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Are you looking for the best suburbs in Ipswich to buy a home or investment property? If so, this guide is for you.
It will also show you which areas to avoid and how to make a smart choice. Whether you want a home that costs less than $700k or you’re trying to pick between a house in Ipswich or a unit in Brisbane, you will feel clear about your decision by the end of this guide.
An Overview of Ipswich
Ipswich, located just 40 kilometers west of Brisbane, is a city that blends rich history with modern growth. Known for its affordable property market, Ipswich offers an attractive alternative to Brisbane for families, first-home buyers, and investors. With house prices lower than many surrounding areas, it’s a great entry point for those looking to get into the property market while still staying close to a major urban center.
The city is experiencing rapid growth, thanks to significant investment in infrastructure and new developments like Ripley Valley and upgrades to the Ipswich Motorway. These improvements have enhanced Ipswich’s connectivity and appeal for commuters, making it easier than ever to access Brisbane.
Ipswich offers a family-friendly lifestyle with great schools, parks, and recreational spaces like Queens Park. The mix of heritage architecture and modern housing developments means there’s something for everyone, from historic Queenslanders to contemporary homes.
For those seeking a balance between affordability, space, and a strong sense of community, Ipswich is an increasingly desirable choice.
While Ipswich has a lot of potential, it also has some challenges. There are flood zones and areas with high crime. You also have to be careful about underground mine shafts. These can shift your home, cause cracks, or even create a sinkhole in your backyard. Sinkholes have occurred here, and they are not just stories!
If you want to find the best suburb to live in Ipswich, you’ll need to do your research. Luckily, we’ve already done a lot of the hard work for you.
How we Analysed the Best Suburbs in Ipswich
Before looking at the best suburbs in Ipswich, it’s important to know how we did this analysis and why it is important for your property search. We trawled through data from many trusted sources, like government statistics, real estate reports, and environmental studies. Our aim is to give you an unbiased, data-based view of each suburb. This will help you make better choices.
But data alone doesn’t give the full picture. It misses out on community feel, local culture, and future development. A suburb that seems less appealing because of crime or property trends could be about to change for the better. In the same way, an area that appears great on paper could have its own problems.
As you review our findings, keep in mind:
- This is where you should begin your research. Visit the neighbourhoods, talk to local people, and get advice from real estate experts for a full view.
- Each area has its own advantages and disadvantages. A problem for one buyer might be just right for someone else.
To give you a clear picture, we looked at four important factors that can help or hurt a neighbourhood:
- Crime Rates: We looked at local police data to check how safe each suburb in Ipswich is.
- Property Value Trends: Historical and current property values helped us see which areas are improving and which ones might have some problems.
- Industrial Proximity: We asked how close the suburb is to industrial zones. This can affect how nice it is to live there and its potential for growth over time.
- Infrastructure Quality: We checked the roads, schools, and public facilities to understand the development and convenience of each area.
This method provides a complete picture of each suburb. It shows how things are now and what they might be like in the future. Keep in mind that finding the best suburbs in Ipswich goes beyond low crime rates, great schools, or property values. It’s important to find a balance between safety, convenience, and long-term comfort that fits your personal needs.
How Safe is Ipswich Compared to Other Cities in the Greater Brisbane Area?
When looking at how safe Ipswich is, it’s useful to compare its crime rates to other nearby cities in South East Queensland (SEQ). The chart displays crime scores from 1 to 100. A lower score means there is less crime.
- Ipswich: Crime score of 41/100
- Brisbane: Crime score of 33/100
- Logan: Crime score of 49/100
Ipswich has a crime score that is a bit higher than Brisbane. However, it is still safer than Logan, which has the highest crime score of the three cities.
This may surprise some people. Ipswich has had a less-than-stellar reputation in the past. But it’s good to remember that these numbers are city-wide averages.
Crime rates can change a lot from one suburb to another. In some areas of Ipswich, you might have a chance of becoming a victim of crime as high as 1 in 16. Yet, in the best suburbs of Ipswich, that chance can be much lower, going down to about 1 in 1,000.
We’ll include a safety assessment in our profiles of Ipswich’s best suburbs so you can understand how this differs between suburbs.
Best Suburbs to Live in Ipswich
In this section, we will look at the top three suburbs known for their liveability and charm: Tivoli, Thagoona, and Springfield. These areas have kept their property values high. They have good infrastructure and lower crime rates when we compare them to other spots in Ipswich. Each suburb has its unique features, making them great options for both homebuyers and investors.
