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This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
est. as @ -- *
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
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Population
Population growth drivers in Pacific Paradise are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends
Based on ABS population updates and AreaSearch validation, the population of Pacific Paradise is estimated at around 2,755 as of Feb 2026. This reflects an increase of 80 people since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 2,675. The change is inferred from AreaSearch's estimate of 2,731 residents following examination of ABS ERP data released in June 2024 and validation of four new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 1,039 persons per square kilometer, in line with averages across locations assessed by AreaSearch. Recent population growth was primarily driven by overseas migration contributing approximately 93.0% of overall gains.
AreaSearch adopts ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area released in 2024 with a base year of 2022. For areas not covered and years post-2032, Queensland State Government's SA2 area projections released in 2023 based on 2021 data are adopted, applying proportional growth weightings from ABS Greater Capital Region projections released in 2023 based on 2022 data where state projections lack age category splits. Future population trends suggest a median increase for non-metropolitan areas nationally, with Pacific Paradise expected to grow by 171 persons to 2041, reflecting an 8.3% gain over the 17 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
Residential development activity is lower than average in Pacific Paradise according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets
Pacific Paradise has seen limited development activity, with an average of two approvals per year over five years, totaling 14 approvals. This low level is typical in rural areas due to modest housing needs and limitations imposed by local demand and infrastructure capacity. The small number of approvals can significantly impact annual growth statistics.
Compared to Rest of Qld and national averages, Pacific Paradise has much lower development activity. All new construction between 2016-07-01 and 2021-06-30 comprised detached dwellings, preserving the area's rural character and emphasizing space. Despite density pressures, developers built more traditional houses than suggested by the current mix at Census (75.0%), indicating strong demand for family homes. Pacific Paradise has an established market with approximately 1112 people per dwelling approval.
By 2041, it is projected to grow by 229 residents according to AreaSearch's latest quarterly estimate. If development rates continue at the current pace, housing supply may not keep up with population growth, potentially increasing buyer competition and supporting stronger price growth.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Pacific Paradise has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 10% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly influence an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified six projects likely to impact this region. Key projects include Stockland Twin Waters West, David Low Way improvements in Pacific Paradise, Wilkins Park developments, and the Pacific Paradise Improvements scheme. The New Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme (North Shore Local Plan) is also notable.
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Sunshine Coast Infrastructure Coordination Plan
A collaborative plan between the Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Council to coordinate infrastructure for the Sunshine Coast Urban Corridor (Maroochydore to Caloundra). It outlines network constraints and co-location opportunities across transport, energy, water, education, and health to support growth to 2041. As of 2026, it is being integrated into the new Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2046, with major focuses on the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line and urban consolidation in five key planning areas.
Sunshine Coast Public Transport Project (Coastal Corridor)
Planning for a high-frequency mass transit system along the Sunshine Coast coastal corridor. The project has transitioned from exploring various options to focusing on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) as the preferred mode. BRT will involve rubber-tyred vehicles operating in a dedicated right-of-way corridor to provide reliable, high-capacity transport independent of general traffic. The project aims to link Maroochydore to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital at Birtinya, integrating with the proposed heavy rail (The Wave) and active transport networks to support regional growth and the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Sunshine Coast International Broadband Network
Queensland's first direct international subsea data connection, linking the Sunshine Coast to the Japan-Guam-Australia South (JGA-S) cable. The project includes a dedicated Cable Landing Station (CLS) in Maroochydore, now owned and operated by NEXTDC as SC1, providing the fastest data transmission from Australia's east coast to Asia.
Sunshine Coast Airport Expansion Project
Major airport expansion completed in June 2020 featuring a new 2,450m x 45m international runway (13/31) capable of handling wide-body aircraft including A330, B777, B787, and A350. The $347 million project enables direct international flights to Asia, China, and Hawaii, with new air traffic control tower and terminal upgrades. Declared a Priority Development Area in 2023, supporting ongoing terminal expansion, a 50-hectare aerospace precinct, and up to $1 billion in future infrastructure investments planned through 2040.
