Finding the best rental suburbs in Brisbane has never mattered more. With vacancy rates under 1% and weekly rents still climbing, renters are facing tighter competition and fewer options.
Brisbane continues to appeal with its public transport, growing job market, and lifestyle perks, but with major infrastructure reshaping the city, not every suburb delivers the same value. Your choice of suburb can impact your budget, commute, and overall liveability.
At Zest Mortgage Solutions, backed by years of experience in the broker industry, we’ve put together our top picks for the best Brisbane rental suburbs that balance affordability, demand, and lifestyle in 2025.
Top 10 Best Rental Suburbs in Brisbane for Renters
1. Rocklea
Rocklea, in Brisbane’s south-west, combines quiet residential pockets with busy industrial zones and is home to the Brisbane Markets. It has easy access to major roads like the Ipswich and Logan motorways, making it practical for commuters.
The suburb also offers green space along Oxley Creek and is close to TAFE campuses and local parks. Its affordability and improving infrastructure continue to attract working professionals and families.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Rocklea offers renters space, lower rent, and quick CBD access via train or main roads. Upgrades to local infrastructure continue to boost its liveability and rental appeal in 2025.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$600
- Units: ~$500
- Houses: ~$600
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): Approx. 0.9%
- Rental Demand: High – especially among working households and trades
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~11 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Strong – Rocklea Train Station and bus routes
- Access to Amenities: Close to Brisbane Markets, local shops, parks, industrial zones
- Population Age Profile: Skewed towards 25–44-year-olds, with a growing number of young families and tradespeople
2. Chermside
Chermside is a major northern suburb known for its commercial and retail hub, including Westfield Chermside and The Prince Charles Hospital. It has grown rapidly with high-rise developments attracting young professionals.
Positioned just north of the CBD, it benefits from strong transport links and upgraded community facilities. The suburb balances urban living with green spaces like Marchant Park and 7th Brigade Park.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Chermside offers renters convenient access to jobs, shops, and transport without the high inner-city rent. Its mix of housing and ongoing development keeps it one of Brisbane’s most liveable northern suburbs.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$620
- Units: ~$510
- Houses: ~$620
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): Approx. 1.6%
- Rental Demand: Very High – driven by proximity to hospitals, shopping and bus interchange
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~9 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Excellent – major bus interchange, multiple high-frequency routes
- Access to Amenities: Westfield Chermside, Prince Charles Hospital, extensive parklands
- Population Age Profile: Mix of 20–39-year-olds, students, hospital staff, and small families
3. Hemmant
Hemmant is a quiet, residential suburb in Brisbane’s east, bordered by the Brisbane River and industrial areas near the Port. It has a family-friendly feel and strong connections via the Cleveland rail line and Wynnum Road.
Proximity to the Port of Brisbane Motorway makes it convenient for trade and logistics workers. The suburb offers a mix of housing and green spaces like Hemmant Quarry Reserve.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Hemmant offers renters affordability, space, and a quiet location within 20 minutes of the CBD. Its train access and proximity to industrial hubs make it practical for trades and working families, with transport upgrades adding long-term appeal.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$580
- Units: ~$500
- Houses: ~$580
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~0.8%
- Rental Demand: Steady – driven by affordability and proximity to port/logistics jobs
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~14 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Good – serviced by Hemmant Train Station
- Access to Amenities: Local shops, parks, Brisbane River access, industrial zones nearby
- Population Age Profile: Primarily 30–49-year-olds; family households and trade workers dominate
Renting now, buying later? Let our Brisbane mortgage brokers at Zest Mortgage Solutions show you how to budget smarter and financially plan your transition from tenant to homeowner in the suburb that suits your lifestyle. Call us today for a free consultation at (07) 3461 6499.
4. Salisbury
Salisbury is a well-established southside suburb with a strong community feel and leafy streets. It offers a mix of post-war homes, townhouses, and units between residential areas and nearby industrial zones.
