Is it worth it buying property in Brisbane in 2025?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Australia Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of Brisbane's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

BAMBOOROUTES

A team specialized in real estate investing in APAC countries (Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, etc.).

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Brisbane. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At BambooRoutes, we explore the Australian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What types of properties are available for purchase in Brisbane in 2025?

Brisbane's property market offers a diverse range of residential options for buyers in 2025.

The market includes detached houses ranging from affordable options under $500,000 in outer suburbs like Acacia Ridge and Mount Warren Park to premium family homes exceeding $1.2 million in established areas like Paddington and Ashgrove. Townhouses provide a middle-ground option, particularly popular in inner and middle-ring suburbs undergoing gentrification.

Apartments and units represent the most accessible entry point, with 2-bedroom units averaging around $680,000 and offering better affordability compared to houses. These are particularly concentrated in inner-city areas, South Brisbane, and emerging suburbs with good transport links. Boutique apartment developments are increasingly common in areas like Fortitude Valley and Spring Hill.

The market also features properties with development potential, including older homes on larger blocks suitable for subdivision or renovation. Investment-grade properties are readily available across all price ranges, with strong demand in both established and emerging suburbs.

As of September 2025, demand continues to outpace supply, especially in lifestyle suburbs, creating a competitive environment for buyers.

Should I buy or rent in Brisbane right now?

The financial comparison between buying and renting in Brisbane shows renting remains more affordable for most people in 2025.

Mortgage repayments for houses can reach up to 69% of median earnings, while rental payments typically consume around 40% of income. This significant gap makes renting the more financially viable option for many buyers, particularly first-time purchasers. The median all-dwelling price of $917,992 requires substantial deposits and ongoing mortgage commitments that stretch most budgets.

However, specific scenarios favor buying over renting. Inner-city suburbs like Spring Hill and Goodna show more favorable buy-versus-rent ratios for units. Long-term capital growth prospects, particularly in high-demand areas, can justify the higher upfront costs for buyers planning to hold properties for 7-10 years or more.

Renting offers flexibility for those uncertain about long-term location preferences and significantly lower upfront costs. Buying suits those seeking to build equity, benefit from capital growth, and establish roots in Brisbane's growing market.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

What were property prices like in Brisbane before 2025, and how do they compare now?

Brisbane has experienced dramatic property price growth over the past five years, with values reaching historic highs by 2025.

In June 2020, Brisbane's median house price sat at approximately $558,000, representing affordable entry into the Australian property market. The COVID-19 pandemic initially created uncertainty, but prices rebounded strongly from late 2020 onwards. By June 2025, median house prices climbed to over $1 million, representing an extraordinary 81.2% increase over five years.

The median price for all dwellings reached $917,992 in May 2025, with houses specifically at $1,000,422. This growth significantly outpaced wage increases and general inflation, creating affordability challenges for many buyers. Despite these high prices, some suburbs still offer houses under $500,000, providing entry points for budget-conscious buyers.

The price surge reflects multiple factors including interstate migration from Sydney and Melbourne, low interest rates during 2020-2022, infrastructure investment, and Brisbane's lifestyle appeal. This growth trajectory has positioned Brisbane among Australia's most expensive property markets, though still below Sydney and Melbourne averages.

What is the forecast for property prices in Brisbane over the next few years?

Property price growth in Brisbane is expected to continue but at a more moderate pace compared to the dramatic increases seen between 2020-2025.

Institution	2025 Growth Forecast	Key Factors
NAB	5.9% for houses	Strong migration, low supply
Westpac	4% overall growth	Interest rate stabilization
Commonwealth Bank	4-5% annually	Infrastructure investment
ANZ	3-4% for units	Apartment oversupply concerns
Independent analysts	4-6% for premium areas	Lifestyle migration continues
Real estate industry	5-7% for emerging suburbs	Infrastructure upgrades
Government forecasts	3-5% sustainable growth	Population growth planning

The consensus among major banks and analysts points to continued but moderated growth, driven by ongoing interstate migration, infrastructure expansion, and limited housing supply. Higher interest rates are expected to cool the market compared to the explosive growth of recent years, creating more sustainable price increases that better align with income growth and economic fundamentals.

What are the current trends in the Brisbane real estate market?

Several key trends are shaping Brisbane's real estate market as of September 2025.

Interstate migration remains the primary driver of demand, with families and professionals relocating from Sydney and Melbourne seeking affordability and lifestyle benefits. This migration pattern particularly benefits middle-ring suburbs with good schools and transport connections. Low listing volumes continue to create competitive conditions, with properties in desirable areas often selling above asking prices.

Houses significantly outperform apartments in capital growth terms, though apartments offer superior rental yields of 4.8-5.5% compared to 3.5-4.2% for houses. This yield difference makes apartments attractive to investors seeking income, while houses appeal to those prioritizing capital appreciation.

