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Scarborough suburb profile

Scarborough is a picturesque coastal suburb located at the northern tip of the Redcliffe Peninsula in Queensland. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant marina, and relaxed seaside atmosphere, Scarborough is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The suburb offers a mix of waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and picnicking at the beautiful Scarborough Beach Park. With its scenic views of Moreton Bay and proximity to Brisbane, Scarborough provides a perfect blend of coastal living and urban convenience, making it an attractive spot for families, retirees, and holidaymakers.

Scarborough property market performance

Current median dwelling price$1,230,000Past 3 months

Property growth+14.2%Past 12 months

Scarborough’s property market has experienced significant growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 9.1% and unit values surging by 21.8%. The median house price has reached approximately $1.24 million, while units have averaged $1.11 million, indicating strong demand across both property types.

Sales activity has been robust, with 34 houses and 38 units sold in the past three months. Houses are selling faster, with a median of 29 days on the market, compared to 42 days for units, suggesting a quicker turnover in the housing sector.

The rental market in Scarborough has seen moderate growth, with average rents for houses increasing by 3.8% and units by 3.5% over the last 12 months, reflecting steady demand for rental properties in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$1.28M$1.18M
Change in value
Past 12 months
7.1%21.2%
Sold
Past 3 months
2328
Median days on market
Past 12 months
2742
Average rent
Past 12 months
$680$650
Change in rent
Past 12 months
4.6%N/A

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Scarborough demographics

Scarborough, located on the Redcliffe Peninsula in Queensland, is a charming coastal suburb known for its relaxed lifestyle and scenic beauty. With a population of 9,178 and a median age of 53, it is a popular choice for retirees and families seeking a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The suburb's proximity to the beach and various recreational facilities makes it an attractive destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a slower pace of living.

The housing landscape in Scarborough is characterized by a significant proportion of properties owned outright, accounting for 40.3% of the total. This reflects the suburb's appeal to long-term residents and retirees who value stability and community. Additionally, 28.4% of properties are owned with a mortgage, while 31.3% are rented, indicating a balanced mix of ownership and rental opportunities for diverse demographics.

Family structures in Scarborough are varied, with couple families without children making up 52.3% of the population, followed by couple families with children at 30.1%. One-parent families account for 16.3%, highlighting the suburb's inclusivity and family-friendly atmosphere. The median total household income of $1,336 per week suggests a comfortable standard of living, supported by local amenities and services that cater to the needs of its residents. Overall, Scarborough offers a serene coastal lifestyle with a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place for families and retirees alike.

Scarborough infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Scarborough’s property appeal is supported by its established coastal setting, with bayfront amenity, parks and walkable village-style conveniences continuing to underpin demand from owner-occupiers and downsizers. The suburb’s location at the northern end of the Redcliffe Peninsula also offers a quieter lifestyle with relatively good access to major roads into Brisbane, which remains a key drawcard for buyers.

I could not identify any major new redevelopment, transport or school projects in Scarborough from the available results that are likely to materially change the market in the near term. As a result, local prices and demand are likely to be shaped more by the suburb’s lifestyle appeal, limited coastal land supply and ongoing interest in established bayside locations.

Scarborough rental market trends

The rental market in Scarborough has experienced modest growth, with house rents increasing by 3.8% over the past year to $675 per week, while unit rents have risen by 3.5% to $650 per week. This steady growth reflects the suburb's appeal, offering a balanced lifestyle with proximity to coastal amenities and a relaxed community atmosphere.

Suburbs near Scarborough

Some popular suburbs near Scarborough include:

How does Scarborough compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Scarborough’s median house price is 22.7% higher than Redcliffe’s.
  • Median unit prices: Scarborough’s median unit price is 28.0% higher than Redcliffe’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Newport have risen 12.9% more than in Scarborough over the past year.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Scarborough have grown 14.3% higher than in Newport.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Scarborough are selling 42.6% faster than in Newport.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Scarborough are selling 38.2% faster than in Newport.
  • Investment considerations: In Scarborough, the rental yield for house is 4.1% lower than the Brisbane average, while the rental yield for units is 0.5% lower.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Scarborough have grown 0.7% higher than the average rate of growth across Brisbane.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Scarborough have grown 43.1% higher than the average rate of growth for units across Brisbane.

Common questions about Scarborough

  • Is Scarborough a nice place to live?

    Scarborough is a delightful coastal suburb that offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle, making it a wonderful place to call home. Known for its relaxed seaside vibe, Scarborough provides a charming blend of natural beauty and community spirit. The suburb is well-regarded for its family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of parks and open spaces for children to play and families to enjoy leisurely weekends together. The local community is welcoming and inclusive, fostering a sense of belonging for residents of all ages.

    Living in Scarborough means having easy access to a variety of amenities that enhance daily life. The suburb boasts a selection of cafes, shops, and local services, ensuring that residents have everything they need close at hand. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the overall peace of mind for families and retirees alike. While Scarborough may not offer the bustling nightlife of a city center, its proximity to Brisbane means that urban conveniences are just a short drive away, providing the best of both worlds.

    For families, Scarborough offers a supportive environment with access to good schools and recreational facilities. The trade-off for this idyllic coastal living is that property prices can be higher due to the limited supply of coastal land and the suburb's enduring appeal. However, for those who value a tranquil lifestyle with the benefits of a close-knit community and stunning natural surroundings, Scarborough is a truly appealing choice. Whether you're raising a family or seeking a peaceful retirement, Scarborough's unique charm and livability make it a fantastic place to settle down.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Scarborough?

    Living in Scarborough can be quite costly, especially when you consider the current property market. The median house price is around $1,237,500, and units are not far behind at $1,105,000. For those looking to rent, the average weekly rent for houses is $675, while units average $650 per week. These figures suggest that housing in Scarborough is on the expensive side, particularly when compared to the Queensland state average income.

    The median total household income in Scarborough is $1,336 per week, which translates to approximately $69,472 annually. This is significantly lower than the Queensland state average income of $105,000 per year for full-time workers. Given this disparity, the cost of living in Scarborough, particularly regarding housing, could take up a substantial portion of a household's income. If you are thinking of living in Scarborough, it's important to consider whether your financial situation can accommodate these higher housing costs while still allowing for a comfortable lifestyle.

    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.
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  • Is Scarborough a good place to invest?

    Scarborough is showing promising signs as a good place to invest, especially given its recent performance in the property market. Over the last 12 months, the suburb has experienced a significant increase in property values, with median house values rising by 9.1% and unit values surging by an impressive 21.8%. This indicates a strong demand for both houses and units, making it an attractive option for investors looking for capital growth.

    In addition to the rise in property values, Scarborough has also seen a steady increase in rental prices, with house rents up by 3.8% and unit rents by 3.5% over the past year. This suggests a healthy rental market, providing investors with the potential for reliable rental income. The suburb's coastal location and lifestyle appeal are likely contributing factors to its growing popularity among renters and buyers alike.

    Overall, Scarborough presents a compelling case for investment, with its combination of strong capital growth and stable rental returns. While the rapid increase in unit values may indicate a particularly hot market segment, both houses and units offer promising opportunities for investors seeking to capitalize on the suburb's upward trajectory.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Scarborough

There are 91 real estate agents in Scarborough, but they don’t all deliver the same results.

Some agents have a much stronger presence in the suburb, with just 5 agents handling around 34.2% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in Scarborough typically range from 1.88% to 3.25%. Comparing agents—including what they charge, what’s included, and how they structure their fees—is not only important when choosing an agent, the right structure can help ensure your chosen agent is motivated to achieve the best possible result.

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