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

Identifying where to Invest in across South Australia is no easy task, given the myriad of factors to consider. Choosing the wrong suburb can lead to poor rental returns, stagnating property values, and difficulty finding quality tenants. We’ve undertaken extensive research to bring you a reliable guide, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Discover the top 10 suburbs in South Australia for 2024, with standout areas like Burnside and North Adelaide leading the list.

10. Prospect – Total Score: 75/100

Prospect offers a blend of cultural vibrancy and convenience but faces challenges in affordability and infrastructure.

Scoring Criteria:

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

Prospect is a dynamic suburb with strong rental yields and an engaging community lifestyle, making it a solid investment choice.  With a rental yield of approximately 4.8%, Prospect provides reliable returns for investors.  The suburb boasts a vibrant arts scene, numerous cafes, and a strong sense of community, attracting young professionals.  Steady population growth of 1.5% per annum ensures ongoing demand for housing.  Prospect is home to numerous parks, shopping centres, and recreational facilities, enhancing its livability.

The median house price of $1,100,000 may be prohibitive for some investors, with prices increasing by 5% annually.  While there are decent schools, Prospect scores lower in education compared to other suburbs, impacting family appeal.  Public transport options are available but not as extensive as in inner-city areas, potentially limiting appeal.

Median prices for Prospect, SA (5082), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $1,190,000
• Units – $520,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/prospect-5082/

Prospect’s blend of rental yield, community vibe, and local amenities makes it an attractive investment, despite its higher median house price and limited public transport.

9. Glenelg – Total Score: 77/100

Glenelg combines coastal charm with robust amenities but faces high property prices and seasonal fluctuations in demand.

Scoring Criteria:

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

Glenelg is a coastal suburb known for its lifestyle appeal and solid market growth, though it comes with a higher price tag.  Glenelg has experienced a property market growth of 7% per annum, indicating strong investment potential.  Its beachfront location and vibrant community events make it highly desirable.  Excellent amenities, including shopping centres, restaurants, and leisure activities, enhance the living experience.  Good public transport connectivity, with the tram service providing direct access to the city.

The median house price of $1,600,000 is quite steep, potentially limiting affordability for some investors.  With a rental yield of 3.5%, returns may be lower compared to other suburbs.  Rental demand can fluctuate seasonally, with higher vacancy rates during off-peak periods.

Median prices for Glenelg, SA (5045), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $1,615,000
• Units – $600,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/glenelg-5045/

Glenelg’s strong market growth and vibrant lifestyle make it a worthwhile investment, albeit with higher property prices and seasonal rental variability.

8. Norwood – Total Score: 78/100

Norwood offers a rich cultural scene and strong market growth but comes with premium property prices and congestion issues.

Scoring Criteria:

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

Norwood is celebrated for its cultural vibrancy and employment opportunities, making it an appealing choice for investors.  Property values in Norwood have risen by 6% annually, reflecting strong investment potential.  Proximity to the CBD provides ample employment opportunities for residents.  Known for its cafes, boutique shops, and annual festivals, Norwood offers a vibrant lifestyle.  High-quality amenities, including parks, libraries, and shopping centres, enhance the suburb’s appeal.

The median house price of $1,400,000 is high, which may be prohibitive for some investors.  Traffic congestion during peak hours can be a significant issue.  The rental yield of 3.8% is lower compared to some other suburbs.

Median prices for Norwood, SA (5067), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $1,400,000
• Units – $630,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/norwood-5067/

Norwood’s strong market growth, employment opportunities, and vibrant lifestyle make it a top choice for investors, despite its high property prices and congestion issues.

7. Mawson Lakes – Total Score: 79/100

Mawson Lakes blends modern infrastructure with excellent educational facilities but has slower market growth and moderate rental yields.

Scoring Criteria:

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

Mawson Lakes offers modern living with excellent educational facilities, making it a solid investment option.  The suburb boasts modern infrastructure and efficient public transport options.  Home to excellent educational institutions like UniSA Mawson Lakes Campus.  Offers a family-friendly environment with numerous parks and recreational activities.  High-quality amenities including shopping centres, cafes, and healthcare facilities.

Slower market growth of 4% annually compared to other suburbs.  Moderate rental yield of 3.6%, which might not be as attractive to investors seeking high returns.  Median house price of $700,000, which is relatively affordable but shows slower appreciation.

Median prices for Mawson Lakes, SA (5095), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $730,000
• Units – $440,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/mawson-lakes-5095/

Mawson Lakes’ modern infrastructure, quality schools, and community appeal make it a strong investment, though slower market growth and moderate rental yields are considerations.

6. Unley – Total Score: 80/100

Unley combines historical charm with modern conveniences but comes with high property prices and parking issues.

Scoring Criteria:

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

Unley offers a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, making it an attractive investment choice.  Unley’s heritage-listed properties add a unique appeal.  Vibrant lifestyle with cafes, boutiques, and community events.  Excellent schools, including Unley Primary and Unley High School.  Well-connected by public transport, making it convenient for residents.

