Alesha Wilson
1/11 Rutherford Street, Yorkeys Knob, Qld 4878
Just Listed - New To Market!
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Open Saturday 6 June 11:15 am๐๏ธ About This Suburb (Last Updated Date: 2026-03-31)
History, Aboriginal heritage, and the story behind the name.
Yorkeys Knob โ Yirrganydji Country
Originally a remote fishing camp for George Lawson, the area transitioned into a popular seaside retreat for Cairns residents in the early 20th century. The construction of the Yorkeys Knob Boating Club in the 1960s cemented its status as a maritime destination.
Today, it is a balanced mix of residential quietude and active coastal living, dominated by the marina, the golf course, and one of the region's best kite-surfing beaches.
Overall Score
7.2
A strong lifestyle suburb with high livability offset by environmental risk factors.
Aboriginal Name
Irukandjiโ "Place of the coastal people"
Name Origin
Named after George 'Yorkey' Lawson, a Yorkshire-born fisherman and beche-de-mer trader who lived on the headland in the late 1800s.
Established
Gazetted 1927
Maritime Hub
Home to a 197-berth deep water marina.
Golfing
Features an 18-hole course with mountain backdrops.
Kite Surfing
Ranked as one of the top 10 kite-surfing beaches in the world.
๐ Scorecard
12 key dimensions scored 0โ10. Each score includes a one-line explanation.
Market Momentum
6
Steady demand for coastal property, though growth is tempered by rising holding costs.
Amenity
8
Excellent access to boating, golf, and beach activities with local dining at the Yacht Club.
Schools
6
The local primary school is well-regarded, but secondary students must travel to Smithfield.
Transport
5
Relies heavily on private vehicles; bus services are available but infrequent for commuting.
Risk Profile
4
Significant exposure to storm tide inundation and cyclone-related insurance hikes.
Liveability
8
High quality of life for those seeking a relaxed, outdoor-oriented tropical lifestyle.
Demographics
7
A stable mix of long-term residents, retirees, and young families attracted to the beach.
Rental Demand
8
Very high demand for both short-term holiday stays and long-term residential leases.
Growth Potential
6
Limited by land availability, though environmental constraints cap aggressive capital gains.
Affordability
7
More affordable than Trinity Beach or Palm Cove, but pricier than inland Smithfield.
Crime & Safety
7
Generally safe with a lower crime rate than the Cairns CBD, though opportunistic theft occurs.
Walkability
6
The beachfront and marina areas are highly walkable, but a car is needed for major shopping.
โก Quick Snapshot
Key metrics at a glance, plus your top advantages and watch-outs.
Median House
$745,000
Projected March 2026
Median Unit
$415,000
Strong rental yields
Vacancy Rate
0.9%
Critically undersupplied
Flood Risk
High
Storm surge zone
Primary School
Yorkeys Knob SS
In-catchment
Airport Proximity
15 mins
Occasional flight noise
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Key Advantages
- World-class boating facilities and active Yacht Club social scene
- Direct access to a wide, sandy beach with dedicated kite-surfing zones
- Quiet, non-thoroughfare suburb providing a safe environment for children
- Strong community identity and active local progress association
- Proximity to Smithfield shopping precinct without the suburban bustle
โ ๏ธ Key Watch-Outs
- High insurance premiums due to cyclone and flood risk overlays
- Limited public transport options for commuting to Cairns CBD
- Vulnerability to storm tide inundation in low-lying residential streets
- Aircraft noise from the nearby Cairns International Airport flight path
- Limited local retail options requiring travel for groceries and services
๐๏ธ Suburb Overview
Character, property mix, price range and what drives value here.
๐๏ธ Character
Coastal Nautical
How this suburb feels day-to-day.
๐ Property Types
A mix of mid-century beach shacks, modern family homes, and low-rise apartment complexes.
Dominant dwelling stock.
๐ฐ Price Range
$380k (Units) – $1.6m (Beachfront Houses)
Typical entry to ceiling.
๐ก Why It Matters
Yorkeys Knob offers a unique 'village' feel that is increasingly rare in the Northern Beaches. It appeals to buyers who prioritize lifestyle and water access over urban proximity, though environmental risks require careful due diligence.
