Area profile · Rest of Qld
Surfers Paradise - South has an estimated 17,538 residents, up 23.4% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Surfers Paradise - South.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Surfers Paradise - South Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 72 kilometres south-southeast of the Brisbane CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 17,538. Compared with the 14,210 people counted in the 2021 Census, this represents an increase of 3,328 people, or 23.4%. The estimate is built from the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 17,410 as of June 2025, plus 620 validated new addresses added since the Census date. Population density and growth drivers are well above average, and development activity is similarly strong, marking a dense and highly active development area. The suburb also has an above-average renting population, a low average household size and a high level of population born overseas. Within the area, young adults form a high proportion of residents, with lone person households and group households prominent, while income levels sit in the lower quartile. In terms of population growth, the area ranks in the top 10% of areas nationally.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 9,102 in 2001 and 17,410 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 17,538 (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, 26.3%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.6%.
Surfers Paradise - South ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for development activity and the 92nd for amenities.
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 - South is $762 a week, up 8.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 19% above Regional Qld.
19% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $645 in 2017, $1,168 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $390 in 2017, $717 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $762 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,168 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 | $717 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 59 tracked applications: 47 approved, 5 under assessment, 7 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Surfers Paradise - South, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 21 projects in Surfers Paradise - South (11 under construction) and 158 more in the surrounding area.
A luxury residential tower comprising 280 apartments and 6 terrace houses across 51 levels.
A 576 million dollar ultra-luxury beachfront development by DD Living, featuring a 38-level tower with 104 premium apartments, including…
Exhale by SIERA is a boutique 26-level residential tower comprising 54 resident-only apartments.
Arc Residences Northcliffe is an under-construction absolute beachfront luxury apartment development at Northcliffe, Surfers Paradise.
A luxury 42-storey mixed-use tower featuring 60 high-end residential apartments and a 60-room boutique hotel.
The HOTA Lyric Theatre is the proposed next stage of the City of Gold Coast's HOTA precinct at Evandale, Bundall.
Escape is a luxury absolute beachfront apartment tower by Luxcon Group at 63-65 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise.
COAST by Sammut is a luxury absolute beachfront residential tower at Northcliffe Beach in Surfers Paradise.
Florence Residences is a wellness-inspired 26-storey residential tower located at 24 Monte Carlo Avenue, Surfers Paradise.
Exhale is a luxury 26-level residential tower located in the Northcliffe pocket of Surfers Paradise.
Approved luxury residential apartment development on Surf Parade near the Broadbeach border.
A 28-storey residential tower comprising 102 two and three-bedroom apartments positioned at one of the narrowest points between the Nerang…
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 111 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 39, 2027 22, 2028 22, 2029 10, 2030 5, 2031 2, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 3. 22 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 59 substantial development applications lodged in and around Surfers Paradise - South over the past 5 years, 10 in the last 12 months; 5 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 9, 2022 17, 2023 11, 2024 5, 2025 11, 2026 (to Oct) 6.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 59 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 22.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 95th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 368 | ABS building approvals | 97th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 47 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 include: 26 Vista (Construction); COAST by Sammut (Construction); Royale Gold Coast (Construction); Exhale Surfers Paradise (Construction); and Exhale (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Arts & Culture, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Surfers Paradise - South higher than 94% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 area has seen 1,350 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Surfers Paradise - South SA2's current population of 17,538 has been supported by 368 approvals on average over recent years.
The Surfers Paradise - South SA2 has seen 22.8 approvals 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 319 people in the Surfers Paradise - South 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 - South SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 368, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 has grown by approximately 3,159 people, while 1,840 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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 - South 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 | 17,538 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +23.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 5,252 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 95th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +4.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +3.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 14,210 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 3,328 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +4.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +3.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.34 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 was estimated to be approximately 17,538 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 17,410 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The surfers paradise - south sa2 has added approximately 3,328 people and shown a 23.42% increase from the 14,210 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is estimated at 5,251 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (96.2%), Natural increase (3.8%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 96.2% of overall population gains.
Surfers Paradise - South's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 38 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 46th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 38.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 61.1% | 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 | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 26.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 at 38 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 38 years as at August 2026, Surfers Paradise - South is 3 years younger than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and equal to the national Census average.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 26.3% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 4.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (26.3% vs 12.6%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (4.8% vs 12.0%) and 0-4 year-olds (2.8% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 7.5% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.7% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 84% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,857 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,795 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,360 | 2021 Census, weekly | 24th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $777 | 2021 Census, weekly | 44th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,730 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 27.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is approximately $51,260. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,857.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is approximately $86,540. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,795.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is approximately $51,260 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,857 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is approximately $86,540 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,795 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Surfers Paradise - South SA2's households (~29.6% / 1,753 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.6% 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 - South SA2 is $1,360/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is $1,730/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is $777/wk.
