Why investors need to discover Sydney’s ‘Little India’, Harris Park

According to the 2021 census, 45.4 per cent of the suburb’s population, which amounts to 2,288 people, were born in India. Additionally, a substantial portion of the community, 46.9 per cent or 2,363 people, practice Hinduism.

This diversity in culture is also seen in the streetscape of Harris Park, with Wigram, Marion, and Station Street being home to dozens of eateries featuring cuisines from around the world as well as an array of subcontinental specialty stores.

Notably, Harris Park was bestowed the title of “Little India” on 23 May by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, as the leader welcomed his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at a community event at the Qudos Bank Arena.

During the event, the two leaders jointly laid the foundation stone of the “Little India” gateway to be built in Harris Park as a symbol of the friendship between the two nations and to recognise the diaspora’s immense contribution to the relationship between the two countries.

PM Modi thanked PM Albanese for the special gesture. “Thank you, my friend, Anthony. I thank the Premier of New South Wales, the mayor and deputy mayor of the City of Parramatta and councillors for this special honour,” he stated.

But this western suburb is not so little when it comes to its investment offerings, as Harris Park dishes out the perfect blend of affordability, prime location and potential for strong returns.

Last year, the suburb outperformed the national average with a median home price increase of 1.93 per cent, with the median price of dwellings in Harris Park currently sitting at $449,500.

Although Harris Park experienced a modest decrease in long-term capital gains, investors can still expect a rental income of $390 based on current median home prices.

It’s important to note that properties in Harris Park may take some time to sell, with an average listing duration of 72.9 days.

But despite a weaker performance compared to other Australian suburbs in terms of property value appreciation, Harris Park ranks number one on the list of best-yielding suburbs for rental properties in NSW, boasting a solid 4.51 per cent return.

In terms of liveability, the suburb boasts a major advantage with its close proximity to Parramatta, making it an attractive choice for residents and investors. Being within walking distance to Sydney’s thriving second CBD, Harris Park residents have easy access to a wide range of amenities.

These include popular attractions like Parramatta Park, educational institutions like Western Sydney University, and convenient shopping options at Westfield Shopping Centre.

Additionally, Harris Park railway station serves as a well-equipped transportation hub, facilitating smooth commuting for residents to various parts of the city.

For buyers who have liveability on top of their checklist, the suburb features a town centre that has recently been upgraded to include stunning public art and additional greenery, while the surrounding area is home to several heritage-listed buildings, including Elizabeth Farm, the Queen’s Wharf, and Experiment Farm Cottage, one of the oldest remaining homes in Australia.

For a touch of recreation, residents can also enjoy quality time at the James Ruse Reserve Water Playground, located at the border of Parramatta and Harris Park, which offers an array of outdoor activities.

Nestled in close proximity to Parramatta, which has been recognised for its safe and vibrant nightlife with the prestigious Purple Flag designation, which signifies that a city or town has been recognised for its safe, diverse, and vibrant nighttime experience, Harris Park residents can also enjoy the benefits of this dynamic environment.

From trendy bars and bustling restaurants to exciting entertainment venues, the vibrant nightlife of Parramatta is easily accessible, making Harris Park an ideal residential choice for those seeking a lively and enjoyable night out.