High median house price of $1,800,000, potentially limiting affordability.  Limited parking, especially during peak hours, can be a drawback.  Rental yield of 3.5% is lower compared to other investment opportunities.

Median prices for Unley, SA (5061), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $1,815,000
• Units – $636,667

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/unley-5061/

Unley’s blend of historical charm, modern conveniences, and quality schools make it a prime investment, despite high property prices and parking issues.

5. Marion – Total Score: 82/100

Marion offers strong market growth and excellent amenities but faces challenges with public transport and congestion.

Scoring Criteria:

• Market Growth: 9/10
• Rental Yield: 8/10
• Employment Opportunities: 8/10
• Population Growth: 8/10
• 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: 9/10

Marion is known for its strong market growth and excellent amenities, making it a compelling investment choice.  Annual property value growth of 7%, indicating strong investment potential.  Home to Westfield Marion, one of the largest shopping centres in South Australia.  Family-friendly environment with numerous parks and recreational activities.  Proximity to Flinders University and Flinders Medical Centre offers ample job opportunities.

Public transport options are not as extensive, posing a challenge for non-drivers.  Traffic congestion during peak hours can be an issue.  While decent, schools in Marion are not as highly rated as those in other suburbs.

Median prices for Marion, SA (5043), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $806,000
• Units – $575,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/marion-5043/

Marion’s market growth, amenities, and employment opportunities make it a strong investment, despite public transport and congestion challenges.

4. Brighton – Total Score: 84/100

Brighton offers a coastal lifestyle with strong rental yields but faces high property prices and seasonal rental demand.

Scoring Criteria:

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

Brighton combines a coastal lifestyle with strong rental yields, making it an appealing investment option.  Proximity to the beach offers a desirable lifestyle.  High rental yield of 4.5%, ensuring good returns for investors.  Excellent schools such as Brighton Secondary School enhance the suburb’s appeal.  Numerous cafes, restaurants, and shopping centres add to the suburb’s attractiveness.

High median house price of $1,300,000 may limit affordability.  Rental demand can fluctuate seasonally, with higher vacancy rates during off-peak periods.  Traffic congestion, especially during summer, can be a drawback.

Median prices for Brighton, SA (5048), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $1,300,000
• Units – $700,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/brighton-5048/

Brighton’s coastal lifestyle, rental yields, and quality schools make it a top investment choice, despite high property prices and seasonal rental demand.

3. Henley Beach – Total Score: 85/100

Henley Beach combines beachfront living with strong market growth but faces high property prices and limited public transport.

Scoring Criteria:

• Market Growth: 9/10
• Rental Yield: 8/10
• Employment Opportunities: 9/10
• Population Growth: 9/10
• 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: 10/10

Henley Beach offers beachfront living with strong market growth, making it an attractive investment option.  Annual property value growth of 8%, indicating strong investment potential.  Vibrant beachfront lifestyle with numerous cafes and restaurants.  High-quality amenities, including parks and recreational facilities.  Strong rental yield of 4.3%, ensuring good returns for investors.

High median house price of $1,400,000 may limit affordability.  Limited public transport options can pose a challenge.  Seasonal fluctuations in rental demand can affect vacancy rates.

Median prices for Henley Beach, SA (5022), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $1,450,000
• Units – $670,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/henley-beach-5022/

Henley Beach’s beachfront living, market growth, and amenities make it a prime investment, despite high property prices and limited public transport.

2. North Adelaide – Total Score: 87/100

North Adelaide offers historical charm with excellent amenities but faces high property prices and congestion issues.

Scoring Criteria:

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

North Adelaide offers historical charm and excellent amenities, making it a top investment choice.  Heritage-listed properties add a unique appeal.  Proximity to the CBD provides ample job opportunities.  Excellent schools such as North Adelaide Primary School enhance the suburb’s appeal.  High-quality amenities, including parks, cafes, and shopping centres.

High median house price of $1,300,000 may limit affordability.  Traffic congestion during peak hours can be an issue.  Limited parking, especially during peak hours, can be a drawback.

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/

North Adelaide’s historical charm, employment opportunities, and quality schools make it a prime investment, despite high property prices and congestion issues.

1. Burnside – Total Score: 88/100

Burnside offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities but comes with high property prices and moderate rental yields.

Scoring Criteria:

• Market Growth: 9/10
• Rental Yield: 8/10
• 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: 10/10
• Rental Vacancy Rate: 10/10

Burnside tops the list with its blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it the best investment choice for 2024.  Proximity to the Adelaide Hills offers a picturesque environment.  Excellent schools such as Burnside Primary School enhance the suburb’s appeal.  High-quality amenities, including parks, cafes, and shopping centres.  Annual property value growth of 9%, indicating strong investment potential.

High median house price of $1,400,000 may limit affordability.  Moderate rental yield of 3.9%, which might not be as attractive to investors seeking high returns.  Traffic congestion during peak hours can be an issue.

Median prices for Burnside, SA (5066), as of July 2024:

• Houses – $1,437,000
• Units – $675,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/sa/burnside-5066/

Burnside’s natural beauty, quality schools, and market growth make it the top investment suburb in South Australia for 2024, despite high property prices and moderate rental yields.

