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Canberra's property market shows distinct pricing patterns across different property types in September 2025. The average price per square metre for houses sits at approximately $1,231, while apartments average around $587 per square metre, creating significant differences for buyers depending on their property choice and budget.
Understanding Canberra's property pricing requires looking beyond simple averages to examine specific suburbs, property types, and market trends that directly impact your buying decision. Whether you're relocating to Australia's capital or considering an investment property, the current market presents both opportunities and challenges that vary significantly across different areas of the city.
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As of September 2025, Canberra houses average $1,231 per square metre while apartments cost around $587 per square metre, with significant price variations between suburbs ranging from affordable areas like Charnwood ($704k median) to premium locations like Griffith (over $2 million).
The market shows modest growth for houses (+0.5% annually) while apartments have declined slightly (-1.4%), with forecasts suggesting 4% growth over the next year and continued long-term appreciation driven by Canberra's stable employment market and infrastructure development.
| Property Type | Average Price per m² | Median Price Range | Annual Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detached Houses | $1,231 | $985,000 - $1,040,000 | +0.5% |
| Apartments/Units | $587 | $590,000 | -1.4% |
| Townhouses | $850-950 (estimated) | $590,000 (approx.) | Similar to units |
| Premium Suburbs (Houses) | $1,500-2,000+ | $1,750,000 - $2,125,000 | +2-4% |
| Budget Areas (Houses) | $800-1,000 | $704,000 - $800,000 | +3-5% |
| Total Buying Costs | Add 8-12% to purchase price | Includes stamp duty, legal, inspections | Varies by property value |
| Monthly Mortgage (Average) | 6-6.2% interest rate | $3,691 - $3,785 | 30-year loan term |
What's the current average price per square metre in Canberra?
As of September 2025, the average price per square metre in Canberra varies significantly depending on the property type you're considering.
For detached houses, the current average price sits at approximately $1,231 per square metre. This figure represents the asking price for established properties across the entire Canberra metropolitan area, including both inner and outer suburbs.
Apartments and units command a much lower price per square metre at around $587. This substantial difference of nearly 50% reflects the different market dynamics between houses and apartments, with houses typically offering more land value and space.
Townhouses fall somewhere between these two categories, though specific per-square-metre data isn't separately tracked in the latest market reports. Based on construction costs and resale patterns, townhouses typically price between $850-950 per square metre, positioning them as a middle ground between apartments and detached houses.
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How does the price differ between apartments, townhouses, and detached houses?
The price differences between property types in Canberra are substantial and reflect distinct market segments with different buyer preferences and investment profiles.
Detached houses represent the premium segment with median prices ranging from $985,000 to $1,040,000 as of September 2025. These properties averaged a modest +0.5% annual growth rate, showing stability in the established house market. The higher per-square-metre cost of $1,231 reflects the value placed on land ownership, privacy, and the larger living spaces that characterize Canberra's suburban lifestyle.
Apartments and units occupy the more affordable segment with a median price around $590,000. However, this market segment has experienced a slight decline of -1.4% over the past year, indicating some softening in demand for apartment living. The $587 per square metre rate makes apartments the most accessible option for first-home buyers or investors seeking lower entry costs.
Townhouses typically match apartments in terms of median price at approximately $590,000, but offer more space and often include small private outdoor areas. While specific per-square-metre data isn't separately reported, townhouses generally provide better value than detached houses while offering more space than apartments.
Which areas in Canberra are the most expensive, most affordable, and up-and-coming?
| Category | Suburb Examples | Median House Price |
|---|---|---|
| Most Expensive | Griffith, Forrest, Campbell, Yarralumla | $1,750,000 - $2,125,000 |
| Budget-Friendly | Charnwood, Banks, Holt, Richardson | $704,000 - $804,000 |
| Up-and-Coming | Banks, Higgins, Kingston, Wanniassa | $750,000 - $900,000 |
| Stable Middle-Tier | Belconnen, Kambah, Watson | $717,000 - $866,500 |
| Investment Hotspots | Wright, Casey, Ngunnawal | $750,000 - $850,000 |
What are some example purchase prices for typical properties across different areas?
Real purchase prices in Canberra vary dramatically depending on the specific suburb and property type you choose, with clear patterns emerging across different market segments.
In the budget-friendly category, Charnwood offers houses at a median of $704,000, making it one of the most affordable suburbs for buyers seeking detached homes. Banks follows closely at $746,000, while areas like Holt, Richardson, and Phillip all sit around the $804,000 mark for typical houses.
The middle-tier suburbs provide more variety with Belconnen houses averaging $717,000 and units at $471,000. Kambah presents another solid option with houses at $866,500 and units at $620,250, offering buyers choice between different property types within the same suburb.
Premium areas command significantly higher prices, with Campbell houses reaching $1,750,000 while units in the same suburb cost $666,250. Griffith represents the top tier with houses averaging $2,125,000, though units remain more accessible at $614,500. These premium suburbs typically feature heritage character, established gardens, and proximity to Lake Burley Griffin or the Parliamentary Triangle.