๐ฐ Price Guide & Market Trends
Medians, rental market, 5-year history and property split.
๐ House Median
$745,000
$680k – $1.5m
๐ข Unit Median
$415,000
$350k – $650k
๐ Price Trend
+4.5% past 12 months
12-month movement
๐ Weekly Rents
Houses $680pw, Units $490pw
Current asking rents
๐ 5-Year Price History
๐๏ธ Property Type Split
The market has stabilized after the post-2021 surge, with growth now driven by the scarcity of coastal land and the high demand for rental properties in the Cairns region.
๐ฏ Affordability
How this suburb compares to metro and state medians.
๐๏ธ vs Metro Average
12% below Cairns regional average for premium coastal
Price comparison
๐ Income Ratio
7.8x annual household income
Median price รท median income
๐ณ Gross Yield
5.2% gross yield
Estimated rental yield
More AffordableModeratePremium
Entry levelMid rangePremium
While entry prices are accessible compared to southern capitals, the total cost of ownership is impacted by high insurance and maintenance in a tropical salt-air environment.
๐ฅ Rental Demand
Vacancy rates, demand pressure, tenant profile, and investor outlook.
๐ Vacancy Rate
0.9%
Lower = tighter market
โฑ๏ธ Days to Lease
16 days
Avg time on market
๐ Rent Growth p.a.
+6.8% pa
Annual rental increase
Demand LevelVery High
๐ค Tenant Profile
Professional couples, fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) workers, and small families.
๐ผ Investor Outlook
Strong cash flow potential due to low vacancy and high demand. Capital growth is steady but secondary to yield in this market.
๐ Growth Potential
Historical capital growth, infrastructure pipeline, and 5-year outlook.
+4.5%
1-Year Growth
+18.2% cumulative
3-Year Growth
+38.5% cumulative
5-Year Growth
๐ Growth Drivers
- Scarcity of beachfront and marina-adjacent land
- Continued migration to Far North Queensland for lifestyle reasons
- Upgrades to the Captain Cook Highway improving Cairns CBD access
- Ongoing investment in the Yorkeys Knob Boating Club facilities
โ Headwinds
- Rising cost of climate-related property insurance
- Strict environmental building codes limiting new development
- Sensitivity to downturns in the tourism and aviation sectors
๐ฎ 5-Year Outlook
Expect moderate, sustainable growth. The suburb's appeal as a lifestyle destination will protect values, but insurance costs will remain the primary drag on rapid appreciation.
๐ก๏ธ Crime & Safety
Safety index, trend comparison, and what to check locally.
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Safety Score
Average
๐ Trend
Stable
vs last 12 months
๐๏ธ vs Metro Average
10% below Cairns regional average
Relative comparison
Risk Categories
Property Crime: Medium Violent Crime: Low Traffic Incidents: Low
๐ What to Check Locally
Check the Queensland Police Service Online Crime Map for specific street-level data; focus on securing vehicles and outdoor equipment.
โ ๏ธ Risk Profile
Natural hazards and planning risks to verify before buying.
๐ Summary
Environmental factors are the primary concern for this suburb, specifically its low elevation relative to sea levels.
๐ Flood Risk
Significant portions of the suburb are within the 1% AEP flood and storm tide inundation zones.
๐ฅ Bushfire Risk
Low risk for the majority of the residential flatland; moderate risk on the northern headland.
๐ฆ Insurance Impact
Critical. Some insurers may decline cover for flood or charge significant premiums. Verify quotes before waiving cooling-off periods.
๐บ๏ธ Planning & Zoning
Development controls, overlays, and what's changing locally.
๐ Typical Zoning
Low-Medium Density Residential
๐ฒ Overlays
Coastal Hazard, Flood and Storm Tide, Airport Environs (Noise)
๐๏ธ Development Hotspots
Infill development near the marina and refurbishment of older unit blocks.
Overlays strictly govern floor heights for new builds and renovations, impacting construction costs.
๐ณ Liveability
Day-to-day experience โ transport, amenity, green space, schools and healthcare.
๐ Transport
Limited bus services (Route 112); car dependency is high for most residents.
