Whether you're eyeing an investment property on the Gold Coast or contemplating selling your current one, understanding the market dynamics is crucial for maximising your return on investment.  

Here we'll dive into the Gold Coast housing market's performance in 2025 and what experts are forecasting for 2026 and beyond, including house price predictions for the next 12 months. We also cover a handful of standout locations on the Gold Coast that analysts are watching closely for the future.

Let’s start by taking a look back at the key drivers for the Gold Coast property market over the past year.

How did the Gold Coast property market perform in 2025?

The Gold Coast property market delivered exceptional results in 2025, significantly outperforming early forecasts to become one of the nation's standout performers. 

According to SQM Research, dwelling values surged by approximately 18.0 per cent in the 12 months to November 2025. This growth pushed the median house price to a record high of roughly $1.4 million, while unit values climbed toward the $1 million mark, cementing the region's status as a premium lifestyle market rather than just a holiday destination.

Unlike previous cycles often defined by oversupply, 2025 was characterised by a chronic shortage of stock. High construction costs and capacity constraints limited the delivery of new developments, keeping total listings well below long-term averages. This scarcity created a persistent seller’s market, where buyers faced intense competition for limited inventory despite affordability constraints beginning to emerge.

The rental market remained critically tight, offering strong returns for investors but challenging conditions for tenants. Vacancy rates hovered around 1.2 per cent throughout the year, driving asking rents up by approximately 8.0 to 10.0 per cent. Gross rental yields remained attractive compared to southern capitals, sitting at roughly 5.3 per cent for units and 4.1 per cent for houses.

Louis Christopher, Managing Director at SQM Research, highlighted the sheer scale of the market's upswing during the year. He noted, "Housing-wise, 2025 delivered crazy growth of about 18% in dwelling values to November, landing well above our prediction."

Helpful resource: Get a suburb profile for any suburb in Australia

Gold Coast real estate market predictions and price forecasts 2026

National property values are projected to reach new record highs in 2026, with the potential for further interest rate cuts to sustain strong buyer demand. The Gold Coast is expected to remain one of the country's top performers. 

SQM Research forecasts dwelling prices to rise between 7 and 11 per cent, while Bamboo Routes is even more bullish, predicting growth of up to 13 per cent. This momentum is being driven by a structural shift in the region, which has transitioned from a volatile holiday destination to a permanent population hub supported by migration and pre-Olympics infrastructure spending.

A major trend for 2026 is the dominance of the unit market. With median house prices now exceeding $1.2 million, buyers are aggressively targeting apartments. Ray White Chief Economist Nerida Conisbee notes that the Gold Coast is no longer an affordable coastal alternative, highlighting that the region's median unit price has overtaken Sydney's for the first time in history. This "luxury unit boom" is expected to continue as downsizers and interstate migrants compete for high-end coastal stock.

For investors, the market presents a double-edged sword: capital growth prospects are excellent, but entry prices are significant. However, rental yields remain attractive—hovering around 4.6 to 5.4 per cent in growth corridors like Coomera—supported by vacancy rates near 1 per cent. While affordability risks are rising, the consensus is that the Gold Coast’s undersupply will keep a floor under prices well into 2026.

We've put together a list of ten of the Gold Coast's top investment suburbs for 2026 according to OpenAgent analysis of short-term and long-term growth patterns, listing activity, selling speed and rental yields. 

Runaway Bay, QLD 4216

Runaway Bay offers a premium waterfront lifestyle with a median unit price of $900,000. The market has surged +15.2 per cent in the last year, supported by a massive five-year growth of +96.1 per cent. It is renowned for its canal systems and direct access to the Broadwater, attracting boaties and retirees. Investors benefit from a solid rental yield of 4.0 per cent and a median weekly rent of $705. The local shopping village and sports super centre add to the convenience for residents.

Arundel, QLD 4214

Arundel provides excellent connectivity and value with a median unit price of $740,000. It has recorded +13.8 per cent annual growth and an impressive +97.9 per cent over five years, driven by its proximity to Griffith University and the Gold Coast University Hospital. The suburb offers a high rental yield of 5.3 per cent, making it a target for investors seeking student or medical staff tenants. With a median rent of $705 per week, demand remains strong. Its access to the light rail and M1 ensures easy commuting.

