Karratha offers a materially higher gross yield (6.9% vs 5.5%), making it the stronger income candidate at current prices. Both markets carry similar cashflow positions under current yield and interest rate assumptions. Vacancy conditions favour Karratha (1.2% vs 2.1%), indicating tighter rental demand relative to supply.
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 | Darwin NT · #27 | Karratha WA · #10 |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Yield | 5.5% | 6.9% |
| Vacancy Rate | 2.1% | 1.2% |
| Median Price | $670k | $490k |
| Weekly Rent | $711/wk | $650/wk |
| Net pre-costs pa | +$2,132 | +$8,320 |
| Cashflow | Positive | Positive |
| Rent Growth 12m | +5.2% | +5% |
| Price Growth 12m | +4.8% | +7% |
| NG Dependence | None | None |
| Discovery Status | Known | Emerging |
| Population | 130k | 17k |
| Cycle Stage | Starting | Mid |
| Policy Impact | ▲ STRONG UPGRADE | ▲ STRONG UPGRADE |
| Signal Score | 52 / Tier 2 | 63 / Tier 1 |
Darwin is the NT capital and a significant ADF hub: RAAF Base Darwin and Robertson Barracks in nearby Palmerston. Charles Darwin University and NT government services provide additional employment stability. At $670k and $711/wk rent, Darwin produces the strongest gross yield in this expansion set (5.5%) and is the only Round 2 market achieving positive cashflow at standard LVR. Vacancy at 2.1% is elevated by dataset standards — directional trend matters.
$650/wk rent at $490k is one of the best risk-adjusted yield profiles in Australia for a town with genuine long-term employment. Woodside's Pluto LNG trains are 30+ year assets. Cashflow positive by $8,320/yr pre-cost. High income residents make for reliable tenants.
NT Govt/REINT Dec quarter 2025. Verified against PropTrack May 2026 ($707k direction). Data quality: imported.
Data vintage: 2026
CoreLogic WA Q1 2025 · REIWA Karratha median Q4 2024 · SQM Research · Woodside investor presentation 2024 · Pilbara Regional Council housing 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.