Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Australia Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Canberra's property market is included in our pack
Wondering what homes cost in Canberra right now?
This guide breaks down the latest housing prices in Canberra for 2026, from entry-level apartments to luxury homes in premium suburbs.
We constantly update this blog post with fresh data so you always have accurate numbers.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Canberra.
Insights
- Canberra apartments cost more per square meter than houses in 2026, at around AUD 6,780/sqm versus AUD 5,250/sqm for houses, because inner-city unit buyers pay a premium for location.
- The gap between listing price and final sale price in Canberra typically runs 3% to 6% below the initial asking price, giving buyers real negotiation room.
- Canberra property prices grew about 4% to 6% over the past year, but after adjusting for inflation, the real gain was closer to flat or just 2%.
- Entry-level buyers in Canberra in 2026 need at least AUD 430,000 to AUD 520,000 for a small one-bedroom apartment in outer suburbs like Belconnen.
- New homes in Canberra sell for 8% to 15% more than comparable older properties, mainly because of better energy efficiency and lower running costs.
- Units and apartments make up around 45% of all Canberra property listings, making them the most common type of home on the market.
- Yarralumla and Forrest remain Canberra's most expensive suburbs, with luxury homes regularly selling between AUD 2.5 million and AUD 6.5 million.
- Buyers should budget an extra 5% to 9% on top of the purchase price for stamp duty, legal fees, and inspections when buying in Canberra.
What is the average housing price in Canberra in 2026?
The median housing price is more useful than the average because it shows what a typical buyer actually pays, without being skewed upward by a handful of expensive luxury sales.
We are writing this as of the first half of 2026, using the latest data from late 2025 releases that we manually checked against authoritative sources like NAB and Cotality.
The median dwelling price in Canberra in 2026 is around AUD 900,000 (about $604,000 or €512,000), while the average dwelling price is closer to AUD 1,000,000 (about $671,000 or €569,000). The average is higher because expensive homes in suburbs like Yarralumla and Forrest pull it up.
About 80% of residential properties in the Canberra market in 2026 sell between AUD 550,000 and AUD 1,600,000 (roughly $369,000 to $1,073,000 or €313,000 to €910,000).
A realistic entry range in Canberra in 2026 is AUD 430,000 to AUD 520,000 (about $288,000 to $349,000 or €245,000 to €296,000), which typically gets you a one-bedroom existing apartment around 45 to 60 square meters in areas like Belconnen or outer north suburbs.
Luxury properties in Canberra in 2026 typically range from AUD 2,500,000 to AUD 6,500,000 (about $1,677,000 to $4,361,000 or €1,422,000 to €3,698,000), which can get you a renovated four or five bedroom house of 250 to 400+ square meters in prestigious Inner South suburbs like Yarralumla or Forrest.
By the way, you will find much more detailed price ranges in our property pack covering the real estate market in Canberra.
Are Canberra property listing prices close to the actual sale price in 2026?
In Canberra in 2026, buyers typically pay about 3% to 6% less than the initial listing price.
This happens because many sellers set their asking price slightly high to leave room for negotiation, and private treaty sales almost always involve back-and-forth offers. The gap varies most in auctions, where tightly contested homes can sell above the guide price, while properties with less interest often settle below.
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What is the price per sq m or per sq ft for properties in Canberra in 2026?
As of early 2026, the median price per square meter for houses in Canberra is around AUD 5,250 (about $3,522 or €2,987), which works out to roughly AUD 488 per square foot ($327 or €278). For units, the median is higher at about AUD 6,780 per square meter ($4,547 or €3,857), or AUD 630 per square foot ($422 or €358).
In Canberra in 2026, newer apartments close to the CBD have the highest price per square meter because buyers pay extra for walkable locations and modern amenities, while older larger houses in outer suburbs have the lowest because distance from jobs and renovation needs bring values down.
The highest price per square meter in Canberra in 2026 is found in Inner South suburbs like Yarralumla and Forrest, where values can reach AUD 10,000 to AUD 12,500 per square meter. The lowest ranges are in outer areas like Tuggeranong and Charnwood, where you might pay AUD 4,300 to AUD 6,500 per square meter.
How have property prices evolved in Canberra?
Compared to January 2025, Canberra property prices in January 2026 are up about 4% to 6% in nominal terms. This growth came from improved borrowing conditions after rate cuts during 2025 and ongoing supply tightness in the market.
Looking back ten years to January 2016, Canberra prices have risen roughly 55% to 75% in nominal terms, or about 25% to 45% after adjusting for inflation. This long-term growth reflects Canberra's stable public sector employment base and the limited supply of homes in established suburbs close to the city center.
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing the latest updates on property price variations in Canberra.
Finally, if you want to know whether now is a good time to buy a property there, you can check our pack covering everything there is to know about the housing market in Canberra.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Australia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
What types of properties are available in Canberra and what do they cost in 2026?
