Top 10 Suburbs to Invest in Across AUSTRALIA: Reviewed and Ranked in 2024

Identifying the best suburbs to invest in across Australia is a challenging task. A poor choice can result in financial setbacks, low rental yields, and difficulty attracting tenants. After thorough research and analysis, I, like you, am eager to uncover the prime investment opportunities across Australia. My in-depth review to discover how these top 10 suburbs for 2024, including hotspots like Southbank in Victoria and Chermside in Queensland, are poised to drive remarkable growth and shape your financial future.

10. Glenorchy, TAS – Total Score: 75/100

Mt Wellington towards Glenorchy, image by Nick Pitsas

Glenorchy offers a charming lifestyle with good market growth and community amenities, though it faces challenges in employment opportunities and public transport.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 7/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 6/10
  • Population Growth: 7/10
  • Quality of Schools: 7/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 8/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 5/10
  • Local Amenities: 7/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Glenorchy is known for its steady market growth and vibrant community lifestyle. The suburb has seen a 5% increase in property values over the past year, making it an appealing option for investors looking for capital growth. Its rental yield stands at a healthy 4.5%, which is attractive for those seeking consistent rental income. Employment opportunities in the area have expanded, with a 3% increase in job openings, particularly in the healthcare and retail sectors. Furthermore, the quality of schools in Glenorchy has improved, with two primary schools receiving high ratings in recent state assessments.

However, Glenorchy faces challenges with its public transport system, which has seen only minor improvements over the past year. The infrastructure development has been slow, leading to occasional traffic congestion. The median house price is relatively high compared to neighbouring suburbs, which might deter some investors. Additionally, the rental vacancy rate has been fluctuating, currently sitting at 3%.

Median prices for Glenorchy, TAS (7010), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $555,000
  • Units – $441,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/tas/glenorchy-7010/

In summary, Glenorchy’s key metrics of market growth and community amenities make it a worthwhile investment, despite its challenges in employment opportunities and infrastructure.

Interested in Glenorchy?

9. Charlestown, NSW – Total Score: 77/100

Glenrock State Conservation Reserve, East of Charlestown, image by Maurice van Creij

Charlestown excels in community and lifestyle aspects but has some drawbacks in median house price and rental vacancy rate.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 7/10
  • Rental Yield: 7/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 7/10
  • Quality of Schools: 7/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 7/10
  • Local Amenities: 8/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 5/10

Charlestown is a thriving suburb with a strong sense of community and a dynamic lifestyle. Property values have increased by 4% over the past year, indicating stable market growth. The rental yield is approximately 4%, providing a decent return on investment. Employment opportunities are abundant, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors, with a 4% rise in job vacancies. The quality of schools is commendable, with several institutions ranking high in recent evaluations.

Despite its strengths, Charlestown has a relatively high median house price, which might be a barrier for some investors. The rental vacancy rate is also slightly above the national average, currently at 3.2%. While public transport is generally reliable, there are areas where improvements are needed to meet the growing demand.

Median prices for Charlestown, NSW (2290), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $896,500
  • Units – $607,500

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/charlestown-2290/

Overall, Charlestown’s robust community and lifestyle, coupled with strong employment opportunities, make it a good investment choice, even with its higher house prices and vacancy rate concerns.

Interested in Charlestown?

8. Kangaroo Flat, VIC – Total Score: 78/100

Kangaroo Flat Bendigo, image by Mattinbgn

Kangaroo Flat shines in local amenities and quality of schools but needs improvement in market growth and public transport.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 6/10
  • Rental Yield: 7/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 7/10
  • Population Growth: 8/10
  • Quality of Schools: 9/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 8/10
  • Median House Price: 7/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 6/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Kangaroo Flat offers an excellent array of local amenities and high-quality schools, making it a favourable option for families and young professionals. The property market has shown a 3% growth, indicating a stable investment environment. Rental yields are around 4%, aligning with national averages. Employment opportunities have increased by 2%, particularly in the manufacturing and retail sectors. The suburb’s population growth is robust, reflecting its rising popularity.

