Mackay Property Market Prices and Insights 2025
Mackay is one of regional Queensland’s fastest-growing areas in 2025, particularly with those looking to purchase property. The region’s popularity stems from its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, pleasant tropical climate, and a local economy rooted in agriculture and mining.
Originally as a small coastal town in the mid-1800s, Mackay has seen significant development over the past decade to become the fourth-largest regional city in Queensland by population, as of 2025.
The rapid growth of Mackay’s property market highlights the high demand and potential for housing in the region. Over the past five years since September 2020, property prices in Mackay have experienced year-on-year growth as increased investment in the region enhances its appeal to home buyers and investors.
Key Statistics for Mackay’s Property Market
- Mackay has a current population of 128,361 people as of September 2025. The Mackay Regional Council estimates that the region will reach a total of 160,000 by 2046.
- 27% of the population live in rental accommodation (Real Estate Investar, September 2025).
- Mackay has a vacancy rate of 0.67%, well below the state average of 0.9%.
- Housing supply increased by 78%, represented by the increase in annual building approvals from 289 in 2023-24 to 517 in 2024-25.
- House prices increased by 22.08% to $597,000 over the 12 months leading up to September 2025.
- Unit prices increased by 16.66% to $350,000 over the 12 months leading up to September 2025.
- Median weekly rent in Mackay is $600 for houses and $430 for units (Real Estate Investar, September 2025).
Mackay House Prices and Rental Trends
Mackay’s house prices increased by 22.08% from September 2024 to September 2025. This price increase follows a trend of continuous growth since 2017, as house prices in Mackay have almost doubled over the eight-year period, rising from $300,000 to $597,000.
In terms of rental performance, houses in Mackay fetch a median weekly rent of $600, resulting in a rental yield of 5.22% - as of September 2025.
Mackay Unit Prices and Rental Trends
Unit prices in Mackay have also seen year-on-year growth from September 2024 to September 2025. Unit prices increased by 16.66% to $350,000, extending the trend of price growth to three consecutive years since 2022.
The median weekly rent for units in Mackay is $430, with an average rental yield of 6.38%, as of September 2025
Housing Demand in Mackay
Housing demand in Mackay is strong, as indicated by the low vacancy rate of 0.67% (as of September 2025) and climbing housing prices. Much of the demand for housing in Mackay is driven by the region’s lifestyle appeal for both homeowners and tenants.
Mackay is the gateway to tourist attractions like the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, as well as critical resources such as the coal mining deposits in Bowen and Galilee Basins. The region is also undergoing significant infrastructure development, such as the $250 million Mackay Base Hospital expansion slated for completion in the second half of 2026 and the March 2024 amendments to the Mackay Waterfront PDA development scheme. These developments are expected to drive further population growth and housing demand.
Should You Buy a Home or Invest in Mackay?
Home buyers and investors across Australia face rising prices and building costs, making it difficult to find value in a new home, especially in the competitive markets of capital cities.
Mackay’s real estate market offers buyers the potential to capitalise on future capital appreciation at a much lower price point. Mackay’s idyllic coastal environment further adds to the attractiveness of living or investing in the region.
For home buyers or investors looking at Mackay for a future home or lucrative investment, Cougar Homes offers a range of quality home designs for a custom home. As local builders operating across North Queensland, we’ve built a reputation for being the trusted choice for new home owners and investors. Get in touch with our team to discuss your future home in Mackay.