Tivoli has a rich heritage and is close to the Ipswich CBD. Thagoona offers quiet, semi-rural charm. Springfield has modern amenities and good connections to the city of Brisbane. If you want to invest or settle down in Ipswich, these suburbs are great choices. Let’s look at why these three suburbs are our top picks.
Tivoli
Tivoli is a calm neighborhood located just a bit north of Ipswich CBD. It has a friendly feel, with a mix of older houses and new homes for different buyers. The area is filled with tree-lined streets, parks, and is close to the Bremer River. This makes it a great choice for families and anyone wanting a peaceful suburban life. However, there are a few things buyers should keep in mind before deciding.
Crime Rates in Tivoli
Tivoli is known for having a low crime rate. It ranks 10 out of 100, which is much lower than many other suburbs in Ipswich. In the last year, Tivoli had 95 reported crimes. This means there are about 65 crimes for every 1,000 people. Violent crimes are very rare here. Only 3 incidents happened in the past year. This gives a chance of 1 in 487 for someone to be a victim of violent crime. This is much lower than the average in Queensland. This makes residents feel safe. The typical crimes in Tivoli are minor things like theft and property damage. This shows that the suburb is calm and secure.
Connectivity and Amenities
Tivoli is close to the Ipswich CBD, making it easy to get to shopping centres, schools, and healthcare services. While the area is quiet and has fewer shops, people can still reach these places with a short drive. There are some public transport options, but bus routes are few, so some residents may need to use their cars to get around. Even with these factors, Tivoli connects well to Ipswich and nearby areas, making it a good choice for families and commuters.
Infrastructure and Flood Risks
Tivoli’s infrastructure is mostly reliable. However, some of the older facilities are showing signs of wear in certain areas. Nearby developments might put extra pressure on roads and public services. This could affect future growth and how liveable the area is.
Also, parts of Tivoli are near the Bremer River. This could lead to flooding during heavy rain or bad weather. While there hasn’t been as much flooding in Tivoli as in other Ipswich suburbs, buyers should check specific properties for any flood risks.
Tivoli Real Estate Market
Tivoli’s property market is steady. The average house price is $472,900, which is a 3.4% rise from last year. The suburb is more affordable than other areas in Ipswich. It also has a friendly feel and a low crime rate. These factors make it a good choice for first-time buyers or investors. Although Tivoli may not grow as fast as some other suburbs, its steady market and nice lifestyle make it a smart long-term investment.
Thagoona
Thagoona is a great suburb for people who want a country feel but still be near city services. It is about 12 kilometres southwest of Ipswich CBD and 45 kilometres from Brisbane. Thagoona gives its residents both quiet and space, while being close to nearby cities. This suburb is popular with families and anyone wanting bigger homes with more room, all without being too far from important services.
Crime Rates
Safety is a big reason why people like Thagoona. It has a crime rank of only 10 out of 100, making it one of the safest places in Ipswich. In the past year, only 21 crimes happened there. This means there are around 19.50 crimes for every 1,000 people. That is much lower than the average crime rates for both the state and the country. Violent crimes are very rare. Thagoona has one of the lowest crime rates in the area. This helps create a safe and calm place for the people who live there.
Thagoona Real Estate Market Overview
Thagoona’s property market is growing. Right now, the median house price is $830,000. This is a 25.8% increase in just one year. This shows that more people want to buy homes in this area. They like Thagoona because it offers a good mix of space, safety, and affordability when compared to other parts of Ipswich and Brisbane. The big homes and rural feel are great for families who want more space. Plus, there is a good chance to gain value in real estate.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Thagoona has great transport options. It is near important roads like the Warrego Highway. This road connects Thagoona to Brisbane and other areas. The Thagoona railway station also provides easy public transport to Ipswich and Brisbane. The suburb offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle. However, it’s close to Ipswich, where residents can find shopping, dining, and healthcare services.
Challenges
Thagoona has many good points, but it also has some downsides. The suburb does not have big shopping centres or many facilities. This means people often need to go to nearby areas for bigger shopping trips or places to eat. Also, the roads are okay now, but more people moving in could cause traffic jams in the future, especially during busy times.
Flood Risk
Parts of Thagoona can flood, especially in the lower areas close to rivers. This means people looking to buy homes need to check the flood risk of specific properties. Houses that are at risk for flooding may have higher insurance costs and could suffer damage from floods.
