What are the Best Suburbs in Brisbane to Invest In?
Investing in property is a big step. If you’re thinking of investing in Brisbane, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make on your property investment journey, other than the finance that we can help you with, is determining which are the best suburbs in Brisbane to buy in.
Many would-be property investors ask these types of questions: How do you find the best suburbs in Brisbane? What should first-time investors know about investment property? Are nice suburbs in Brisbane good choices for investing?
This article will help you determine which properties are ideal for you if you’re looking for the best suburbs to invest in Brisbane. These insights can help you narrow down your choices for investment properties in the area.
Best Suburbs in Brisbane to Invest In
Finding the answers to these questions could go a long way towards helping you secure a fantastic property investment in Brisbane. On the flip side, a failure to do so could severely hinder your future financial goals.
To help you get started, we’ve put together the following guide for property investors. This guide is designed to help you ascertain which growing suburbs in Brisbane are most likely to experience long-term growth and what areas are currently on their way to becoming high-rental yield suburbs in Brisbane.
While any significant financial investment always comes with an element of risk, we’ve included some of the best suburbs in Brisbane to invest in based on current market trends and industry expert predictions.
Investment Property Brisbane 2022-2032
The Australian real estate market has undergone some significant changes over the past few years, with many regions experiencing strong growth despite the economic consequences of a global pandemic.
As of 2023, the Brisbane property market continues to evolve, reflecting new trends and market dynamics. The factors that have historically influenced the market, such as interstate migration, housing stock levels, and demand, remain relevant but have been shaped by recent developments.
In 2023, Brisbane’s property market is characterized by a continued influx of interstate migrants, attracted by the city’s lifestyle, employment opportunities, and relative affordability compared to other major Australian cities. This migration is sustaining a strong demand for housing in the region.
However, unlike the situation in 2021, the housing stock levels in Brisbane have seen some adjustments. There have been efforts to increase the supply of new homes, although these have not entirely kept pace with the growing demand. This imbalance between supply and demand continues to exert upward pressure on house prices, albeit at a different rate compared to the previous years.
The median house price in Brisbane has shown a notable increase in November of 2023, but the rate of this growth has been influenced by broader economic factors, including interest rates, government policies, and the overall economic climate in Australia. The growth rate in house prices has been more tempered compared to the 20% increase seen in the 12 months up to August 2021.
QBE forecasts a median house price of $806,000 by June 2024. SQM predicts a tremendous boost in prices over the next decade as the city gets ready to host the 2032 Olympic Games.
While any significant financial investment always comes with an element of risk, we’ve included some of the best suburbs in Brisbane to invest in, based on current market trends and industry expert predictions.
What Are the Top Brisbane Suburbs for Investment?
Why is it important for potential investors to consider the best-growth suburbs in Brisbane? Because population growth is one of the key indicators for predicting future property values.
Simply put, the more people who want to live in a particular area, the more demand there is likely to be for housing there. And the higher the housing demand, the more property values will climb.
So, how can you identify the best suburb to buy in Brisbane? A recent study by Matusik Property Insights evaluated the current population growth forecast for South East Queensland.
Out of a total of 323 suburbs considered, the study found that 40% of the area’s total population growth will likely occur within just 20 suburbs. And 13 of those suburbs could rightly be labelled as Greater Brisbane growth suburbs (as they are all located within Greater Brisbane local government areas).
Below are some of the best suburbs in Brisbane to invest in according to the experts:
Jimboomba
Jimboomba, where the population is expected to increase by 2,920 people (accounting for 37% of the Logan region’s projected growth).
Ripley
Ripley, where an estimated 4,030 people will account for 31% of the Ipswich region’s anticipated growth.
Greenbank
Greenbank, also in Logan, is likely to account for 21% of the region’s growth, with an added 1,650 people.
South Brisbane
South Brisbane is the highest estimated growth area in Inner Brisbane, with 18% of the region’s growth expected here (an added 1,120 residents). It is also listed by Metropole as one of the ten best suburbs in Brisbane for families.
Newstead-Bowen Hills
Newstead-Bowen Hills follows closely behind, accounting for 16% of Inner Brisbane’s predicted growth.
North Lakes-Mango Hill
North Lakes-Mango Hill is the highest growth area in the Moreton Bay LGA, accounting for 16% of the region’s population growth.
Rosewood, Bellbird Park-Brookwater and Springfield Lakes
Rosewood, Bellbird Park-Brookwater and Springfield Lakes in the Ipswich region are each predicted to achieve 12% of the total area’s growth.
