ACT Property Market Forecast 2026: Growth suburbs, high-yield hotspots, and investment opportunities

Thinking about buying in Canberra this year? Here’s where the opportunities are.

27 January 2026

5 minute read

Bea Nicole Amarille

Thinking about buying in Canberra this year? Here’s where the opportunities are.

The ACT property market has been relatively steady, with modest price growth and stable rental conditions in the latest data. For buyers and investors, the key is understanding where demand is holding up, and what that could mean for your next move.

For first-home buyers, investors and upgraders, that means focusing on fundamentals like price trends, time on market and rental movement, and getting clear on what you can comfortably afford.

Quick summary 

  1. The ACT median house price sits at $986,241, with prices up 1.22% over the past year.

  2. Median rent is $650 per week, with 0.00% annual rent growth in the latest data period.

  3. Homes are taking a median of 47 days to sell, suggesting a more measured pace than faster-moving states.

  4. Total sales over the past 12 months: 5,401, reflecting a smaller market with more limited turnover.

  5. Action tip: Use Aussie’s Home Loan Health Check and Borrowing Power Calculator to understand your options before you make an offer.

Source: Cotality

Australian Capital Territory property market at a glance (latest data)

Metric

ACT

Median house price

$986,241

Median rent

$650 per week

Annual price growth

1.22%

Annual rent growth

0.00%

Median days on market

47 days

Total properties sold (12 months)

5,401

Source: Cotality

Looking to buy with a smaller deposit?

From 1 Oct, the 5% option is now available for eligible buyers, with increased maximum home price limits in every state.

ACT property market overview

The ACT market has remained relatively steady in the latest data, with modest price growth and a measured pace of sales. For buyers, that can mean more time to compare options and get your finance sorted before you commit.

5 key trends in the ACT market: 

  1. Price growth has been modest, supporting steadier buyer conditions.

  2. Rent growth has been flat in the latest data period, which may influence investor cash-flow expectations.

  3. Days on the market suggest a more measured pace, rather than a rush of competition.

  4. With fewer total sales than larger states, ACT conditions can vary more by suburb and property type.

  5. Understanding your borrowing power and loan options can help you move decisively when the right property comes up.

Supply vs. buyer demand 

Inner suburbs like Griffith, Dickson and Chisholm remain high-demand areas for both renters and buyers. Low supply and rising rental demand have kept yields healthy, even with slight drops in prices. 

In parts of Canberra, buyer and renter demand remains steady. With properties taking a median of 47 days to sell, it can pay to stay organised, and be ready to act when a suitable home comes onto the market.

Regional migration, downsizing trends, and hybrid working are supporting activity in the apartment market, particularly around lifestyle hubs and university precincts. 

Source: Cotality

Find the best suburb for you – start your property research today!

Metro snapshot: Where’s the movement? 

Suburb 

6-month growth 

1-year growth 

Braddon 

2.9% 

-7.8% 

Belconnen 

2.3% 

-4.5% 

Cook 

2.0% 

-1.3% 

Red Hill 

0.8% 

-2.6% 

Calwell 

0.4% 

-0.4% 

Source: Cotality

While growth can vary by suburb and property type, historical data shows some areas have been more resilient than others, particularly in well-connected, high-amenity precincts.  

“Braddon, Belconnen and Dickson are seeing a surge in development thanks to their location within or near Canberra’s major town centres. These suburbs are benefiting from ongoing infrastructure investment and are on the radar for both owner-occupiers and investors. 

For buyers chasing prestige and school access, Red Hill and Griffith remain top-tier. They’re centrally located and fall within some of Canberra’s most desirable public and private school catchments.” - Joseph Pham, Aussie Franchisee, Woden 

It is never too early to chat with an Aussie Broker

Top ACT suburbs for property investors 

Based on historical data, suburbs that have shown relatively higher rental yields include:

Suburb 

Rental yield 

Rental growth 

Griffith 

5.0% 

0.5% 

Dickson 

6.0% 

0.3% 

Chisholm 

4.2% 

1.7% 

Ngunnawal 

4.1% 

0.6% 

Monash 

4.1% 

0.6% 

Source: Cotality  

“If you’re looking for value, suburbs like Cook, Calwell, Chisholm, Ngunnawal and Monash offer great opportunities. They’re more affordable than neighbouring areas but still well-connected and family-friendly.” - Joseph Pham, Aussie Franchisee, Aussie Woden 

Tip: Use the Aussie App to track rental performance, suburb insights and your live equity position. 

Home loan & financing considerations 

With modest price adjustments and solid rental income, it’s a good time to re-check your buying capacity. Use Aussie’s Borrowing Power Calculator or speak with an Aussie broker to understand your position. 

First-Home Buyer support includes: 

  • ACT First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme (stamp duty concessions) 

  • Shared equity schemes for eligible buyers 

  • Some apartments and townhouses may fall under key price points in select areas (eligibility and thresholds apply).

Try Aussie's Borrowing Power Calculator

Find out how much you might be able to borrow for your home loan

You might also be interested in: Help to Buy Scheme: Fast track homeownership 

Refinancing and equity opportunities 

Recent price movements could affect your loan-to-value ratio. Whether you’re refinancing for a sharper rate or accessing equity to invest, Aussie’s tools can help. 

Your next steps 

The ACT market has remained relatively steady in the latest data, with modest price growth and a measured pace of sales. If you’re buying or investing, understanding your borrowing power and comparing your options can help you move forward with confidence.

Aussie can help you:

  • Access suburb-level reports and rental data 

  • Compare over 4,000 loans from 25+ lenders** 

  • Get guidance from a local Aussie Broker 

Make your next move in Canberra with confidence. 

Book a free^ appointment with an Aussie Broker today

A quick check-in could save you thousands over the life of your loan.

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