Brisbane’s Evolving Rental Market: What’s Driving Tenant Demand in 2025?
Brisbane’s rental market has shifted significantly in recent years, influenced by economic trends, population growth, and evolving tenant preferences. While vacancy rates remain low, affordability pressures and lifestyle factors are changing where and how people choose to rent.
For property investors and landlords, understanding what’s driving tenant demand in 2025 is key to securing consistent rental income, minimising vacancies, and maximising returns.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research and consult a licensed professional before making property investment decisions.
Key Factors Influencing Tenant Demand in Brisbane
Several macro and local factors continue to shape Brisbane’s rental market.
- Population Growth & Migration Trends
Brisbane has experienced strong population growth, driven by:
- Interstate migration from southern capitals, particularly Sydney and Melbourne.
- International migration returning to pre-pandemic levels, increasing demand for rental properties.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS, 2024), Queensland recorded one of the highest net migration rates in Australia, further intensifying rental demand.
Impact on the Rental Market:
✔ More demand for well-located rentals near employment hubs and transport.
✔ Tighter rental market, keeping vacancy rates low.
✔ Continued pressure on rental prices, especially for houses.
- Affordability Pressures Changing Tenant Preferences
While Brisbane remains more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne, rental costs have increased by 3.6% over the past year (CoreLogic, 2024). Rising rental prices are leading to:
- More shared housing arrangements, with tenants looking to split costs.
- Increased demand for townhouses and units as alternatives to houses.
- Longer lease terms, as renters prioritise stability.
Impact on the Rental Market:
✔ Greater demand for affordable unit rentals in middle-ring suburbs.
✔ Houses in shared-living setups remain popular.
✔ Rental growth moderating in some areas as affordability limits pushback.
- Changing Work & Lifestyle Trends
The shift toward remote and hybrid work models has changed what tenants value in a rental property.
- Suburbs with better lifestyle amenities (parks, cafes, and public transport) are seeing increased demand.
- Tenants prioritise properties with home office space, making larger apartments and houses more attractive.
- Areas with strong transport links continue to outperform in rental demand.
Impact on the Rental Market:
✔ Strong demand for properties with work-from-home flexibility.
✔ Proximity to green spaces and lifestyle hubs more important than ever.
✔ Increased demand for larger rental properties outside the immediate CBD.
- Infrastructure & Economic Development Driving Rental Demand
Brisbane’s infrastructure boom, including projects like the 2025 Brisbane Metro, Cross River Rail, and the 2032 Olympics preparations, is attracting workers and businesses to key growth corridors.
- Suburbs along new transport routes are seeing increased tenant demand.
- Employment hubs near infrastructure projects are drawing workers into surrounding rental markets.
Impact on the Rental Market:
✔ Higher rental demand in suburbs along transport and infrastructure corridors.
✔ Stronger tenant competition near major employment hubs.
✔ Potential for long-term rental price growth in well-connected suburbs.
Suburbs Seeing Strong Tenant Demand in 2025
Based on these trends, some Brisbane suburbs are performing particularly well for rental demand.
| Suburb | Distance from CBD | Rental Demand Drivers |
| Chermside | 9km | Strong transport links, major shopping and health precinct. |
| Coorparoo | 6km | Desirable lifestyle amenities, easy CBD access. |
| Nundah | 8km | High rental yields, well-connected to city and airport. |
| Holland Park | 7km | Family-friendly, demand for larger rental homes. |
| Woolloongabba | 3km | Infrastructure development, Cross River Rail impact. |
How Brisbane Landlords Can Maximise Rental Demand in 2025
With rental trends evolving, landlords can adapt their strategy to meet tenant expectations and remain competitive.
✔ Consider rental pricing adjustments – Setting rent at a competitive market rate ensures faster leasing and minimises vacancy periods.
✔ Offer flexible lease terms – Longer lease terms appeal to tenants seeking stability, while furnished properties may attract professionals or interstate renters.
✔ Invest in tenant-friendly features – Properties with home office spaces, air-conditioning, and modern amenities will remain highly desirable.
✔ Choose locations near transport and amenities – Suburbs with strong infrastructure and lifestyle appeal will continue to attract long-term tenants.
Ensure Your Investment Property is Performing in 2025
The Brisbane rental market is changing, and landlords who align with tenant demand will see better occupancy rates and rental performance.
At Worth Real Estate, we specialise in:
- Maximising rental returns through strategic pricing and tenant selection.
- Minimising vacancy periods with proactive property management.
- Ensuring legal compliance with evolving Queensland rental laws.
If you want to stay ahead in Brisbane’s rental market, contact us today for a comprehensive rental assessment and professional property management support.
Sources & Data References
- CoreLogic Australia – 2024 Brisbane Property Market Report
- Queensland Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) – Rental Market Trends
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) – Brisbane Housing & Population Growth Data