The Surfers Paradise - South SA2's income level is well above average nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Surfers Paradise - South SA2's median income among taxpayers is $47,857 and the average income stands at $80,795, which compares to figures for Regional Qld's of $56,722 and $71,544 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $51,260 (median) and $86,540 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is $4,653 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The surfers paradise - south sa2's disposable income is $4,653 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Surfers Paradise - South demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 34% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 66.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 10,585 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 14,607 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 10,910 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 has approximately 10,585 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.0%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 stands at 3.0%, which is 0.8 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 - South SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are accommodation & food (19.1% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.0%), and retail trade (9.3%). Other significant employers include construction and professional & technical.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is 66.6%, 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 leading the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Qld.
The surfers paradise - south sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 19.1% of the local workforce compared to 8.3% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.3, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 3 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 - south 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 - South 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 | 23.5% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 33.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 22.2% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 15.0% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 33.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 8.0% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
33.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
29.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The surfers paradise - south sa2 ranks in the 70th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (23.5%), Certificate (22.2%), Advanced Diploma (15.0%).
33.9% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 5.5% in primary school, 4.7% in secondary school, 8.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is 1038, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the Surfers Paradise - South SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 615 students.
The surfers paradise - south sa2 includes 1 primary school.
Surfers Paradise - South features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.0 people | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 39.0% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 12.5% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 29.4% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.1% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,915 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 7,300 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 50.4% | 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 - South SA2 had 5,915 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 23.4% to an estimated 7,300 households today.
The average household size in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 50.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (39.0%), group households (10.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,981 family households, couples with children account for 12.5% of all households, couples without children at home 29.4%, and single parent families 7.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 39.0% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 50.4% 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 - South 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 33.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 45.7% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 39.0% of all households in the Surfers Paradise - South 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 10.5% of households, above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Surfers Paradise - South 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 | 45.3% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 29.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 70.4% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 61.5% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 54.7% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
Surfers Paradise - South scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 29.6% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 45.3% born overseas.
The main religion in Surfers Paradise - South was found to be Christianity, which makes up 46.3% of people in Surfers Paradise - South. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.7% 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 - South are English, comprising 24.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 17.1% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 26.5%, and Other, comprising 16.0% 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 1.8% of Surfers Paradise - South (vs 0.3% across Regional Qld), French at 1.0% (vs 0.5%) and Russian at 0.6% (vs 0.2%).
45.3% of the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
29.6% of the population in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
1.0% of the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
61.5% of the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Surfers Paradise - South 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 | 53.1% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 26.9% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 78.5% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,600 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 34th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 20.0% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 29.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
In the Surfers Paradise - South SA2, 26.9% of homes are owned outright, 20.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 53.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 12.4% of dwellings in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 are houses.
In the Surfers Paradise - South SA2, 78.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 9.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 stands at 26.9%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is $1,600, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is $1,240, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Surfers Paradise - South SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 29.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.1% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 29.4% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 consists of 12.4% detached houses, 9.1% semi-detached dwellings, 78.5% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Surfers Paradise - South consumes approximately 21.1% of median household income ($5,889 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 - South show attached dwellings contributing 98% of approvals compared to 88% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 2% of applications versus 12% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Surfers Paradise - South is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Surfers Paradise - South'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 | 73.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.7% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
Around 57.1% of people in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the Surfers Paradise - South SA2, 3.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
6.0% of people in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.4% of people in the Surfers Paradise - South SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Surfers Paradise - South 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%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 26 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 26th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 2 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 78 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 8th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 8,743 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 5 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 2 public transport stops within the Surfers Paradise - South SA2.
The Surfers Paradise - South SA2 has 78 weekly trips across 5 routes, averaging 11 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 861 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 522 m away and the nearest pharmacy 552 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 2 stops nearby, 78 weekly trips, access rating 26 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 92 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 522 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 552 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 561 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 633 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 674 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 812 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 828 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 941 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 996 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 7.3 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 are 2 long day care centres with 132 places in Surfers Paradise - South, about 3.7 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Surfers Paradise - South higher than 94% of real estate markets across the country.
Surfers Paradise - South ranks in the 74th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Surfers Paradise - South is $762 a week, +8.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Surfers Paradise - South 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 - South's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income figures position the area below 84% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Surfers Paradise - South demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 34% of areas assessed nationally.
The educational profile of Surfers Paradise - South ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Surfers Paradise - South features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Surfers Paradise - South 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 - South features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Surfers Paradise - South'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 servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Surfers Paradise - South has an estimated 17,538 residents, up 23.4% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Surfers Paradise - South.
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 - South.
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 (309101562). 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 - South 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 - South with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.