Mackay offers a materially higher gross yield (6.0% vs 4.1%), making it the stronger income candidate at current prices. Mackay achieves positive cashflow without negative gearing support, while Bathurst requires additional tax offset or rental growth to break even.
Research context only. Not financial advice. Both markets carry distinct risks specific to their location, employment base, and economic profile. Read the individual suburb research pages before drawing conclusions. All policy references reflect proposed changes subject to final legislation.
| Metric | Bathurst NSW · #19 | Mackay QLD · #4 |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Yield | 4.1% | 6.0% |
| Vacancy Rate | 1.1% | 0.8% |
| Median Price | $665k | $515k |
| Weekly Rent | $530/wk | $590/wk |
| Net pre-costs pa | $-7,020 | +$3,900 |
| Cashflow | Slightly-Negative | Positive |
| Rent Growth 12m | +4.8% | +7% |
| Price Growth 12m | +5.8% | +5.5% |
| NG Dependence | Medium | None |
| Discovery Status | Unknown | Emerging |
| Population | 42k | 78k |
| Cycle Stage | Early | Early-Mid |
| Policy Impact | ▼ DOWNGRADED | ▲ UPGRADED |
| Signal Score | 55 / Tier 2 | 70 / Tier 2 |
Bathurst is a heritage inland NSW city — Charles Sturt University, Bathurst Base Hospital, government services, and the Bathurst 1000 motorsport event. Sea/tree change migration from Sydney drove price growth since 2020. At $665k and $530/wk, gross yield is 4.1% and cashflow is slightly negative. Better yield than Wagga or Albury; more affordable than coastal NSW equivalents. New builds eligible for NG retention.
6.0% yield is cashflow positive. Mackay is the service hub for Australia's most productive coking coal basin. FIFO workers create reliable accommodation demand. Vacancy at 0.8% is very tight. $590/wk rent on $515k price sits well in positive cashflow territory.
realestate.com.au Bathurst median house Jun 2025–May 2026. Data quality: imported.
Data vintage: 2026
CoreLogic QLD Q1 2025 · REIQ Mackay Q4 2024 · SQM Research · Queensland Resources Council 2024 · Isaac Regional Council infrastructure report 2024
Data vintage: Q1 2025
The interactive tool lets you add up to 4 suburbs for a full side-by-side breakdown with score components.
Research only. Not financial advice. Data vintage Q1 2025 (indicative estimates from public sources). Verify all metrics independently with local property managers and licensed advisers before making any investment decision. All negative gearing and budget policy references reflect proposed changes subject to final legislation. Consult a registered tax adviser for personal tax position.