New Place Advisory data and on-the-ground agents insights reveal a trend reshaping Southeast Queensland’s property market: Brisbane locals are snapping up weekenders in hinterland and coastal towns just 1–2 hours from the city.
In lifestyle belts like the Scenic Rim and Somerset, agents say up to half of buyers inspecting acreage and lifestyle homes are Brisbane locals chasing a weekender escape.
“Around 50% of the people we’re meeting at open homes are Brisbane locals. They’re not looking to move permanently; they want a weekender. Somewhere green, private, and within a short drive of the city,” said Paris Arthur, Place Graceville.
This surge aligns with data showing:
- Regional house values in QLD up 56% since 2020, compared to 34% in capital cities (CoreLogic).
- Scenic Rim prices up 74% since 2020, with acreage blocks in hot demand.
- Sunshine Coast medians now higher than Brisbane’s – $1.05M vs $900k.
According to Paris, the motivation is lifestyle, not relocation.
“The big drivers are flexibility and wellbeing. Many of these families work in the city during the week, but they want their kids to spend weekends outside, with space and fresh air. A weekender gives them both,” Paris said.
The Weekender Hotspots:
- Tallegalla, Scenic Rim: Acreages with mountain views. 50% of buyer interest from Brisbane locals.
- Tamborine Mountain: Privacy, Airbnb appeal, strong Brisbane demand.
- Sunshine Coast Hinterland: Towns like Maleny saw a 306% YoY surge in buyer searches (PropTrack).
- Toowoomba: 20–30% annual growth in some suburbs, fuelled by new highway links.
“This isn’t just a post-COVID fad. Brisbane locals are re-evaluating their lifestyles. A second home is becoming as aspirational as a beach holiday; it’s the new symbol of success.”
With limited supply in hinterland and coastal markets, experts warn competition will stay fierce. Many locals report competing against multiple Brisbane families for the same “weekend escape” listings.
For further media enquiries, please contact Place’s Head of PR, Jenna Fearnley: 0423 362 570.