The suburb is well-serviced by train and bus routes and sits close to Griffith University’s Nathan campus. Parks, local cafes, and access to Toohey Forest add to its suburban-with-nature appeal.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Salisbury combines affordability with a short CBD commute, offering good value for renters. Its community feel, housing variety, and access to jobs and education continue to drive demand and new rental options.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$600
- Units: ~$520
- Houses: ~$600
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~0.9%
- Rental Demand: High – driven by students, young families, and hospital workers
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~10 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Strong – Salisbury Train Station plus bus routes
- Access to Amenities: Local shops, Griffith University, parks, and community centres
- Population Age Profile: Mostly 25–44-year-olds, with a growing number of families and students
5. Lutwyche
Lutwyche is a compact inner-north suburb just a few kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD. It has seen steady upgrades, including new apartments, better roads, and improved walkability.
Lutwyche Centre anchors the local shopping scene, while Gympie Road provides strong transport links. A mix of housing and proximity to jobs and lifestyle precincts makes it popular with professionals and smaller households.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Lutwyche offers inner-city convenience without the high CBD rents, making it ideal for renters who commute. Strong public transport and local amenities add to its appeal, along with a quieter, more residential atmosphere.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$650
- Units: ~$550
- Houses: ~$650
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~1.0%
- Rental Demand: High – consistent due to location and transport access
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~5 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Excellent – high-frequency buses, nearby train stations
- Access to Amenities: Lutwyche Centre, gym, parks, cycleways, and medical services
- Population Age Profile: Predominantly 25–39-year-olds; mix of professionals and young couples
6. Kedron
Kedron is a family-friendly inner-north suburb with good school catchments and a mix of traditional and modern homes. It’s well-connected via Gympie Road and the Airport Link tunnel.
Kedron Brook adds green space with walking and bike paths. The suburb offers space and convenience, with easy access to both the CBD and airport.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Kedron appeals to renters wanting a quiet, residential suburb with easy access to the city. It offers good schools, parks, and transport, along with a clean, low-density environment away from the inner-city rush.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$620
- Units: ~$530
- Houses: ~$620
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~1.1%
- Rental Demand: Steady – families and professionals seeking long-term rentals
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~7 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Good – busways and local routes
- Access to Amenities: Close to Chermside Shopping Centre, parks, medical services
- Population Age Profile: Mostly families and couples aged 30–50
Unsure which suburb fits your budget and long-term goals? Let Zest Mortgage Solutions’ experienced Brisbane mortgage brokers help you compare finance options and suburb data, so you can make confident decisions. Talk to us today by calling us at (07) 3461 6499.
7. Wilston
Wilston is a stylish inner-north suburb known for its village vibe, café scene, and character homes. It sits between Newmarket and Windsor, with leafy streets and local shops around Wilston Village.
The area is highly walkable and close to train stations, schools, and healthcare. Wilston blends charm and convenience, attracting professionals and young families.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Wilston is a top pick for renters who prioritise lifestyle, location, and community. With a short CBD commute, great schools, and walkable streets, it suits both professionals and families.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$700
- Units: ~$600
- Houses: ~$700
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~0.9%
- Rental Demand: High – limited supply, strong long-term interest
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~4 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Excellent – Wilston and Newmarket Train Stations, regular buses
- Access to Amenities: Wilston Village, medical centres, local parks, cafés
- Population Age Profile: Predominantly 30–49-year-olds; professionals and young families
8. Greenslopes
Greenslopes is a popular inner-south suburb located just a few kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD. It features a mix of modern apartments and post-war homes, offering both convenience and a relaxed vibe.
Greenslopes Private Hospital anchors the suburb and has excellent public transport via the South East Busway. Access to parks, bike paths, and nearby lifestyle areas adds to its liveability.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Greenslopes offers a central, walkable location with strong transport and healthcare access. Its mix of housing and affordability makes it popular with hospital staff, young couples, and downsizers.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$650
- Units: ~$550
- Houses: ~$650
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~0.8%
- Rental Demand: High – steady turnover due to location and housing variety
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~5 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Excellent – South East Busway, frequent bus routes
- Access to Amenities: Greenslopes Mall, hospital, bikeways, Stones Corner dining
- Population Age Profile: Largely 25–44-year-olds; mix of professionals, students, and retirees
9. Coopers Plains
Coopers Plains is a well-connected outer south suburb with a mix of residential and industrial areas. It features older homes, townhouses, and units within a diverse, multicultural community.
