Mount Isa offers a materially higher gross yield (8.4% vs 6.0%), 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 Mackay (0.8% vs 1.5%), 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 | Mackay QLD · #4 | Mount Isa QLD · #13 |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Yield | 6.0% | 8.4% |
| Vacancy Rate | 0.8% | 1.5% |
| Median Price | $515k | $320k |
| Weekly Rent | $590/wk | $520/wk |
| Net pre-costs pa | +$3,900 | +$10,400 |
| Cashflow | Positive | Positive |
| Rent Growth 12m | +7% | +4% |
| Price Growth 12m | +5.5% | +5% |
| NG Dependence | None | None |
| Discovery Status | Emerging | Known |
| Population | 78k | 22k |
| Cycle Stage | Early-Mid | Mid |
| Policy Impact | ▲ UPGRADED | ▲ UPGRADED |
| Signal Score | 70 / Tier 2 | 60 / Tier 1 |
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.
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 QLD Q1 2025 · REIQ Mackay Q4 2024 · SQM Research · Queensland Resources Council 2024 · Isaac Regional Council infrastructure 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.