What Brisbane's median house price could buy in regional Queensland

Sure, Brisbane is more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne – or even Woollongong. But that doesn’t mean the city lifestyle is for everyone; and getting bang for your buck can often be subjective.

In the city, the median house price of $541,000 can get you a modest family home, or maybe an apartment close to the city.

In regional Queensland, that can buy a lot more. Exclusive beachfront retreats and expansive mountain homes could be yours for close to the median price.

In the sleepy beachside town of Rainbow Beach, $541,000 could net you a lucrative holiday home or a place to retire in down the track with some cash to spare. Cooloola Coast realty owner Dee White said she’s seen plenty of buyers coming up from Brisbane.

“We’ve noticed a trend of people buying a holiday house here with the intent of retiring in four to five years and living in that house,” she said. 

McGrath agent Denise Upton said a tree change to a town like Toowoomba can also be good for those looking to escape city life. “It’s a sophisticated country lifestyle, it’s in between the country and city,” she said. 

Beachfront living

10 Naiad Court has five bedrooms and three bathrooms and can be leased out out as a holiday rental. The selling agents estimate the gross income would be up to $35,000 a year.

Mountain manse

If you’re tired of the rat race and the beach just isn’t your thing, the opportunity for a tree change in Toowoomba could be for you.

This 1.7 hectare property, just 15 kilometres from the CBD, is for sale at $539,000. It has enough space for a hobby farm or keeping horses, not to mention a charming country character.

Island home

Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and popular tourist destination, unique to Queensland. The island only has a few dozen permanent residents, and blocks of land are few and far between.

Lot 2 Esplanade comes in under budget and can also double as a holiday rental which sleeps 12.

Rainforest retreat

Just outside Cairns, this Kamerunga property is bordered by the rainforest and has the spectacular views you’d expect. It’s a bit over budget at $549,000. 

The spacious Queenslander has four bedrooms, including a granny flat on the lower level. The pool even has a waterfall, imitating Cairns’ many swimming holes.