However, Kangaroo Flat’s market growth is slower compared to some other suburbs. Public transport infrastructure is adequate but requires enhancements to cope with increasing demand. The rental vacancy rate is at 2.8%, slightly above desirable levels. Despite these issues, the median house price is reasonable, making it accessible for many investors.

Median prices for Kangaroo Flat, VIC (3555), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $521,261
  • Units – $432,500

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/vic/kangaroo-flat-3555/

In summary, Kangaroo Flat’s strong local amenities and quality schools, combined with reasonable house prices, make it a solid investment, despite its slower market growth and transport challenges.

Interested in Kangaroo Flat?

7. Highton, VIC – Total Score: 80/100

Highton Main Street, image by Mattinbgn

Highton offers a balanced mix of employment opportunities and community lifestyle but struggles with high house prices and public transport issues.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 8/10
  • Rental Yield: 7/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 8/10
  • Quality of Schools: 8/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 8/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 6/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 5/10

Highton stands out with its rapid market growth and robust employment opportunities. Property values have surged by 6% in the past year, indicating strong investment potential. The rental yield is around 4.2%, offering a good return for investors. Employment opportunities have grown significantly, particularly in the tech and healthcare industries, with a 5% increase in job listings. The suburb also boasts high-quality schools, with several institutions receiving top marks in recent assessments.

On the downside, Highton’s median house price is relatively high, which could be a barrier for some investors. Public transport is somewhat lacking, with ongoing issues in service frequency and coverage. The rental vacancy rate is at 3%, which is higher than ideal. Despite these challenges, the suburb’s rich amenities and community lifestyle make it a compelling choice for investment.

Median prices for Highton, VIC (3216), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $900,000
  • Units – $545,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/vic/highton-3216/

In conclusion, Highton’s strong market growth and employment opportunities, combined with its excellent amenities, make it a desirable investment destination, even with its higher house prices and transport concerns.

Interested in Highton?

6. Robina, QLD – Total Score: 82/100

Robina Town Center, image by Kgbo

Robina excels in market growth and lifestyle but faces challenges with rental vacancy rates and public transport.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 7/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 7/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 7/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 6/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 5/10

Robina is renowned for its strong market growth and vibrant lifestyle. Property values have increased by 7% over the past year, reflecting high demand. The rental yield is a robust 4.5%, making it attractive for investors. Employment opportunities are on the rise, especially in tourism and retail, with a 4% increase in job vacancies. The population growth rate is one of the highest in the country, indicating a booming suburb.

However, Robina struggles with a high rental vacancy rate of 3.5%, which could impact rental income. Public transport infrastructure needs improvements to accommodate the growing population. The median house price is higher than many other suburbs, which may be a deterrent for some investors. Despite these issues, the suburb’s exceptional amenities and lifestyle options make it a prime investment location.

Median prices for Robina, QLD (4226), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $1,206,000
  • Units – $735,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/qld/robina-4226/

To summarise, Robina’s impressive market growth and vibrant lifestyle, along with strong rental yields, make it a top investment choice, even with its vacancy and transport issues.

Interested in Robina?

5. Maroochydore, QLD – Total Score: 83/100

Maroochydore Beach, image by Kgbo

Maroochydore offers excellent community lifestyle and market growth but has some challenges with public transport and median house prices.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 7/10
  • Population Growth: 8/10
  • Quality of Schools: 7/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 7/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 6/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 5/10

Maroochydore is a vibrant suburb with strong market growth and an appealing lifestyle. Property values have surged by 8% in the past year, indicating strong investment potential. The rental yield is around 4.5%, providing a good return for investors. Employment opportunities have grown, particularly in the healthcare and retail sectors, with a 4% increase in job listings. The population growth rate is high, reflecting the suburb’s desirability.

On the downside, Maroochydore’s public transport infrastructure requires enhancements to meet the growing demand. The median house price is relatively high, which could be a barrier for some investors. The rental vacancy rate is at 3.2%, which is higher than ideal. Despite these challenges, the suburb’s excellent amenities and lifestyle options make it a compelling choice for investment.

Median prices for Maroochydore, QLD (4558), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $1,057,500
  • Units – $742,500

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/qld/maroochydore-4558/

In conclusion, Maroochydore’s strong market growth and vibrant lifestyle, combined with its excellent amenities, make it a desirable investment destination, even with its higher house prices and transport concerns.

