As the new year begins, many investors are turning their attention to where opportunities may lie in 2026. South Australia continues to offer a diverse range of suburbs delivering strong fundamentals, lifestyle appeal and long-term growth potential.
Drawing on recent market performance and local insight, these five suburbs stand out as locations to watch in the year ahead. Spanning metro, coastal and growth corridors, they reflect the breadth of opportunity across OC’s footprint and the varied pathways available for property investors.
Goolwa
Goolwa continues to gain momentum as a lifestyle-driven investment destination. Strong buyer interest from downsizers, retirees and holiday home buyers has supported steady growth, while ongoing infrastructure upgrades and council investment are enhancing the town’s long-term appeal.
With improving amenities, strong short-term rental interest and relaxed coastal living, Goolwa offers a compelling blend of lifestyle and investment performance.
Median sale price: $640k
Median price change: 9.4%
Unley
Unley remains one of Adelaide’s most tightly held city-fringe suburbs. Its proximity to the CBD, excellent schooling options, vibrant retail strips and strong transport connectivity continue to underpin consistent demand.
Limited housing supply and enduring lifestyle appeal make Unley a resilient choice for investors seeking stability and long-term capital growth in an established inner suburb.
Median sale price: $1.7m
Median price change: 9.1%
Henley Beach South
Henley Beach South offers a premium coastal lifestyle supported by strong buyer demand and limited new housing supply. Residential renewal, streetscape upgrades and proximity to the beach have strengthened its position as a highly desirable suburb for both owner-occupiers and investors.
With premium homes, lifestyle appeal and ongoing improvements, Henley Beach South continues to attract buyers seeking coastal living with long-term upside.
Median sale price: $1.76m
Median price change: 13.1%
Prospect
Prospect stands out as a high-performing inner-north suburb driven by ongoing revitalisation and lifestyle transformation. New cafes, upgraded public spaces and improved transport access have boosted appeal among young professionals and families.
With continued upgrades along key corridors and strong demand for character homes, Prospect remains a suburb to watch for sustained growth.
Median sale price: $1.27m
Median price change: 15.8%
Mount Barker
Mount Barker continues to sit at the centre of Adelaide Hills growth. New schools, childcare facilities and transport upgrades have supported strong population growth, while expanded retail and community infrastructure continue to drive demand.
Offering relative affordability and ongoing development, Mount Barker presents an attractive option for investors seeking growth potential in a key regional hub.
Median sale price: $765k
Median price change: 12.5%
Each of these suburbs reflects a different investment opportunity, from coastal lifestyle markets to established inner suburbs and high-growth regional hubs. As always, successful investing comes down to understanding local conditions, timing and long-term strategy.
At OC, our local experts are here to help you open the door to confident investment decisions. If you’re considering where to invest in 2026, we invite you to reach out to the OC team for tailored advice and insights aligned with your goals.
Disclaimer: Information in this blog is accurate at the time of publication. OC has relied on information from external sources and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness. Please verify details and consult your agent before making any decisions.
