Southern, Upper Ross and western: Townsville suburbs we manage in

This part of Townsville takes in some of the city’s biggest rental drivers. James Cook University and Townsville University Hospital are both in Douglas, and Lavarack Barracks is in Murray. That puts students, researchers, health workers and defence families all within a short drive of Annandale, Douglas, Idalia, Wulguru and Cranbrook.

Further west along the Ross River, the Upper Ross suburbs of Condon, Kelso and Rasmussen offer newer, larger homes at comparatively affordable rents. Kelso is one of the most populous suburbs in Townsville. Beyond them, the rural residential areas of Pinnacles, Gumlow and Granite Vale have very few rentals.

Demand here follows the academic year and the defence posting cycle, so timing a vacancy well can matter. Many homes back onto the Ross River parklands or drainage corridors. That is a lifestyle plus, but it is also a reason to check flood mapping and insurance cover before you buy or renew.