Areas undergoing gentrification or infrastructure upgrades command highest demand, including Ashgrove, inner-city precincts, and western suburbs benefiting from transport improvements. The rental market remains robust with low vacancy rates supporting strong yields, particularly for units and boutique apartments.

Sales volumes have stabilized at historically normal levels, but prices continue reaching new highs in most suburbs. The market shows clear segmentation, with luxury properties in established areas maintaining strong demand while affordable outer suburbs attract first-home buyers and investors.

What is the step-by-step process for buying property in Brisbane?

Purchasing property in Brisbane follows a structured process that protects both buyers and sellers.

1. **Determine Budget and Affordability**: Assess borrowing capacity through pre-approval, calculate deposit requirements (typically 10-20%), and factor in additional costs including stamp duty, legal fees, building inspections, and moving expenses.2. **Research Areas and Properties**: Attend open houses and private inspections, investigate local amenities, transport links, schools, and future development plans. Consider both current lifestyle needs and investment potential.3. **Property Due Diligence**: Arrange building and pest inspections, review strata reports for apartments, check council records for development applications, and verify all fixtures and inclusions listed in marketing materials.4. **Make an Offer**: Submit written offers through real estate agents, negotiate on price and conditions including settlement terms, finance clauses, and inspection periods. Consider engaging a buyer's agent for competitive markets.5. **Contract Exchange**: Once offer acceptance occurs, arrange finance approval, comprehensive property insurance, and legal representation through a conveyancer or solicitor to handle paperwork and searches.6. **Pre-Settlement Tasks**: Complete final property inspections, arrange removalists, transfer utilities, and ensure all contractual conditions are met before settlement date.7. **Settlement Day**: Final payment transfer occurs, legal documents are exchanged, stamp duty is paid, and keys are collected to take possession.8. **Post-Settlement**: Register ownership transfer, establish property management if investing, and begin any planned renovations or improvements.

Where can I find properties for sale in Brisbane, and which real estate agencies should I be looking at?

Brisbane offers multiple channels for finding properties and connecting with reputable real estate professionals.

Major property websites including realestate.com.au, domain.com.au, and allhomes.com.au provide comprehensive listings with detailed photos, floor plans, and suburb information. These platforms allow filtering by price, property type, and specific locations while providing market data and recent sales history.

Top-performing real estate agencies in Brisbane include Ray White, Harcourts, LJ Hooker, and Belle Property, each with strong local networks and market expertise. Specialist buyer's agencies like Property Buyer and Universal Buyers Agents offer services for investors and first-home buyers, particularly valuable in competitive markets.

Local agencies often provide superior knowledge of specific suburbs, including emerging opportunities and off-market properties. Many successful buyers combine online research with direct relationships with agents in target areas, gaining early access to new listings and market insights.

Property investment specialists and buyer's advocates can provide valuable support, especially for interstate buyers or those seeking investment properties. These professionals charge fees but often save money through better negotiations and market knowledge.

What types of properties can I afford with my budget, and which ones offer the best value?

Brisbane's property market offers options across diverse price ranges, with clear value opportunities for informed buyers.

Budget Range	Property Options	Best Value Areas
Under $500,000	Houses in outer suburbs, older units	Acacia Ridge, Mount Warren Park, Deagon, Strathpine
$500,000-$700,000	Modern units, townhouses, renovation projects	Alexandra Hills, Kedron, Cannon Hill, Mansfield
$700,000-$900,000	Quality apartments, family townhouses	Stafford, Woolloongabba, Spring Hill, Goodna
$900,000-$1.2M	Established houses, premium units	Indooroopilly, Chapel Hill, Kenmore, Red Hill
$1.2M+	Luxury houses, prestige apartments	Paddington, Ashgrove, Toowong, New Farm
Investment Focus	High-yield properties	Emerging suburbs with infrastructure upgrades
Development Potential	Large blocks, renovation opportunities	Middle-ring suburbs with rezoning potential

Best value currently lies in townhouses and boutique apartments within gentrifying inner and middle-ring suburbs. Properties with renovation potential or land subdivision opportunities in growth areas offer excellent prospects for value creation.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

What common mistakes should I avoid when buying property in Brisbane?

Avoiding common pitfalls can save thousands of dollars and prevent long-term regrets in Brisbane's competitive market.

