The Mackay property market has entered 2026 with strong momentum, continuing the growth seen throughout 2024–2025. Tight rental conditions, rising buyer demand, low stock levels, and ongoing economic expansion have positioned Mackay as one of Queensland’s most resilient and appealing regional markets. [gardian.com.au]
This update brings together the latest insights for buyers, sellers, and investors looking to understand where the market is heading as we begin the new year.
Market Performance Snapshot (Late 2025 → Early 2026)
Median Prices & Growth
Data from realestate.com.au shows Mackay’s property prices experienced robust annual growth:
Houses: $594,000 median, up 25.9% from last January
Units: $400,000 median, up 21.2% from last January
High demand and limited supply have contributed to quick selling times—just
33 days. [realestate.com.au]
Buyer Demand & Market Conditions
Strong Buyer Confidence
Enquiry volumes remain very high, with
733 buyers expressing interest in Mackay houses in the last 12 months.
[realestate.com.au]Key Market Drivers
According to Gardian’s December 2025 update, Mackay’s strength is underpinned by:
A diversified local economy (mining, agriculture, logistics, manufacturing, tourism)
Population growth and strong migration
Tight supply and fast days‑on‑market
One of Queensland’s strongest rental yield environments
[gardian.com.au]
Rental Market: Still Critically Tight
Vacancy Rates
Vacancy rates remain exceptionally low:
Queensland-wide vacancy remains around
1.0% entering 2026, well below the “healthy” range of 2.6–3.5%
[therealest…ion.com.au]
Rental Prices
Strong yields and extremely limited availability continue to attract investors.
Economic & Infrastructure Factors Supporting Growth
Council Priorities & Housing Strategy
The Mackay Regional Council's Economic Development Strategy 2025–2030 emphasises that housing supply is critical to supporting the region’s economic growth. Key points include:
The
Draft Mackay Region Housing Strategy 2025–2030 also highlights the need for more diverse housing to support smaller households — now the fastest‑growing demographic.
[mackayandw…aylife.com]➡️ Explore council projects:
https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au
Key Suburb Performance (Approx. Past 12 months)
West Mackay: ~$617,000 (21.9% growth)
South Mackay: ~$582,250 (21.3% growth)
North Mackay: ~$580,000 (20.8% growth)
East Mackay: ~$640,000 - $650,000 (15% - 24% growth)
What This Means for Sellers in 2026
Gardian’s analysis indicates that:
Sellers benefit from tight stock levels and fast buyer enquiry
Presentation quality and precision pricing are crucial, as buyers remain budget‑conscious
Median days on market remain low, creating favourable selling conditions entering 2026
[gardian.com.au]
Thinking of selling?
https://www.gardian.com.au can help you plan the right strategy.
Outlook for the Rest of 2026
Forecasts remain positive for the Mackay–Whitsunday region, with experts predicting:
Mackay’s affordability relative to other QLD regions, combined with strong employment and lifestyle appeal, will likely keep demand elevated for both buyers and renters.
Final Takeaway
As 2026 begins, Mackay stands out as one of Queensland’s strongest and most stable regional property markets.
Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, the fundamentals remain in your favour: low supply, strong yields, rapid population growth, and a proactive council shaping long‑term housing solutions.
