The Most Expensive Suburbs in Auckland (2024)
Auckland, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and bustling economy, is also home to some of the most expensive real estate in New Zealand. For those looking to invest in high-end properties or simply curious about where the priciest homes are located, this guide provides an overview of Auckland’s most expensive suburbs and what makes them so desirable.
Herne Bay: The Pinnacle of Luxury
Median Price: $3.37m
Herne Bay consistently tops the list as Auckland’s most expensive suburb, Herne Bay is renowned for its luxurious homes and prime location.
Why Herne Bay?
- Harbour Views: Many properties offer stunning views of the Waitematā Harbour.
- Historic Charm: The suburb is known for its marine villas and Edwardian-era homes, adding a touch of historic elegance.
- Proximity to CBD: Just a short drive from the central business district, Herne Bay offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility.
- Exclusive Amenities: High-end boutiques, cafes, and restaurants cater to the affluent residents.
Herne Bay’s desirability is reflected in its property values, which are significantly higher than the Auckland median of $1,025,000.
St Marys Bay: A Close Contender
Median Price: $2.81m
Adjacent to Herne Bay, St Marys Bay is another suburb that commands high property prices. Known for its picturesque streets and proximity to the city, St Marys Bay offers a blend of historic and contemporary homes.
Key Features
- Stunning Views: Like Herne Bay, many homes in St Marys Bay boast spectacular harbour views.
- Convenient Location: Close to the CBD and Ponsonby, residents enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Prestigious Schools: The suburb is within the catchment area of some of Auckland’s top schools, making it popular with families.
Remuera: The Epitome of Affluence
Median Price: $2.19m
Remuera is synonymous with affluence and prestige. With a median house price well above the Auckland average, this suburb is known for its grand homes and leafy streets.
What Makes Remuera Stand Out?
- Historic Homes: Remuera is home to many stately villas and mansions, often set on large sections.
- Top Schools: The suburb boasts some of the best schools in Auckland, including Auckland Grammar School and Epsom Girls’ Grammar School.
- Green Spaces: Residents enjoy easy access to parks and recreational areas like the Auckland Domain and Mount Hobson.
Orakei: Coastal Living at Its Finest
Median Price: $2m
Orakei, with its stunning coastal views and luxurious homes, is another top contender for Auckland’s most expensive suburb. The median house price here is $1,745,000, reflecting its premium status.
Why Orakei?
- Waterfront Properties: Many homes offer direct access to the water, with breathtaking views of the harbour.
- Recreational Opportunities: Proximity to beaches, parks, and the Orakei Basin makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Exclusive Community: Orakei is known for its tight-knit, affluent community.
Epsom: The Family Favourite
Median Price: $1.97m
Epsom is a suburb that combines prestige with practicality, making it a favourite among families. Its central location and excellent amenities contribute to its high property values.
Key Attractions
- Educational Excellence: Epsom is home to some of Auckland’s top schools, including Auckland Grammar School and Epsom Girls’ Grammar School.
- Green Spaces: The suburb boasts beautiful parks like Cornwall Park and One Tree Hill.
- Historic Homes: Epsom features a mix of historic villas and modern homes, catering to diverse tastes.
Mellons Bay: Coastal Elegance
Median Price: $1.94m
Mellons Bay, located in East Auckland, is one of the city’s prestigious coastal suburbs. This exclusive area offers a blend of luxury homes and stunning sea views, making it highly sought-after among affluent buyers.
What makes Mellons Bay so special?