Fortitude Valley
Fortitude Valley is another Inner Brisbane suburb that should see ongoing growth, with an added 610 residents accounting for 10% of the area’s growth.
Murrumba Downs-Griffin and Cashmere
Murrumba Downs-Griffin and Cashmere in the Moreton Bay region are likely to see ongoing growth, with an additional 700+ people expected in both suburbs (representing 9% and 7% respectively of the area’s total population growth).
Redbank Plains
Redbank Plains will be responsible for 3% of Ipswich’s total growth, with an additional 730 new residents predicted to arrive.
Best Suburbs in Brisbane for Families
When starting a family, there are lots of factors to consider. Weather, lifestyle, proximity to friends and family, and cost of living are all important considerations.
If you’re looking for the best suburbs to buy in Brisbane, you must prioritise things like the safety of the area. Other important questions to raise: Are there any potential hazards like traffic jams or heavy pollution? How close are the nearest public transport stops? And what’s the quality of local schools?
These are questions that need to be answered before you commit to buying a property.
So we’ve put together a short list of the best suburbs to buy in Brisbane if you plan to live in this city with your family, as per the latest Metropole data. These suburbs were also chosen based on their close proximity to the CBD.
Coorparoo
Coorparoo has a median house price of $850,000 for a three-bedroom unit and $600,000 for a standard unit. There are plenty of school options if you want to send your kids to private, Catholic, or state schools. Its crime rate is less than half the average for Queensland: 60 incidents per 1000 homes.
Kelvin Grove
Kelvin Grove has great options for preparatory and tertiary schools (e.g., Queensland Academy, Queensland University of Technology). Located 4km from the centre of Brisbane, it has a median house price of $870,000 for three-bedroom homes and $500,000-600,000 for standard units. Kids can play safely at its popular spots, with a crime rate of 73 crimes per 1,000 units.
Victoria Point
Victoria Point is ideal for families and retirees for its quiet, laid-back atmosphere. There are plenty of options for entertainment (e.g., shops, library, cinema, dining places) and education. A four-bedroom home in Victoria Point can cost less than $600,000 and standard units for around $450,000. Crime rate is extremely low: 42 incidents per 1,000 properties.
What are the Best Suburbs to Invest in Brisbane?
When considering the best growth suburbs in Brisbane for investors, it’s important to consider a range of potential budgets. An area with a median house price of $1 million+ may be experiencing excellent growth and delivering strong rental yields, but this doesn’t make it a good choice for an entry-level investor with a limited budget.
For this reason, the following list includes a range of best Brisbane suburbs for investors in entry-level, mid-range and high-end budgets.
Best Investment Areas Brisbane for Entry-Level Investors (up to $725,000)
If you’re looking for a starting investment, then properties in these suburbs represent an opportunity for good value and solid rental yields.
Stafford Heights
The median house price for a 3-bedroom home in Stafford Heights is currently $717,000, up from $650,000 in September 2020. The area is experiencing high demand amongst buyers, with an average of 2,181 visitors per listing on realestate.com.au. With a population predominantly made up of couples and families, the average 3-bedroom home here will rent for around $500 per week.
Keperra
Keperra has a median house price of $660,000 (an increase of $100,000 over the past 2 years) and an average rental price of $480 per week. The great public transport connections (with a direct train connection to the Brisbane CBD) makes it an attractive suburb for renters who want a simple commute to the city. The suburb is known for its community feel, with the majority of the population comprising established or older couples and families.
Chermside West
Chermside West presents investors with an opportunity to buy either a house or a unit, with both seeing high demand from buyers. The median price for a unit in Chermside West is $520,000, with an average rent of $470 per week and an annual rental yield of 4.7%. Houses also represent great value, with a median price of $710,000 and an annual rental yield of 3.6% (with an average weekly rent of $490). While units haven’t experienced a lot of growth over the past 5 years (just 0.8%), houses have seen a compound growth rate of 5.3%. This suburb has easy access to hospitals, schools and public transport, making it a popular place for established and maturing families.
Top Suburbs in Brisbane for Mid-range Investors ($725,000 – $1 million)
The following are the highest-growth suburbs in Brisbane, thanks to their predicted suburb growth and current reliability for rental yields.
