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Scarborough suburb profile

Scarborough is a picturesque coastal suburb located on the Redcliffe Peninsula, approximately 30km north of Brisbane. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant marina, and relaxed seaside atmosphere, Scarborough is a popular destination for both residents and visitors. The suburb offers a mix of modern apartments and charming Queenslander homes, catering to diverse lifestyles. Scarborough's waterfront is lined with cafes, restaurants, and parks, providing ample opportunities for leisure and recreation. With its scenic beauty, community spirit, and proximity to essential amenities, Scarborough is a sought-after locale for those seeking a coastal lifestyle.

Scarborough property market performance

Scarborough's property market has shown robust performance over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 6% and unit values surging by 18%. The median house price has averaged $1.09 million, while units have reached $869,000, indicating strong demand, particularly in the unit sector.

Sales activity has been active, with 45 houses and 18 units sold in the past 12 months. Properties are moving quickly, with houses spending a median of 34 days on the market and units just 31 days, reflecting a competitive market environment.

The rental market in Scarborough has also experienced significant growth, with house rents increasing by 8.3% and unit rents by an impressive 21.2% over the last 12 months, highlighting a strong demand for rental properties in the area.

Median price - houses$1.20MPast 3 months

Median price - units$910KPast 3 months

Change in value - houses6.8%12 months

Change in value - units19.8%12 months

Houses sold41Past 3 months

Units sold14Past 3 months

Median DOM - houses32.5Past 12 months

Median DOM - units28Past 12 months

Average rent - houses$650Past 12 months

Average rent - units$630Past 12 months

Change in rent - houses8.3%Past 12 months

Change in rent - units21.2%Past 12 months

Scarborough demographics

Scarborough, located on the Redcliffe Peninsula in Queensland, is a picturesque coastal suburb known for its serene beaches and relaxed lifestyle. With a median age of 53, it is a popular destination for retirees and those seeking a quieter pace of life. The suburb's charm lies in its blend of natural beauty and community-oriented living, making it an attractive place for families and older residents alike.

The housing landscape in Scarborough is characterized by a significant proportion of properties owned outright, accounting for 40.3% of the suburb's dwellings. This high rate of outright ownership reflects the stability and long-term residency of its population. 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 those looking to settle in the area.

Family dynamics in Scarborough are diverse, with couple families without children making up 52.3% of the family households, followed by couple families with children at 30.1%. One-parent families constitute 16.3%, adding to the suburb's varied community fabric. The median total household income of $1336 per week suggests a comfortable living standard, supported by the suburb's amenities and proximity to the vibrant Redcliffe area. Scarborough's appeal lies in its tranquil environment, community spirit, and the scenic beauty of Moreton Bay, making it a desirable location for those seeking a coastal lifestyle.

Scarborough infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Scarborough is experiencing several developments that could impact its property market. The ongoing redevelopment of Scarborough Beach Park, set to conclude in late 2025, aims to enhance recreational facilities and beachfront amenities, potentially boosting the area's appeal to residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the planned expansion of the Scarborough Marina is expected to increase berth capacity and improve waterfront infrastructure, which may attract more boating enthusiasts to the area.

The suburb is also benefiting from improved transport links, with recent upgrades to bus services connecting Scarborough to neighboring areas and Brisbane CBD. These enhancements, coupled with Scarborough's established reputation as a picturesque coastal suburb with quality schools and a relaxed lifestyle, are likely to maintain strong interest in local properties. The combination of infrastructure improvements and Scarborough's natural coastal charm positions it as an increasingly desirable location for both families and retirees seeking a seaside lifestyle within reach of Brisbane.

Scarborough rental market trends

The rental market in Scarborough has experienced notable growth, with house rents increasing by 8.3% over the past year to $650 per week, while unit rents have surged 21.2% to $630 per week. This coastal suburb's appeal continues to rise, attracting both renters and investors seeking a vibrant lifestyle and promising returns.

Suburbs near Scarborough

Some popular suburbs near Scarborough include:

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 fantastic place to live. Nestled on the Redcliffe Peninsula, it boasts a charming blend of natural beauty and a welcoming community atmosphere. Families will find Scarborough particularly appealing due to its safe environment and abundance of outdoor spaces, perfect for children to explore and play. The suburb's proximity to quality schools and essential amenities ensures that families have everything they need within easy reach.

    The vibe in Scarborough is relaxed and friendly, with a strong sense of community that makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home. The suburb is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marina, providing residents with ample opportunities for leisure and recreation. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, dining at one of the many cafes and restaurants, or simply soaking up the sun on the beach, there's always something to do in Scarborough. The recent upgrades to transport links further enhance the suburb's accessibility, making it a convenient choice for those who commute to Brisbane.

    While Scarborough offers a peaceful coastal lifestyle, it does come with some trade-offs. The suburb's popularity means that property prices can be on the higher side, and the ongoing developments may lead to increased demand and potential changes in the local landscape. However, for those who value a tranquil environment and a strong community spirit, Scarborough is a wonderful place to call home. The suburb's balance of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly amenities make it an attractive option for those seeking a coastal lifestyle within reach of the city.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Scarborough?

    Scarborough is a charming coastal suburb that offers a relaxed lifestyle, but it's not the most budget-friendly place to call home. With the current median house price at $1,085,000 and units at $869,000, buying property here requires a significant financial commitment. Renting isn't exactly cheap either, with houses averaging $650 per week and units around $630 per week.

    When you compare these figures to the average wage in Scarborough, which is approximately $85,000 per year, it becomes clear that a large chunk of income would go towards housing costs. The median total household income weekly is $1,336, which is quite modest compared to the property prices. This suggests that living in Scarborough could be challenging for those on an average income, especially when you consider other living expenses.

    Overall, while Scarborough offers beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, the cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, is on the higher side. If you're thinking of living in Scarborough, it's important to carefully evaluate your financial situation to ensure it aligns with the expenses of residing in this desirable coastal 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.
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  • Is Scarborough a good place to invest?

    Scarborough is showing promising signs as a suburb to consider for investment. Over the past year, the median house value has increased by 6.0%, which indicates a steady appreciation in property prices. However, it's the unit market that has really taken off, with a significant 18.0% rise in median unit values. This suggests a growing demand for more affordable housing options, possibly driven by young professionals or downsizers looking for a coastal lifestyle without the hefty price tag of a house.

    The rental market in Scarborough is also thriving, with house rents increasing by 8.3% and unit rents surging by an impressive 21.2%. This strong rental growth highlights the suburb's appeal to tenants, ensuring a reliable rental income stream for investors. The combination of rising property values and rental yields makes Scarborough an attractive option for those looking to invest in real estate.

    Overall, Scarborough offers a balanced mix of capital growth potential and rental income opportunities. Its coastal charm and increasing popularity among renters and buyers alike make it a suburb worth considering for investment. Whether you're looking at houses or units, Scarborough's current market trends suggest a positive outlook for property investors.

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