Area profile · Rest of Qld
Surfers Paradise - North has an estimated 15,122 residents, up 23.9% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Surfers Paradise - North.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Surfers Paradise - North (Lv2) Statistical Area lies 71 kilometres southeast of the Brisbane CBD. According to AreaSearch's analysis, its population is around 15,122 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 2,918 people (23.9%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 12,204 people. This change is inferred from the estimated resident population (ERP) of 14,640 from the ABS as of June 2025, together with 1,623 Validated New Addresses added since the Census date. Population density and growth drivers sit well above average, and development activity and population drivers are likewise well above average, marking a dense and highly active development environment. The area also has an above-average renting population, a low average household size, and a high population level born overseas. Residents include a high proportion of young adults alongside older Australians, with lone person and group households prominent. Income levels fall in the lower quartile, while a significant level of infrastructure and major project spending is planned that should support performance and demand.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,470 in 2001 and 14,640 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 15,122 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 25.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 28%.
Surfers Paradise - North ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for amenities and the 91st for population growth.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Surfers Paradise - North is $791 a week, up 8.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 24% above Regional Qld.
24% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $669 in 2017, $1,213 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $405 in 2017, $744 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $791 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,213 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $744 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Surfers Paradise | $793 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Surfers Paradise, over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Gold Coast | $804 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Gold Coast, over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Qld, over 12 months | +6.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $632 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, QLD, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 38 tracked applications: 31 approved, 2 under assessment, 5 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 15 projects in Surfers Paradise - North (7 under construction) and 156 more in the surrounding area.
A proposed 16-storey hotel with 233 guest rooms and suites at 9-17 Cypress Avenue, Surfers Paradise, designed by DBI Architects for Horan…
The Surfers Paradise Revitalisation project is a major public realm transformation led by the City of Gold Coast across Cavill Mall, Cavill…
A $1.75 billion, four-tower luxury resort-living precinct at Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise, developed by Gurner Group in joint venture…
Meriton's Cypress Palms is a two-tower high-rise apartment development in Surfers Paradise, planned at 90 and 76 storeys with about 1310…
Chevron One is a landmark 41-level residential tower located on Chevron Island.
Dual tower beachfront development featuring 637 apartments across 51-storey and 77-storey towers directly opposite Surfers Paradise Beach.
A 21-storey luxury residential tower on Chevron Island comprising 102 apartments with panoramic views over the central Gold Coast skyline.
Landmark $1.5 billion three-tower residential and retail precinct in Surfers Paradise.
A boutique 27-storey luxury residential tower featuring 87 high-end apartments designed by Cottee Parker.
Approved 19-storey beachfront luxury apartment tower by ASF Group on The Esplanade in Surfers Paradise.
Proposed premium residential apartment tower in Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, featuring luxury apartments with gold-inspired…
A 576 million dollar ultra-luxury beachfront development by DD Living, featuring a 38-level tower with 104 premium apartments, including…
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 108 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 36, 2027 23, 2028 21, 2029 10, 2030 5, 2031 2, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 3. 20 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 38 substantial development applications lodged in and around Surfers Paradise - North over the past 5 years, 5 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 6, 2022 9, 2023 8, 2024 5, 2025 6, 2026 (to Oct) 4.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 38 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 50.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 98th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 646 | ABS building approvals | 99th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 31 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 include: Surfers Paradise Revitalisation (Pre-Approval); La Pelago (Construction); Cypress Avenue Hotel (Dev. Approval); Cypress Palms (Construction); and Chevron One Residences (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Commercial & Industrial, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Surfers Paradise - North among the top 14% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 area has seen 593 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Surfers Paradise - North SA2's current population of 15,122 has been supported by 646 approvals on average over recent years.
The Surfers Paradise - North SA2 has seen 50.1 approval per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.3 approvals in Regional Qld. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 49 people in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Surfers Paradise - North SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 646, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 has grown by approximately 2,386 people, while 3,231 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Surfers Paradise - North lies within the top 9% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,122 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +23.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 6,155 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 96th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +3.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 12,204 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,918 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +4.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.46 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 was estimated to be approximately 15,122 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 14,640 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The surfers paradise - north sa2 has added approximately 2,918 people and shown a 23.91% increase from the 12,204 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is estimated at 6,147 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.9% per annum.
Population growth in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (99.6%), Natural increase (0.4%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 99.6% of overall population gains.
Surfers Paradise - North hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 43 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 78th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 5.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 36.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 60.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 45 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 25.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 at 43 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 45 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 43 years as at August 2026, Surfers Paradise - North is 2 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 5 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 25.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 3.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (25.4% vs 12.6%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (3.0% vs 12.0%) and 0-4 year-olds (2.2% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 5.2% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.0% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 as at August 2026.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 14% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,549 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,275 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,276 | 2021 Census, weekly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $772 | 2021 Census, weekly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,683 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is approximately $50,930. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,549.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is approximately $85,983. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,275.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is approximately $50,930 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,549 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is approximately $85,983 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,275 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Surfers Paradise - North SA2's households (~28.0% / 1,545 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 28.0% of households. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is $1,276/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is $1,683/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is $772/wk.
