With property prices rising and major projects like Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro, and the 2032 Olympics reshaping the city, it’s no surprise that many buyers are asking the same question: Is now the right time to buy in Brisbane?
Despite interest rates rising, demand is staying strong thanks to population growth, limited housing supply, and increasing rental pressure. For both homebuyers and investors, Brisbane remains one of Australia’s most talked-about markets. But knowing whether to jump in now or wait depends on more than just headlines. Let’s break down the latest trends to help you make an informed decision.
Brisbane Property Market Snapshot
Brisbane’s property market continues to show remarkable resilience. As of mid-2025, the median house price in Brisbane has officially reached around $1,011,000, representing an 81% increase over the past five years. Units are also outperforming houses, with median unit prices at approximately $690,000, up 15.2% over the last 12 months.
On a rolling three-month basis, all dwelling values climbed about 0.7%, contributing to an annual growth of 7.3%. Detached homes continue to lead the market, especially in lifestyle suburbs close to public transport, while larger owner-occupier units are also performing strongly.
One key driver is Brisbane’s relative affordability compared with other capitals. Despite the $1 million median, Brisbane still offers better value per square metre than Sydney or Melbourne (Australian Property Investor).
Buyer sentiment remains robust, supported by strong interstate migration, tight rental markets, and demand from both owner-occupiers and investors (The Guardian).
Suburbs such as Cannon Hill, Morningside, Camp Hill, Woolloongabba, and Kangaroo Point are seeing particularly strong activity thanks to infrastructure upgrades and lifestyle appeal.
Key Insights for Buyers and Investors
Affordability vs Opportunity
Affordability challenges are real, particularly for first-home buyers. For investors, however, the combination of strong demand and limited supply is creating conditions for long-term capital growth. Properties in well-connected suburbs may feel expensive now, but they are backed by fundamentals that support future appreciation.
Infrastructure-Driven Growth
Brisbane is being reshaped by billions of dollars in infrastructure investment. Projects like Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro, and the 2032 Olympics don’t just improve lifestyle. They create jobs, attract new residents, and boost long-term property values.
Lifestyle Migration
The flow of buyers relocating from Sydney and Melbourne continues, driven by affordability and lifestyle appeal. This trend underpins both rental demand and buyer competition.
The Supply Challenge
New housing supply is struggling to keep up with population growth. This imbalance is pushing up both prices and rents, creating attractive conditions for investors who want capital growth as well as reliable income returns.
Key Drivers of the Market
- Population Growth
Brisbane continues to attract strong interstate migration, particularly from Sydney and Melbourne, alongside overseas arrivals. For investors, this translates into a consistent pool of tenants and reduced vacancy risk. - Infrastructure Projects
Billions are being invested into Brisbane’s future. Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro, Queen’s Wharf, and Olympic-related developments are reshaping the city. Suburbs near these projects — such as Woolloongabba, Kangaroo Point, and Cannon Hill — are likely to benefit most. - Lifestyle Appeal
Brisbane’s climate, relative affordability, and work-from-home flexibility continue to attract professionals and families. Lifestyle-friendly suburbs such as Morningside and Camp Hill are in high demand, supporting both sales and rental markets.
Investor watch-out: Rising demand also means more competition. Without the right strategy, it’s easy to overpay or buy in a location that won’t deliver long-term growth. This is where working with a buyer’s agent can make a significant difference.
Rental Market and Yields
Vacancy rates in Brisbane remain at historic lows, a clear sign of strong rental demand.
What is rental yield?
Rental yield measures the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s value. For example, a $500,000 property rented at $600 per week delivers an annual income of $31,200, equating to a 6.24% gross yield.
Why it matters:
Rising rents and low supply mean investors can expect solid rental returns, particularly in high-demand areas. That said, yield alone isn’t enough — capital growth potential must also be considered.
Risks to Consider
- Overpaying in hot suburbs: Auction hype and emotional buying can push prices above market value.
- Interest rates and borrowing power: Higher rates may limit how much you can borrow.
- Rising construction costs: New builds and off-the-plan properties face cost pressures.
- Buyer’s agent fees vs value: While working with a buyer’s agent in Brisbane comes at a cost, their ability to source off-market opportunities, negotiate strategically, and prevent costly mistakes can save far more than the fee itself.
Best Suburbs in Brisbane Right Now (2025 Outlook)
- Inner-city hotspots: Woolloongabba and Kangaroo Point are booming with infrastructure upgrades like Cross River Rail and Brisbane Metro.
- Family-friendly areas: Camp Hill, Cannon Hill, and Morningside remain popular with young families thanks to schools, parks, and transport links.
- Growth corridors: Logan, Ipswich, and Moreton Bay are attracting buyers with population growth and new infrastructure, offering value and long-term potential.
Tip: Access to off-market properties Brisbane-wide can give you an edge. A buyer’s agent can help you secure these before they’re publicly listed.
So, Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
Brisbane’s long-term outlook remains strong. Rising rents, limited housing supply, and a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure pipeline support growth for years to come. The challenge for buyers is competition and the risk of overpaying in a hot market.
The key is to buy smart, not fast. A buyer’s agent in Brisbane can give you the edge — helping you access off-market properties, negotiate effectively, and make confident, data-driven decisions.
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