๐๏ธ Amenity & Retail
Excellent local dining at the Boating Club and Golf Club; small local deli and post office.
๐ฒ Parks & Recreation
Beachfront esplanade offers extensive parkland, playgrounds, and BBQ facilities.
๐ซ Schools
Yorkeys Knob State School is central; Smithfield State High is the nearest secondary school.
๐ฅ Healthcare
Local GP clinic available; 15-minute drive to Cairns Hospital.
๐ฅ Demographics
Who lives here โ income, age, ownership, and education levels.
A diverse community with a strong sense of local pride, trending towards older professionals and active retirees.
๐ต Median Income
$78,500 pa
๐ Ownership
58% owner-occupied, 42% renting
๐ Age Profile
Median age 44
๐ Education
High proportion of vocational and trade qualifications related to maritime and tourism.
๐ Age Distribution
The high owner-occupancy rate in the house segment supports property maintenance and community stability.
๐๏ธ Major Developments
Infrastructure pipeline and what it means for values and liveability.
๐ Overview
Focus is on infrastructure resilience and marina facility upgrades rather than large-scale residential expansion.
๐ Positive Impacts
- Marina expansion providing more berths and tourism revenue
- Coastal protection works to mitigate beach erosion
- Upgraded community center and park facilities
๐ Negative Impacts
- Construction noise near the marina precinct
- Increased traffic during peak tourist seasons
๐บ๏ธ Nearby Suburb Comparison
How neighbouring suburbs stack up on price, lifestyle and who they suit.
๐Holloways Beach
Position South
Price Slightly cheaper
Lifestyle More bohemian, narrow beach, higher flood risk.
Best for Budget-conscious beach lovers.
๐Trinity Beach
Position North
Price More expensive
Lifestyle More tourist-centric, higher density, more dining options.
Best for Upscale lifestyle seekers.
๐Smithfield
Position West (Inland)
Price Cheaper
Lifestyle Commercial hub, no beach access, better shopping convenience.
Best for Families prioritizing convenience over views.
๐Machans Beach
Position South
Price Significantly cheaper
Lifestyle Closest to airport, high erosion risk, very quirky community.
Best for Artists and low-budget buyers.
๐ Similar Suburbs
Suburbs with a comparable profile โ useful if this one is over budget or sold up.
Sandgate
QLD
7.5/10
Coastal village feel with a strong community and historic character.
Cullen Bay
NT
7.0/10
Marina-focused lifestyle with tropical climate risks.
Urangan
QLD
7.2/10
Boating hub with a mix of older homes and new unit developments.
Safety Bay
WA
7.4/10
Premier kite-surfing destination with a relaxed residential vibe.
๐ฌ Community Sentiment
Aggregated themes from resident discussions, forums and local feedback.
๐ Overall Community Sentiment
Residents are fiercely loyal to 'The Knob,' valuing the quiet streets and the ability to walk to the beach or marina. There is a shared concern regarding insurance costs but a high level of satisfaction with the lifestyle.
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Community Spirit
It's the kind of place where everyone knows your dog's name. The beach walks at sunrise are world-class.
Friendly Safe
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Marina Lifestyle
Having the boat 5 minutes from the front door is why I moved here. The Yacht Club is the best social spot in Cairns.
Convenience Social
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Family Living
The primary school is fantastic and small. We do have to drive to Smithfield for the big shop, though.
Education Shopping
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Holding Costs
The rental yield is great, but my insurance premium doubled in three years. You have to run the numbers carefully.
Yield Insurance
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Work-Life Balance
Perfect for working from home, though NBN can be spotty in the older streets near the hill.
Lifestyle Internet
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Recreation
The golf course is my second home. It's a quiet life here, just the way we like it.
Quiet Activities
๐ก Tailored Advice
Personalised guidance for every role in this market.
๐งโ๐ผ Buyer Strategy
- Prioritize properties on higher ground or those that have been built to modern flood-resilient standards.
- Request a comprehensive insurance quote during the due diligence period to avoid 'bill shock'.
- Check the condition of the roof and cyclone tie-downs; these are critical for both safety and insurance.
