THE SOUTHERN GOLD COAST: A Rising Star in Real Estate.
There has long been discussion among locals about which side of the Gold Coast -north vs south - offers the best lifestyle. While each side has its own distinct appeal depending on your lifestyle preferences, current trends suggest the southern Gold Coast is rapidly gaining traction as a preferred location for a variety of reasons. Thanks to its stunning beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and growing amenities, the south is emerging as one of the most desirable places to live on the Gold Coast. This article comprises market feedback to assess the key factors behind the rising popularity of the southern Gold Coast in today’s real estate market.
Strong Growth in Southern Gold Coast Suburbs
Recent market data highlights a notable shift in the real estate dynamics of this region. According to a recent CoreLogic study, nine of the top ten suburbs in terms of house price growth, are in the south. The only exception being Jacob’s Well, situated at the northernmost tip of the Coast. Suburbs in the south - such as Mermaid Beach, Burleigh Heads, Miami, Palm Beach, Currumbin Valley, Tugun, and Burleigh Waters, have experienced remarkable price increases with many in the double digits. In contrast, northern waterfront suburbs like Paradise Point, Runaway Bay and Labrador have seen a far more modest growth, with prices rising by only around 4%.
Mermaid Beach has been at the forefront of this trend, with its exclusive Millionaire’s Row properties seeing the highest growth at 12.9%. This increase has solidified Mermaid Beach as one of the most desirable suburbs on the Gold Coast, ranking third highest in-house price growth across Queensland. The suburb’s family-friendly vibe, low-rise development policies, and proximity to the beach make it a perennial favourite for high-end buyers, ensuring strong property value retention. As one expert observed, properties in this area rarely come to market and when they do, they sell quickly and are often held quite long-term due to the suburb’s "final destination" status.
Key Developments Enhancing the Southern Gold Coast
In addition to its impressive price growth, several high-profile development projects are further elevating the southern Gold Coast’s appeal. Projects in Palm Beach and Coolangatta, such as Elevaire, Evoke, La Belle, Rockpool Rainbow Bay, and Esprit have brought new levels of luxury and sophistication to these areas. These developments are providing attractive alternatives to the more established hotspots of Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. Whether you are drawn to the coastal lifestyle, excellent dining, or world-class outdoor experiences, the southern Gold Coast offers something for everyone.
Buyers from the northern region, as well as interstate, are increasingly attracted to the laid-back but luxurious atmosphere here, particularly with the convenience of Brisbane just an hour away. Many Brisbane-based developers are now investing in the southern Gold Coast, delivering boutique, low-maintenance developments aimed at downsizers or those seeking a lifestyle and/or sea change. This southern shift is part of a broader trend across South-East Queensland, where the property market is undergoing a significant transformation.
Population Growth and Interstate Migration Driving Demand
A key driver of this transformation has no doubt been the influx of people moving to the Gold Coast, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Between June 2020 and June 2021, over 31,000 people relocated to Queensland, with many coming from southern states of New South Wales and Victoria. This migration has significantly impacted the real estate market, with new residents seeking properties that offer a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and more affordable housing in comparison to major cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
The luxury property market in Queensland has seen remarkable growth, with the top 5% of Brisbane homes experiencing a 213% increase in value over the past decade. The Gold Coast, now with median house prices of over one million dollars, is following this upward trend. In particular, the southern Gold Coast has witnessed a resurgence, with growing demand for luxury homes designed for outdoor living. Buyers are specifically focused on properties featuring spacious balconies, patios, verandas, and pools. Developments like the Jewel Residences and Royale Gold Coast have further raised the region’s profile, attracting an increasingly affluent clientele to the area.
What’s Next for the Southern Gold Coast?
Despite early predictions of a post-pandemic slowdown, the demand for high-end properties in the southern Gold Coast is showing no signs of slowing. Developers are responding with new luxury projects to cater to the growing number of wealthy buyers. With major infrastructure investments, such as the light rail expansion, the M1 upgrade, and proximity to Gold Coast Airport, the region is becoming even more accessible. This will only enhance its desirability in the years to come.
Population growth continues to be a key factor driving demand in the region. Over the past decade, the Gold Coast’s population has increased by 23%, further fuelling demand for homes as more families and professionals relocate to the area. This trend is expected to continue, with projections for 2025 indicating ongoing demand for both rental and owner-occupied properties. We anticipate that this strong demand will support continued price growth across the southern suburbs market.
In Conclusion
The southern Gold Coast is quickly becoming one of Australia’s most desirable luxury property markets. With factors like interstate migration, a flourishing luxury real estate sector, and significant redevelopment projects, the region is well on its way to becoming a premier destination for both homeowners and investors. As these trends continue and infrastructure improves, the southern Gold Coast is no doubt poised for further transformation.
If you are interested in exploring opportunities in the southern Gold Coast real estate market or need assistance with property sales, rentals, or investments, please do not hesitate to contact area specialist - John Cepero on Ph. 0411 308 830. or any of our team Meet Our Team | Platinum Realty
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