For buyers seeking value growth potential, up-and-coming areas like Kingston, Wright, and Casey offer entry points between $750,000-$850,000 for houses, often with better infrastructure development and transport connections planned for the future.
How have property prices in Canberra changed over the past five years and past year?
Canberra's property market has shown resilience with steady but modest growth patterns over recent years, though performance varies significantly between houses and apartments.
Over the past year, houses have delivered a small but positive growth rate of +0.5% across the city. However, this modest citywide figure masks stronger performance in specific segments, with 3-bedroom houses achieving +10.4% growth, indicating particular demand for family-sized properties.
Apartments have faced headwinds over the past 12 months with a -1.4% decline in median prices. This softening reflects oversupply in some apartment developments and shifting buyer preferences toward houses, particularly following the pandemic-driven lifestyle changes.
Looking at the five-year trajectory, certain up-and-coming suburbs have achieved impressive annual growth rates averaging around 8% per year. The broader citywide pattern shows houses have typically grown at 4-5% annually over the past decade, establishing Canberra as a steady rather than spectacular growth market.
Specific high-growth areas like Banks, Higgins, and Wright have outperformed the city average, driven by infrastructure improvements, new amenities, and increasing recognition among buyers seeking value in outer suburban locations with good transport links to the city center.
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What are the forecasts for average price growth in Canberra over the next 1, 5, and 10 years?
Property market forecasts for Canberra suggest continued growth driven by the city's stable employment base, government sector jobs, and ongoing infrastructure development.
For the next 12 months, market analysts project approximately 4% growth in property values, which would push the median house price from the current $1.04 million to around $1.10 million by mid-2026. This growth rate reflects anticipated interest rate stabilization and continued demand from both local buyers and interstate migrants attracted to Canberra's lifestyle and employment opportunities.
Over the five-year horizon from 2025 to 2030, maintaining the historical growth rate of 4-5% annually would see median house prices reach approximately $1.2-1.3 million. This projection assumes continued government sector stability, steady population growth, and infrastructure investments that support property demand across the metropolitan area.
The ten-year outlook extends this trend, with median house prices potentially reaching around $1.5 million by 2035 if the long-term growth pattern continues. Units are expected to lag behind houses in terms of growth percentage, though they may still deliver solid returns for investors seeking yield over capital growth.
These forecasts assume no major economic disruptions and continued development of transport infrastructure, employment hubs, and educational facilities that maintain Canberra's attractiveness to residents and investors.
How do Canberra's property prices compare with other similar-sized Australian cities?
Canberra's property market positions itself in the middle-to-upper tier when compared to other Australian capitals and major regional cities of similar size.
Among smaller capital cities, Canberra commands premium pricing with houses at $1.04 million compared to Hobart's $846,000 and Darwin's $795,000. For apartments, Canberra's $590,000 median significantly exceeds both Hobart ($499,000) and Darwin ($440,000), reflecting the federal government employment base and higher average incomes in the ACT.
When compared to larger capitals, Canberra aligns closely with Brisbane and Adelaide, both showing median house prices around $1.05 million. Perth sits slightly higher at $1.16 million, while Sydney and Melbourne remain in premium territory well above Canberra's pricing levels.
The comparison reveals Canberra offers relatively good value considering its status as the national capital, stable employment market, and quality of life indicators. The city provides better affordability than Sydney or Melbourne while maintaining higher property values than regional capitals, positioning it as an attractive option for buyers seeking capital city amenities without the premium pricing of the largest metropolitan areas.
This pricing positioning makes Canberra particularly appealing to government employees, interstate relocators, and investors seeking steady growth potential in a stable market environment.
What's the typical surface area of properties being sold, and how does the total price vary by size?
Canberra properties are notably spacious compared to other Australian capitals, with the city holding the distinction of having the largest average home sizes among world capitals.
Detached houses in Canberra average approximately 256-259 square metres of internal floor space. This generous sizing reflects the planned city's suburban design philosophy and the availability of larger residential blocks compared to more densely populated capitals like Sydney or Melbourne.
Using the current average price of $1,231 per square metre, a typical 256-square-metre house would cost around $315,000 for construction alone. However, established homes sell for significantly more due to land value, location premiums, and market dynamics, with total prices ranging from $700,000 in outer suburbs to over $2 million in premium areas.
Apartments and townhouses typically range from 70-120 square metres, though specific average figures aren't readily available in current market data. A 90-square-metre apartment at the current $587 per square metre rate would theoretically cost around $52,800 for the internal space, but market prices of $590,000 reflect the significant value placed on location, amenities, and land rights in apartment developments.
The substantial difference between per-square-metre construction costs and actual market prices demonstrates how location, land value, and market demand drive property pricing beyond simple space calculations.