1. **Inadequate Research**: Failing to thoroughly investigate suburbs, future development plans, flood risks, and transport infrastructure leads to poor investment choices and lifestyle mismatches.2. **Financial Overextension**: Borrowing maximum amounts without considering ongoing costs, interest rate rises, maintenance expenses, and body corporate fees creates financial stress and limits flexibility.3. **Skipping Professional Inspections**: Avoiding building and pest inspections, particularly for older properties, can result in expensive surprise repairs and structural issues that cost more than inspection fees.4. **Assumption About Inclusions**: Not clarifying which fixtures, fittings, and appliances are included in sales leads to disputes and additional expenses after settlement.5. **Poor Negotiation Strategy**: Accepting initial asking prices without research or negotiation leaves money on the table, while aggressive low-ball offers can alienate sellers in competitive markets.6. **Ignoring Ongoing Costs**: Underestimating body corporate fees, council rates, maintenance costs, and potential vacancy periods affects investment returns and ownership sustainability.7. **Location Compromises**: Choosing properties without growth prospects, rental demand, or resale potential purely based on price leads to poor long-term outcomes and limited capital appreciation.

Professional advice from experienced agents, conveyancers, and building inspectors is essential for avoiding these costly mistakes.

What is the cost of living in Brisbane, and how does it compare to other cities?

Brisbane offers a competitive cost of living compared to other major Australian cities, though expenses have risen significantly post-pandemic.

Housing costs dominate Brisbane's cost of living equation, with average 3-bedroom inner-city rent reaching $3,889 monthly as of September 2025. While substantial, this remains significantly below Sydney's approximately $5,600 and Melbourne's $4,700 for comparable properties. Average net monthly salaries in Brisbane sit around $5,932, providing reasonable housing affordability ratios compared to other capitals.

Brisbane ranks second globally among major cities for overall cost-effectiveness, with Sydney placing ninth and Melbourne fifth. This ranking reflects not just housing costs but transportation, food, entertainment, and essential services. Brisbane benefits from efficient public transport, competitive grocery prices, and government relief measures that help offset rising living costs.

Transportation costs remain manageable with comprehensive public transport networks and reasonable fuel prices. Dining and entertainment options provide good value, while healthcare and education costs align with national averages. The subtropical climate reduces heating and some clothing expenses compared to southern cities.

For expatriates and interstate migrants, Brisbane's cost advantage combined with lifestyle benefits creates compelling value propositions that continue driving population growth and property demand.

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.

Which areas in Brisbane are best for investment, and what are the strengths and weaknesses of affordable, upcoming, and upscale areas?

Brisbane's investment landscape offers distinct opportunities across different market segments, each with specific advantages and challenges.

**Affordable and Upcoming Areas** include Acacia Ridge, Deagon, Strathpine, and Alexandra Hills, offering entry prices under $600,000 for houses and strong rental yields of 4.5-5.5%. These suburbs benefit from infrastructure improvements, gentrification momentum, and excellent growth prospects of 5-7% annually. However, they may lack established amenities, prestige, and can experience higher tenant turnover.

**Upscale and Lifestyle Areas** such as Paddington, Ashgrove, Red Hill, Indooroopilly, Chapel Hill, and Kenmore provide strong capital growth potential of 4-6% annually with high tenant demand and established amenities. These areas attract quality long-term tenants and offer excellent resale prospects. Weaknesses include higher entry costs exceeding $1.2 million, lower rental yields of 3-4%, and intense competition among buyers.

**Middle-ring Emerging Suburbs** like Stafford, Kedron, Cannon Hill, and Mansfield represent balanced investment opportunities with infrastructure improvements in progress, good school access, and moderate price points of $700,000-$900,000. These areas offer stable yields around 4-5% with solid growth prospects as gentrification continues.

Investment success depends on matching property type and location to investment strategy, timeline, and risk tolerance.

How is life for expats living in Brisbane?

Brisbane provides an excellent lifestyle for expatriates, combining cosmopolitan amenities with relaxed Australian culture and subtropical climate benefits.

The city offers strong support networks for international residents, with diverse communities, international schools, and established expatriate groups across various nationalities. Brisbane's increasing multiculturalism creates welcoming environments, particularly in inner suburbs like New Farm, West End, and South Brisbane where international restaurants, cultural events, and community organizations flourish.

Professional opportunities abound in finance, technology, healthcare, education, and resources sectors, with Brisbane serving as Queensland's economic hub and gateway to Asia-Pacific markets. The city's time zone advantages and international connectivity support business relationships across Asian markets.

Lifestyle benefits include year-round outdoor activities, beautiful beaches within driving distance, and extensive parklands throughout the metropolitan area. The subtropical climate allows for outdoor dining, sports, and recreation most of the year. Public services including healthcare, education, and transportation meet high international standards.

Housing options cater to diverse preferences and budgets, from inner-city apartments to suburban family homes. Most expatriates choose inner-city and lifestyle suburbs for convenience, amenities, and community connections. Brisbane's manageable size compared to Sydney and Melbourne creates shorter commutes and better work-life balance opportunities.