How I Scored Each Suburb

Market Growth

Market Growth evaluates the increase in property values over time. This metric is crucial because consistent growth indicates a strong, stable market and good investment potential.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have stagnant or declining property values, such as Elizabeth North.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would have seen significant property value appreciation, like Kensington Gardens.

Rental Yield

Rental Yield measures the annual rental income as a percentage of the property’s value. This is important because a higher yield means better cash flow for investors.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have very low rental yields, around 2%, such as Parafield Gardens.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would have high rental yields, around 6%, like Ferryden Park.

Employment Opportunities

Employment Opportunities assess the availability of jobs in or near the suburb. A thriving job market attracts residents, driving demand for housing.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have limited job opportunities, such as Waterloo Corner.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would be close to significant employment hubs, like Thebarton.

Population Growth

Population Growth indicates the rate at which a suburb’s population is increasing. Steady growth suggests ongoing demand for housing.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have a declining population, like Peterhead.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would have rapid population growth, such as Mount Barker.

Quality of Schools

Quality of Schools measures the availability and standard of educational institutions in the area. Good schools attract families and increase property demand.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have poorly rated schools, like Pennington.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would have top-tier schools, such as Blackwood.

Community and Lifestyle

Community and Lifestyle assess the overall liveability, including social activities, safety, and sense of community.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would lack social amenities and have higher crime rates, such as Kilburn.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would offer a vibrant, safe community with plenty of activities, like Stirling.

Median House Price

Median House Price reflects the typical cost of homes in the suburb. It’s important for assessing affordability and market entry points.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have extremely high prices relative to the area, such as Medindie.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would offer affordable entry points, like Hackham.

Public Transport and Infrastructure

Public Transport and Infrastructure evaluate the quality and accessibility of transport options and other infrastructure. This is crucial for daily commuting and overall convenience.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have poor transport links and infrastructure, such as Smithfield Plains.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would have excellent public transport and infrastructure, like Bowden.

Local Amenities

Local Amenities look at the availability of essential services and recreational facilities. This includes shopping centres, parks, healthcare, and entertainment.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would lack essential amenities, like Angle Park.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would have abundant and high-quality amenities, such as Payneham.

Rental Vacancy Rate

Rental Vacancy Rate measures the percentage of available rental properties that are vacant. A lower vacancy rate indicates strong demand for rentals.

• A suburb scoring 1 – would have high vacancy rates, suggesting weak rental demand, such as Salisbury North.
• A suburb scoring 10 – would have very low vacancy rates, indicating strong rental demand, like Lockleys.

My Research: Combining Data and Local Expertises

Compiling this list of top investment suburbs in South Australia for 2024 was a rigorous journey that involved gathering extensive data and immersing myself in local experiences. Data was sourced from a variety of platforms, including CoreLogic, REA and Domain for market trends, rental yields, and median house prices. Additionally, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) provided valuable insights into population growth and employment opportunities. Local Council (LGAs) websites and publications were also referenced to understand infrastructure developments and community initiatives. These combined sources provided a comprehensive view of each suburb’s potential for investment.

To gain firsthand knowledge, I visited numerous suburbs, spending time in local cafes and restaurants to soak in the community vibe. For instance, in Prospect, I frequented Café Komodo and Muratti Cakes & Gateaux, engaging with locals about their living experiences. In Glenelg, dining at The Moseley Bar & Kitchen offered a taste of the suburb’s vibrant social scene. These visits were crucial in understanding the lifestyle and community appeal of each area.

Local news articles and community forums were also instrumental in my research. The Advertiser, InDaily and other media source, provided up-to-date information on developments and events impacting various suburbs. Engaging with residents through social media groups online, Reddit, Facebook and other google groups allowed me to gather insights on the ground realities, from public transport efficiency to school quality. 

In Conclusion

Investing in property is a significant decision, and I understand the importance of choosing the right suburb to maximize your returns. After thorough research and analysis, I’ve identified the top 10 suburbs in South Australia to invest in for 2024, below:

1. Burnside – Total Score: 88/100
2. North Adelaide – Total Score: 87/100
3. Henley Beach – Total Score: 85/100
4. Brighton – Total Score: 84/100
5. Marion – Total Score: 82/100
6. Unley – Total Score: 80/100
7. Mawson Lakes – Total Score: 79/100
8. Norwood – Total Score: 78/100
9. Glenelg – Total Score: 77/100
10. Prospect – Total Score: 75/100

I’ve evaluated each of these suburbs based on criteria such as market growth, rental yield, employment opportunities, population growth, quality of schools, community and lifestyle, median house price, public transport and infrastructure, local amenities, and rental vacancy rate. Whether you’re looking for strong rental returns, a family-friendly environment, or vibrant community life, these suburbs offer excellent investment potential.

If you need help finding a suitable property, consider using a professional residential buyer’s agent to guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision. Investing in the right suburb can set the foundation for a prosperous future, and a professional can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the real estate market.

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