Nestled between Sydney and Melbourne — and just 45 minutes from Canberra — Yass is often seen as a convenient stopover. But for many who’ve discovered its charm, it’s far more than that. Yass is a place where families put down roots, neighbours know each other by name, and space and opportunity come together to create a fulfilling way of life.
A Town Where Families Flourish
For Karen Lawler of Yass Valley Property, moving from the Northern Territory to Yass was a deliberate choice — one centred on lifestyle.
“We moved here with young children, and the area offered them excellent opportunities,” Karen shares. “Whether your child is interested in farming, defence, emergency services, or trades, there’s something for everyone. Our son graduated from the Royal Military College, and our daughter is a senior hairdresser in Canberra.”
With the coast just two hours away and the snowfields three, Yass offers the best of both worlds — rural charm with easy access to adventure.
After a decade working in a local pharmacy, Karen transitioned into real estate in 2019, deepening her connection to the community she’d grown to love.
“Affordability remains a key driver,” she says. “Buyers are seeking larger blocks and homes, and Yass offers that across a range of price brackets. Many locals commute to the ACT, with some enjoying hybrid work arrangements.”
Local Business with Heart
In the heart of town, Daniel and Toni Neuhaus have turned their dream into reality with Trader & Co. What began as a humble coffee van at local markets has grown into a beloved community hub — a café, wholefoods store, and shared workspace rolled into one.
“We’re deeply passionate about sustainability and creating a space where people feel genuinely welcome,” they say. “What we love most about Yass is the slower pace — it’s a place where you can truly stop to smell the roses.”
Where to Eat and Drink in Yass
Yass is rich in flavour and hospitality. Start your day at Trader & Co, home to ethically sourced specialty coffee, wholesome food, and Six8 Coffee Roasters, their in-house roastery. While you’re there, browse Yass Wholefoods, which stocks mindful pantry staples and lifestyle goods.
Nearby, Tootsie Gallery Café is a feast for the senses, blending retro charm with great coffee, artisan gelato, and local art. When evening rolls around, YazzBar is the go-to spot for live music, local wines, and cocktails that showcase the region’s character.
And just a short drive away, the Murrumbateman wine region awaits — a collection of cool-climate wineries and welcoming cellar doors, perfect for a weekend wine trail or relaxed afternoon catch-up.
What to See and Do in Yass
Take a leisurely stroll along Comur Street, lined with boutique shops like Merchant Campbell and The Spotty Rose, each filled with unique finds and local charm. Art lovers will appreciate the rotating exhibitions at Tyger Gallery, while history enthusiasts can explore Cooma Cottage, the preserved home of explorer Hamilton Hume.
For a breath of fresh air, wander the Yass River Walk, where you’ll find serene views of the gorge and the old railway bridge — the perfect picnic spot.
Come spring, the entire region comes alive with village markets, artisan fairs, and bursts of colour across Binalong, Murrumbateman, Yass, and Sutton.
More Than a Stopover
Yass may once have been a waypoint between cities, but today, it’s a destination in its own right — where families grow, dreams take shape, and the rhythm of life moves just a little slower. Whether you’re seeking community, connection, or simply room to breathe, Yass might be the perfect place to call home.
