Top Suburbs to Invest in Queensland Property in 2025: Insights from John McGrath

As the Australian property market continues to evolve, investors are constantly on the lookout for the next big opportunity. In the recently released McGrath Report for 2025, John McGrath, one of Australia’s leading property commentators and founder of McGrath Estate Agents, has identified key suburbs in Queensland that are poised for growth. This article delves into McGrath’s top picks, providing insights into why these areas are becoming increasingly attractive for property investment.

Springwood: A Family-Friendly Gem

Topping McGrath’s list is Springwood, located approximately 20 kilometers south of Brisbane’s CBD. This suburb is undergoing a transformation as young professionals and families flock to the area, while baby boomers are moving out. The appeal of Springwood lies in its diverse housing options and family-friendly amenities, including a sprawling 36-hectare conservation park teeming with wildlife such as koalas and swamp wallabies.

The median house price in Springwood has seen a significant increase, rising from $540,000 five years ago to the current median of $820,000. This upward trend reflects the suburb’s growing popularity and the demand for quality housing in a convenient location.

Forest Lake: Value for Money

Just a 25-minute drive from Brisbane’s city center is Forest Lake, Brisbane’s first master-planned community established in the early 1990s. McGrath highlights the suburb’s unique selling point: properties here offer more value compared to inner-city options. The centerpiece of Forest Lake is a man-made lake, which enhances the suburb’s appeal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

With a median house price of around $950,000, Forest Lake is becoming a hotspot for buyers seeking spacious homes without the hefty price tag associated with inner Brisbane suburbs.

North Ipswich: Affordable Queenslander Charm

Further west lies North Ipswich, a suburb that McGrath believes offers an excellent opportunity for investors. Known for its historic Queenslander homes, North Ipswich allows buyers to purchase properties at a fraction of the cost compared to closer to the city. The suburb is set to benefit from improved public transport and infrastructure developments linked to the upcoming Olympics, including the $30 million North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct.

With a median house price of around $650,000, North Ipswich presents an attractive option for those looking to invest in a growing area with rich historical charm.

Caloundra West: The Rising Star of the Sunshine Coast

On the Sunshine Coast, Caloundra West is emerging as a strong contender for property investment. Traditionally overshadowed by its more glamorous neighbor, Caloundra, this suburb is now gaining attention from buyers seeking affordable housing options. McGrath notes that the suburb’s proximity to the coast and the new Stockland Aura development enhances its appeal as a desirable lifestyle choice.

With properties in Caloundra West priced competitively, this suburb is becoming increasingly attractive for both investors and families looking for a coastal lifestyle.

Townsville: A Cosmopolitan Coastal City

Finally, McGrath’s report highlights Townsville as a prime investment opportunity. This surprisingly cosmopolitan city boasts a vibrant dining scene, a growing number of breweries and distilleries, and stunning beaches. With property prices still relatively low compared to other parts of Queensland, Townsville offers high gross rental yields, making it a safe bet for investors.

The median house price in Townsville is around $559,000, providing an accessible entry point for both investors and owner-occupiers.

Affordability Trends in Greater Brisbane

According to PropTrack, many of Greater Brisbane’s most affordable suburbs are located in the southern Logan-Beaudesert and Ipswich regions. The report indicates that buyers can still find houses for under $600,000 in 43 Ipswich suburbs, with prices ranging from $392,500 to $592,500. Logan-Beaudesert also features 10 suburbs with median house values below $600,000, making these areas particularly appealing for first-home buyers.

The Changing Landscape of Property Investment

In the McGrath Report for 2025, John McGrath emphasizes that the era of 2% to 3% mortgage rates is over. Many buyers are now responding to tighter credit conditions by seeking more affordable areas or opting for smaller homes. Additionally, a significant demographic shift is occurring as Baby Boomers—who hold half of Australia’s private wealth—are making major buying and selling decisions, which has the potential to influence market dynamics significantly.

Conclusion

As Queensland’s property market continues to evolve, the suburbs highlighted in John McGrath’s report present exciting opportunities for investors. From the family-friendly environment of Springwood to the coastal charm of Caloundra West and the affordability of North Ipswich, these areas are set to thrive in the coming years. For those looking to invest in property in Queensland in 2025, these suburbs offer a blend of growth potential, lifestyle appeal, and affordability that is hard to ignore.