Kempsey, located on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, is a charming and vibrant town known for its rich history, strong community spirit, and proximity to stunning natural landscapes. With a mix of river and coastal living, Kempsey offers various residential options catering to families, retirees, and first-home buyers alike. This article explores the best suburbs in Kempsey, detailing their characteristics, housing options, and average market prices.
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Kempsey CBD

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The heart of Kempsey, the CBD, is vibrant and full of life, featuring shops, cafes, restaurants, and essential services. It’s perfect for those who thrive in a bustling environment and appreciate easy access to amenities.
Characteristics of the Kempsey CBD
* Culture: A mix of local shops and cultural events; often bustling with activities and markets.
* Transportation: Excellent public transport access and walkable streets.
* Services: Hospitals, schools, grocery stores, and recreational facilities.
* Environment: Dynamic and community-oriented, with a youthful vibe.
Housing Options in the Kempsey CBD
Units, townhouses, and traditional houses.
Average Home Prices in the Kempsey CBD
* Buying: $350,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $300 – $450/month
West Kempsey

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West Kempsey is an established suburb known for its spacious properties and family-friendly atmosphere. With numerous parks and recreation areas, it’s ideal for families seeking a quiet environment.
Characteristics of the West Kempsey
* Culture: Community-focused with local events and gatherings.
* Transportation: Good public transport links and close proximity to the CBD.
* Services: Nearby schools, childcare centres, and local shops.
* Environment: Quiet, leafy, and family-oriented.
Housing Options in the West Kempsey
Single-family homes, duplexes.
Average Home Prices in the West Kempsey
* Buying: $330,000 – $480,000
* Renting: $280 – $420/month
South Kempsey

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South Kempsey is a growing suburb popular with young families and retirees. It offers a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty, with easy access to the Macleay River and riverfront parks.
Characteristics of the South Kempsey
* Culture: Strong sense of community and local pride.
* Transportation: Reliable bus services; quieter streets.
* Services: Shopping centres, healthcare services, and recreational facilities.
* Environment: Relaxed and scenic, with a friendly community.
Housing Options in the South Kempsey
Newer homes, investment properties.
Average Home Prices in the South Kempsey
* Buying: $350,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $320 – $460/month
East Kempsey

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This suburb is characterised by large lots and a tranquil environment. Close to schools and amenities, East Kempsey is an excellent choice for those seeking space and proximity to nature.
Characteristics of the East Kempsey
* Culture: Community-oriented, with local growers' markets.
* Transportation: Car-dependent, with some public transport options.
* Services: Close to schools and shopping precincts.
* Environment: Peaceful, with beautiful natural surroundings.
Housing Options in the East Kempsey
Larger family homes, some acreage properties.
Average Home Prices in the East Kempsey
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $350 – $490/month
Frederickton

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Frederickton is a small, close-knit community located just outside Kempsey. Offering a rural lifestyle with community spirit, it's an ideal place for those wanting a quieter life with easy access to town.
Characteristics of the Frederickton
* Culture: Small-town charm with local events and a friendly atmosphere.
* Transportation: Primarily car-dependent; limited public transport.
* Services: Basic amenities, with larger shopping options in nearby Kempsey.
* Environment: Rural and relaxed, with a strong community vibe.
Housing Options in the Frederickton
Country homes, cottages, and some modern units.
Average Home Prices in the Frederickton
* Buying: $300,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $250 – $400/month
Nambucca Heads

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Although technically a bit farther from Kempsey, Nambucca Heads is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. It’s a fantastic option for those who love coastal living and outdoor activities.
Characteristics of the Nambucca Heads
* Culture: Strong focus on arts and outdoor festivals.
* Transportation: Public transport available, but a car is preferred.
* Services: Full range of amenities, including beaches, parks, and boutique shops.
* Environment: Relaxed, coastal lifestyle with a friendly community.
Housing Options in the Nambucca Heads
Beachfront homes, modern units, and townhouses.
Average Home Prices in the Nambucca Heads
* Buying: $450,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $400 – $600/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Kempsey:
The best suburbs in Kempsey include Kempsey CBD, West Kempsey, South Kempsey, East Kempsey, Frederickton, and nearby Nambucca Heads.
West Kempsey stands out for its spacious properties and parks, making it popular with families.
The average property price in Kempsey ranges from $330,000 to $600,000 depending on the suburb and type of property.
Rental properties can be found across all suburbs, particularly in West Kempsey and South Kempsey, with prices averaging between $280 and $490/month.
Yes, areas like South Kempsey and Frederickton offer a relaxed atmosphere ideal for retirees looking for community and nature.
Kempsey offers hospitals, schools, shopping centres, parks, and recreational facilities across all suburbs.
Nambucca Heads is about 30 km from Kempsey, offering coastal living while remaining close enough to the amenities in town.
First-home buyers can find affordable options in West Kempsey and Frederickton, with properties in the $300,000 to $450,000 range.
Yes, Kempsey has reliable public transport, making it easy to get around town and nearby suburbs.
The typical deposit for a property in Kempsey is usually around 10% to 20% of the purchase price, depending on individual lending requirements.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Kempsey:
Kempsey offers a diverse range of residential areas that cater to different lifestyles, whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of the CBD or the tranquillity of suburbs like Frederickton. Families will appreciate the community spirit and parks in West and South Kempsey, while retirees might find solace in quieter areas. With its beautiful surroundings, strong community, and range of housing options, Kempsey presents an attractive choice for anyone looking to settle in New South Wales. The accessibility to amenities combined with the natural beauty makes it a unique place to call home.
About the Author

Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.