What are the best property investments in Gold Coast?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Australia Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of the Gold Coast's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

BAMBOOROUTES

A team specialized in real estate investing in APAC countries (Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Australia, etc.).

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Australia. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

What types of properties are available in the Gold Coast for investors?

The Gold Coast offers five main property types for investors as of June 2025.

Houses represent the most popular choice, with standalone homes typically featuring land and appealing to families seeking long-term stability. The median house price sits around $1.18 million, making them suitable for investors focused on capital growth rather than immediate rental yields.

Units and apartments provide the highest rental yields at 5.3-6%, with median prices ranging from $675,000 to $832,000. These properties dominate the beachside and central suburbs, attracting both tourists and long-term tenants due to their proximity to amenities and employment centers.

Townhouses and duplexes offer an affordable middle ground, commonly found in both newer developments and established suburbs. They appeal to investors seeking moderate capital growth with steady rental demand from families and professionals.

Luxury properties including waterfront homes, penthouses, and mansions command prices from $2 million to $4 million or more. These investments target high-net-worth individuals and offer significant capital gains potential, though they come with higher risks and holding costs.

Is it better to buy or rent a property in the Gold Coast right now, and why?

Buying clearly outperforms renting in the Gold Coast market as we reach mid-2025.

Property buyers benefit from substantial capital growth, with some suburbs experiencing up to 90% price increases over the past five years. Surfers Paradise alone has seen a remarkable 123% increase, while the broader market maintains low vacancy rates below 2% and strong rental yields between 4.1-6%.

Renters face increasingly challenging conditions with rising rents, limited supply, and frequent rent increases eating into their budget without building any equity. The rental market's tightness means tenants have little negotiating power and face competition for quality properties.

Financial stability and long-term commitment remain essential for buyers, but the equity gains and market stability strongly favor purchasing over renting. The combination of capital appreciation and rental income potential makes buying the smarter financial choice for both owner-occupiers and investors in 2025.

How have property prices evolved over the past 5 years, and what's the current forecast?

Gold Coast property prices have experienced exceptional growth over the past five years, with median house prices climbing nearly 90%.

The most dramatic increases occurred in premium suburbs, with Surfers Paradise leading at 123% growth. Units and apartments have also participated in this boom, though at more moderate rates that still significantly outpaced inflation and wage growth.

Current median prices stand at approximately $1.18 million for houses and $675,000-$832,000 for units as of June 2025. These figures represent the market's maturation from a primarily tourism-dependent economy to a diversified residential and investment hub.

Forecasts for 2025 predict continued growth of 3-7% for houses and 3-5% for units, with some analysts expecting a more significant boom of 10-13%. This optimism stems from strong interstate migration, limited housing supply, major infrastructure projects, and the approaching 2032 Olympics creating additional demand pressure.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

What are the current real estate trends in the Gold Coast—who's buying, where, and why?

The Gold Coast attracts a diverse mix of buyers driving current market trends in 2025.

Growth corridors like Pimpama, Ormeau, and Nerang attract first-home buyers and investors seeking affordable entry points with strong infrastructure development. Up-and-coming areas including Coomera, Southport, and Upper Coomera benefit from major developments and proximity to employment hubs.

Premium locations such as Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, and Broadbeach continue drawing luxury buyers focused on lifestyle and prestige. The upcoming 2032 Olympics, infrastructure improvements, and the region's lifestyle appeal drive these diverse buying patterns across all market segments.

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How does the property buying process work step-by-step in the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast property buying process follows a structured eight-step approach.

First, define your investment goals and establish a realistic budget including all associated costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and building inspections. Second, research suburbs and property types thoroughly, analyzing market trends, rental yields, and growth prospects for your target areas.

Third, arrange finance by securing pre-approval for your loan, which strengthens your negotiating position. Fourth, inspect properties and conduct comprehensive due diligence including building and pest inspections, strata reports for units, and verification of rental history for investment properties.

Fifth, make an offer through private treaty or participate in auctions, ensuring you understand the terms and conditions. Sixth, exchange contracts to legally bind the agreement and pay the required deposit, typically 10% of the purchase price.

Seventh, proceed to settlement where you finalize payment, transfer ownership, and receive the keys. Finally, prepare the property for occupancy if it's your home or arrange tenants if it's an investment property.

What kind of people typically invest in Gold Coast property, and what are their goals?

Gold Coast property attracts four distinct investor types with varying objectives in 2025.

Owner-occupiers prioritize lifestyle benefits and long-term security, often moving from other states to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while building equity. They typically purchase family homes or low-maintenance units in established suburbs with good amenities and schools.

Traditional investors focus on rental income, capital growth, or both, seeking properties that deliver solid returns through either strategy. They often target units for higher yields or houses in growth areas for capital appreciation potential.

Retirees and downsizers prefer low-maintenance units close to medical facilities, shopping centers, and public transport. They value security, accessibility, and lifestyle amenities over maximum returns, often choosing established beachside or central locations.

First-time buyers enter the market in affordable or emerging suburbs, balancing purchase price with growth potential. They typically start with units or townhouses in areas like Pimpama or Ormeau before upgrading as their financial situation improves.

What are the main reasons to invest in property there—and what are the wrong reasons?

Strong fundamentals support Gold Coast property investment in 2025, but investors must avoid common pitfalls.

