Mount Isa offers a materially higher gross yield (8.4% vs 6.9%), making it the stronger income candidate at current prices. Both markets carry similar cashflow positions under current yield and interest rate assumptions.
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 | Karratha WA · #10 | Mount Isa QLD · #13 |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Yield | 6.9% | 8.4% |
| Vacancy Rate | 1.2% | 1.5% |
| Median Price | $490k | $320k |
| Weekly Rent | $650/wk | $520/wk |
| Net pre-costs pa | +$8,320 | +$10,400 |
| Cashflow | Positive | Positive |
| Rent Growth 12m | +5% | +4% |
| Price Growth 12m | +7% | +5% |
| NG Dependence | None | None |
| Discovery Status | Emerging | Known |
| Population | 17k | 22k |
| Cycle Stage | Mid | Mid |
| Policy Impact | ▲ STRONG UPGRADE | ▲ UPGRADED |
| Signal Score | 63 / Tier 1 | 60 / Tier 1 |
$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.
8.5% yield, the highest in the scan. $520/wk rent on $320k generates $10,400/yr positive pre-cost cashflow at 80% LVR. Glencore's George Fisher mine extension commits production through mid-2030s. Copper demand in EV/renewable transition provides medium-term mine life visibility.
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
CoreLogic QLD Q1 2025 · REIQ Mount Isa Q4 2024 · SQM Research postcode 4825 · Glencore Annual Report 2024 · George Fisher Mine extension EIS approval 2023 · Mount Isa City Council planning data
Data vintage: Q1 2025
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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.