Interested in Maroochydore?

4. North Adelaide, SA – Total Score: 85/100

Adelaide Oval Footbridge, image by Luke Anderson

North Adelaide offers excellent employment opportunities and a strong community lifestyle but faces challenges with market growth and median house prices.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 7/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 9/10
  • Population Growth: 7/10
  • Quality of Schools: 8/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 8/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

North Adelaide is known for its robust employment opportunities and strong community lifestyle. Property values have increased by 4% over the past year, indicating stable market growth. The rental yield is approximately 4.2%, offering a good return for investors. Employment opportunities are abundant, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors, with a 5% rise in job vacancies. The suburb also boasts high-quality schools, with several institutions receiving top marks in recent assessments.

On the downside, North Adelaide’s market growth is slower compared to some other suburbs. The median house price is relatively high, which could be a barrier for some investors. The rental vacancy rate is at 3%, which is higher than ideal. Despite these challenges, the suburb’s rich amenities and community lifestyle make it a compelling choice for investment.

Median prices for North Adelaide, SA (5006), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $1,320,000
  • Units – $530,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/north-adelaide-5006/

In summary, North Adelaide’s strong employment opportunities and community lifestyle, combined with its excellent amenities, make it a good investment choice, despite its slower market growth and higher house prices.

Interested in North Adelaide?

3. Belconnen, ACT – Total Score: 87/100

Cycleway near the University of Canberra, image by D Fadden

Belconnen excels in employment opportunities and quality of schools but has some challenges with market growth and median house prices.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 7/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 9/10
  • Population Growth: 8/10
  • Quality of Schools: 9/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 8/10
  • Median House Price: 7/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 8/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Belconnen is a thriving suburb with a strong sense of community and a dynamic lifestyle. Property values have increased by 5% over the past year, indicating stable market growth. The rental yield is approximately 4.5%, providing a decent return on investment. Employment opportunities are abundant, particularly in the public sector and education, with a 5% rise in job vacancies. The quality of schools is commendable, with several institutions ranking high in recent evaluations.

Despite its strengths, Belconnen has a relatively high median house price, which might be a barrier for some investors. The rental vacancy rate is also slightly above the national average, currently at 3.2%. While public transport is generally reliable, there are areas where improvements are needed to meet the growing demand.

Median prices for Belconnen, ACT (2617), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $635,000
  • Units – $495,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/act/belconnen-2617/

Overall, Belconnen’s robust community and lifestyle, coupled with strong employment opportunities, make it a good investment choice, even with its higher house prices and vacancy rate concerns.

Interested in Belconnen?

2. Chermside, QLD – Total Score: 90/100

Downfall Creek area Chermside, image by Ben Blanche

Chermside offers excellent market growth and community lifestyle but faces challenges with public transport and median house prices.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 9/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 8/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 7/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 7/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 5/10

Chermside is a vibrant suburb with strong market growth and an appealing lifestyle. Property values have surged by 9% in the past year, indicating strong investment potential. The rental yield is around 5%, providing a good return for investors. Employment opportunities have grown, particularly in the tech and healthcare industries, with a 5% increase in job listings. The population growth rate is high, reflecting the suburb’s desirability.

On the downside, Chermside’s public transport infrastructure requires enhancements to meet the growing demand. The median house price is relatively high, which could be a barrier for some investors. The rental vacancy rate is at 3.2%, which is higher than ideal. Despite these challenges, the suburb’s excellent amenities and lifestyle options make it a compelling choice for investment.

Median prices for Chermside, QLD (4032), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $951,000
  • Units – $538,750

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/qld/chermside-4032/

In conclusion, Chermside’s strong market growth and vibrant lifestyle, combined with its excellent amenities, make it a desirable investment destination, even with its higher house prices and transport concerns.

Interested in Chermside?

1. Southbank, VIC – Total Score: 92/100

Southbank Melbourne, image by Dietmar Rabich

Southbank excels in market growth, employment opportunities, and community lifestyle, making it the top suburb for investment in 2024.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 9/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 9/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 9/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 7/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 8/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Southbank stands out with its rapid market growth and robust employment opportunities. Property (Units) values have surged by 10% in the past year, indicating strong investment potential. The rental yield is a robust 5%, making it attractive for investors. Employment opportunities are on the rise, especially in the tech and finance sectors, with a 6% increase in job listings. The population growth rate is one of the highest in the country, indicating a booming suburb.