The suburb is close to Griffith University, QEII Hospital, and Sunnybank’s shopping and dining precincts. Easy access to major roads and a local train station makes it ideal for workers in healthcare, education, and logistics.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Coopers Plains offers renters affordability, strong public transport, and access to major job hubs. Its location near universities, hospitals, and industrial areas makes it ideal for students, healthcare workers, and tradies.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$600
- Units: ~$500
- Houses: ~$600
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~1.0%
- Rental Demand: High – boosted by university and hospital proximity
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~12 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Good – Coopers Plains Train Station, local buses
- Access to Amenities: QEII Hospital, Griffith Uni, shops, parks, industrial employment zones
- Population Age Profile: Wide mix, with strong representation of 20–39-year-olds including students and workers
10. Bowen Hills
Bowen Hills is a high-density inner-city suburb just north of Brisbane’s CBD, undergoing rapid residential and commercial growth. It’s close to Fortitude Valley and Newstead, with easy access to dining, nightlife, and major job centres.
Key landmarks include the Brisbane Showgrounds and Royal International Convention Centre. The area is filled with high-rise apartments and new developments aimed at city-focused living.
Why It’s Ideal for Renters
Bowen Hills is ideal for renters seeking a central location with excellent transport links and access to nightlife and major job hubs. Units dominate the market, offering modern amenities, security, and convenience for professionals, students, and short-term renters.
Key Rental Data and Local Info
- Median Weekly Rent:
- Houses: ~$700+ (limited availability)
- Units: ~$600–$650
- Houses: ~$700+ (limited availability)
- Rental Vacancy Rate (%): ~0.6%
- Rental Demand: Very high – driven by proximity to CBD, Cross River Rail, and lifestyle precincts
- Distance to Brisbane CBD: ~3 km
- Public Transport Access Score: Excellent – Bowen Hills Train Station, busway nearby
- Access to Amenities: RNA Showgrounds, King Street dining, Valley nightlife, entertainment precincts
- Population Age Profile: Largely 20–34-year-olds; singles, students, and professionals dominate
Sources: CBRE Australia, Realestate.com.au, Domain, Queensland Government. Please note that the values above tend to change over time. It’s always best to ask your real estate agent for the latest market property prices.
Ready to turn rent into equity? Our expert Brisbane mortgage brokers at Zest Mortgage Solutions can guide you from renter to property owner with financing options that align with your income, goals, and Brisbane’s property market trends. Book a free consultation today by calling us at (07) 3461 6499.
FAQs
How much does rent usually rise each year in Brisbane?
Rent typically increases by 4–6% annually, depending on the suburb and demand. Shifts in the property market, rising house prices, and low vacancy rates continue to drive up the median rent across most housing markets.
Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Brisbane now?
For many areas, renting remains cheaper than buying, especially with high house prices and rising interest rates. However, those with stable full-time employment may consider entering the real estate market while planning long-term property investment strategies. You could also consider Rentvesting.
Which areas have the lowest vacancy rates?
Inner-city suburbs near major bus networks and train stations tend to have the lowest vacancy rates, often under 1%. These areas benefit from strong demand, good local amenities, and access to major infrastructure projects.
How can mortgage brokers assist buyers if they plan to invest in property in Brisbane suburbs?
Mortgage brokers can help buyers find tailored loans that support property investment goals and maximise rental return.
What is the safest suburb to live in Brisbane?
Low-crime suburbs with high levels of full-time employment, stable household incomes, and strong community engagement tend to be the safest. These often align with well-kept local amenities and family-friendly residential zones. Please check out our articles for our top picks on Brisbane suburbs: Safest Suburbs in Brisbane, Best Brisbane Suburbs for Families
Conclusion
Brisbane’s rental landscape is shifting fast, and choosing wisely can make all the difference. The best rental suburbs in Brisbane offer more than just affordable rent; they deliver the right mix of lifestyle, access, and long-term value.
Whether you're planning to rentvesting or buy, understanding the property market and knowing where the opportunities lie is key. That’s where Zest Mortgage Solutions comes in.
Our expert Brisbane mortgage brokers can help you assess your options, secure the right finance, and plan, whether you're eyeing your next rental, investment property, or first home. Ready to get started? Book a free consultation with us by calling (07) 3461 6499 today.