Proposed Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme
A comprehensive new Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme by Sunshine Coast Council to replace the 2014 scheme. It sets the planning vision for the region to 2046, guiding sustainable growth, housing diversity, climate resilience, and environmental protection. The scheme includes 18 local plan areas and aims to meet regional growth targets of 219,100 additional residents by 2046. Following formal public consultation which closed in late 2025, Council is currently reviewing approximately 4,600 formal submissions. This review process is expected to continue well into 2026 to determine required changes before proceeding with adoption.
Bruce Highway Upgrade - Maroochydore Road to Mons Road
Major upgrade of Bruce Highway interchange at Maroochydore Road and Mons Road, including new four-lane eastbound bridge, signalised interchange, service roads, and extension of Owen Creek Road. Project includes asphalt rehabilitation at Bli Bli interchange.
Stockland Twin Waters West
Approved masterplanned residential community on a 104 hectare site between the Maroochy River and the Sunshine Motorway. Council granted preliminary approval in December 2023. Site establishment works and trial embankments commenced in mid 2025. The plan includes about 450 detached homes with minimum lot size of 500sqm and average 700sqm, 1ha of community facilities, around 30.9ha of open space with three parks, and a new lake of about 17ha with a walkable waterfront network. Kangaroo habitat and central wetland protection are included.
Vantage Pacific Paradise
An established resort-style land lease community for over 50s operated as Vantage by AVID. Residents own their home and lease the land, with access to a clubhouse, heated pool and spa, gym, indoor bowls, tennis and pickleball, cinema, library, workshop, golf simulator and more inside a secure gated estate. Previously known as Living Gems Pacific Paradise.
Employment
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.3%, Pacific Paradise has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally
Pacific Paradise has a diverse workforce with both white and blue collar jobs well represented. Key sectors include essential services. The unemployment rate is 3.3%, as per AreaSearch's statistical area data aggregation.
As of September 2025, 1,396 residents are employed, with an unemployment rate of 0.7% lower than Rest of Qld's 4.1%. Workforce participation is slightly below the state average at 62.5%. Census data shows that 9.9% of residents work from home. The leading employment industries are health care & social assistance, construction, and retail trade.
Construction stands out with employment levels at 1.3 times the regional average. Conversely, agriculture, forestry & fishing employs only 1.5% of local workers, lower than Rest of Qld's 4.5%. Over the year to September 2025, labour force levels decreased by 2.8%, and employment fell by 2.3%, leading to a 0.4 percentage point drop in unemployment rate. This contrasts with Rest of Qld where employment rose by 1.7% and unemployment increased slightly. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 project overall growth of 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Pacific Paradise's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 6.5% over five years and 13.5% over ten years, though this is a simplified extrapolation for illustrative purposes only.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 10% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for financial year 2023 indicates that Pacific Paradise's median income is $40,895 and average income is $54,408. This is below the national averages of $53,146 (median) and $66,593 (average) in Rest of Qld. By September 2025, estimated incomes would be approximately $44,948 (median) and $59,800 (average), based on a 9.91% Wage Price Index growth since financial year 2023. The 2021 Census shows Pacific Paradise's household, family, and personal incomes fall between the 20th and 23rd percentiles nationally. Income brackets reveal that 34.0% of individuals (936 people) earn between $1,500 - 2,999 annually, similar to broader trends across the area at 31.7%. Pacific Paradise faces severe housing affordability pressures, with only 81.7% of income remaining, ranking at the 21st percentile nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Pacific Paradise is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
In Pacific Paradise, as recorded in the latest Census, 74.7% of dwellings were houses while 25.3% consisted of other types such as semi-detached homes and apartments. This is compared to Non-Metro Qld's figures of 76.4% houses and 23.6% other dwellings. The home ownership rate in Pacific Paradise was higher at 35.9%, with mortgaged dwellings making up 36.7% and rented properties 27.4%. The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was $1,600, lower than Non-Metro Qld's average of $1,655. The median weekly rent figure stood at $400 compared to Non-Metro Qld's $345. Nationally, Pacific Paradise's mortgage repayments were significantly lower than the Australian average of $1,863, while rents exceeded the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Pacific Paradise features high concentrations of group households, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households account for 69.9% of all households, including 21.8% couples with children, 33.5% couples without children, and 13.9% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 30.1%, with lone person households at 24.5% and group households comprising 5.3%. The median household size is 2.3 people, smaller than the Rest of Qld average of 2.5.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Pacific Paradise shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist
The area's university qualification rate is 15.2%, significantly lower than Australia's average of 30.4%. Bachelor degrees are most common at 12.1%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (1.6%) and graduate diplomas (1.5%). Vocational credentials are prevalent, with 43.4% of residents aged 15+ holding them - advanced diplomas at 11.0% and certificates at 32.4%. Currently, 22.7% of the population is actively pursuing formal education, including 8.5% in primary, 6.2% in secondary, and 2.9% in tertiary education.
