Gold Coast Real Estate in 2026: The City That Keeps Surprising
The Gold Coast property market enters 2026 in a position that would have seemed extraordinary a decade ago — and shows little sign of slowing down.
As of late 2025, the Gold Coast's median unit price surpassed Sydney's for the first time, recording a 10-year growth rate of 101%. Savings.com.au That milestone alone tells you everything about how far this market has come.
A Market Transformed
The pandemic-era "Great Wealth Migration" wasn't a blip. It fundamentally rewired the Gold Coast's buyer profile. Rather than the holiday home buyers and bargain hunters of old, the migration that reshaped the Gold Coast was driven by individuals of extraordinary wealth — many purchasing with cash — who came for temporary refuge and stayed permanently. Propertybuyer Their friends and family followed. That cycle continues today.
After five solid years of strong price growth, with most properties more than doubling in value, 2026 is expected to see growth ease from 2025's pace — but no major correction is forecast, largely because population growth continues to outstrip the construction of new homes. Propertybuyer
What the Numbers Say
SQM Research forecasts dwelling prices to rise between 7 and 11 per cent in 2026, with the Gold Coast expected to remain one of the country's top performers. OpenAgent Buyer activity remains robust — auction results in early 2026 showed properties selling well above reserve, with open home numbers actually ticking higher, suggesting the market has absorbed recent interest rate movements with ease. Propertybuyer
Where the Opportunity Lies
Not all suburbs are created equal. Southport continues to lead as the Gold Coast's CBD, with strong unit growth and infrastructure investment underpinning its fundamentals. Suburbs like Paradise Point, Carrara, Broadbeach Waters, and Coolangatta are among those showing the strongest unit price momentum. Savings.com.au
The northern corridor — home to our Runaway Bay and Paradise Point patch — remains highly sought after for its combination of waterfront lifestyle, relative value, and tight supply. In this environment, well-presented properties with strong local representation continue to attract motivated buyers.
The Bigger Picture
The Gold Coast is no longer playing second fiddle to the southern capitals. It has evolved into a genuine city with world-class infrastructure, universities, healthcare, and a lifestyle that attracts permanent residents across all demographics. This structural shift — from volatile holiday destination to permanent population hub — is the defining story of the Gold Coast market, and it's far from over. OpenAgent
For buyers, sellers, and investors alike, 2026 is a year that rewards local knowledge and decisive action.
Smyth RE is an independent real estate agency specialising all across the Gold Coast market. For a complimentary appraisal, contact us today.
