Brisbane Housing Market Trends 2026

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Australia's population is ageing. Analysis of ABS Census data shows the proportion of Australians aged 65 and over has roughly doubled over the past 50 years, from about 9 percent in 1971 to around 17 percent by 2021–2022. In fact, projections suggest the median age will continue to rise, moving from about 38.5 years in 2022 to the mid-40s by 2071.

As we progress through this demographic shift, the housing needs of older Australians will undoubtedly change. Those days are gone when empty nesters stay in the big suburban block and the five-bedroom family home for as long as possible. Instead, they'll be heading toward low-maintenance housing with abundant lifestyle options to enjoy.

In their wake will come a wave of younger family buyers eager to buy housing in the suburbs these retirees vacate. Not only will these neighbourhoods get younger, they'll also attract a raft of new facilities and gentrification. Demand will shift toward hipper cafés and restaurants and family-friendly amenities like childcare centres, parks and recreation centres. Young families will seek proximity to great schools and quality public spaces. Over time, they'll do their own gentrification, in the form of home renovation work and thoughtful beautification.

The changing demographics in a suburb can materially transform its elements—the shops, the facilities, and the feel of the place. This evolution elevates the suburb and its housing appeal to a broader band of buyers. It's a wave that creates opportunity for those savvy enough to see it coming.

So, what does this mean for Brisbane buyers?

If you're looking to purchase in Southeast Queensland, where can you buy now to take advantage of this wave as it washes through the River City?

I asked our experienced Brisbane buyers’ agent, Glen Sainsbury, for his take on what's happening in his market and which suburbs are worth watching as this shift progresses.

Why Brisbane?

Brisbane is experiencing unique momentum that positions it well for this downsizer-to-young-family transition.

Several factors are at play.

The city is on a hot run. Industry growth, employment opportunities, and a sense that Brisbane's future is bright. There's significant infrastructure spending underway, and with the Olympics coming to town in 2032, everyone wants to be part of the story. This isn't hype, it's driving real migration and investment.

The interstate migration to Brisbane is material. The city has been, and will continue to be, a leader in net interstate migration, with large numbers of Sydney and Melbourne residents heading north. They're moving here for jobs, lifestyle, and relative affordability.

Brisbane downsizers have excellent options for moving on from the suburbs, too. Both the Gold and Sunshine Coasts are retirement destinations with warm weather, beaches, and

that famous coastal lifestyle to revel in. Yet both coasts remain commutable to Brisbane, so retirees can stay close to family. Factor in local airports on the coasts for national and international travel, and you see why downsizers are choosing this region.

The Brisbane shift is underway, and there's momentum behind it.

Where to Buy

According to Glen, there are many opportunities for buyers to take advantage of this shift.

Here are some standout areas he suggests tracking.

Salisbury and Cooper's Plains

These are already strong locations for family buyers, but there are still many downsizer homes available for new owners.

The suburbs enjoy extensive community facilities and relatively affordable housing compared to inner-city areas. Parks, sports facilities, and open space are abundant, with ample room for further development.

Located around 10 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, they're within commuting distance for most workers. We're already seeing gentrification in the form of splitter blocks being redeveloped and rebuilt with high-quality contemporary homes. As more buyers discover the advantages of these suburbs, expect facilities and lifestyle appeal to ramp up even further.

The median detached house price in Salisbury and Coopers Plains sits around $1.25 million. While not the cheapest housing in Brisbane at this price point, it is very competitive given their distance from town.

Banyo and Geebung

These traditionally affordable northern suburbs are experiencing genuine transformation as young families discover their appeal.

Positioned just 10 kilometers from the CBD, both offer excellent proximity to major employment hubs and lifestyle amenities that are drawing families in growing numbers to established homes on good-sized blocks.

With a median house price of around $1.15 million, many local buyers are already showing interest.

Westfield Chermside Shopping Centre is an easy drive away, offering comprehensive retail and dining options. Schools are a strong drawcard too. Both suburbs boast excellent options, including the highly regarded St. Joseph's Nudgee College. Parks, sporting facilities, and open space are abundant throughout.

What's also fuelling interest here is the café and restaurant culture that's developed over the past five to eight years. High-calibre dining and retail options have emerged, giving these suburbs a more vibrant, cosmopolitan feel than their sleepy reputation suggests. Meanwhile, proximity to the booming Brisbane Airport Precinct employment hub means a 10-minute commute for local residents who work and play there. Add bus and train connections for those going elsewhere, and the transport story is compelling.

We're already seeing property transformation here. Many homes are being renovated or rebuilt, and with block sizes averaging around 800 square metres, there is subdivision potential for savvy investors.

The changing demographics suggest gentrification is well underway, with rising values to follow.

Cleveland and Capalaba

These bayside suburbs southeast of the city in the Redland Shire already enjoy that great Southeast Queensland lifestyle. Access to water is on hand, and block sizes remain generous with ample housing stock to accommodate growing families.

The Redland area is a burgeoning growth region with exceptional shopping and lifestyle hubs throughout.

In these two centres, in particular, residents are drawn to the cafés, shops, and dining precincts that have sprung up in recent years. Capalaba is the hub of the Redlands Shire, with a major town centre redevelopment underway that's adding to local amenity and appeal. Schools, open space, parkland, and local shopping are also abundant.

Interestingly, older residents love the area so much that they often choose to stay and downsize to medium-density housing rather than leave.

The price point for families is attractive, with a median house price of $1.26 million for Cleveland and $1 million for Capalaba.

The suburbs above represent just a taste of the opportunities available as Brisbane downsizers move out of their family homes. By drawing on the experience, skills, and connections of a trusted local buyer’s agent, you can stay ahead of the changes and take full advantage of what’s on offer in these growth localities.

To have one of the friendly Propertybuyer  Buyers' Agents  to contact you:

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call us on 1300 655 615 today.