Both markets have comparable gross yields (5.5% vs 5.1%). Darwin achieves positive cashflow without negative gearing support, while Mildura requires additional tax offset or rental growth to break even. Vacancy conditions favour Mildura (1.3% 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 | Mildura VIC · #24 |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Yield | 5.5% | 5.1% |
| Vacancy Rate | 2.1% | 1.3% |
| Median Price | $670k | $500k |
| Weekly Rent | $711/wk | $490/wk |
| Net pre-costs pa | +$2,132 | $-520 |
| Cashflow | Positive | Near-Positive |
| Rent Growth 12m | +5.2% | +5% |
| Price Growth 12m | +4.8% | +5.5% |
| NG Dependence | None | Low |
| Discovery Status | Known | Known |
| Population | 130k | 57k |
| Cycle Stage | Starting | Early-Mid |
| Policy Impact | ▲ STRONG UPGRADE | ▲ UPGRADED |
| Signal Score | 52 / Tier 2 | 54 / Tier 2 |
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.
5.1% yield at the crossroads of three states. Mildura benefits from genuine cross-border rental demand that tightens vacancy independent of any single industry. Hospital expansion creates permanent healthcare employment. Rent growth +5.0% will push to cashflow-positive within 12 months.
NT Govt/REINT Dec quarter 2025. Verified against PropTrack May 2026 ($707k direction). Data quality: imported.
Data vintage: 2026
CoreLogic VIC Q1 2025 · REI Victoria Mildura Q4 2024 · SQM Research · Mildura Base Hospital business case 2024 · ABS agricultural water statistics 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.