From Brisbane's evolving skyline to the lifestyle pull of the Gold Coast and the laid-back vibes of the Sunshine Coast, Southeast Queensland isn't just on the radar, it's setting the pace for Australia's property market this year.
Now well into 2025, the momentum hasn't slowed. In fact, the region's growth trajectory is becoming even clearer. With affordability, migration, infrastructure investment, and Olympic buzz all working in tandem, SEQ continues to outperform, and it's not just hype. So what's driving the strength, and where are the opportunities still ahead?
Migration Momentum Remains Strong
Interstate migration continues to be one of SEQ's biggest growth drivers. According to the latest ABS data, Queensland again led the country in net migration in the first quarter of 2025, keeping the trend alive for the third consecutive year.
Suburbs like Springfield Lakes, Coomera, and Buderim are thriving with new arrivals. The demand is coming from young families, professionals, and remote workers priced out of Sydney and Melbourne who are chasing value, sunshine, and lifestyle. This steady influx is driving up buyer competition and putting pressure on both sales prices and rental yields.
The Olympic Effect Is Heating Up
The Brisbane 2032 Olympics may still be seven years away, but its influence on the market is already here. Billions in infrastructure upgrades are rolling out across the region, and savvy investors are paying attention.
Projects like the Cross River Rail, Gabba Stadium redevelopment, and improvements around Albion and Northshore Hamilton are transforming key pockets of the city. As seen in other Olympic host cities, property values tend to surge in the lead-up to the event, especially in well-located suburbs that benefit from long-term infrastructure and amenity uplift.
Value For Your Dollar
While Sydney and Melbourne buyers face high price points and lower rental yields, Southeast Queensland continues to offer compelling value. Even with recent price growth, many SEQ suburbs are still well below the median prices in southern capitals.
Whether it's the bayside charm of Redland Bay, the development opportunities in Ipswich, or the dual-income potential in parts of Logan and Moreton Bay, buyers are finding that their dollar stretches further, without compromising on lifestyle.
The appeal? Sunshine, beaches, hinterland escapes, and a slower pace of life – without the Sydney price tag.
Top Suburbs to Watch (Mid-Year 2025 Edition)
As we head into the second half of the year, here are five Southeast Queensland suburbs that continue to show serious growth potential:
- Pimpama (Gold Coast): Rapid population growth, booming local infrastructure, and great proximity to Olympic precincts.
- Ripley (Ipswich): Affordable and fast-growing master-planned community with high rental demand.
- Burpengary East (Moreton Bay): A commuter-friendly suburb benefitting from major transport upgrades.
- Woolloongabba (Brisbane): At the heart of the Olympics action, with urban renewal already reshaping the area.
- Palmview (Sunshine Coast): Strong family appeal, new amenities, and close to some of the Coast's best beaches.
Looking Ahead
Whether you're buying your first home, expanding a portfolio, or planning a strategic sale, the numbers don't lie, Southeast Queensland is leading the charge.
With solid fundamentals, lifestyle drawcards, and large-scale development driving confidence, SEQ is more than a hotspot, it's a headline act in Australia's 2025 property market.
Looking to buy, sell, or invest in Southeast Queensland?
Speak with your local Century 21 agent for tailored advice and a clear view of your best opportunities in this fast-moving market.