Budgewoi, NSW 2262

Over the last few months we’ve been looking thoroughly into the area and surrounds to rent and then possibly buy.

We went to a number of inspections, spent weekends in the region, seeking around the $600 pw mark, we were surprised at how low the quality of the housing stock was. The average $600 looked and felt like a $350 home.

Additionally the other people viewing the properties with appeared to have a disability in some shape or form, there were no regular looking people if there is such a thing:) My best guess is that the majority of people in the region were non-working people, which possibly explained why the landlords seemed to not care AT ALL what state the properties were in.

There appears to be a non existent middle class on the central coast which is not a good environment to raise kids, there are wealth pockets for sure with inflated prices few can afford.

If you’re retired, on-benefits or wealthy the coast seems a good option, otherwise probably a waste of time imo.

This beach side suburb is an ideal location for families and retirees wanting the best of both. Providing a coastal lifestyle but still within easy access to the M1 for convenience to travel to Sydney and Newcastle for work or a city fix.

The local primary school is on of the biggest in the areas and is currently in search of a new principal. With a small group of shops in Budewoi, there is no need to leave. Coles, pharmacies, bakery, butcher, medical centers, newsagent, dentists and petrol station to name a few. The Circle offers quiet cafe style options while Budgewoi Pub boasts both your typical pub style plus restaurant options.

One cannot talk about Budgewoi without mentioning our beautiful beaches, popular amongst local surfers, fishermen and families. Our iconic bridge provides another busy fishing spot. The aboriginal meaning of Budgewoi is "Meeting of Two Waters" and this says it all.

Just read the crime reports on the community Facebook page and decide for yourself.

I have lived in Budgewoi for 15 years now and we love the place.
Decent priced houses right next to the beach and lake. Close to schools, decent public transport, fairly central to Newcastle and Sydney this place has a good mix of owned and rental properties. Like most suburban areas there is some flaws with this area such as mobile reception in the area is not great, skate park needs rebuilding for the kids as it is terrible, and I wouldn't live too close to Coles as it seems to be a bit rougher there with graffiti etc.
This area is not upmarket but you can buy a decent house at an affordable price compared to the new estates of Hamlyn Terrace and Woongarrah.
I couldn't imagine living anywhere else at this stage.

I also like Budge. The only thing I dont agree with is mobile service - Vodafone sux. Telstra is good. With Vodafone, it was pot luck with reception. Other than this, the area is frienndly, alot of facilities, walks, talks and views.

I have lived in Budgewoi since I was 7 years old, I am know in my mid 30's. I have watched Budgewoi grow slowly over these years, empty blocks dissappearing, shops improving, i can still remember my excitement when the skate ramp was built. I love walking along the lake paths to the beach or to local restaraunts. Most of all i love that Budgewoi is 45mins to Newcastle and 50mins to the southern end of the F3. I love my home town that much i have finally purchased my family home here

Last Christmas, my partner, his family and I rented a holiday house next to Lake Budgewoi on the New South Wales North Coast. That was my first visit to Budgewoi and I was pleasantly surprised to find shops, Kmart, fishing shops and a mall within the town centre. Although there is the convenience of the mall, the town still had a sleepy feel to it.

Budgewoi is about just slightly over an hour's drive from Sydney. It is famous for its lake and is about a fifteen minutes drive to The Entrance. The house that we stayed at had direct access to the lake via the backyard. The lake is great for paddling but not so much for swimming or fishing. During that time, the water was pretty murky and dirty. I will recommend Budgewoi as a cheaper holiday alternative to The Entrance as it is quieter and away from the crowds.