Melbourne CBD continues to shine as one of Australia’s most attractive property markets. With a growing population, transformative infrastructure projects, and strong rental demand, the city offers unparalleled opportunities for property investors.
Far East Consortium recently commissioned Urbis to produce the ‘Melbourne CBD Market Outlook 2025’ report to gain a further understanding into the dynamics of the city’s property market and factors affecting purchasing behaviour, as well as economic prospects in 2025 and beyond.
Population Growth: A Key Driver for Demand
Melbourne is set to surpass Sydney as Australia’s largest city by 2032, with its population projected to reach 7.45 million by 2040 (Melbourne CBD Market Outlook 2025). Over the past decade, the city has consistently demonstrated strong population growth, fuelled by immigration. In 2024 alone, Melbourne welcomed 446,000 new overseas arrivals, contributing to the city’s ongoing housing demand.
To accommodate this growth, the City of Melbourne estimates that an additional 21,600 dwellings will be required by 2028. However, the current apartment pipeline falls significantly short, with only 8,900 new apartments expected, resulting in a supply deficit of 60%. This mismatch between supply and demand highlights the significant potential for price growth and rental returns for CBD apartments.
Infrastructure Investments: Shaping Melbourne’s Future
Melbourne’s liveability and appeal as an investment destination are further strengthened by major infrastructure projects, including:
- Melbourne Greenline (2025): A $224 million project transforming public spaces along the Yarra River, creating a 4 km journey with enhanced recreation and event opportunities.
- Suburban Rail Loop (2035): A transformative rail project connecting key suburbs, reducing commute times, and boosting housing demand near transport hubs such as Clayton and Sunshine.
- Queen Victoria Market Renewal (2029): A $268 million revitalisation of Melbourne’s iconic market, adding new public spaces, restaurants, and activities to attract residents and visitors.
- West Gate Tunnel Project (2025): This major road upgrade will provide an alternative to the West Gate Bridge, easing congestion and improving connectivity between Melbourne’s west and the CBD.
- North East Link (2028): Victoria’s largest road project will connect key arterial roads in Melbourne’s north and east, cutting travel times and supporting urban growth across the region.
These projects are part of Victoria’s $107 billion infrastructure plan, which enhances Melbourne’s global appeal and drives long-term property value growth.
Why Apartments Outperform in Melbourne CBD
The affordability of CBD apartments compared to detached housing is a key driver of demand. In 2024, the median price of an apartment in Melbourne CBD was 56% lower than that of a detached house, making them a more accessible choice for buyers.
Rental demand in the CBD has also surged, with median weekly rents rising to $750 in November 2024, up from $690 in 2023. This represents a 9% year-on-year increase, supported by a low vacancy rate averaging 2.4% in 2024. Newly built apartments in the CBD have achieved strong gross rental yields of 4.8%, further reinforcing their investment appeal.
Moreover, as opportunities for new developments within the CBD grid become increasingly scarce, existing apartments are likely to see significant capital appreciation. The Melbourne CBD Market Outlook 2025 report notes that “constraints on new supply should lead to growth in capital values as demand continues to outpace supply”.
Economic Strength and Consumer Confidence
Australia’s strong economic fundamentals underpin Melbourne’s property market. As of late 2024, the unemployment rate stood at 4.0%, well below the 10-year average of 5.3%, reflecting the country’s resilient economy.
Consumer confidence has also improved significantly, with the ANZ-Roy Morgan Index rising by 12 points year-on-year to reach 86.4 in December 2024. This positive sentiment, coupled with declining inflation (down to 2.8% in September 2024), has created a favourable environment for property investment.
Additionally, forecasted interest rate cuts by major banks, including ANZ and NAB, are expected to reduce borrowing costs, stimulating greater activity in the property market. By December 2025, the Reserve Bank of Australia’s cash rate is anticipated to drop to between 3.35% and 3.85%, further enhancing affordability for investors.
Why Melbourne CBD Is a Smart Investment
Melbourne CBD offers a unique combination of rapid population growth, transformative infrastructure, and strong rental performance, making it an exceptional investment opportunity. The scarcity of new developments within the CBD grid only enhances its appeal, as existing apartments are positioned for capital growth.
For investors looking to capitalise on Melbourne’s robust market dynamics, the time to act is now. Explore the potential of Melbourne CBD apartments and consult a property expert or financier to secure your position in this thriving market.
