What Australia’s median house price buys you around the world

4 weeks ago 4

Australia’s median house price hit $1,280,159 across the combined capitals in December, on Domain data, and sky-high prices mean looking further afield, perhaps overseas, could be tempting for some prospective home buyers.

But what does that budget get you around the world?

Siena, Italy

For those dreaming of languid aperitivo hours in a historic setting, while also being close to a city, a farmhouse in the heart of Tuscany could be just the ticket.

Located in Cerchiaia – Coroncina, which is about 10 minutes by car to the medieval city of Siena, the four-bedroom property was renovated in the late 1990s, according to the listing, and is currently divided into two apartments.

The four-bedroom property was renovated in the late 1990s.

As it is priced at about $996,500, there would still be money left over to sample the region’s wineries and hearty Tuscan cuisine.

The dining room has three arched windows and a living room with a fireplace that could come in handy on chillier nights.

New York, USA

The Big Apple has the reputation as the “city that never sleeps” and the same goes for its property market. While it’s relentlessly competitive, buyers who have a budget equivalent to the Australian median can still get a bolthole in the iconic city.

If you’re after a house, Brooklyn could be the place to search. This home, located in vibrant Flatbush, has subway access to Manhattan and will set you back about $1.2 million. It has three generously sized bedrooms and a finished basement.

For something a little closer to the city, buyers could also look at this $1.27 million pied-a-terre in Midtown East. Clocking in at about 70 square metres, it also has generous storage space, according to the listing.

This Manhattan apartment has generous storage, according to the listing.

The one-bedroom condominium apartment has a renovated kitchen, a marble bathroom and views over a tree-lined street.

Toronto, Canada

Canada’s largest city is experiencing a slowdown amid high interest rates and growing supply. This has pushed down prices in Toronto, meaning buyers on an Aussie budget could do well here.

This condo is in King West in downtown Toronto, which is known for its shopping and dining.

This two-bedroom, two-storey condo in trendy King West might fit the bill at $1.2 million. It has almost 5½-metre ceilings, with a spacious kitchen, and is close to parks and the waterfront.

This Toronto home has been in the same family for almost five decades.

If you want a house then try this $1.3 million four-bedroom house in Toronto’s west end. Close to transport and shopping, it has been owned by the same family for nearly five decades, and is currently configured as two self-contained units.

Christchurch, New Zealand

New Zealand’s house prices have stabilised after some recent drops, and may even tick up in 2026. Still, for those searching for an affordable beach house, this $929,000 three-bedroom property in coastal Sumner may appeal.

Coastal Sumner is near Christchurch’s CBD.

With a classic 1950s facade, the home is just a few blocks from the beach and village. While the bustle of the city might feel far away, it’s only 10 minutes by car to downtown Christchurch.

The Sumner home is a stroll away from the beach.

Zapallar, Chile

At the other end of the coastal spectrum is the affluent resort town of Zapallar, about two hours from Chile’s capital, Santiago. Frequently called the “Hamptons of Chile”, it is a popular summer retreat, with a Malibu-like geography.

The beach house has high ceilings and a garden.

But the prices don’t mirror the bougie locale. Buyers could pick up this sweet, four-bedroom beach house for $756,000. It features high ceilings, a garden and exposed beams. It’s close to beaches and surrounded by nature.

The prices here don’t mirror the bougie locale.

Nagano, Japan

For snow-lovers, here is a two-bedroom property in Nagano. Built in 1994, the $916,000 property has a terrace to enjoy the view and a fireplace. It sits on a 566 square metre lot.

It’s located in Karuizawa, a resort town. Skiing is on the agenda but its cool Alpine climate also provides an escape from the city heat in summer. It’s about an hour by train from Tokyo.

Paris, France

It’s difficult to visit Paris without dreaming of moving there. Potential buyers who imagine spending time in its galleries or just people-watching by the Seine would need to be happy to live small.

For about $1 million a teeny, 39 square metre, one-bedroom apartment in the 9th arrondissement, which is known for its department stores and the trendy South Pigalle area, could be yours.

You can nab a 39 square metre apartment in Paris for a cool $1 million.

It’s on the first floor of a period building. The listing says it was completely renovated by an architect.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s accessible healthcare and high quality of life is drawing country-shifters from all over. This reputation is helping to push up demand and prices but attractive homes are still available for about $1.2 million.

Located in historic Estrela, this two-bedroom duplex could be yours for $1.28 million. The building’s facade was designed by Lisbon-based ceramic artist and architect Maria Ana Vasco Costa.

The listing says a highlight is a 90 square metre terrace, perfect for quiet reading or a meal with friends.