Sounds of Silence: The Hidden Cost of Transport Noise on Property Values

When people go house-hunting, one of the most common priorities is proximity to public transport. It’s often listed as a major selling point in real estate ads. But just how much does being too close to a busy road, railway or flight path affect a property’s price tag?

It turns out, quite a bit.

New data from PropTrack and Ambient Maps sheds light on how ambient noise from transport infrastructure can influence property values and the findings might surprise you.

The Price of Noise

The study examined the effects of environmental noise from roads, trains and aircraft across Victoria. Using real estate sales data collected over five months, researchers compared noise exposure levels to nearby property sale prices.

Here’s what they found for every 10 decibels (dBA) increase in sound:

Road traffic: Property values dropped by around 6% on average.

Rail noise: Homes near train lines saw a 4% average dip in value, even when factoring in the convenience of public transport access.

Aircraft noise: The steepest decline—between 6% and 9%—was tied to air traffic. Given that noise levels outside a flight path can be up to 20 dBA lower than inside it, the price difference between similar properties can be significant.

To put it in perspective, a 5% reduction on a $1 million home equates to $50,000. That’s a big cut to swallow just for a bit of extra background noise.

What Do 10 dBA Increments Actually Sound Like?

The report includes a useful chart (see page 8) that breaks down how each 10 dBA increase translates into everyday scenarios. If you can’t access the visual, here’s a summary:

45 dBA: The kind of peace you’ll find in a quiet cul-de-sac, far from any bus routes or through traffic.

55 dBA: Typical of a home on a quiet suburban street, where only occasional cars go by.

65 dBA: A main road with regular traffic and public transport like buses or trams nearby.

75 dBA: A major arterial route, often with six lanes and heavy use by trucks, buses and cars.

The difference between 45 dBA and 75 dBA is substantial. And it’s not just about daily comfort—it has clear financial implications, too.

The Upside of a Noisier Location

While higher noise levels can take a toll on resale value, there can be a silver lining. Homes closer to major roads, train stations or flight paths often come at a more accessible price point. That could allow first-home buyers or families to purchase a property that meets their needs sooner than they otherwise might.

There are also practical ways to reduce the impact of outside noise. Solutions like double-glazed windows, solid core doors, acoustic insulation, heavy curtains, and soundproof panelling can all help to create a quieter living space indoors. Sealing up gaps and using proper materials can make a noticeable difference.

Don’t Let a Buzzword Lead to Buyer’s Remorse

“Location, location, location” is a mantra in real estate, but it’s not the whole story. If transport noise is part of the picture, it’s worth considering how that might influence not just your quality of life, but the long-term value of your investment.

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