In Canberra in 2026, apartments and units make up about 45% of listings, houses represent around 35%, and townhouses account for the remaining 20%, reflecting strong demand for more affordable entry points and ongoing infill development.
As of early 2026, the average apartment in Canberra costs around AUD 610,000 ($409,000 or €347,000), a townhouse runs about AUD 850,000 ($571,000 or €484,000), and a detached house averages AUD 1,050,000 ($704,000 or €597,000). Renovated character houses in inner areas typically sell for AUD 1,600,000 to AUD 2,600,000, while high-end luxury homes range from AUD 2,500,000 to AUD 6,500,000.
If you want to know more, you should read our dedicated analyses:
- How much do properties cost in Canberra?
- How much should you pay for a house in Canberra?
- How much should you pay for an apartment in Canberra?
- How much should you pay for a townhouse in Canberra?
- How much should you pay for a studio in Canberra?
- How much should you pay for a duplex in Canberra?
How do property prices compare between existing and new homes in Canberra in 2026?
In Canberra in 2026, new or near-new homes typically sell for 8% to 15% more than comparable older properties.
This premium exists because new builds offer better energy efficiency, lower running costs for heating and cooling, and let buyers move in without facing renovation surprises or expenses.
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How do property prices vary by neighborhood in Canberra in 2026?
In Yarralumla, one of Canberra's most prestigious Inner South suburbs, you mainly find large detached houses, often renovated to high specifications. Prices typically range from AUD 2,500,000 to AUD 6,500,000 ($1,677,000 to $4,361,000 or €1,422,000 to €3,698,000) because of embassy proximity, excellent schools, and lake access.
Braddon is a popular Inner North neighborhood with mostly apartments ranging from one to three bedrooms. Prices run from about AUD 500,000 to AUD 950,000 ($335,000 to $637,000 or €284,000 to €540,000), driven by the area's restaurants, nightlife, and easy access to the city center and ANU.
Belconnen offers more affordable options across its various pockets, with a mix of apartments, townhouses, and older houses. Prices range from AUD 430,000 to AUD 900,000 ($288,000 to $604,000 or €245,000 to €512,000), making it attractive for first-time buyers willing to live further from the CBD.
You will find a much more detailed analysis by areas in our property pack about Canberra. Meanwhile, here is a quick summary table we have made so you can understand how prices change across areas:
| Neighborhood | Character | Price Range (AUD / USD) | Per sqm (AUD / USD) | Per sqft (AUD / USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braddon | Popular / Nightlife | 500k-950k / 335k-637k | 6,000-9,000 / 4,025-6,038 | 557-836 / 374-561 |
| Kingston | Lifestyle / Expat | 520k-1.2m / 349k-805k | 6,000-10,000 / 4,025-6,709 | 557-929 / 374-624 |
| Turner | ANU / Commute | 550k-1.3m / 369k-872k | 6,000-10,500 / 4,025-7,044 | 557-975 / 374-673 |
| Campbell | Premium / Schools | 900k-2.5m / 604k-1.68m | 5,500-11,000 / 3,690-7,380 | 511-1,022 / 343-686 |
| Deakin | Premium / Family | 1.2m-3.0m / 805k-2.01m | 5,000-10,500 / 3,355-7,044 | 465-975 / 312-673 |
| Forrest | Luxury / Prestige | 2.0m-6.0m / 1.34m-4.03m | 6,000-12,000 / 4,025-8,051 | 557-1,115 / 374-748 |
| Yarralumla | Expat / Luxury | 2.5m-6.5m / 1.68m-4.36m | 6,000-12,500 / 4,025-8,386 | 557-1,161 / 374-779 |
| Belconnen | Value / Commute | 430k-900k / 288k-604k | 4,800-7,000 / 3,221-4,696 | 446-650 / 299-436 |
| Gungahlin | Growth / Family | 520k-1.1m / 349k-738k | 5,000-7,500 / 3,355-5,032 | 465-697 / 312-465 |
| Tuggeranong | Value / Family | 450k-1.0m / 302k-671k | 4,500-6,500 / 3,019-4,361 | 418-604 / 280-405 |
| Charnwood | Entry / Value | 500k-850k / 335k-570k | 4,300-6,000 / 2,885-4,025 | 399-557 / 268-374 |
| Kambah | Family / Value | 650k-1.2m / 436k-805k | 4,500-6,500 / 3,019-4,361 | 418-604 / 280-405 |
How much more do you pay for properties in Canberra when you include renovation work, taxes, and fees?
In Canberra in 2026, buyers should expect to add roughly 5% to 9% on top of the purchase price for taxes and fees alone, and potentially 15% to 30% more if renovations are needed.