- Look for homes with established tropical gardens that provide privacy and shade.
- Consider the proximity to the flight path if you are sensitive to noise; visit at different times of the day.
โ Questions to Ask the Agent
- Has this property ever experienced water ingress during a storm surge or king tide?
- What is the current annual insurance premium for this property, and which insurer is used?
- Are there any active body corporate special levies for upcoming building works (if a unit)?
- When was the roof last inspected for cyclone tie-down compliance?
- How does the aircraft noise impact this specific street during peak flight times?
- What are the typical electricity costs for cooling this home in summer?
- Is the property currently covered under the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool?
๐ท๏ธ Seller Strategy
- Highlight any recent flood mitigation or cyclone-proofing upgrades in your marketing.
- Ensure the outdoor living areas are presented as a 'tropical oasis' to appeal to lifestyle buyers.
- Provide a pre-sale building report to address any concerns about salt-air corrosion early.
- Target marketing towards the boating and golfing communities.
- Be realistic about the impact of insurance costs on buyer borrowing capacity.
๐ฃ Positioning Tips
Position the property as a 'lifestyle sanctuary' with a focus on the unique maritime and community benefits that cannot be found elsewhere in Cairns.
๐ผ Investment Case
High-yield opportunity with low vacancy rates, particularly for well-presented units.
โ ๏ธ Investment Risks
High holding costs (insurance/strata) and potential for environmental damage.
๐ Action Plan
- Focus on 2-bedroom units with low body corporate fees.
- Ensure the property is eligible for the Federal Government's Cyclone Reinsurance Pool.
- Target long-term tenants in the maritime or aviation industries.
- Maintain a healthy maintenance sinking fund for salt-air related repairs.
๐ Renter Tips
- Apply quickly; properties often lease after the first inspection.
- Check for air conditioning in all bedrooms; it is essential for the humid summer months.
- Ask about the property's history during heavy rain events.
๐๏ธ What Renters Love Here
Beachside living at a more affordable price point than Palm Cove.
โ ๏ธ Renter Watch-Outs
Limited late-night public transport and sparse local shopping.
๐ข Landlord Strategy
- Install high-quality, energy-efficient air conditioning to attract premium tenants.
- Regularly clear gutters and drains ahead of the wet season.
- Consider including garden maintenance in the rent to protect the property's street appeal.
๐ Compliance & Management
Ensure all smoke alarms are compliant with the latest QLD 2022/2024 legislation and check cyclone shutters if installed.
๐ค Agent Insights
- The market is currently driven by lifestyle-movers from southern states and local downsizers.
- Properties near the marina command a 15-20% premium over those near the highway entrance.
๐ฏ Marketing Angles
Focus on 'The Yacht Club Lifestyle' and 'Kite-Surfing Capital'.
๐ค Target Buyer Profile
Active retirees, boating enthusiasts, and young families seeking a safe coastal enclave.
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Due Diligence Checklist
Tap items to tick them off. Don't skip these before signing anything.
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Review the Cairns Regional Council Flood and Storm Tide Inundation maps.โ
Obtain a formal insurance quote for both building and contents.โ
Check the Title Search for any easements or environmental covenants.โ
Conduct a structural engineering report if the home is an older 'high-set' style.โ
Verify the age and condition of all air conditioning units.โ
Inspect all external metal fittings (gutters, fences, screws) for salt-air corrosion.โ
Confirm the school catchment zone for secondary education.โ
Check the NBN coverage and technology type (FTTP vs FTTN).โ
Review the most recent Body Corporate minutes if purchasing a unit.โ
Assess the property's elevation relative to the 1% AEP flood level.โ
Evaluate the proximity to the nearest public boat ramp or marina berth.โ
Check for any planned council works on the beachfront or esplanade.๐ Government Sources & Disclaimer
Official council and government links only. Always verify independently before any property decision.
๐ cairns.qld.gov.au ๐ abs.gov.au ๐ qps.qld.gov.au ๐ data.qld.gov.au ๐ planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au
โ ๏ธ Important Disclaimer
This report is based on simulated data and projections for March 2026. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Buyers should conduct their own independent research and consult with professionals before making any property purchase.