Springfield
Springfield is just 30 kilometres southwest of the Brisbane CBD. It is our third choice for buying property in Ipswich. Springfield has a modern layout and a good mix of convenience and community services. This makes it a popular place for families, workers, and investors. It offers easy access to both Ipswich and Brisbane. This location is great for commuters who want a balanced lifestyle in a well-developed area.
Crime Rates
Springfield has a low crime score of 10 out of 100. This makes it a safer place to live than many other suburbs in Ipswich. Last year, there were 343 reported crimes in Springfield, which has a population of over 7,300 people. This means the crime rate is about 46.85 crimes for every 1,000 people. This rate is much lower than in nearby areas. Most of the crimes are property crimes like theft. However, violent crime is rare. The chance of facing a violent crime is 1 in 222, while for property crimes, it is 1 in 34. Overall, these numbers show that Springfield is a safe community. It is a good place, especially for families who want to feel secure.
Springfield Real Estate Market Overview
Springfield’s property market is doing well. The average house price is now $790,500. This is a 13.3% rise over the last year. There is a lot of interest in properties, which usually sell in just 21 days. This shows that Springfield is a popular suburb. The market provides good chances for investment. The area keeps attracting new residents because of its great services and infrastructure.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Springfield has great infrastructure because of its smart design. Residents have easy access to shopping places like the Springfield Central Shopping Centre. They also have good schools and the University of Southern Queensland’s Springfield campus nearby. Healthcare is close too, with the Mater Private Hospital located in the area. The transport links are also a big benefit. People can easily get to Brisbane and Ipswich via the Centenary Highway and the Springfield railway line.
Challenges
Springfield has many good qualities, but its fast growth does lead to some problems. There can be traffic jams during busy times. People may also have to travel to nearby places to find special services. Ongoing construction and improvements to roads can cause hassles in everyday life, especially for those living close to the big development areas.
Flood Risk
Springfield is usually at a lower risk for floods because it is on higher ground. However, some spots near rivers can still be at risk when it rains heavily. It’s smart for people looking to buy to check the flood risk of homes, especially in areas that are lower in elevation.
Other Suburbs to Consider in Ipswich
In addition to the top three suburbs, there are several other areas in Ipswich that are changing a lot. These places are now appealing to both homebuyers and investors due to their close proximity to major amenities. In the last ten years, many of these suburbs have improved with new infrastructure developments. This has made them more attractive and increased their property values.
Woodend
Woodend is a popular place for young professionals and families moving from Brisbane. People love its closeness to the city centre. The suburb has nice older homes and green streets, which many find attractive. This has made Woodend one of the top suburbs in Ipswich. Many new residents have arrived, leading to higher property values and a strong sense of community.
Sadliers Crossing
Sadliers Crossing is another suburb that is changing. It used to be seen as a traditional neighbourhood, but now it has more wealthy residents moving in. This has led to higher property values and more services for these new people. The area is also close to schools and transport options, making it even more attractive.
Coalfalls
Coalfalls is becoming more popular. It has a mix of older homes with charm and new buildings. This makes it great for people who want both history and modern living. As the area improves, property values are going up. Coalfalls is a suburb to keep an eye on for future development.
Eastern Suburbs
On the eastern side of Ipswich, several suburbs are growing quickly. Ripley, Redbank Plains, South Ripley, Spring Mountain, Brookwater, and Collingwood Park are all seeing a lot of development. Many new homes are being built as the population increases. This growth is making property in these areas more valuable and a good choice for future investment.
These suburbs are getting new infrastructure, modern housing, and better community facilities. This means they will likely keep rising in value for the years to come.
While we haven’t discussed every suburb in Ipswich, these areas are great to check out. They show potential for growth and consist of continuous improvements. With many different suburbs in Ipswich, you can find a place that fits your needs and budget.
Suburbs in Ipswich You May Want to Avoid
Let’s talk about the suburbs in Ipswich that you should be careful about before buying or investing. Keep in mind that these areas have their ups and downs. Each suburb has its own special feel and chance for growth. But, because of crime rates, property trends, nearby industrial zones, and how good the infrastructure is, some suburbs have raised some worries.
The three suburbs that catch attention are Ipswich Central, Redbank, and Booval. In this part, we will explain why these areas are ones to be careful about. We will look at the challenges they deal with and highlight any chances for improvement in the future.
