Regional Property Hotspots 2026: Affordable Towns Near Cities
With capital city prices continuing to push higher, more Australians are looking to regional towns that offer affordability without sacrificing access to the city. Remote and hybrid work have made this more practical than ever. Here are some of the standout regional areas within commuting distance of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Within 90 Minutes of Sydney
Wollongong and the Illawarra
Just over an hour south of Sydney, Wollongong offers beaches, a growing university town, and median house prices well below Sydney. The South Coast rail line provides a direct commute, and the area has attracted significant infrastructure investment.
Central Coast
Suburbs like Gosford, Terrigal, and Woy Woy sit roughly an hour north of Sydney by train. The Central Coast offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with median prices typically 40 to 50 per cent below comparable Sydney suburbs.
Katoomba and the Blue Mountains
For those who prefer mountains over beaches, the Blue Mountains offers a cooler climate and strong community feel. The train to the CBD takes around two hours, but many residents work remotely or commute a few days per week.
Within 90 Minutes of Melbourne
Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula
Geelong has undergone a transformation in recent years, with waterfront developments and a thriving food scene. Just over an hour from Melbourne CBD by train or car, median house prices remain significantly more affordable.
Ballarat
One of Victoria's fastest-growing regional cities, Ballarat offers strong community infrastructure, heritage character, and house prices that are a fraction of Melbourne's. The V/Line service runs frequently to Southern Cross station.
Torquay and the Surf Coast
Popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts, the Surf Coast shire offers a lifestyle-driven market. Prices have grown strongly but still represent value compared to Melbourne's inner and middle suburbs.
Within 90 Minutes of Brisbane
Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Towns like Maleny, Montville, and Nambour offer a cooler subtropical climate with stunning hinterland views. The Bruce Highway upgrade has improved commute times, and the area continues to attract interstate buyers.
Ipswich
One of Queensland's most affordable corridors, Ipswich is benefiting from major transport and infrastructure investment. It is roughly 40 minutes from Brisbane CBD and offers some of the lowest median prices within the greater Brisbane region.
Toowoomba
Sitting atop the Great Dividing Range, Toowoomba offers a distinct four-season climate and strong regional economy. The Toowoomba Second Range Crossing has cut travel time to Brisbane to around 90 minutes.
What to Consider Before Buying Regional
- Employment: Can you work remotely, or is there local employment in your field?
- Infrastructure: Check broadband quality, health services, and school options
- Transport links: Confirm actual commute times and public transport frequency
- Growth drivers: Look for areas with population growth, infrastructure spending, and diversified economies
- Rental demand: If buying as an investment, check vacancy rates and rental yields
Financing Regional Property
Some lenders have restrictions on regional postcodes or apply different valuations for towns with smaller populations. A mortgage broker familiar with regional lending can help you find a lender that suits the area you are buying in and ensure you get competitive terms.