Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Runaway Bay

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Runaway Bay suburb profile

Runaway Bay is a picturesque suburb located on the northern Gold Coast, renowned for its waterfront lifestyle and relaxed atmosphere. With its extensive canal systems and proximity to the Broadwater, it is a haven for boating enthusiasts and water sports lovers. The suburb offers a mix of modern homes, luxury apartments, and spacious family residences, catering to diverse lifestyles. Runaway Bay Shopping Village provides convenient retail and dining options, while nearby parks and sports facilities enhance the community's active lifestyle. Its blend of coastal charm and modern amenities makes Runaway Bay a desirable destination for residents and visitors alike.

Runaway Bay property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,393,125Past 3 months

Property growth+8.2%Past 12 months

Runaway Bay’s property market has shown robust growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 10% and unit values rising by 6.5%. The median house price over the past three months has averaged $1.66 million, while units have averaged $1.13 million, indicating strong demand in the area.

Sales activity has been consistent, with 37 houses and 38 units sold in the past three months. Units are selling faster than houses, with a median time on market of 31 days compared to 40 days for houses, suggesting a higher demand for units.

The rental market in Runaway Bay has experienced significant changes, with house rents increasing by 21.1% and unit rents rising by 7.1% over the last 12 months, reflecting a strong rental demand, particularly for houses.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$1.66M$1.13M
Change in value
Past 12 months
10.0%6.5%
Sold
Past 3 months
3738
Median days on market
Past 12 months
4031
Average rent
Past 12 months
$1150$750
Change in rent
Past 12 months
21.1%7.1%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Runaway Bay demographics

Runaway Bay, located on the Gold Coast in Queensland, is a picturesque suburb known for its waterfront living and relaxed lifestyle. With a population of 9,308, it is a community that appeals to both retirees and families seeking a serene environment. The median age of 54 indicates a mature population, with many residents enjoying the tranquil surroundings and the convenience of nearby amenities.

The suburb's housing landscape is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 45.3% of properties owned outright and 29.2% owned with a mortgage. This reflects a stable community with long-term residents who value the security and investment potential of property ownership. The rental market, comprising 25.5% of properties, offers opportunities for those seeking flexibility or a taste of the coastal lifestyle.

Family dynamics in Runaway Bay are diverse, with 29.1% of households being couple families with children and 55.9% being couple families without children. The presence of one-parent families at 13.6% adds to the suburb's family-friendly appeal. The area's amenities, including shopping centers, parks, and access to the Broadwater, make it an attractive location for families and retirees alike, offering a blend of leisure and convenience.

Runaway Bay infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Runaway Bay continues to see steady waterfront and boutique apartment redevelopment, with several new low- to mid-rise projects adding modern housing options close to the Broadwater and local shopping facilities.[1][3] These projects enhance the suburb’s appeal to downsizers and lifestyle-focused buyers, potentially supporting values for both established canal-front homes and nearby townhouses and units.[1][3]

The suburb benefits from established amenities including Runaway Bay Shopping Centre, nearby Harbour Town, extensive sporting facilities and marina access, all of which underpin its reputation as a convenient, lifestyle-driven coastal community.[3][6] There are currently no major new transport corridors, hospitals or large-scale infrastructure projects announced specifically for Runaway Bay, so near-term market dynamics are likely to be driven more by ongoing private residential redevelopment, local amenity and broader Gold Coast demand trends than by transformative public works.[1][3][7]

Runaway Bay rental market trends

The rental market in Runaway Bay has experienced significant growth, with house rents increasing by 21.1% over the past year to $1,150 per week, while unit rents have risen 7.1% to $750 per week. This coastal suburb continues to attract renters and investors alike, offering a desirable lifestyle with strong rental demand and promising returns.

Suburbs near Runaway Bay

Some popular suburbs near Runaway Bay include:

How does Runaway Bay compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Runaway Bay’s median house price is 2.8% higher than Hollywell’s.
  • Median unit prices: Runaway Bay’s median unit price is 43.9% higher than Coombabah’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Runaway Bay have grown 7.2% higher than in Hollywell.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Runaway Bay have grown 7.2% higher than in Hollywell.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Runaway Bay are selling 39.4% faster than in Paradise Point.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Runaway Bay are selling 29.5% faster than in Hollywell.

Common questions about Runaway Bay

  • Is Runaway Bay a nice place to live?

    Runaway Bay is a delightful suburb that offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, making it a wonderful place to call home. Known for its charming waterfront living, this suburb is a paradise for those who enjoy a relaxed coastal atmosphere. The community vibe is friendly and welcoming, with a mix of modern homes and luxury apartments that cater to diverse lifestyles. Families will find Runaway Bay particularly appealing, as it offers a safe and peaceful environment with plenty of amenities to support a comfortable lifestyle.

    The suburb boasts excellent proximity to amenities, with the Runaway Bay Shopping Village providing convenient retail and dining options. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the nearby parks and sports facilities offer ample opportunities for recreation and leisure. The suburb's location near the Broadwater also makes it a haven for boating enthusiasts and water sports lovers, adding to its vibrant yet laid-back vibe.

    While Runaway Bay offers a fantastic lifestyle, there are some trade-offs to consider. The absence of major new transport corridors or large-scale infrastructure projects means that residents may need to rely on existing transport options, which could be a consideration for those who commute frequently. Additionally, the focus on residential redevelopment may lead to increased property values, which could impact affordability for some buyers. However, for families and retirees seeking a blend of leisure, convenience, and a strong sense of community, Runaway Bay remains an attractive and desirable place to live.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Runaway Bay?

    Living in Runaway Bay can be quite pricey, especially when it comes to housing. The current median house price is a steep $1,660,000, while units are somewhat more affordable at $1,126,250. If you're considering renting, houses average around $1,150 per week, and units are about $750 per week. These figures suggest that housing in Runaway Bay requires a significant financial commitment.

    When we compare this to the average household income in the area, which is $1,382 per week, it becomes clear that a large portion of income would need to be allocated to housing costs. In contrast, the average wage in Queensland is approximately $104,000 per year. This disparity indicates that living in Runaway Bay could be challenging for those earning an average income in the state.

    Overall, while Runaway Bay offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle with its proximity to the Gold Coast's amenities, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is on the higher side. If you're thinking of living in Runaway Bay, it's important to assess your financial situation to ensure it can accommodate the expenses associated with this desirable suburb.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Runaway Bay a good place to invest?

    Runaway Bay is showing promising signs as a good place to invest, especially if you're looking at the real estate market. Over the last year, the suburb has experienced a notable 10% increase in median house values and a 6.5% rise in unit values. This upward trend suggests a healthy demand for properties, which is always a positive indicator for investors. The suburb's appeal is further enhanced by its coastal lifestyle, offering a mix of leisure and convenience that attracts both buyers and renters.

    Additionally, the rental market in Runaway Bay is thriving, with house rents jumping by an impressive 21.1% and unit rents increasing by 7.1% over the past year. This surge in rental prices indicates a strong demand for rental properties, which could mean a steady rental income for investors. The suburb's attractive waterfront living and proximity to amenities make it a desirable location for tenants, ensuring a consistent demand for rental properties.

    Overall, Runaway Bay presents a compelling opportunity for investment, with its rising property values and robust rental market. Whether you're considering houses or units, the suburb's growth potential and lifestyle appeal make it a solid choice for those looking to invest in real estate.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Runaway Bay

Choosing the right real estate agent in Runaway Bay can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 126 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 23.8% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2% to 2.94%, depending on the agent and what’s included. Comparing both performance and fee structures can help you find someone who's well-suited to your needs, and set them up for a successful result.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.