- Prime coastal location with beach access
- Stunning sea views and scenic landscapes
- High-end, architecturally designed homes
- Excellent local schools and amenities
- Peaceful and family-friendly environment
Mellons Bay’s property market has shown resilience over the years, with its limited housing stock and desirable location keeping prices consistently high. The suburb’s blend of natural beauty and upscale living continues to attract discerning buyers looking for a premium coastal lifestyle.Key features:
- Location: East Auckland, approximately 20km from the CBD
- Property types: Predominantly large, detached houses with some modern apartments
- Local attractions: Mellons Bay Beach, Howick Historical Village, nearby Howick Village
Mellons Bay’s combination of coastal charm, luxurious properties, and proximity to urban amenities makes it one of Auckland’s most exclusive and expensive suburbs. Its enduring appeal to high-end buyers ensures it remains a top choice for those seeking a prestigious address in a picturesque setting.
Murrays Bay: Coastal Tranquility
Median Price: $1.71m
Murrays Bay, located on the North Shore, is a picturesque coastal suburb known for its relaxed beach lifestyle and strong community feel, Murrays Bay is a highly desirable location for families and professionals alike.
What makes Murrays Bay so special?
- Stunning coastal views and beach access
- Family-friendly environment with excellent schools
- Access to lifestyle activities such as sailing, walking, swimming, tennis, and bowls
- Proximity to cafes, restaurants, and local shops
Murrays Bay’s coastal charm and strong community atmosphere make it a prime choice for buyers seeking a prestigious address with a relaxed lifestyle.
Key features:
- Location: North Shore, Auckland
- Property types: Predominantly large, detached houses with some modern apartments
- Local attractions: Murrays Bay Beach, Murrays Bay Sailing Club, nearby Mairangi Bay and Rothesay Bay
Murrays Bay’s blend of natural beauty, family-friendly amenities, and high-quality schools ensures it remains a top choice for those seeking a premium coastal lifestyle in Auckland.
Takapuna: Coastal Luxury
Median Price: $1.64m
Takapuna, located on the North Shore is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant community, and high-end properties.
What makes Takapuna so special?
- Stunning coastal views and beach access
- A vibrant community with cafes, shops, and restaurants
- Proximity to excellent schools and amenities
- High-end apartments and homes
Takapuna’s combination of coastal luxury and vibrant community life makes it a highly desirable suburb for affluent buyers.
Parnell: Historic Elegance Meets Modern Luxury
Media. Price: $1.6m
Parnell, one of Auckland’s oldest suburbs, combines historic charm with modern luxury. Its median house prices reflect its status as one of the city’s most desirable areas.
Highlights of Parnell
Proximity to CBD: Just minutes from the city centre, Parnell offers both convenience and a serene residential atmosphere.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
Historic Architecture: Parnell is known for its beautifully preserved Victorian and Edwardian homes.
Cultural Hub: The suburb is home to galleries, boutique shops, and the famous Parnell Rose Gardens.
Auckland’s property market has seen fluctuations, but premium suburbs like Herne Bay, St Marys Bay, Remuera, Parnell, Orakei, and Epsom have shown resilience. According to CoreLogic, Herne Bay remains the most expensive market with a median value of $3.37 million. These suburbs continue to attract high-end buyers due to their unique features, prime locations, and excellent amenities.
Factors Driving High Prices
Several factors contribute to the high property values in these suburbs:
- Location: Proximity to the CBD and stunning natural features like harbours and parks.
- Limited Supply: High demand and limited availability of properties drive up prices.
- Quality of Housing: High-quality, often historic homes that appeal to affluent buyers.
- School Zones: Access to top-tier schools is a significant draw for families.
- Lifestyle Amenities: Exclusive shops, cafes, and recreational facilities add to the appeal.
Final Thought
Auckland’s most expensive suburbs offer a unique blend of luxury, convenience, and lifestyle benefits that continue to attract high-end buyers. Whether it’s the historic charm of Herne Bay and Parnell, the family-friendly appeal of Remuera and Epsom, or the coastal allure of Orakei, these suburbs represent the pinnacle of Auckland living.
For those looking to invest in Auckland’s premium property market, it’s essential to stay informed about market trends and work with experienced real estate professionals. With the right approach, you can secure a piece of Auckland’s most exclusive real estate and enjoy the many benefits these prestigious suburbs have to offer.