Ipswich
At first look, the Ipswich City Centre appears to be a nice place to live. It is the main area of the city. It has a rich history and has many charming old buildings. There are lots of parks, shops, and cultural spots, such as the Ipswich Art Gallery. It has good connections through the Ipswich train station, making it easy for families and commuters to get around. The property market is thriving, offering character homes and modern apartments. House prices have increased by 29.4% this past year.
But, below the surface, the city centre has several problems. These issues might make potential buyers think twice.
Crime Rates
Ipswich Central has a crime rank of 100 out of 100. This means it has the highest crime rate among neighborhoods in Ipswich. There were 1,667 reported crimes in an area that is a little over 4 square kilometers. This works out to about 675 crimes for every 1,000 people, which is much more than the state average. Violent crimes have been going up in the last five years. At the same time, property crimes continue to be a big problem.
Flood Risk
Flooding is an important problem to consider in Ipswich Central. Some areas in the suburb are likely to flood. This can affect property values, raise insurance costs, and create long-term risks. If you’re thinking of buying a property here, it is very important to know how these flood-prone areas might impact your investment.
Infrastructure Strain
Ipswich Central is getting better with new transport links and road upgrades. However, the area’s fast growth might cause traffic problems if the improvements are not enough for the population. There is also an issue with planning and zoning rules. These rules could slow down new development, making it tough to provide enough housing for everyone.
Property Market Volatility
Ipswich Central has had strong growth in the property market. House prices have gone up a lot. However, there has been some recent ups and downs in the market. Weekly asking prices for houses and units have changed, with some drops in recent months, influenced by rising interest rates. The Demand to Supply Ratio (DSR) indicates that the market might be cooling off, especially for houses. This hints at a softer market with reasonable prices compared to earlier years.
Redbank
Redbank is about 10 kilometers east of Ipswich CBD and 25 kilometers southwest of Brisbane. It offers a mix of suburban living and easy access to both cities. The area has older homes with charm as well as newer buildings, so it can attract many buyers. There are good shopping options at the Redbank Plaza Shopping Centre, several parks, and great transport links for families and commuters. However, Redbank also has some problems that might make buyers hesitate.
Crime Rates
One big worry about Redbank is its crime rate. It has a crime rank of 54 out of 100, which is just a bit above average among suburbs in Ipswich. Over the past year, Redbank had 1,064 reported crimes. This means there were 363 crimes for every 1,000 people living there. This number is much higher than the averages for Queensland and the whole country.
Theft is the most common crime. Drug-related crime and property damage follow it. In Redbank, your chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 44. This is much higher than the Queensland average of 1 in 131. The risk for property crime is even greater. You have a 1 in 5 chance in Redbank, while in Queensland, it’s 1 in 22.
The crime statistics show that Redbank has serious safety issues, especially when it comes to property crime. If keeping safe is very important for you, Redbank may not be the right choice. It’s a good idea to research specific areas in the suburb carefully.
Proximity to Industrial Zones
Redbank is close to industrial zones, which is something to think about. Being near these areas can create local job opportunities. However, it also has some downsides. These include more noise, heavy traffic, and worries about air quality. Homes close to industrial zones might feel these problems more. This can affect how good it is to live in the suburb.
Infrastructure Strain
Redbank has grown quickly in recent years. This fast growth is putting stress on its infrastructure. The roads, public transport, and utilities can’t keep up with the rising number of residents. This situation is causing traffic jams, especially on important roads like the Cunningham Highway and Centenary Motorway. During busy times, commutes can take longer. Also, upgrades to the infrastructure often lead to road closures, noise, and interruptions in daily life.
Flood Risks
Parts of Redbank are at risk of flooding. This is because they are close to the Brisbane River and nearby creeks. Major floods, especially in 2011 and 2022, hit some low areas hard. These events raised the possibility of damage to homes and led to higher insurance costs. If you are thinking about buying a property in Redbank, it is very important to check the flood risk for specific homes.
Redbank Property Market
On a brighter side, Redbank’s property market has been growing. The average price of houses is now $590,000, which is a 9.3% rise over the last year. Units have grown even more, with a 25.2% increase during the same time. While this growth is good news for investors, some buyers may be concerned. They might worry about crime rates, the closeness to industrial areas, and risks of floods.
Tips for Due Diligence
When you decide to buy a property in Ipswich or anywhere else, it’s important to do your homework first. This helps you avoid wasting money and ensures you make a good choice. Hiring building and pest inspectors is a key part of this process. Whether you are looking at popular suburbs or areas with lower home prices, here are some helpful tips to guide your search and help you make a smart decision.