Holland Park
Holland Park offers the convenience of the city (with the CBD just 15 minutes away by public transport) coupled with an abundance of parklands and open spaces. This makes it a popular place for couples and families, who make up over 50% of the demographic. The median house price in Holland Park is $900,000, with an annual rental yield of 3.0% and a compound growth rate of 5.7% across the past 5 years.
Cannon Hill
The median house price in Cannon Hill is $936,000, with mostly 3-bedroom ($789,500) and 4-bedroom ($980,000) homes available. Since September 2020, this suburb has seen the median house value increase by almost $200,000. Thanks to its mix of excellent schools, shopping centres and convenient public transport, Cannon Hill is considered one of the top suburbs in Brisbane for families. The average 4-bedroom investment property will achieve a weekly rent price of $750, while a 3-bedroom house can expect to lease for $510 per week.
Tarragindi
Tarragindi is considered a high demand market, with the average real estate listing receiving 2,644 visits (so interested buyers need to be prepared to act fast!). The median house price has experienced a 5-year compound growth rate of 6.3%, with the average house now costing $980,000. With the average weekly rental price sitting at $550 for houses, an investment property in Tarragindi typically delivers an annual rental yield of 2.9%.
Best areas to invest in Brisbane for High-End Budgets ($1 million+)
If you’re looking for the best place to invest in Brisbane in the $1 million+ price range, then you’ll be able to start looking at some of the suburbs that are closer to the river and the Brisbane CBD.
New Farm
Renowned property investor Michael Yardney has described New Farm as having “all the ingredients for a bulletproof investment.” This riverside suburb is in a highly desirable location, with easy access to premium lifestyle precincts, great schools and all the employment opportunities found in the CBD. The median house price in New Farm is just over $2 million (although 3-bedroom homes can be purchased for an average cost of $1.5 million). Houses in New Farm can deliver an annual rental yield of 2.1% and have experienced a 5-year compound growth rate of 5.0%.
Ascot
Ascot is ideally situated between the Brisbane CBD and the airport (the city’s two biggest employment hubs) and has great public transportation connections. While demand for units in Ascot has dropped off recently, houses have experienced a compound growth rate of 5.0% across the past 5 years. The median house price in Ascot is now $1.73 million, with an average weekly rent of $843.
Highgate Hill
Properties in Highgate Hill are predicted to increase in value thanks to a range of recently completed and upcoming infrastructure projects. Houses in this suburb have experienced a compound growth rate of 6.0% over the past 5 years, with a current median house price of $1.37 million. Industry experts recommend keeping an eye out for investment opportunities that fall within key school catchment areas or that boast impressive city views.
Best Suburbs in Brisbane: Investment Outlook and Update for 2023
As of July 2023, more areas have been deemed the best suburbs in Brisbane to invest in. Here’s a list of these nice suburbs in Brisbane, categorised into houses and units, according to Property Update. Note that some of these suburbs already made our list in earlier years, like Ascot, New Farm, and Keperra, and are still considered some of the best suburbs to invest in Brisbane 2023.
Houses:
Wilston – With a median house price of $1,690,000 and a staggering annual growth of 37.70%, Wilston offers a testament to Brisbane’s thriving property market. The suburb’s popularity is propelled by its close proximity to the CBD, vibrant café scene, and reputable schools.
Teneriffe – Recognised for its iconic wool stores, riverfront location, and high-end restaurants, Teneriffe’s house market has a median price of $3,050,000 and an impressive 20.80% annual growth.
New Farm – New Farm, with its beautiful parklands and boutique shopping scene, presents a median house price of $2,630,000. A healthy annual growth of 17.40% indicates robust demand in this cosmopolitan precinct.
Ascot – Renowned for its historic homes, horse racing culture, and high-end shopping, Ascot’s median house price stands at $2,170,000 with a 16.70% annual growth.
Ashgrove – Celebrated for its leafy streets and family-friendly atmosphere, Ashgrove has a median house price of $1,500,000 and an annual growth of 16.00%.
Wavell Heights – Boasting a combination of post-war homes and modern builds, this suburb shows promising potential with a median house price of $1,177,000 and 6.10% annual growth.
Highgate Hill – With panoramic city views and a median house price of $1,670,000, Highgate Hill promises a sound investment opportunity with its 6.00% annual growth.
Taringa – A blend of traditional Queenslanders and modern homes, Taringa has a median house price of $1,455,000 and modest annual growth of 3.10%.
Keperra – An emerging hotspot, Keperra’s median house price of $816,500 and 1.40% annual growth are attracting attention.
