Melbourne: Australia's Most Affordable Major City Housing Market
Melbourne: Australia's Most Affordable Major City Housing Market
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
Recent data from PropTrack highlights Melbourne as the most affordable major capital city in Australia for housing, as it continues to record the slowest dwelling value growth compared to other state capitals.
Over the year leading up to August, Melbourne's property prices increased by merely 2.1%, starkly overshadowed by the growth rates in cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Melbourne's dwelling values have shown a modest 20% increase. In contrast, increases elsewhere in Australia include 42% in Sydney, 96% in Brisbane, and over 90% in both Perth and Adelaide. Consequently, Melbourne's median dwelling value now stands at $830,000, making it the most affordable among Australia's five major capitals, and significantly lower than the combined average.
This affordability is a contrast to Melbourne housing trends over the last two decades. However, experts forecast a potential shift. KPMG predicts robust price growth for Melbourne, expecting it to outpace the national average in 2026 with an anticipated growth rate of 6.6%, driven by escalating interest from savvy investors.
The city is attracting high-income investors beyond its borders, particularly from Western Australia. Buyer advocate Arin Russell notes that both first-time buyers and seasoned investors are seeking opportunities in Melbourne, keen to invest before an expected market upswing.
Despite the economic challenges facing Victoria, including significant state debt and rising crime in Melbourne, the city's current affordability presents a unique opportunity for buyers. As KPMG's chief economist Brendan Rynne suggests, the unit market might see the most considerable gains due to its favourable affordability.
As Melbourne prepares to potentially lead the national housing price growth, its current market presents an attractive proposition for bargain hunters eyeing considerable returns in the near future.
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
In January 2026, Australia's housing market experienced a notable surge in home loan approvals, with a 10.6% increase compared to the previous month. This substantial growth far exceeds December's 4.7% rise, highlighting a robust demand for housing credit amid a tight market. - read more
In response to rising risk concerns, major Australian banks are tightening their mortgage lending criteria, particularly for loans involving trust and company structures. ANZ, for instance, has introduced new policies requiring borrowers to be existing customers for a specified period before applying for such loans. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has raised its fixed mortgage rates, with the three-year fixed rate increasing to 6.04% from 5.34%, effective January 15, 2026. This adjustment reflects expectations of potential interest rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) in the near future. - read more
According to KPMG's latest Residential Property Outlook, Australian house prices are projected to increase by 7.7% in 2026. This forecast indicates a continuation of the strong momentum observed in the property market during the latter half of 2025, driven by government policies and inflationary pressures. - read more
ANZ Research has indicated that Australia's housing market may be approaching a modest slowdown, with regional variations becoming more pronounced. Economists Madeline Dunk and Jack Chambers suggest that leading indicators point to fading momentum, particularly in certain areas. - read more
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is a quintessential part of the American dream, one that conjures images of stability, accomplishment, and personal sanctuary. Yet, this dream comes with significant financial implications that can often feel daunting to aspiring homeowners. Navigating the landscape of real estate and mortgages requires an understanding of the economic commitment it entails. - read more
Welcome to our guide on simple steps to boost your home deposit savings! We’re thrilled to have you here as you embark on the exciting journey towards home ownership. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upsize, saving for a home deposit is a crucial step. - read more
For potential and seasoned investors alike, the Australian property landscape offers a plethora of opportunities. Investment properties have long been a favored asset class in Australia due to the potential for capital growth and rental yield. However, diving into the property market without a solid understanding of the financial mechanics, specifically interest rates, can be akin to sailing without a compass. - read more
When it comes to managing finances, one of the biggest stressors for homeowners is their mortgage. In Australia, many individuals and families struggle with mortgage stress, which can have a significant impact on their overall financial well-being. - read more
Need Help Finding a Home Loan?
Get your free home loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without
obligation. We respect your
privacy.
"Mastering Home Loans: Navigating the Australian Mortgage Market"