They are some of our most desirable suburbs with price tags on homes to match.
But there is a way you can buy into some of the Illawarra's top suburbs with a more limited budget.
"The good news is that more is possible at the moment than a year ago," Chris McKenna, region director at property valuation and advisory company Herron Todd White said of buying in the Illawarra market.
"CoreLogic reports a 13.2 per cent decrease in value since the April 2022 peak, although March and April 2023 figures show that the decline has stopped for now."
Read more: Champagne location, beer budget: Entry-level homes in desirable Illawarra spots
Here are seven units in the region that are for sale for about the $750,000 mark or less; examples of how to buy in some of the Illawarra's more desirable suburbs and not-so-hidden gems for well below the median price for that area.
Kiama
The popular seaside town is the type of place where holiday-goers look longingly at the listings in real estate agency windows, dreaming of the day they win Lotto and can make the move there permanently.
According to CoreLogic, currently the median sales price of houses in Kiama is $1,500,000. So what can you buy for half of that amount?
The two-bedroom townhouse at 5/12 Bland Street, Kiama has a guide of $750,000 to $780,000.
This townhouse is in central Kiama and approximately 750 metres from the beach. It has a northern aspect and is located in a complex of six.
The selling agent is Robert Perea from Raine & Horne Kiama.
Thirroul
Thirroul has long been one of Wollongong's most prestigious suburbs, and became in even greater demand during the height of the pandemic as Sydney buyers embraced its lifestyle while being able to work from home.
Currently the median sales price of houses in Thirroul is $1,860,000.
Meanwhile, the unit at 3/3 King Street is on the market for $739,000.
The property is within walking distance to Thirroul's town centre and pristine beaches. Comprising two bedrooms, the apartment is situated on the top floor.
The selling agent is Colin Roberts from Colliers Wollongong.
Woonona
After some recent high-profile sales, Woonona appears to be losing the "bridesmaid suburb" status it once had when compared to nearby Thirroul.
Currently the median sales price of houses in Woonona is $1,375,000.
There are a few options for buyers looking to get into this suburb.
There's the unit at 9/6 Pitman Lane, Woonona, which has a price guide of $600,000.
It features three bedrooms with built-in robes, and is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac within walking distance of Woonona Village, schools and transport.
The selling agent is Ethan Hennessy from Dignam Real Estate.
Also on the market is 4/6 Pitman Lane, Woonona.
The two-bedroom unit has an asking price of $680,000 to $720,000.
The north-facing first floor unit features a renovated kitchen, including plenty of features and quality finishes.
Meanwhile, the two-bedroom apartment at 3/377 Princes Highway, Woonona is on the market for $725,000.
This apartment is set back from the main street.
The well-appointed kitchen boasts ample storage, with a breakfast bar with open-plan living and dining space.
Fairy Meadow
Fairy Meadow was named to describe the area, with grassed open meadow and stream of fresh water, noted for its "fairy-like" beauty.
It has also became an increasingly popular spot for home buyers, including those priced out of more expensive suburbs further north.
Currently the median sales price of houses in Fairy Meadow is $1,100,000.
The two-bedroom townhouse at 2/24 Cowper Street, Fairy Meadow has a price guide of $749,000.
Located a level stroll from Fairy Meadow Beach, features include air-conditioning downstairs, a north-facing entertainers' courtyard and a large garage with internal access.
The selling agent is Fady Saad from Ray White Wollongong.
Shellharbour
Shellharbour Village is an oceanfront café strip that features a mix of outdoor cafes, award-winning restaurants, an eclectic range of boutique shops and health, well-being and beauty services.
Addison Street is at the heart of the village.
The listing at 101/6A Addison Street offers a selection of two apartments in a beachside complex. The buyer can enjoy ocean views from an oversized balcony
One of them features two bedrooms, one bathroom and one car space, and has a price guide of $729,000.
The other features two bedrooms plus study, one bathroom and two car spaces, and has a price guide of $819,000.
Readers can now subscribe to Australian Community Media's free weekly Illawarra property newsletter, Hot Property Illawarra.
The newsletter will keep you informed about what's currently making headlines in the region's real estate market and beyond.
To sign up, click here, scroll down, enter your details, click the 'property' box and then click 'subscribe'.
