” Mr Zink said.

“Belmont town centre is only a short drive away and the Lake is just across the road at Nords Wharf or a quick 10-minute dash and you're at the Swansea town centre.”

Nearby, Caves Beach has plenty offer with properties boasting ocean view just half the price of Sydney.

The suburb is spilling with beautiful two-story homes and is set in a blissful village situated between Lake Macquarie and the Pacific Ocean.