Clear Island Waters, QLD 4226

Clear Island Waters is a prestigious enclave with a median house price of $2,250,000. The market has jumped +21.0 per cent in the past year, reflecting the high demand for its expansive waterfront homes and central location. Over five years, values have risen +83.7 per cent, cementing its status as a blue-chip suburb. With a median weekly rent of $1,210 and a yield of 4.5 per cent, it attracts executive tenants. It sits conveniently between the Robina Town Centre and the beaches of Broadbeach.

Paradise Waters, QLD 4217

Paradise Waters represents the height of luxury living with a median unit price of $1,300,000. It has achieved +10.6 per cent growth over the last year and a near-doubling of values (+97.7 per cent) over five years. This exclusive pocket is known for its riverfront high-rises and proximity to the Main Beach dining scene. The suburb attracts high-net-worth buyers looking for resort-style amenities and skyline views. Its position offers a quiet retreat just moments from the energy of Surfers Paradise.

Southport, QLD 4215

Southport serves as the Gold Coast’s CBD, offering a median unit price of $685,000. It has delivered +98.0 per cent growth over five years, highlighting its transformation into a major residential and commercial hub. The suburb offers a strong rental yield of 5.1 per cent, supported by a median rent of $680 per week. Residents enjoy immediate access to the Broadwater Parklands, Australia Fair, and the light rail network. It remains a key location for investors seeking density and infrastructure.

Oxenford, QLD 4210

Oxenford is a family favourite in the northern corridor with a median house price of $1,000,000. The market grew +13.3 per cent in the last year, while five-year growth stands at +94.2 per cent. Famous for being home to major theme parks, the suburb offers spacious housing estates and easy M1 access for Brisbane commuters. Investors see a healthy rental yield of 4.7 per cent with a median weekly rent of $800. It balances suburban peace with excellent local amenities.

Burleigh Waters, QLD 4220

Burleigh Waters offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with a median house price of $1,650,000. It has recorded +11.5 per cent annual growth and a massive +98.8 per cent over five years, driven by the booming popularity of the nearby James Street precinct. The suburb features a network of lakes and is just a short bike ride from the surf at Burleigh Heads. With a median rent of $1,098 per week, it commands premium returns from tenants valuing lifestyle. It remains one of the most desirable addresses on the southern Gold Coast.

Jacobs Well, QLD 4208

Jacobs Well is a hidden gem on the northern waterfront with a median house price of $1,174,000. The market surged +17.4 per cent in the past year, appealing to buyers seeking a quiet fishing village atmosphere. It has grown +80.9 per cent over five years, transitioning from a holiday spot to a permanent lifestyle destination. With a median rent of $1,000 per week, it attracts tenants who prioritise boating access and space. The local marina and tavern serve as the community's social heart.

Robina, QLD 4226

Robina is a master-planned powerhouse with a median unit price of $830,000. It recorded +13.7 per cent growth over the last year, supported by its role as a major retail and medical precinct. The suburb offers a strong rental yield of 5.1 per cent and a median rent of $795 per week. With the Robina Town Centre, hospital, and train station all within reach, it ensures low vacancy rates. Its mix of modern apartments and townhouses appeals to a broad demographic.

Pacific Pines, QLD 4211

Pacific Pines offers established family living with a median house price of $1,050,000. It has seen +14.1 per cent annual growth and +91.6 per cent over five years, reflecting the demand for its leafy streets and community feel. The suburb is designed around parks and schools, making it a magnet for households with children. Investors benefit from a rental yield of 4.2 per cent and a median weekly rent of $820. Its elevated position often provides views of the coast while remaining close to the highway.

Disclaimer: Rankings use OpenAgent’s internal weighted scoring of price growth, days on market, listings and indicative yield. General information only—not financial advice; figures are estimates; past performance is not reliable. Always seek independent advice.