Canberra Winter 2026 Property Market Report

Canberra’s residential property market is showing steady growth and improving activity, supported by rising sales volumes, tightening supply and strong rental demand. The Winter 2026 Canberra Residential Property Report highlights a balanced market, underpinned by population growth, constrained housing availability and sustained buyer interest across the capital.

For buyers, investors and owner‑occupiers, Canberra real estate continues to offer stable price growth, solid rental performance and long‑term investment potential in a tightening market.

Sales activity strengthens across Canberra
Residential sales across Canberra increased 12% over the past year, reaching 10,527 transactions and outperforming the five‑year annual average.


This uplift reflects improving market conditions, supported by population growth and steady demand across housing segments.


At the same time, homes are selling faster, with average days on market falling to 45 days, indicating stronger buyer activity and competition.

Supply constraints continue to shape market conditions
Housing supply across Canberra remains limited, with new listings declining 16.0% year‑on‑year and total listings down 7.3%.


Population growth of 1.3% continues to drive demand and place pressure on available housing stock.


Construction delivery declined 18.0% over the past year, further contributing to restricted supply across the market.

Moderate price growth with stable outlook
Canberra residential property prices increased 5.8% over the past year, bringing the median residential value to approximately $879,600.


Quarterly price growth of 0.5% reflects steady market conditions and ongoing price stability.


Looking ahead, McGrath Research forecasts price growth of 2% in 2026, followed by a stable outlook in 2027, indicating a sustained but moderate growth cycle.

Rental market remains undersupplied
Canberra’s rental market continues to experience undersupply, with vacancy rates at 1.2%, well below the balanced benchmark of 3%.


Rents increased 7.3% year‑on‑year to a median of $665 per week, reflecting strong tenant demand and limited supply.


Rental growth is forecast to continue, with rents expected to rise 4% in 2026 and a further 3% in 2027.


Gross rental yields currently sit at 4.20%, offering solid returns for investors in a tightening rental market.

Economic fundamentals supporting demand
Canberra’s property market is supported by steady population growth and broader economic conditions, although borrowing costs remain elevated.


The cash rate currently sits at 4.35%, influencing borrowing capacity and affordability.


Unemployment is recorded at 4.6%, supporting household incomes and ongoing housing demand.

Outlook for Canberra property in 2026
With rising sales activity, constrained supply and strong rental demand, Canberra’s property market is well positioned for steady growth in 2026.


For buyers and investors, the market offers a balanced mix of stability, rental performance and long‑term investment potential as demand continues to outweigh supply.

Explore the full Canberra Winter 2026 Property Report for detailed insights into sales trends, pricing and rental performance across the capital.