Australia’s Surprising Buyer Hotspots in 2026
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At The Agency CQ, while we firmly believe Rockhampton is the best place on earth, even the happiest locals sometimes feel the pull of a new postcode, whether that’s because of a new job, a decision to move closer to family or looking to buy in a growth area.
Many of our recent home seller clients have been weighing up life outside Rockhampton, considering other parts of Queensland and even casting their net as far away as Melbourne.
While we never like to hear about people saying goodbye to Rocky, these alternative hotspots are on buyers’ radars for 2026.
#1 Melbourne: the “value” capital tipped for a bounce
After a quieter run compared to other capital cities, Melbourne is being widely tipped as a standout growth market in 2026. KPMG forecasts Melbourne to lead capital city price growth in 2026, with houses expected to rise 6.6 per cent and units also forecast to lift.
There are three reasons to buy in Melbourne: relative affordability, renewed confidence after a slow period, and incredibly high rental demand. For Rockhampton home owners who are thinking of relocating and have built up good equity over the last five years, there is a good opportunity to secure a quality place.
#2 Brisbane: still strong, but the affordability squeeze is real
Recent data from Cotality shows average Brisbane home values rose 1.6 per cent in December 2025, with annual growth sitting around 14.5 per cent. This figure was only outpaced by Perth and Darwin, and Sydney, by comparison, only rose by 5.8% last year.
With this being said, Brisbane’s average house price is still significantly lower than Sydney, at $1.13 - $1.17 million rather than Sydney’s $1.58 million – $1.76 million. Again, if you are thinking of a switch to the Queensland capital and you have equity from Rockhampton growth, you should have a strong deposit to buy a family home or premium unit.
#3 Sydney, Perth and Adelaide: resilient, but growth is moderating
2026 will be another year of gains, but not all at the same rate.
In Domain’s FY26 forecast, Sydney is expected to see positive price growth after a few quiet years. After strong runs, price increases in Adelaide and Perth may level off this year.
#4 Queensland’s growth story: Beyond Brisbane
Queensland continues to attract attention, and not just in the Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast corridor.
Recent reporting has highlighted strong performance expectations in regional centres such as Cairns and Townsville, Toowoomba and even the inland centre of Stanthorpe. These markets are increasingly known for their lifestyle benefits and cultural hubs with growing food and wine scenes.
Thinking of selling and relocating? Maximising your result matters
Whether you’re thinking of discovering a more cosmopolitan lifestyle in Brisbane, exploring opportunities in Melbourne, or moving somewhere entirely new, one thing remains constant: Your next move is easier when you maximise your home’s sale price.
Great results don’t happen by accident. The best outcomes come from presenting your home at its best without overspending, pricing it right, reaching the right buyers, and negotiating with confidence.
Read more: What is your Central Queensland home worth?
If 2026 feels like the right time for a change, even if it means a bittersweet farewell to the Capricorn Coast lifestyle, it pays to start the conversation early. Let an expert from The Agency CQ help you map out a strategy for preparation and marketing that puts you in the strongest possible position for whatever comes next.
Start with a no-obligation appraisal. Reach out to The Agency CQ today.