A substantial 22.7% of the population actively pursues formal education. This includes 8.5% in primary education, 6.2% in secondary education, and 2.9% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Pacific Paradise has six active public transport stops, all of which are bus stops. These stops are served by two routes that together facilitate 330 weekly passenger trips. The accessibility of these transport services is considered good, with residents on average located 239 meters from the nearest stop. Most residents in this predominantly residential area commute outward, with cars being the dominant mode of transportation at 92%. On average, there are 1.3 vehicles per dwelling, below the regional average. According to the 2021 Census, a relatively low 9.9% of residents work from home, which may reflect COVID-19 conditions.
The service frequency averages 47 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 55 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Pacific Paradise is lower than average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts
Pacific Paradise faces significant health challenges, as assessed by AreaSearch's report on mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence. Common health conditions are prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts. The rate of private health cover is very low at approximately 49% of the total population (around 1,343 people), compared to 52.5% in the rest of Queensland and the national average of 55.7%.
The most common medical conditions are arthritis and mental health issues, affecting 10.5 and 9.4% of residents respectively, while 62.7% report being completely clear of medical ailments compared to 67.6% in the rest of Queensland. Working-age residents show a higher prevalence of chronic health conditions than average. The area has 25.8% of residents aged 65 and over (710 people), which is higher than the 20.4% in the rest of Queensland. Health outcomes among seniors present some challenges, with national rankings broadly in line with the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Pacific Paradise ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics
Pacific Paradise, surveyed in 2016, had low cultural diversity: 87.9% were Australian citizens, 80.3% born there, and 94.7% spoke English only at home. Christianity was the dominant religion, comprising 45.1%. Buddhism, however, was overrepresented at 1.3%, compared to 1.1% regionally.
Ancestry-wise, top groups were English (33.2%), Australian (26.5%), and Scottish (9.4%). Notable ethnic group divergences included Hungarian (0.5% vs regional 0.2%), New Zealand (1.3% vs 0.9%), and French (0.8% vs 0.5%).
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Pacific Paradise hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide
Pacific Paradise has a median age of 45, which is higher than the Rest of Qld figure of 41 and above the national average of 38 years. The age profile shows that those aged 65-74 are particularly prominent, making up 13.7% of the population, while those aged 5-14 make up a smaller proportion at 9.4%. Since the 2021 Census, the 25 to 34 age group has increased from 11.8% to 14.3%, while the 65 to 74 cohort has decreased from 15.2% to 13.7% and the 45 to 54 group has dropped from 12.1% to 10.7%. By 2041, demographic projections indicate significant shifts in Pacific Paradise's age structure. The 25 to 34 age group is expected to grow by 20%, reaching 471 people from 393. Notably, the combined 65+ age groups are projected to account for 53% of total population growth, reflecting the area's aging demographic profile. In contrast, the 5 to 14 and 55 to 64 cohorts are expected to experience population declines.