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What's the average total cost of buying in Canberra including fees, stamp duty, and other taxes?
| Cost Component | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit (10-20%) | $50,000 - $200,000+ | Varies by property price and loan terms |
| Stamp Duty | $0 - $18,000+ | Concessions available for first home buyers |
| Legal & Conveyancing | $1,500 - $3,000 | Essential for property transfer |
| Building & Pest Inspections | $400 - $800 | Recommended for all purchases |
| Mortgage Establishment Fees | $500 - $2,000 | Varies by lender and loan type |
| Council Rates (annual) | $2,000 - $3,000 | Ongoing cost for property ownership |
| Insurance (annual) | $800 - $2,000 | Home and contents protection |
How do mortgage costs look for an average property, and what monthly repayments can buyers expect?
Mortgage costs in Canberra reflect both the city's property prices and current interest rate environment, creating specific payment structures that buyers need to plan for carefully.
The average home loan in the ACT sits between $615,000 and $660,000, reflecting the typical mortgage size after buyers contribute their deposit toward the median property price. With current owner-occupier interest rates ranging from 6.0% to 6.2%, buyers face monthly repayments between $3,691 and $3,785 over a standard 30-year loan term.
For first-home buyers targeting the median house price of around $1.04 million, a 20% deposit of approximately $208,000 would result in a mortgage of $832,000. At 6.1% interest over 30 years, this translates to monthly repayments of roughly $4,950, requiring a household income of at least $145,000 to meet typical lending criteria.
Buyers considering apartments at the $590,000 median price face more manageable repayments. With a 10% deposit of $59,000, the resulting $531,000 mortgage would require monthly payments of approximately $3,160, making apartments accessible to households earning around $110,000 annually.
These calculations demonstrate why many buyers are exploring outer suburbs or considering apartments as entry points into Canberra's property market, particularly given the stable employment opportunities in government and professional services that support these income levels.
If you're buying to live in Canberra, what are the smartest options right now?
For owner-occupiers looking to make Canberra home, the smartest buying strategies focus on balancing lifestyle preferences with long-term value and affordability considerations.
First-home buyers should seriously consider up-and-coming suburbs like Banks, Higgins, Watson, and Casey, which offer good value for money while providing access to improving infrastructure and amenities. These areas typically provide more space for your money compared to inner suburbs, with the added benefit of potential capital growth as the areas mature and develop.
Families seeking established communities should examine middle-ring suburbs like Belconnen, Kambah, and Wanniassa, which offer larger properties, established schools, and community facilities while remaining more affordable than premium inner suburbs. These areas provide the suburban lifestyle that many families relocating to Canberra seek.
Professionals and couples might find townhouses or apartments in areas like Kingston, Turner, or Macquarie offer the best combination of convenience and lifestyle. These locations provide proximity to employment centers, dining, and entertainment while offering more affordable entry points than detached houses in the same areas.
The key is to prioritize transport links, school catchments if relevant, and planned infrastructure developments that will enhance livability and protect property values over time. Buyers should also consider their long-term plans, as some outer suburbs offer better value for growing families while inner areas suit professionals seeking convenience.
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What are the best investment strategies and areas for rental or resale opportunities?
Investment success in Canberra's property market requires matching your strategy to specific market segments and geographic areas that align with your timeline and return expectations.
For short-term capital growth investors, focus on emerging suburbs experiencing infrastructure development or rezoning activities. Areas like Banks, Higgins, Kingston, and Wright are currently benefiting from new transport links, shopping centers, or employment hubs that drive demand and price growth. These suburbs typically offer 3-5 year investment horizons with potential for above-average capital appreciation.
Long-term capital growth strategies should target established blue-chip suburbs like Campbell, Griffith, Forrest, and Yarralumla. While entry costs are higher, these areas have demonstrated consistent long-term appreciation and attract both owner-occupiers and high-quality tenants, providing stability and steady growth over 10+ year periods.
Rental yield investors should consider properties near major employment centers, universities, or transport hubs. Apartments in Belconnen, Gungahlin, or areas close to the Parliamentary Triangle can provide steady rental demand from government employees, contractors, and students. Properties within school catchments for quality schools also maintain strong rental appeal for families.
Short-term rental investors might explore properties near tourist attractions, business districts, or major event venues, though Canberra's corporate travel market is more consistent than leisure tourism. Areas with easy access to the airport or Parliamentary Triangle can appeal to business travelers and visiting government officials.
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Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Canberra's property market in September 2025 presents distinct opportunities across different buyer segments, with house prices averaging $1,231 per square metre and apartments at $587 per square metre.
The market shows stability in house prices with modest growth projections, while offering affordability advantages compared to Sydney and Melbourne, making it attractive for both owner-occupiers and investors seeking steady returns in Australia's capital city.
Sources
- SQM Research - Canberra Asking Property Prices
- HiPages - Townhouse Construction Costs
- NAB - Canberra Property Market Insights
- OpenAgent - Canberra Property Market
- Loan Market - Canberra Median House Prices 2025
- The Region - Canberra House Price Trends
- OpenAgent - Best Suburbs to Invest Canberra
- Canberra Daily - Most Affordable Suburbs
- Loan Market - Affordable Canberra Suburbs
- Canstar - Best Suburbs Canberra