Brisbane Property Market 2025: Data Insights, Emerging Trends & Expert Forecasts

Factors Influencing the Brisbane Property Market

Brisbane Infrastructure and Development

Cross River Rail

Scheduled for completion in 2026, this project will introduce a new rail line beneath the Brisbane River and revitalize several stations within the Brisbane CBD. With the aim of easing congestion and improving connectivity, this project will mean better access to the city and increased potential for growth in surrounding areas.

Brisbane Metro

Brisbane Metro is a high-frequency bus rapid transit system under construction in Brisbane. It will offer two routes running through the Brisbane CBD every five minutes during peak times, carrying up to 1,800 passengers per hour. This means better access to key areas and increased convenience for commuters, making properties near metro stations highly desirable.

Brisbane Airport Expansion

Scheduled for completion in 2026, and with over $5 billion in investments planned for the next decade—including a third passenger terminal and significant refurbishments to existing terminals—the new Brisbane Airport will allow for increased international travel and trade, further benefiting the city’s economy and property market.

2032 Brisbane Olympics

World Expo 88 was held in Brisbane, bringing in over 15 million visitors and introducing the world to Queensland’s charm. The event sparked significant redevelopment in South Brisbane, setting the stage for future growth and boosting Brisbane’s profile as a vibrant destination.

If Expo 88 put Brisbane on the international map and saw house prices rise by 238% in the 11 years before the event, there is little doubt that the 2032 Olympics will do much the same for Brisbane house prices.

The Queensland government has committed significant resources towards developing sports venues, hotels, and urban rejuvenation projects in preparation for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. This investment is not only focused on creating world-class facilities for the games but also on transforming Brisbane into a global destination.

Oxford Economics predicts that by 2027, Brisbane’s median house price will reach $1.21 million, with units reaching $710,000. Areas near competition venues are likely to see the most significant growth.

Growing Interstate Migration

Net interstate migration (NIM) for Queensland hit a record of 84,000 new arrivals in 2022–23, many of whom settled in Brisbane. With more people leaving states like New South Wales and Victoria for Queensland’s warmer climate and relatively affordable property prices, this influx of new residents is expected to continue well into the next decade.

Suburbs like New Farm, Paddington, and Bulimba offer charming cafes, boutique shops, and lively community events, perfect for those looking for a balanced work-life blend. They are also appealing due to their closeness to parks, quality schools, and easy access to public transport.

Emerging Suburban Hubs

New Farm

Situated just 2 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, New Farm is a trendy suburb known for its stunning river views and local parks. With an increasing number of young professionals moving into the area, New Farm has been consistently named one of Australia’s most desirable suburbs. Its proximity to both the city and nature make it a highly sought-after location for those looking for convenience without sacrificing lifestyle.

Paddington

Located just 2 kilometres west of Brisbane’s CBD, Paddington is another suburb popular among young professionals. It offers a unique mix of heritage homes, boutique shops, and bustling cafes. The median house price in Paddington currently sits at around $1.9 million, up 9.7% over the past 12 months. With significant growth expected leading up to the 2032 Olympic Games, Paddington is a promising investment opportunity for those looking to buy property in Brisbane.

West End

Located just across the Brisbane River from the CBD, West End is a vibrant and diverse suburb known for its multicultural food scene. With a median house price of $1,665,000, West End has seen 5.7% growth over the past year. Its proximity to the University of Queensland and the South Bank cultural precinct make it an appealing location for students and young professionals alike.

The opportunity to make a strategic investment lies not only in these suburbs. Brisbane’s satellite hubs, places like Redcliffe, Springfield, and Logan are also emerging as popular areas for investors. These suburbs offer a more affordable entry point into the Brisbane property market and have seen significant population growth in recent years. Families are drawn to these hubs due to the development of new schools, retail centres, and green spaces. These amenities make satellite hubs increasingly attractive to families looking for a balance of affordability and quality of life. Investors are well-advised to keep an eye on these emerging hubs for future growth potential.

Investment Opportunities and Strategies for 2025

Long-Term vs. Short-Term Investment Strategies

Choosing to enter Brisbane’s property market means deciding between a long-term or short-term investment strategy. Long-term investments involve holding onto the property for an extended period, usually 10 years or more, with the goal of capital growth over time. Short-term strategies focus on generating income through rental properties and flipping properties for quick profits.

With the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, investors should see the long-term potential in purchasing property now and holding onto it for future capital growth. The influx of tourism, infrastructure development, and job opportunities brought by the Olympics will help to push the demand for property in Brisbane even higher.

If you’re considering apartments as a viable investment option, find out why many see Brisbane’s apartment market as a strong choice

Investing in Off-the-Plan Properties

Off-the-plan properties in Brisbane present attractive benefits for investors, including potential stamp duty savings and the opportunity for future value uplift as projects develop. Buying before construction often allows investors to secure properties at current market rates, with value appreciating by completion.

Brisbane suburbs like Fortitude Valley, Kangaroo Point, and Chermside are promising for off-the-plan developments. The urban growth and infrastructure upgrades in these areas make for attractive investment opportunities.

Positive Cash Flow Properties and Rental Demand

Investors focused on positive cash flow should consider Brisbane’s high-rental-yield suburbs, where strong demand among renters ensures steady income. Suburbs such as Woolloongabba, Auchenflower, and South Brisbane offer attractive yields due to their proximity to the CBD, universities, and major transit hubs. Apartments in these areas are especially popular with students and young professionals, creating high occupancy rates and consistent rental demand. The positive cash flow you generate from these properties can then be used to fund future investments or bolster your retirement savings.

Key Takeaways and what’s in store for 2025

Brisbane’s property market in 2025 presents compelling opportunities for investors looking to take advantage of the fact that Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities. Key drivers, such as record-breaking migration, strong population growth, and robust infrastructure investment, set Brisbane apart as a market primed for both short- and long-term property gains. The upcoming 2032 Olympics will further boost Brisbane’s property values, especially in proximity to new and revitalised Olympic venues, making now an ideal time for strategic investments.

Key Takeaways:

• Migration-Driven Demand: With continued interstate and overseas migration, Brisbane’s population surge is set to sustain housing demand well into the next decade.
• Infrastructure Investment: Large-scale projects like Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro, and the airport expansion will improve connectivity and boost surrounding property values.
• Olympics Impact: As the 2032 Olympics approach, suburbs near event venues, such as Auchenflower and Annerley, are poised for significant growth, offering investors a timely entry into a rising market.
• Diverse Investment Strategies: Off-the-plan developments, high-rental-yield properties, and both long- and short-term investment strategies provide multiple avenues for investors to benefit from Brisbane’s upward trajectory.

With Ironfish’s investor resources and access to a range of investment-grade properties, our team can help you start capitalising on Brisbane’s property market today. Explore our Portfolio Building services to learn how we can support you in building a property investment strategy tailored to your goals.