Northside vs Southside Brisbane: Where Should You Buy?

Trying to decide between living on the Northside vs the Southside Brisbane? You're not alone. Brisbane is a city divided by the iconic Brisbane River, and each side has its own unique character, benefits, and challenges. 

Whether you're a first-home buyer, investor, or looking to upgrade, this guide compares both sides to help you make an informed choice, especially if you're looking in North Brisbane, Queensland.

Let’s explore how each side stacks up across key factors like affordability, infrastructure, schools, lifestyle and more, so you can confidently choose the right location for your next property purchase.

Location Overview: Northside vs Southside Brisbane

Brisbane is split by the Brisbane River, with the Northside to the north and Southside to the south. Each region contains a range of suburbs, from affordable pockets to high-end enclaves.

• Northside includes areas like Chermside, Kedron, Stafford, Aspley, and North Lakes.
  
  
• Southside covers suburbs such as Mount Gravatt, Sunnybank, Annerley, and Logan.

While the divide isn’t officially geographic, locals often strongly identify with one side or the other.

Property Prices: Which Side Offers Better Value?

When it comes to buying property, prices can vary greatly on both sides of the river.

Northside:

• Median house prices are generally higher in suburbs closer to the CBD like Wilston and Clayfield.
  
  
• Outer-north suburbs such as North Lakes and Redcliffe offer more affordable options.
  
  
• North Brisbane often shows strong price stability due to demand for school zones and lifestyle.
  
  

Southside:

• Offers more price diversity with affordable pockets in suburbs like Logan and Acacia Ridge.
  
  
• Some areas like West End and Yeronga are becoming high-demand with price growth.
  
  
• Slightly lower average price points than Northside in many comparable suburbs.

If you’re looking for long-term value and lifestyle appeal, Northside may come at a premium, but many buyers see it as a worthwhile investment.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Brisbane locals are proud of their lifestyle, and depending on what you prioritise, either side can be appealing.

Northside Lifestyle:

• Closer to the Sunshine Coast for weekend getaways.
  
  
• Plenty of parks, golf courses and green spaces.
  
  
• Chermside Shopping Centre, one of the largest in Australia.
  
  
• Popular with professionals and families.
  
  

Southside Lifestyle:

• Multicultural dining and markets, particularly in Sunnybank and the surrounding suburbs.
  
  
• Cultural hotspots like South Bank and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
  
  
• Access to major hospitals like Princess Alexandra and Greenslopes Private.

Ultimately, North Brisbane offers a quieter, suburban lifestyle, ideal for raising a family, while the Southside is more dynamic and diverse.

Transport and Connectivity

Public transport access and road infrastructure can impact your daily routine, especially in a growing city like Brisbane.

Northside:

• Serviced by multiple train lines, including Caboolture and Redcliffe Peninsula lines.
  
  
• Brisbane Airport is located on the Northside, making it ideal for frequent travellers.
  
  
• Major roads like Gympie Road and Bruce Highway connect to the Sunshine Coast.
  
  

Southside:

• Connected via the Beenleigh, Cleveland and Gold Coast train lines.
  
  
• Busways provide excellent services, particularly around South East Busway.
  
  
• Better river crossing access with more bridges into the CBD.
  
  

That said, North Brisbane still holds an edge for airport access and outbound connections to coastal regions.

Schools and Education

Education can play a big role in your buying decision, especially for families.

Northside:

• Home to highly sought-after public schools like Kedron State High and Wavell Heights State School.
  
  
• Proximity to prestigious private schools, including St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School and Padua College.
  
  
• Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is easily accessible from most Northside suburbs.
  
  

Southside:

• Griffith University has two campuses located in the South.
  
  
• Public school options such as Mansfield State High and Brisbane State High are top performers.
  
  
• Great mix of religious and independent schooling options.

Families often favour the Northside for its access to reputable schools and safe, family-friendly neighbourhoods.

Employment Opportunities

Work plays a big part in where people choose to live.

• The CBD is centrally located, making both North and South Brisbane accessible for professionals.
  
  
• North Brisbane suburbs tend to have stronger links to tech, health and aviation industries.
  
  
• Southside offers easy access to large hospitals and industrial job hubs like Acacia Ridge.

If you’re working in or around the airport, Northside may be more convenient.

Investment Potential

If you're buying for investment purposes, growth potential and rental demand matter.

Northside:

• High demand for family homes and low vacancy rates.
  
  
• Strong capital growth in suburbs like Stafford, Gordon Park and Chermside.
  
  
• Better access to lifestyle amenities increases rental appeal.
  
  

Southside:

• High rental demand in student-heavy areas near Griffith University.
  
  
• Suburbs like Mount Gravatt and Coorparoo have shown steady capital growth.
  
  
• Some Southside areas offer better rental yields due to lower entry prices.

In general, Northside Brisbane offers more consistent long-term capital growth, particularly for owner-occupiers and investors looking for strong returns.

Community and Safety

Safety and community vibe are essential to consider.

• North Brisbane suburbs like Aspley, Nundah and Everton Park are known for their tight-knit communities and lower crime rates.
  
  
• Southside has a mix, with some suburbs experiencing higher reported crime.

According to Queensland Police data, Northside suburbs tend to have more stable safety ratings, making them popular among families and retirees.

Which Side Is Right for You?

The decision between Northside vs Southside Brisbane ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget, and future plans.

Choose Northside if you:

• Want a family-friendly, quiet suburb close to good schools.
  
  
• Prefer better airport access and easy trips to the Sunshine Coast.
  
  
• Are looking for long-term capital growth.
  
  

Choose Southside if you:

• Value cultural diversity and access to universities.
  
  
• Want more affordable properties in up-and-coming areas.
  
  
• Prefer easier access to Brisbane’s southside job hubs and major hospitals.

FAQs

Is Northside or Southside Brisbane more expensive?

Northside suburbs closer to the CBD are generally more expensive. However, both sides offer affordable and premium options depending on the suburb.

Which side is better for families?

Northside is often preferred by families due to quality schools, safer neighbourhoods, and access to parks and recreational facilities.

Which side has better public transport?

Southside has more extensive bus networks and river crossings. Northside offers great train connectivity and proximity to the airport.

Where is the best place to invest in Brisbane?

Suburbs like Chermside (Northside) and Mount Gravatt (Southside) are strong investment areas with high demand and growth potential.

Is Northside or Southside safer?

Crime rates vary, but many Northside suburbs have lower reported crime rates, especially in established residential areas.

Which side has better schools?

Both sides offer excellent schools, but Northside is home to several top-performing public and private institutions.

Can I get better rental returns on the Southside?

Rental yields can be higher in some Southside suburbs due to lower purchase prices, but Northside often offers more consistent tenant demand.

Final Thoughts: Thinking of Buying on Brisbane’s Northside?

Still unsure whether Northside vs Southside Brisbane is right for you? At Kelly Brothers Finance, we specialise in helping buyers across North Brisbane secure the best possible home loan for their unique circumstances. Our experienced North Brisbane mortgage brokers provide tailored advice and access to over 30 lenders.

Give us a call at 07 3847 9450 or visit www.kellybrothersfinance.com.au today and let us help you make a confident and informed property decision.