As we head into 2026, the Australian housing market continues to be a focal point for homeowners and potential buyers. If you’re looking to buy your first home or sell your property, it’s essential to understand the current mortgage landscape. Here’s a breakdown of the key mortgage stats in Brisbane and across Australia.
Thinking about selling? With mortgage rates rising, pricing your property correctly is key to attracting buyers. Call us today on 0417 756 280 or get your free property appraisal here.
Average Australian Mortgage Size 2026
According to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the average new owner-occupier home loan in Australia is $736,257. This figure represents the amount people are borrowing to purchase homes they will live in, but loan amounts vary depending on location and property type. With average interest rate estimates ranging from 5.50% to 6.29% per annum, the monthly repayments could range from around $4,180 to $4,551.
In Queensland, the average loan is slightly lower than the national average, but it’s the second highest figure after New South Wales. The average mortgage for an owner-occupier in Brisbane is $735,572. However, if you’re looking to buy in suburbs with higher demand and higher property prices, such as those closer to the city or in sought-after areas, you may find that the loan amount you’ll need could be higher.
👉 Thinking of selling? Check out our guid to selling here or find out how much your home is worth – Get a free property appraisal today.
Repayments and Loan Amounts Breakdown by State
| Location | Average home loan amount | Average monthly repayment |
| Australia overall | $736,257 | $4,180 |
| NSW | $872,752 | $4,955 |
| Vic | $676,675 | $3,842 |
| Qld | $735,572 | $4,176 |
| SA | $658,036 | $3,736 |
| WA | $688,036 | $3,907 |
| Tas | $504,399 | $2,864 |
| NT | $515,249 | $2,926 |
| ACT | $658,609 | $3,740 |
Source: ABS – Average owner-occupier loan sizes by state as of December 2025. Monthly repayment calculations are based on a 30-year loan term and the average interest rate of 5.50% p.a. for owner-occupiers as per the RBA.
Rising Costs: Portion of Income for Mortgages
As home loan amounts increase, so does the portion of income required to service a new mortgage. On average, Australians now need 45.0% of their income to cover mortgage repayments, a substantial rise from 29.6% in 2020. This is however, down from 2024/25s average of 50.3% due to the RBA’s rate cuts in 2025.
In Brisbane, the portion of income required to pay for a new mortgage has increased from 25.2% to 48.0% since 2020.
Portion of Income Required to Service a New Mortgage
| Location | Average Portion of income required to service a new mortgage (Jun 2024) | Average Portion of income required to service a new mortgage (Sep 2025) |
| Australia overall | 50.3% | 45.0% |
| Sydney | 61.8% | 54.5% |
| Melbourne | 45.2% | 38.8% |
| Brisbane | 51.0% | 48.0% |
| Adelaide | 54.5% | 50.4% |
| Perth | 44.6% | 42.2% |
| Hobart | 45.9% | 40.6% |
| Darwin | 25.5% | 23.4% |
| Canberra | 40.2% | 33.5% |
Source: Cotality
How Long It Takes to Save for a Deposit
For many first-time buyers, saving for a 20% deposit is one of the biggest hurdles. It now takes around 11.9 years on average to save enough for a house deposit in Australia, with 9 years being the average for an apartment.
In Brisbane, it takes around 12.9 years to save for a house deposit and 9.2 years for an apartment. This figure may vary depending on your location and the type of property you’re aiming for.
Average Number of Years to Save for a Deposit
| Location | Average Number of years to save for a house | Average number of years to save for a unit |
| Australia overall | 11.9 | 9.0 |
| Sydney | 16.7 | 9.5 |
| Melbourne | 11.2 | 7.4 |
| Brisbane | 12.9 | 9.2 |
| Adelaide | 13.1 | 9.0 |
| Perth | 10.8 | 7.7 |
| Hobart | 10.6 | 8.0 |
| Darwin | 6.8 | 4.1 |
| Canberra | 9.5 | 5.6 |
Source: Cotality.
How Mortgage Trends in 2026 Affect Home Sellers
The latest mortgage statistics for 2026 provide valuable insights for home sellers as well. Understanding the financial pressures on buyers can help sellers make informed decisions when marketing their properties and setting prices. Here’s how the current landscape impacts you as a seller:
- Increased Borrowing Challenges for Buyers: With rising loan amounts keeping average repayments higher, buyers are facing greater financial strain. This could mean a smaller pool of potential buyers, as affordability becomes a critical factor.
- Affordability in Brisbane is a Selling Point: Brisbane’s lower average mortgage size and repayments compared to Sydney position it as a more attractive market for buyers. Highlighting the affordability of your property in Brisbane could draw interest from interstate buyers seeking value.
- Income Pressures May Influence Offers: With over 48% of income now required to service mortgages in Brisbane, buyers may approach negotiations more cautiously. Sellers should be prepared for buyers prioritising affordability, which could affect pricing and negotiation strategies.
- Strategic Marketing is Key: Emphasising features that offer value for money—such as energy efficiency, location advantages, or investment potential—can make your property stand out in a competitive market.
By understanding the financial pressures buyers face, you can tailor your approach to selling, set realistic expectations, and position your property effectively in the current market.
Considering selling your property? Our team at LOYLE can help you market your home strategically to attract the right buyers in today’s competitive market. Call us today on 0417 756 280 for expert advice.
What Does This Mean for Buyers in Brisbane?
The Australian mortgage market in 2026 highlights a shift in the cost of homeownership. While loan amounts and repayments vary depending on your location, the large portion of income required to cover mortgage costs is a national trend. In Brisbane, buyers face a greater financial burden compared to previous years, with the portion of income required to service a mortgage now at 48%.
However, despite these challenges, Brisbane remains a relatively affordable city compared to the likes of Sydney. The key for prospective buyers is to stay informed, assess their financial situation carefully, and plan accordingly.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to downsize, we’ve got options for you. Explore our properties for sale here and let us help you find a place that’s perfect for your needs.
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