Mansfield – While its annual growth is at -0.50%, the suburb’s prime location and future potential make its median house price of $1,005,000 worth consideration.
Units:
Holland Park – This inner-southern suburb offers units at a median price of $560,000 and a commendable 12.00% annual growth.
Ashgrove – Units in Ashgrove have experienced a median price growth of $601,000 with an annual surge of 10.80%.
Ascot – Ascot’s vibrant unit scene has a median price of $580,000 and an annual growth of 10.50%.
Teneriffe – While houses in Teneriffe soar, units also present good value with a median price of $740,000 and 7.10% annual growth.
Wilston – Units here boast a median price of $550,500 and an annual growth of 6.60%, promising stable returns.
More Options for the Best Suburbs in Brisbane to Invest In
Aside from the aforementioned areas, according to The Property Tribune, here are a few more good suburbs in Brisbane you can investigate. If you’re considering an investment in the best suburbs in Brisbane, you can add these areas to your list of places to check:
Annerley (Units)
Location: Close to the Gabba, medical facilities, the University of Queensland, the Pacific Motorway, and commuter rail.
Median Price: $460,000 for units
Insight: While houses are becoming more expensive, units are a more affordable option in this suburb.
Caboolture
Features: Offers basic infrastructure and affordability.
Median Price: $495,000
Insight: Always attracts buyer demand due to its basic infrastructure and affordability.
Dakabin
Features: Three schools, recreational features including a golf course, proximity to the Bruce Highway, and one train stop from the new Sunshine Coast University campus.
Median Price: Below $600,000 for houses.
Insight: 30% price growth in the past year and a very low vacancy rate of just 0.4%.
Deception Bay
Features: Located between the Moreton Bay Marine Park and the North Lakes master planned community.
Median Price: $540,000
Insight: Sales activity is rising with a vacancy rate of 0.4% and rents have increased by 15% over the past year.
Eagleby
Features: Located between the Gold Coast and Brisbane with good local amenities and affordability. Proximity to the intersection of the Pacific and Logan Motorways.
Median Price: $420,000
Insight: Continues to be a popular choice due to its location and amenities.
Eastern Heights
Features: Considered one of the best suburbs in Ipswich which is close to the Ipswich CBD with amenities, schools, and parklands.
Median Price: $395,000
Insight: Vacancies are at a low level of 0.4%, and rents have risen more than 20% over the past year.
Edens Landing
Features: Solid homes, green spaces, train station, schools, and proximity to services in Beenleigh.
Median Price: Just above $500,000 for houses
Insight: Low vacancies have resulted in a 20% rise in rents.
Kangaroo Point (Units)
Location: Riverside suburb close to the Brisbane CBD and Woolloongabba.
Median Price: $560,000
Insight: Ideal for affordable apartments in lifestyle locations. Sales activity is trending upwards with units priced in the $500,000s being the most sought-after.
Redbank Plains
Features: Multiple schools and amenities such as the Redbank Plains Recreational Reserve.
Median Price: $435,000
Insight: Sales volumes have soared over the past two years, offering an affordable alternative to neighbouring areas.
West End (Units)
Features: Performing arts complexes, art gallery, museums, restaurants, and riverbank parkland.
Median Price: $565,000 for units
Insight: Rising popularity due to its well-located affordable apartments.
This list of some of the best suburbs to invest in Brisbane 2023 edition can be used as a jumping-off point for your foray into investment property in Brisbane. To get more accurate insights on which areas are suitable for your investment plans, a chat with a mortgage broker should be considered.
Talk to an Experienced Mortgage Broker About Where to Invest in Brisbane
If you’re researching the best Brisbane suburbs to invest in, then make sure you don’t overlook one of your most valuable resources: an experienced investment property mortgage broker.
What are the benefits of consulting with a local mortgage broker? As an industry expert with knowledge of the local real estate market, your mortgage broker can give you free expert advice that has been tailored specifically to your needs. To find out more, contact your local Brisbane finance broker today.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is general in nature and is not intended as financial advice. It is for informative purposes only. We recommend obtaining professional advice that considers your personal circumstances and needs prior to making financial decisions.
Patrick Cranshaw, a Certified Mortgage Professional for over 21 years, founded North Brisbane Home Loans in 2002. His career began with ANZ Bank in New Zealand, where he progressed over 16 years to a Business Banking role in Virginia. After moving to Brisbane in 2000, Patrick led the QLD market for a home loan agency, helped set up the REMAX Real Estate Finance division, and practiced as a broker.