The Surfers Paradise - North SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $47,549 and an average of $80,275 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is very high nationally, contrasting with Regional Qld's median income of $56,722 and average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $50,930 (median) and $85,983 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is $4,287 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The surfers paradise - north sa2's disposable income is $4,287 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Surfers Paradise - North exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 63.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,598 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 15,453 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,884 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 has approximately 8,598 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.2%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 stands at 3.2%, which is 0.6 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.8%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are accommodation & food (17.0% of employment), health care & social assistance (11.7%), and retail trade (10.1%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is 63.4%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Qld.
The surfers paradise - north sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 17.0% of the local workforce compared to 8.3% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.0, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 4 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The surfers paradise - north sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 7.7% decline, ranking 36th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Surfers Paradise - North ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 21.4% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 31.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 15.1% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 31.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
31.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
31.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The surfers paradise - north sa2 ranks in the 65th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 are: Certificate (21.9%), Bachelor Degree (21.4%), Advanced Diploma (15.1%).
28.7% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 4.1% in primary school, 3.8% in secondary school, 7.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
Surfers Paradise - North features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 1.9 people | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 40.9% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 33.9% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,512 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 6,830 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 51.3% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.1 per family | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 had 5,512 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 23.9% to an estimated 6,830 households today.
The average household size in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is 1.9 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 51.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (40.9%), group households (7.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,828 family households, couples with children account for 9.3% of all households, couples without children at home 33.9%, and single parent families 6.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 40.9% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 51.3% compared to 70.4% in Regional Qld. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 have an average of 1.1 children, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 35.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 41.0% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 40.9% of all households in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2, higher than the average for Regional Qld of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 7.8% of households, above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Surfers Paradise - North is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 46.0% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 26.9% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 73.1% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 64.8% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 54.0% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
Surfers Paradise - North scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 26.9% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 46.0% born overseas.
The main religion in Surfers Paradise - North was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.7% of people in Surfers Paradise - North. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.6% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Surfers Paradise - North are English, comprising 26.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 16.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 26.5%, and Other, comprising 14.9% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Qld's 6.9%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Spanish is notably overrepresented at 1.1% of Surfers Paradise - North (vs 0.3% across Regional Qld), French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%) and Russian at 0.7% (vs 0.2%).
46.0% of the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
26.9% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
0.9% of the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
64.8% of the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Surfers Paradise - North features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 52.8% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 85.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,625 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 35th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 18.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $415 | 2021 Census, weekly | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 32.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
In the Surfers Paradise - North SA2, 29.2% of homes are owned outright, 18.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 52.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 7.7% of dwellings in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 are houses.
In the Surfers Paradise - North SA2, 85.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 5.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 stands at 29.2%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is $1,625, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is $1,242, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Surfers Paradise - North SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 29.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 32.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 29.4% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 32.5% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 consists of 7.7% detached houses, 5.7% semi-detached dwellings, 85.9% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Surfers Paradise - North consumes approximately 22.5% of median household income ($5,525 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Surfers Paradise - North show attached dwellings contributing 97% of approvals compared to 92% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 3% of applications versus 8% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Surfers Paradise - North is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Surfers Paradise - North's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 57.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 68th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.7% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 79.4% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
Around 57.1% of people in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the Surfers Paradise - North SA2, 4.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
5.7% of people in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.5% of the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.2% of people in the Surfers Paradise - North SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Surfers Paradise - North SA2, 57.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
From the typical resident, the nearest pharmacy is 407 m away and the nearest GP 435 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 93 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest pharmacy | 407 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 435 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 490 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 509 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 557 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 606 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 608 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 689 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There is 1 long day care centre with 88 places in Surfers Paradise - North, about 3.8 children aged 0-4 per place.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Surfers Paradise - North among the top 14% of areas assessed nationwide.
Surfers Paradise - North ranks in the 80th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Surfers Paradise - North is $791 a week, +8.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Surfers Paradise - North lies within the top 9% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Surfers Paradise - North hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 14% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
Employment performance in Surfers Paradise - North exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
The educational profile of Surfers Paradise - North ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Surfers Paradise - North features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Surfers Paradise - North is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Surfers Paradise - North features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Surfers Paradise - North's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport in Surfers Paradise - North: transport access 10/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Surfers Paradise - North has an estimated 15,122 residents, up 23.9% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Surfers Paradise - North.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Surfers Paradise - North.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (309101561). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Surfers Paradise - North from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Surfers Paradise - North with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 10 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 10th percentile nationally |
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.7 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 16.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.