If you buy a property around $200,000 (about AUD 298,000) in Canberra, you would add roughly AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000 in stamp duty and fees, plus AUD 20,000 to AUD 40,000 if you do a light renovation. That brings your total to around AUD 333,000 to AUD 363,000 ($223,000 to $244,000).
For a property around $500,000 (about AUD 745,000) in Canberra, stamp duty and fees would add roughly AUD 35,000 to AUD 60,000, with a moderate renovation adding another AUD 80,000 to AUD 180,000. Your total could reach AUD 860,000 to AUD 985,000 ($577,000 to $661,000).
At the $1,000,000 level (about AUD 1,490,000) in Canberra, expect stamp duty and fees of around AUD 80,000 to AUD 130,000, with major renovations potentially adding AUD 250,000 to AUD 800,000. Total costs could run from AUD 1,820,000 to AUD 2,420,000 ($1,221,000 to $1,624,000).
Meanwhile, here is a detailed table of the additional expenses you may have to pay when buying a new property in Canberra
| Expense | Type | Estimated Cost Range (AUD / USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Conveyance duty (stamp duty) | Tax | About 3% to 7% of the purchase price, depending on property value and buyer circumstances. For a AUD 900,000 home, expect roughly AUD 35,000 to AUD 55,000 ($23,500 to $36,900). |
| Conveyancer or solicitor | Fee | AUD 1,500 to AUD 3,500 ($1,000 to $2,350). This covers the legal paperwork for transferring property ownership. Costs vary by complexity and provider. |
| Building and pest inspection | Fee | AUD 500 to AUD 900 ($335 to $604). Essential for houses to identify structural issues or termite damage before you commit to buying. |
| Strata report | Fee | AUD 250 to AUD 600 ($168 to $403). Required for apartments and townhouses to check the body corporate's financial health and any planned works. |
| Loan fees and valuation | Fee | AUD 0 to AUD 1,000 ($0 to $671). Some lenders waive these fees, while others charge for application processing and property valuation. |
| Moving and immediate fixes | Practical | AUD 1,000 to AUD 5,000 ($671 to $3,355). Covers removalists, cleaning, changing locks, and minor repairs needed right after settlement. |
| Cosmetic renovation | Renovation | AUD 20,000 to AUD 60,000 ($13,400 to $40,300). Includes painting, new flooring, updated light fixtures, and basic appliance replacements. |
| Mid-level renovation | Renovation | AUD 80,000 to AUD 200,000 ($53,700 to $134,200). Covers a new kitchen, bathroom updates, electrical rewiring, and some structural changes. |
| Major renovation | Renovation | AUD 250,000 to AUD 800,000+ ($167,700 to $536,700+). Full gut renovations, extensions, or complete modernization of older homes. |
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Australia compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
What properties can you buy in Canberra in 2026 with different budgets?
With $100,000 (about AUD 149,000) in Canberra in 2026, there is not really a residential market at this price level, as you would only find car parks or very unusual partial interests rather than actual homes.
With $200,000 (about AUD 298,000) in Canberra, standard residential property is still very unlikely, and if anything appears at this price, it would typically be a tiny studio in poor condition or an unusual distressed sale.
With $300,000 (about AUD 447,000) in Canberra, you enter the market and could find an older one-bedroom existing apartment of 50 to 60 square meters in Belconnen district, a small one-bedroom unit in outer north suburbs, or an older one-bedroom apartment in Tuggeranong pockets.
With $500,000 (about AUD 745,000) in Canberra, you could buy a two-bedroom apartment of 80 to 95 square meters in Braddon, a two-bedroom apartment or townhouse in Gungahlin district, or a smaller three-bedroom townhouse in Tuggeranong.
With $1,000,000 (about AUD 1,490,000) in Canberra, you could purchase a four-bedroom existing house of 200 to 260 square meters in Kambah, a three to four bedroom existing house in better Belconnen pockets, or a renovated townhouse or compact house on the Inner North fringe.
With $2,000,000 (about AUD 2,981,000) in Canberra, you reach the premium market and could buy a renovated four-bedroom house in Campbell or Ainslie, a large four to five bedroom house in Deakin, or a prestige family home in Yarralumla depending on the street and land size.
If you need a more detailed analysis, we have a blog article detailing what you can buy at different budget levels in Canberra.