If I want to rent out my property long-term, which areas should I target, what tenants are looking for, and what rental income and yield can I expect?

Long-term rental investment in Brisbane targets stable tenant demographics seeking quality accommodation near employment, education, and lifestyle amenities.

**Prime Rental Areas** include inner and middle-ring suburbs with strong infrastructure: Paddington, Ashgrove, Indooroopilly, Kenmore, Stafford, and Cannon Hill. These locations attract families, young professionals, and students who value proximity to schools, universities, transport links, and employment centers. Properties in these areas typically achieve occupancy rates above 95% with minimal vacancy periods.

**Target Tenants** comprise young professionals working in Brisbane's CBD, families seeking good school catchments and community amenities, university students near campuses, and healthcare workers near major hospitals. These demographics typically seek modern amenities, parking, outdoor space, and reliable transport connections.

**Expected Rental Yields** vary by property type: houses typically generate 3.5-4.2% gross yields, while units and apartments achieve 4.8-5.5%. Rental income for 3-bedroom houses ranges from $500-800 weekly depending on location and quality, while 2-bedroom units command $400-600 weekly. Premium properties in established suburbs may yield lower percentages but offer capital growth and tenant stability.

Market demand remains high with low vacancy rates, particularly in suburbs undergoing infrastructure improvements or gentrification. Professional property management typically costs 6-8% of rental income but provides tenant screening, maintenance coordination, and regulatory compliance.

If I want to rent out my property short-term, what areas are best, what tenants are looking for, and what are the regulations around short-term rentals?

Short-term rental opportunities in Brisbane focus on tourism, business travel, and temporary accommodation markets with specific location and regulatory requirements.

**Optimal Areas** for short-term rentals include Brisbane CBD, South Brisbane, Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill, and Woolloongabba due to proximity to events, universities, hospitals, nightlife, and business districts. Properties near the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Gabba Stadium, Royal Brisbane Hospital, and university campuses command premium rates during peak periods.

**Target Guests** include tourists visiting Brisbane's attractions, business travelers requiring temporary accommodation, conference and event attendees, medical tourists and families visiting patients, and interstate visitors exploring Queensland. These guests prioritize location convenience, modern amenities, parking availability, and easy transport access.

**Rental Income Potential** varies seasonally but can exceed long-term yields during peak periods. Nightly rates range from $120-300 depending on property size, location, and amenities. Annual yields of 6-8% are achievable with good management and high occupancy rates, though this requires active management and marketing efforts.

**Regulatory Requirements** include compliance with Brisbane City Council regulations, body corporate rules for apartment buildings, and potential future restrictions aimed at protecting long-term housing supply. Operators must maintain appropriate insurance, safety standards, and neighbor considerations. Regular monitoring of council policies is essential as regulations continue evolving.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

Finally, is it worth buying property in Brisbane in 2025, whether for personal use, as an investment, or for resale at a higher price later?

Brisbane property investment remains attractive across multiple objectives, though success depends heavily on strategy, location selection, and timing.

**For Personal Use**, buying in established suburbs offers long-term stability, lifestyle benefits, and capital appreciation potential. Families benefit from Brisbane's excellent schools, climate, and community amenities, while the lifestyle and cost advantages over Sydney and Melbourne continue attracting interstate migrants. Properties in established areas like Paddington, Ashgrove, and Indooroopilly provide both lifestyle satisfaction and wealth building opportunities.

**For Investment Purposes**, Brisbane's fundamentals support continued growth driven by population increase, infrastructure development, and economic diversification. Target growth and lifestyle suburbs or middle-ring emerging areas for balanced yield and capital appreciation. Rental demand remains strong across most segments, with particularly good opportunities in affordable suburbs benefiting from infrastructure upgrades.

**For Resale Appreciation**, properties with renovation or development potential in gentrifying areas offer the best upside. Emerging suburbs with infrastructure improvements, zoning changes, or transport upgrades provide opportunities for value creation. Premium properties in established suburbs maintain strong resale markets due to limited supply and ongoing demand.

Market fundamentals including interstate migration, economic growth, infrastructure investment, and lifestyle appeal continue supporting property values. While affordability presents challenges, strategic purchases in well-researched locations with strong growth drivers offer excellent prospects for wealth creation and lifestyle enhancement in Brisbane's dynamic property market.

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.

Sources

1. Property Buyer Brisbane Market Analysis
2. Aurora Property Brisbane South
3. Brisbane Real Estate Market Data
4. Atlas Property Brisbane Inner South
5. Universal Buyers Agents
6. Worth Real Estate Market Overview
7. Your Investment Property Magazine
8. Australian Property Update
9. Property Update Brisbane Forecast
10. Muval Cost of Living Brisbane