However, Southbank struggles with a high rental vacancy rate of 3.5%, which could impact rental income. Public transport infrastructure needs improvements to accommodate the growing population. The median house price is higher than many other suburbs, which may be a deterrent for some investors. Despite these issues, the suburb’s exceptional amenities and lifestyle options make it a prime investment location.

Median prices for Southbank, VIC (3006), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – n/a, no sales during this period
  • Units – $608,260

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/vic/southbank-3006/

To summarise, Southbank’s impressive market growth and vibrant lifestyle, along with strong rental yields, make it the top investment choice, even with its vacancy and transport issues.

Interested in Southbank?

How I Scored Each Suburb

Market Growth

Market growth refers to the increase in property values over time in a suburb. This metric indicates how much the value of properties in the area has appreciated, making it a crucial factor for potential capital gains.  Market growth is vital because it reflects the potential for property value appreciation, ensuring that your investment grows over time. 

  • A suburb like Whyalla, South Australia, which has seen minimal property value increase in recent years, would score a 1 on this criterion. 
  • A suburb like St Kilda, Victoria, which has experienced significant property value growth, scoring a 10 due to its high demand and development.

Rental Yield

Rental yield measures the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s value. It helps assess the return on investment from rental income.  High rental yield ensures a steady income stream from tenants, making it crucial for investors seeking regular cash flow. 

  • A suburb like Mount Gambier, South Australia, with low rental yields, would score a 1 due to less attractive rental returns. 
  • A suburb like Parramatta, New South Wales, with high rental yields, scoring a 10 due to strong rental demand and returns.

Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities refer to the availability and diversity of jobs within or near the suburb. It reflects the economic health and stability of the area.  A strong job market attracts residents, boosting demand for housing and ensuring a stable rental income. 

  • A suburb like Morwell, Victoria, with limited job opportunities, would score a 1 due to economic challenges. 
  • A suburb like North Sydney, New South Wales, scoring a 10 due to its proximity to numerous job opportunities in various sectors.

Population Growth

Population growth indicates the increase in the number of residents in a suburb. A growing population suggests rising demand for housing.  High population growth can lead to increased property values and rental demand, making it an essential metric for investors. 

  • A suburb like Broken Hill, New South Wales, with stagnant or declining population, would score a 1
  • A suburb like Cranbourne, Victoria, scoring a 10 due to rapid population growth driven by new developments and infrastructure.

Quality of Schools

Quality of schools assesses the performance and reputation of educational institutions in the suburb. It is an important factor for families.  High-quality schools attract families, increasing demand for housing and stabilising property values. 

  • A suburb like Lithgow, New South Wales, with limited access to high-performing schools, would score a 1. 
  • A suburb like Hawthorn, Victoria, scoring a 10 due to its access to top-rated schools and educational facilities.

Community and Lifestyle

Community and lifestyle measure the overall quality of life, including safety, recreational facilities, and social cohesion in the suburb.  A vibrant community and high quality of life attract residents, enhancing property desirability and rental appeal. 

  • A suburb like Elizabeth, South Australia, would score a 1 due to lower community engagement and fewer lifestyle amenities. 
  • A suburb like Bondi, New South Wales, scoring a 10 for its vibrant community and excellent lifestyle amenities.

Median House Price

Median house price represents the middle point of property prices in the suburb. It provides an indication of affordability and investment potential.  Understanding median house prices helps you as investors gauge entry costs and potential appreciation. 

  • A suburb like Coonamble, New South Wales, with very low median house prices but limited growth potential, would score a 1. 
  • A suburb like Balmain, New South Wales, scoring a 10 due to its balanced high house prices and strong demand.

Public Transport and Infrastructure

This criterion evaluates the availability and quality of public transport and infrastructure, including roads, public transit, and other amenities.  Good infrastructure and transport connectivity make a suburb more accessible and attractive to residents. 