1. Assess Crime Rates
Safety is very important when buying a home. It’s vital to check the crime rates in the area. However, don’t just look at the general numbers. It’s important to learn about the specific types of crimes happening there. Are there more issues with property crimes like theft or vandalism? Or are violent crimes more frequent? Knowing about these crime patterns will help you decide if the area matches your way of living. Remember, crime rates can be quite different from one suburb to another and even between streets in the same suburb.
2. Evaluate Flood Risk
In Ipswich, some neighbourhoods are more likely to flood than others. It’s important to check the flood history of any property you want to buy. You should find out if it’s in a flood-prone area. You can look at detailed flood maps from local councils or government websites. Properties in these flood zones might have lower prices. However, they also come with risks such as possible damage, higher insurance costs, and difficulties when you try to sell them later. Be sure to understand the long-term effects of buying in a flood-affected area.
3. Investigate Proximity to Industrial Zones
Industrial areas can provide jobs, but they might also make your living experience worse. Suburbs like Ripley and Redbank Plains are close to Swanbank. There, people have noticed smells coming from waste management sites. It is important to learn about the nearby industrial zones. Check how they affect the environment in terms of noise, air quality, and traffic. This can help you decide if you can handle living in that area.
4. Research Underground Mine Shafts
Ipswich has a history of coal mining. There are many old mine shafts spread throughout the area. If a property is near or above one of these shafts, it may face subsidence. This can cause foundation problems, structural damage, or even sinkholes. The Ipswich City Council offers maps and information about old mine shafts. It is a good idea to check if the property you like is at risk.
5. Evaluate Local Infrastructure
One key thing to think about is the quality of local infrastructure. Check if the suburb has good public transport, easy access to major roads, and is close to important services like schools, hospitals, and shopping centres. It’s important that the suburb is connected well to the places you need to go, like for work, education, or fun. A distance of 5-10 km is ideal. Also, consider how future development or more people might impact the infrastructure. Can the area support more demand without getting crowded or overwhelmed?
6. Speak with the Locals
One of the best ways to learn about a neighbourhood is by talking to the people who live there. Locals can share feelings and views that data cannot show. They can tell you about the community spirit, noise levels, and everyday problems that might not show up during a visit. You can learn from social media, neighbourhood forums, or by chatting with residents. Gathering local opinions can help you get a better understanding of the area.
7. Check Environmental Impacts
Lastly, factors from the environment can greatly influence your choices. For example, places near the Swanbank waste facility have been known to have bad smells. This can impact your way of life and the value of your home. Look into any environmental issues, such as air quality, noise pollution, or being close to landfills. These can lead to problems in the long run.
By looking closely at these factors and taking time to do your homework, you’ll be in a better spot to make a smart choice when buying a property. A home is a big investment. Taking extra time to research can help make sure you are making a decision that fits your needs and future goals.
Summary and Next Steps:
Let’s finish up what we talked about today about the Ipswich real estate market. We looked at the areas that have challenges and the suburbs that offer great chances.
Starting with the suburbs you might want to avoid:
- Ipswich Central is at the top of the list because it has a high crime rate. There is a 1 in 16 chance of being a victim of violent crime. It also faces problems with flooding and is growing quickly. This has put a lot of pressure on its infrastructure.
- Redbank is next. It has rising crime rates, especially for property crimes. Being close to industrial areas raises worries about noise and air quality. Some parts of Redbank are also at risk for flooding.
- Booval comes last on the list. It is not as troubled as Ipswich Central or Redbank. However, it still has higher-than-average property crime rates, old infrastructure, and flood risks in certain areas.
On a bright side, we have pointed out the best suburbs to think about:
- Tivoli is a safe place. It has a strong community feel, low crime, and steady property growth. It is peaceful and just outside the Ipswich CBD.
- Thagoona is also a great choice. It has very low crime rates and good property value growth. You can enjoy rural space while still being close to the city.
- Springfield is a planned community. It has low crime rates and strong property performance. The infrastructure is excellent, making it the right suburb for both families and investors.
Choosing the best suburb to buy a home is an important choice. We know it can feel like a lot of information to handle. That’s why we suggest you contact the experts here at Hunter Galloway. They know the Ipswich property market well. We can help you find the perfect home that fits your needs and budget.
If you are ready to move forward or need some personal advice, feel free to reach out to us here at Hunter Galloway for a free assessment. You can call us at 1300 088 065 to get help with your home loan and buying process.
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