What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Canberra, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can … and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source Name | Why It's Authoritative | How We Used It |
|---|---|---|
| NAB Canberra Property Market Insights | NAB is one of Australia's four major banks, publishing market analysis built on Cotality's widely used national housing index. | We used NAB's report for median house and unit prices, as well as monthly and quarterly price movements for Canberra. We used these as our anchor figures for late 2025 and projected forward to January 2026. |
| Cotality Home Value Index (November 2025) | Cotality (formerly CoreLogic) is one of Australia's most cited housing data providers with a transparent hedonic index methodology. | We used Cotality's index to cross-check median dwelling values and verify the growth momentum heading into 2026. We also referenced their methodology notes on median versus average pricing. |
| PropTrack Home Price Index (November 2025) | PropTrack is REA Group's research arm, operating realestate.com.au with access to large transaction datasets. | We used PropTrack to confirm that Canberra prices were rising month-to-month in late 2025. We also drew on their analysis of market drivers like interest rates and supply tightness. |
| Reserve Bank of Australia Exchange Rates | The RBA is Australia's central bank and publishes official AUD exchange rate statistics. | We used RBA exchange rates from late December 2025 to convert all AUD prices into USD and EUR. We kept conversions consistent throughout the article. |
| Australian Bureau of Statistics CPI Data | The ABS is Australia's official statistics agency and CPI is the standard inflation benchmark. | We used CPI data to calculate inflation-adjusted price changes over one year and ten years. We also referenced housing-related CPI commentary to explain cost pressures. |
| ACT Revenue Office | The ACT Revenue Office is the government authority responsible for stamp duty and property taxes in Canberra. | We used their guidance to estimate conveyance duty rates at different price points. We combined this with typical buyer costs for a complete transaction cost picture. |
| Domain Suburb Profiles | Domain is one of Australia's largest real estate portals, publishing suburb statistics based on recent sales windows. | We used Domain's suburb pages for Braddon, Yarralumla, and Charnwood to verify neighborhood-level price medians. We then built wider neighborhood ranges using Canberra-wide data. |
| Allhomes Property Reports | Allhomes is Domain's Canberra-focused portal with detailed local market tracking. | We referenced Allhomes for additional Canberra market context. We used their reports to verify local trends were consistent with our other sources. |
| CoreLogic Australia | CoreLogic provides property data and analytics used by major banks and government agencies across Australia. | We used CoreLogic's methodology explanations to understand how hedonic indexes work. We applied this understanding when interpreting price change data. |
| realestate.com.au | Australia's largest property listing site with comprehensive coverage of properties for sale across Canberra. | We checked current listing patterns on realestate.com.au to verify our property type breakdowns. We also used it to confirm typical asking prices aligned with our estimates. |
| Australian Bureau of Statistics (General) | The ABS is Australia's independent statistical agency providing trusted demographic and economic data. | We used ABS demographic data to understand Canberra's population trends. We factored this into our analysis of housing demand drivers. |
| ACT Planning and Land Authority | The ACT government body responsible for planning policy and land release in Canberra. | We referenced ACT planning information to understand supply constraints. We used this context to explain why prices in established areas remain high. |
| ACT Treasury | The ACT government's treasury department publishes economic forecasts and budget papers affecting the property market. | We reviewed ACT Treasury publications for economic outlook information. We considered this when discussing market conditions and growth projections. |
| ANZ Property Reports | ANZ is one of Australia's four major banks, providing market commentary based on their lending data. | We cross-referenced ANZ's market views with NAB's report. We used multiple bank perspectives to ensure our price estimates were well-supported. |
| Westpac Housing Market Research | Westpac is another major Australian bank with extensive housing market research capabilities. | We reviewed Westpac's housing commentary for additional market context. We used their rate expectations discussion when explaining price momentum. |
| Commonwealth Bank Property Insights | CBA is Australia's largest bank by market cap with significant exposure to the residential mortgage market. | We checked CBA's property market views against our other banking sources. We used their insights to validate our growth rate estimates. |
| SQM Research | SQM Research is an independent property data provider known for vacancy rate and listing statistics. | We referenced SQM for supply-side indicators like vacancy rates. We used this to support our analysis of market tightness in Canberra. |
| Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute | AHURI is a national housing research organization providing evidence-based analysis on Australian housing markets. | We reviewed AHURI research for longer-term housing market context. We used their academic analysis to support our ten-year price change discussion. |
| Housing Industry Association | HIA is Australia's peak residential construction industry body with data on new home building costs. | We used HIA information to estimate new versus existing home premiums. We also referenced their construction cost data for renovation estimates. |
| Master Builders Australia | Master Builders represents the building and construction industry with insight into construction costs nationwide. | We referenced Master Builders for renovation cost benchmarks. We used their data to build realistic ranges for different renovation levels. |
| Australian Prudential Regulation Authority | APRA regulates banks and insurers, with lending standards that directly impact property market conditions. | We considered APRA's lending policies when discussing borrowing conditions. We factored this into our explanation of recent price growth drivers. |
| Parliament of Australia | The Australian Parliament publishes research papers and committee reports on housing affordability and policy. | We reviewed parliamentary research for policy context affecting the Canberra market. We used this background when discussing long-term price trends. |
| Canberra Times | The Canberra Times is the capital's main newspaper with regular property market reporting and local insight. | We reviewed Canberra Times property coverage for local market color. We used their reporting to verify that our suburb-level observations matched local reality. |
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