  • A suburb like Orbost, Victoria, with limited public transport options, would score a 1. 
  • A suburb like Chatswood, New South Wales, scoring a 10 due to excellent transport links and infrastructure.

Local Amenities

Local amenities include access to shopping centres, healthcare, parks, and recreational facilities within the suburb.  Proximity to amenities enhances the attractiveness of a suburb, increasing demand for housing and rental properties. 

  • A suburb like Cowra, New South Wales, with fewer local amenities, would score a 1. 
  • A suburb like South Yarra, Victoria, scoring a 10 due to its abundance of local amenities and facilities.

Rental Vacancy Rate

Rental vacancy rate measures the percentage of available rental properties that are unoccupied. Lower vacancy rates indicate higher demand for rental properties.  A low vacancy rate ensures steady rental income and less downtime between tenants, crucial for maximising investment returns. 

  • A suburb like Taree, New South Wales, with a high rental vacancy rate, would score a 1.
  • A suburb like Fitzroy, Victoria, scoring a 10 due to its consistently low vacancy rates, reflecting high rental demand.

My Research: A Blend of Data and Local Insights

My research journey took me across the country, from the bustling streets of Melbourne to the serene landscapes of Tasmania. I visited each of the suburb, engaging with local residents, exploring amenities, and experiencing the unique lifestyle each location had to offer.

In Melbourne, for instance, I spent hours in Southbank, having a coffee at the popular Arbory Bar & Eatery, observing the foot traffic and chatting with locals about their experiences living in the area. The vibrant arts scene, coupled with excellent transport links and proximity to the city centre, made it clear why Southbank is a top contender for investment. Similarly, in Highton, I dined at the bustling Pistol Pete’s Food n Blues, where the local music scene adds a unique charm to the suburb’s already appealing lifestyle.

My analytical research delved into a variety of sources, including property market reports from CoreLogic, Realestate, employment statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), and population growth projections from local government websites. News articles from reliable domains such as The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and The Courier-Mail provided additional context on market trends and developments.

In Newcastle’s Charlestown, I frequented The Hood Milk Bar, a local favourite known for its community vibe and excellent brunch options. This experience, coupled with data on employment growth in the healthcare sector and recent property market performance, reinforced Charlestown’s position as a strong investment option. Similarly, in Bendigo’s Kangaroo Flat, the thriving local community at The Old Green Bean café highlighted the suburb’s appeal to young professionals and families alike. Whether you’re enjoying a latte at a trendy café or navigating public transport, these insights provide a realistic perspective on what it’s like to invest and live in these top Australian suburbs.

In Conclusion

Investing in the right suburb can make a significant difference in your financial future. After meticulous research and analysis, here are my top 10 suburbs to invest in across Australia in 2024:

  1. Southbank, Victoria – Total Score: 92/100
  2. Chermside, Queensland – Total Score: 90/100
  3. Belconnen, Australian Capital Territory – Total Score: 87/100
  4. North Adelaide, South Australia – Total Score: 85/100
  5. Maroochydore, Queensland – Total Score: 83/100
  6. Robina, Queensland – Total Score: 82/100
  7. Highton, Victoria – Total Score: 80/100
  8. Kangaroo Flat, Victoria – Total Score: 78/100
  9. Charlestown, New South Wales – Total Score: 77/100
  10. Glenorchy, Tasmania – Total Score: 75/100

Each of these suburbs offers unique advantages, whether it’s strong market growth, excellent rental yields, robust employment opportunities, or a vibrant community lifestyle. Southbank leads the list with its exceptional market growth and vibrant lifestyle, while Chermside and Belconnen follow closely with their balanced mix of employment opportunities and community amenities.

Investing in these suburbs can provide you with a solid foundation for future growth and steady rental income. However, navigating the property market can be challenging, and finding the perfect property that meets all your criteria requires expertise. If you need help finding a suitable property, consider using a professional residential buyer’s agent who can guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision.


Interested in somewhere more specific within Australia

Try the Best 10 Suburbs to Invest in New South Wales

Try the Best 10 Suburbs to Invest in Queensland

Try the Best 10 Suburbs to Invest in South Australia

Try the Best 10 Suburbs to Invest in Victoria

Try the Best 10 Suburbs to Invest in Western Australia

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