Why investors can't go past Rockhampton in 2025
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Rockhampton and surrounding areas are shaping up to be a prime investment destination in 2025 thanks to a number of major infrastructure developments, a thriving rental market and an abundance of growth potential.
Whether you are looking for rental income or long-term capital growth, the city offers so many opportunities to invest and enjoy strong returns. Here’s what makes Rockhampton an investment hotspot and how to choose the right property.
Is Rockhampton a good place to invest?
Here’s why savvy buyers are circling the city:
1. Major infrastructure developments
One of the most significant drivers of Rockhampton's growth is the $1.73 billion Rockhampton Ring Road project. This 17.4 km bypass aims to improve connectivity, ease traffic congestion and provide better flood resilience, making the region more accessible and attractive for businesses and residents alike.
Construction commenced in November 2023, with the project anticipated to boost local employment and economic activity.
There’s also a chance Rockhampton will have its own slice of Olympic action, with a bid currently in place to host the 2032 Olympic rowing and canoeing events on the Fitzroy River.
If successful, the event will attract global attention and significant investment in local infrastructure, which will further strengthen the value of homes in the area.
2. Past performance
As one of the less expensive towns in Australia, investors can see growth potential in Rockhampton. A look at year on year suburb performance (as of early 2025) gives an indication of what’s possible:
- The Range - home values are up by 18.6% and rental prices by 4.2%
- Frenchville - home values are up by 15% and rental prices by 4.0%
- Gracemere - home values are up by 24.5% and rental prices by 4.3%
- Rockhampton City - home values are up by 45.6% and rental prices by 10.5%
- Berserker - home values are up by 26.7% and rental prices by 7.1%
Of course, different homes have different values and varying potential, but these positive results see Rockhampton as one of the best growth areas in the country.
3. Fixer-upper homes with great potential
Rockhampton’s property market is particularly attractive if you are happy to contribute funds to renovations and upgrades.
The city has an abundance of older properties that are in need of a refresh and have the potential for value appreciation. With the right improvements, these homes can generate excellent returns, either through resale or improved rental income.
We have seen so many clients transform older, ‘tired’ homes into delightful places that retain their charm but have modern touches like new kitchens and bathrooms, and internal laundry facilities.
These homes are generally snapped up as soon as they hit the market for sale, especially if they are well-presented and appeal to the target buyer.
Want to invest in Rockhampton? Take a look at our current listings.
4. A strong rental market
Rental vacancies are low, and with Rockhampton's population forecast to exceed 98,000 by the year 2041, they are expected to stay that way.
If you’re planning to invest, you can seek out a boutique riverside apartment or look at a family home in a sought-after suburb.
With the influx of blue-collar workers and health industry professionals coming to the area, you should be well placed to achieve the returns you are hoping for with either option.
5. Economic diversification and job growth
Rockhampton is rapidly diversifying its economy beyond traditional industries like agriculture and mining. The revitalisation of the historic Rockhampton Railyards is a prime example of this transformation.
The Queensland Government has committed $23.7 million to the site's remediation and redevelopment, aiming to create a commercial and community hub that will include a heritage and industrial precinct.
2025: A great year to invest in Rockhampton
There’s no denying Rockhampton presents an excellent investment opportunity in 2025, with the city making the list of investment hotspot recommendations by industry insiders.
The challenge is finding the right home. Always look at the ‘bones’ of the structure to make sure any repairs or upgrades won’t cost more than you expect. Consider the location and the level of demand from renters—family homes are sought after when they are close to schools and shops, while smaller apartments and units are snapped up if they are close to the hospital or University.
Finally, do your due diligence to take council and water rates, mortgage repayments and potential capital gains into consideration.
At The Agency CQ, we find investment-friendly properties often sell before they even make it to the market because of the high level of investor interest. If you want to be kept informed about the listings we have coming up, connect with our team today.
