New residents are flocking to Barcaldine, a town in Outback Queensland, for its affordable real estate. Kerry Duncan, a 59-year-old receptionist, sold her Townsville home and retired to Barcaldine, attracted by the low prices. She found a charming fixer-upper cottage for $140,000, and now owns her home outright. Jack Jones, 25, also moved to Barcaldine for work, realizing the housing market was more affordable than renting. He purchased a three-bedroom Queenslander for $220,000, taking advantage of the federal government's 5% deposit scheme. The town's median house price is $162,500, six times lower than Brisbane's average. Renting is also cheaper, at $320 per week compared to $650 in Brisbane. Ray White head researcher Vanessa Rader notes that Barcaldine is one of the few markets where buying is cheaper than renting, attracting both investors and first-home buyers. The town's small-town spirit and community support are additional drawcards, making it an attractive alternative to city living.
