Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Garbutt

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Garbutt suburb profile

Garbutt is a suburb located in the city of Townsville, Queensland, known for its strategic position and industrial significance. Situated just west of the Townsville CBD, Garbutt is a hub for commercial and industrial activities, housing numerous businesses and warehouses. The suburb is also home to the Townsville Airport, making it a key gateway for both domestic and international travel. Despite its industrial focus, Garbutt offers residential areas with a mix of housing options, catering to a diverse community. Its proximity to major transport routes and essential amenities makes Garbutt a practical choice for businesses and residents alike.

Garbutt property market performance

Property growth+16.8%Past 12 months

Garbutt’s property market has experienced significant growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 17.4% and unit values by 16.2%. The current median house price stands at $620,000, while the median unit price is not available, indicating limited unit sales activity.

Sales activity has been moderate, with 15 houses and 5 units sold over the past 12 months. Houses are selling quickly, with a median of 17 days on the market, while units are moving even faster at 13 days, suggesting strong demand across both property types.

The rental market in Garbutt has also seen upward trends, with average rents for houses increasing by 7.5% and units by 5.0% over the last 12 months, reflecting a robust demand for rental properties in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$620KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
17.4%16.2%
Sold
Past 3 months
155
Median days on market
Past 12 months
1713
Average rent
Past 12 months
$530$420
Change in rent
Past 12 months
7.5%5.0%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Garbutt demographics

Garbutt, located in the city of Townsville, Queensland, is a suburb that offers a blend of residential and industrial areas. With a population of 2,309, Garbutt is a small community characterized by a median age of 42, indicating a mature population. The suburb's proximity to the Townsville Airport and various commercial facilities makes it a convenient location for residents who value accessibility and practicality.

The household composition in Garbutt is diverse, with 26.2% of families being couple families with children and 37.5% being couple families without children. One-parent families also make up a significant portion of the community at 32.9%, reflecting a varied family structure. The median total household income weekly is $1,082, which is relatively modest, suggesting a community that values affordability and practicality.

In terms of property ownership, Garbutt has a high rental rate, with 57.1% of properties being rented. This indicates a transient population, possibly due to the suburb's industrial nature and proximity to employment hubs. Meanwhile, 18.1% of properties are owned outright, and 24.8% are owned with a mortgage, showing a mix of long-term residents and new homeowners. Garbutt's unique blend of residential and industrial elements, combined with its strategic location, makes it a practical choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle in Townsville.

Garbutt infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Garbutt’s property market is strongly influenced by its role as the location of Townsville Airport and the adjacent RAAF base, which underpins steady employment and demand for nearby housing.[1][5] The suburb’s mix of industrial, commercial and residential uses continues to attract service-based businesses, including automotive and technology firms, supporting local jobs and reinforcing Garbutt as a key employment hub for the wider area.[7][8][9]

There are no widely reported new major infrastructure projects or school redevelopments specific to Garbutt at this time that would significantly alter local property dynamics. However, ongoing airport activity, accessibility to the broader Townsville transport network, and proximity to employment nodes are likely to continue supporting rental demand and buyer interest in the suburb over the medium term.[1][5][6]

Garbutt rental market trends

The rental market in Garbutt has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing 7.5% over the past year to $530 per week, while unit rents have risen 5% to $420 per week. This steady demand highlights Garbutt's appeal as a residential area, offering a balanced mix of affordability and convenience for both renters and investors.

Suburbs near Garbutt

Some popular suburbs near Garbutt include:

How does Garbutt compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Garbutt’s median house price is 14.8% lower than West End’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Currajong have risen 1.8% more than in Garbutt over the past year.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Currajong have risen 62.8% more than in Garbutt over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Garbutt are selling 5.6% faster than in West End.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Garbutt are selling 31.6% faster than in West End.

Common questions about Garbutt

  • Is Garbutt a nice place to live?

    Garbutt is a charming suburb that offers a unique blend of residential and industrial elements, making it a practical and appealing place to live. Its strategic location just west of Townsville's CBD provides residents with easy access to essential amenities and transport routes, enhancing the overall livability of the area. The suburb is known for its diverse community, which is reflected in the variety of housing options available, catering to both families and individuals seeking a convenient lifestyle.

    The vibe in Garbutt is one of practicality and accessibility, with a strong sense of community among its residents. While it may not boast the trendy cafes or bustling nightlife of inner-city areas, it compensates with a peaceful atmosphere and a focus on everyday conveniences. Families will appreciate the suburb's proximity to schools, parks, and shopping centers, making it an ideal choice for those looking to settle in a location that balances work and leisure.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Garbutt, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly suburb. However, the industrial nature of the area does mean that some parts of the suburb can be busier during business hours. For those who value a quieter lifestyle, the residential areas offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the nearby commercial zones.

    One trade-off of living in Garbutt is its industrial focus, which might not suit everyone. However, for those who prioritize accessibility and practicality, the suburb's proximity to employment hubs and transport networks is a significant advantage. Overall, Garbutt offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community, making it a nice place to live for those who appreciate its unique character and convenient location.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Garbutt?

    Living in Garbutt can be considered relatively affordable compared to many other suburbs in Queensland. The median house price in Garbutt is currently around $620,000. This is quite reasonable when you consider the higher property prices in more central or coastal areas of the state. For those interested in renting, the average rent for houses is approximately $530 per week, while units average around $420 per week. These rental prices are fairly moderate, making Garbutt appealing for those looking to balance costs with lifestyle.

    When comparing the median total household income in Garbutt, which is $1,082 per week, to the average full-time wage in Queensland of about $104,000 per year, it suggests that the cost of living in Garbutt is manageable. The income levels in the suburb, while lower than the state average, still allow for a comfortable lifestyle given the more affordable housing and rental options.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in Garbutt, you'll find it offers a good mix of affordability and convenience, especially for those who are not looking to be close to a capital city. The suburb provides a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing the essential amenities and lifestyle benefits.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Garbutt a good place to invest?

    Garbutt is showing promising signs as a potential investment hotspot, with impressive growth in both house and unit values over the past year. The suburb has experienced a significant 17.4% increase in median house values and a 16.2% rise in unit values, indicating strong demand and a healthy property market. This upward trend suggests that Garbutt is becoming increasingly attractive to buyers and investors alike.

    In addition to property value growth, rental returns in Garbutt have also seen a positive shift. House rents have increased by 7.5%, while unit rents have risen by 5.0% over the last 12 months. This steady rise in rental income is a good sign for investors seeking reliable returns. The combination of rising property values and rental income makes Garbutt an appealing option for those looking to invest in real estate.

    Overall, Garbutt's recent performance in the property market, coupled with its rental growth, positions it as a suburb with solid investment potential. While it's important to consider various factors before making an investment decision, the current data suggests that Garbutt could be a worthwhile choice for those looking to capitalize on its upward trajectory.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Garbutt

Choosing the right real estate agent in Garbutt can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 49 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 22.6% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.47% to 3.09%, depending on the agent and what’s included. Comparing both performance and fee structures can help you find someone who's well-suited to your needs, and set them up for a successful result.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.