Queensland’s suburbs poised for property boom in 2026
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In a revealing look at Australia’s real estate future, 17 Queensland suburbs have been identified as hotspots for property growth, making it onto the prestigious realestate.com.au Hot 100 list for 2026. This list, compiled with insights from leading property experts, highlights the suburbs expected to experience significant growth, driven by a combination of infrastructure development, affordability, and lifestyle appeal.
Queensland’s property market has been buoyed by the upcoming 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane, which has spurred a wave of infrastructure projects across the state. According to REA Group senior economist Eleanor Creagh, while the pace of growth has decelerated since last year, the market remains robust. “Queensland’s entries are split between inner Brisbane gentrification and the broader southeast Queensland growth story,” Creagh noted. She attributes the sustained demand to “relatively affordable housing, strong jobs growth and transport hubs and Olympic-tied infrastructure.”
One suburb standing out in the inner-city is Herston, which is expected to see a surge in demand due to its proximity to Victoria Park, the planned site for a new 63,000-seat stadium for the Olympics. University of Adelaide’s Peter Koulizos highlighted the suburb’s potential, stating, “Much of the new infrastructure for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics will be centred in and around Victoria Park, which will further improve the liveability and demand to live in this suburb.”
Another suburb close to the city, Yeronga, has been recognised for its strategic location and infrastructure. Melinda Jennison, president of the Real Estate Buyers Agents Association (REBAA), described Yeronga as a “standout” due to its excellent public transport links. “The suburb is also set to benefit from the Cross River Rail project, with nearby upgrades to transport infrastructure expected to improve connectivity and drive long-term growth,” Jennison explained.
Brisbane’s northern suburbs are also gaining attention, with four areas being highlighted for their family-friendly environments and investment potential. Suburbs like Bray Park and Griffin have been noted for their affordability and proximity to amenities such as schools and shopping centres. Petrie, in particular, has gained popularity following the expansion of the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Moreton Bay campus. LJ Hooker’s Mathew Tiller commented on Petrie’s transformation, saying, “Owner‑occupiers like the stability and amenity, while investors like the steady tenant pool.”
On the western front, suburbs like Ripley, Lowood, and Plainland are emerging as promising markets. Ripley has experienced a 132 per cent increase in its median house price over the past decade, driven by new schools and services attracting first-home buyers. Lowood and Plainland are appealing for their affordability and investment potential, with Lowood seeing a rise in popularity post-Covid-19 as buyers sought regional properties.
Highfields, located near Toowoomba, is also on the radar due to its spacious homes and proximity to reputable schools. Meanwhile, towards the Gold Coast, Logan Central and Upper Coomera are being watched for their growth potential. Logan Central is particularly attractive for investors, boasting high rental yields and significant home price growth over the last decade. Upper Coomera, on the other hand, is drawing young families seeking a coastal lifestyle without the high prices.
On the Sunshine Coast, Baringa is gaining traction for its family-friendly amenities and modern housing options. Its location within the Aura community and proximity to Caloundra’s beaches make it an appealing choice for new residents.
Further north, regional hubs like Bundaberg, Townsville, Mackay, and Cairns are being recognised for their economic diversity and growth potential. Bundaberg stands out for its low vacancy rates and thriving agriculture, fishing, and tourism industries. Townsville and Mackay are both benefiting from strong rental yields and investment prospects, with Mackay experiencing double-digit price growth over the past year.
Cairns, with a home price growth of 70 per cent over the last five years, is also on the list. Propertyology’s Simon Pressley highlighted the city’s evolving industries and tight housing market, noting, “Housing is very tight, including a rental vacancy rate which has been below 1.5% for more than five years.” He also pointed out the government’s investment in stadium upgrades as part of the city’s preparation for the 2032 Olympic Games, which is expected to further boost its appeal.
As Queensland continues to prepare for the Olympics, these suburbs are poised to benefit from the ongoing infrastructure developments, making them key areas to watch in the coming years.