• Proven capital growth track record with up to 90% increases over five years
• Strong rental yields ranging from 4.1% for houses to 6% for units
• Robust population growth driven by interstate migration and lifestyle appeal
• Major infrastructure developments including light rail extensions and road upgrades
• Tourism industry providing consistent short-term rental opportunities
• 2032 Olympics creating additional demand and infrastructure investment

• Chasing "get rich quick" promises without understanding market fundamentals
• Relying on rent guarantees or high-pressure sales tactics from developers
• Making decisions based on incomplete or biased market data
• Ignoring personal financial situation and risk tolerance
• Following hot tips without conducting independent research

What can you realistically buy in different budget ranges, from low to high?

The Gold Coast property market accommodates investors across all budget levels as of June 2025.

Entry-level buyers can secure modern units or older homes in growth corridors, while mid-range budgets access quality family properties in established suburbs. Premium buyers enjoy waterfront locations and luxury amenities, with ultra-high-net-worth individuals accessing exclusive addresses and trophy properties.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Australia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Which areas in the Gold Coast are best for investment—affordable, upcoming, and upscale—and what are the pros and cons of each?

Gold Coast investment opportunities span three distinct market segments, each offering unique advantages and challenges.

These suburbs offer entry-level prices under $600,000 with strong growth potential driven by new infrastructure and master-planned communities. Pros include affordable entry points, significant development activity, and potential for substantial capital growth as infrastructure matures. Cons involve longer distances from the beach, less established amenities, and higher risk if development plans don't materialize as expected.

Mid-range suburbs experiencing major development and infrastructure improvements, with prices typically ranging from $600,000 to $1 million. Pros include diverse tenant bases, good rental yields, proximity to employment centers, and benefit from major projects like theme park expansions. Cons include ongoing construction activity potentially affecting lifestyle and some areas still maturing their amenity offerings.

Premium locations commanding $1 million to $4 million or more, offering luxury lifestyle and established amenities. Pros include high capital growth potential, prestigious addresses, strong tourism appeal, and established infrastructure. Cons involve high entry prices limiting accessibility, sensitivity to economic downturns, and potential oversupply in the luxury apartment sector.

What should you know about long-term rentals—best suburbs, target tenants, expected rental income, and yield?

Long-term rentals in the Gold Coast provide stable income streams with specific performance characteristics in 2025.

Best performing suburbs for long-term rentals include Southport, Coomera, Upper Coomera, Helensvale, Ashmore, and Parkwood. These areas offer excellent tenant demand due to proximity to employment centers, schools, and public transport while maintaining reasonable property prices that support good yields.

Target tenants encompass families seeking quality schools and safe neighborhoods, professionals working in tourism, healthcare, and construction, students attending Griffith University and other institutions, and retirees preferring low-maintenance living near amenities.

Rental yields average 4.1% for houses and 5.3% for units, with some areas achieving higher returns depending on property type and location. Houses in outer suburbs can yield 4.5-5%, while beachside units may achieve 5.5-6% due to tourism overlap.

New compliance rules effective in 2025 include limits on rent paid in advance, standardized lease forms, and bans on rent bidding, creating a more regulated but stable rental environment for both landlords and tenants.

What about short-term rentals—what are the key regulations, best spots, typical guests, income potential, and risks?

Short-term rentals offer higher returns but require careful compliance with Queensland regulations in 2025.

• Mandatory Short-Term Rental Accommodation Permit from Queensland Department of Tourism, Innovation, and Sport
• Local council rules covering guest limits, noise restrictions, parking requirements, and zoning compliance
• Severe penalties for non-compliance including fines up to $26,000 for individuals
• GST obligations when annual turnover exceeds $75,000
• Body corporate approval required for apartment buildings

Best locations include Surfers Paradise for nightlife seekers, Broadbeach for families and convention visitors, Main Beach for luxury travelers, and Burleigh Heads for the hipster and wellness market. Each area attracts different guest profiles and seasonal patterns.

Typical guests range from domestic tourists seeking beach holidays to business travelers attending conferences, international visitors exploring Australia, and families requiring proximity to theme parks. Peak seasons around school holidays and events can significantly boost occupancy and rates.

Income potential reaches up to $85,000 annually for well-located and managed properties, significantly exceeding long-term rental returns. However, this requires active management, professional photography, and strategic pricing.

Risks include regulatory changes potentially restricting operations, seasonal vacancy during off-peak periods, higher property wear and tear, and increased management complexity compared to traditional rentals.

What actually makes a property investment smart in the Gold Coast—and what are the red flags to avoid?

Smart Gold Coast property investment requires alignment between personal goals, market fundamentals, and realistic expectations.

• Clear alignment with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment timeline
• Location in areas with strong fundamentals including infrastructure, employment, and population growth
• Realistic rental yield expectations based on comparable properties and market data
• Compliance with all regulations including building codes, strata requirements, and rental laws
• Thorough due diligence including building inspections, strata reports, and rental history verification

Properties in established growth corridors with planned infrastructure, reasonable entry prices relative to rental potential, and clear tenant demand demonstrate smart investment characteristics. Diversification across different property types and locations can reduce risk while maintaining growth potential.

• Unrealistic "get rich quick" promises or guaranteed high returns without market justification
• High-pressure sales tactics requiring immediate decisions without proper investigation time
• Incomplete or obviously biased market data that can't be independently verified
• Properties requiring excessive renovation in areas with oversupply concerns
• Rent guarantee schemes that seem too good to be true or lack proper backing

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. BambooRoutes Gold Coast Property Analysis
2. Bargoti Real Estate - Gold Coast Market Snapshot 2025
3. Hinterland Realty - Market Update May 2025
4. Aquila Property - Gold Coast Investment Guide
5. Simply Gold Coast - Market Overview
6. LinkedIn - Gold Coast Market Growth Analysis
7. Prestige Agents - Best Investment Areas
8. Airbtics - Gold Coast Airbnb Regulations