Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Surfers Paradise has an estimated 32,660 residents, up 23.7% since the 2021 Census, with 29 projects tracked in Surfers Paradise.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Surfers Paradise is located 71 kilometres south-southeast from Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 32,660 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 6,248 people (23.7%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 26,412 people. The area combines high population density and growth with strong development activity, a dense and highly active development market, and a population growth ranking in the top 10% nationally.
The suburb has an above-average renting population, low average household size and a high proportion of residents born overseas. Residents include many young adults, alongside substantial lone person and group households. Income levels are in the lower quartile. No general summary was provided.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Surfers Paradise is located 71 kilometres south-southeast from Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 32,660 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 6,248 people (23.7%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 26,412 people. The area combines high population density and growth with strong development activity, a dense and highly active development market, and a population growth ranking in the top 10% nationally.
The suburb has an above-average renting population, low average household size and a high proportion of residents born overseas. Residents include many young adults, alongside substantial lone person and group households. Income levels are in the lower quartile. No general summary was provided.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 19,525 in 2006 and 32,050 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 32,660 (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, 25.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.9%.
Surfers Paradise ranks in the 95th 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 is $750 a week, up 7.1% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 17% above Regional Qld.
17% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $654 in 2017, $1,265 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $416 in 2017, $770 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $750 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,265 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | -3.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $770 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 | +9.1% | 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 97 tracked applications: 77 approved, 8 under assessment, 12 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 29 projects in Surfers Paradise (15 under construction) and 151 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 Group. The plans include activated ground-floor retail, a 20-metre pool, fitness centre and rooftop bar on level 15, and function and meeting rooms on levels 4 and 15.
The Surfers Paradise Revitalisation project is a major public realm transformation led by the City of Gold Coast across Cavill Mall, Cavill Avenue, and The Esplanade. The project introduces a pedestrianised beachfront esplanade creating over 5,000 sqm of new public space, upgraded lighting, interactive installations, and extensive canopy greening.
A 576 million dollar ultra-luxury beachfront development by DD Living, featuring a 38-level tower with 104 premium apartments, including Sky Homes and Penthouses. Designed by DKO Architecture and built by Hutchinson Builders, the tower reached structural completion in February 2026.
A luxury residential tower comprising 280 apartments and 6 terrace houses across 51 levels. The project is designed with a focus on sustainability, aiming to be one of the greenest towers on the Gold Coast, featuring extensive wellness amenities, EV car sharing, and subtropical landscaping.
Exhale by SIERA is a boutique 26-level residential tower comprising 54 resident-only apartments. Features extensive amenities across two levels including a heated magnesium pool, spa, gym, sauna, and a private dining room with wine cellar. Located 60m from Surfers Paradise beachfront with dual street access.
A $1.75 billion, four-tower luxury resort-living precinct at Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise, developed by Gurner Group in joint venture with Wingate. The 13,000 square metre site features approximately 900 residences, a 185-room St.
Arc Residences Northcliffe is an under-construction absolute beachfront luxury apartment development at Northcliffe, Surfers Paradise. The project includes 39 half-floor and full-floor residences with lift-to-lobby access, two levels of resident amenity, beachfront pool, concierge, private dining, cinema, wellness facilities, gym, sauna and beach-focused…
The HOTA Lyric Theatre is the proposed next stage of the City of Gold Coast's HOTA precinct at Evandale, Bundall. The design by ARM Architecture includes an 1800-seat lyric theatre, a 400-seat studio theatre, rehearsal space, foyers and food and beverage facilities.
A luxury 42-storey mixed-use tower featuring 60 high-end residential apartments and a 60-room boutique hotel. The development, originally designed by Bates Smart and Little Boat Projects for KTQ Group, was sold to Fine Peace Holdings in late 2024.
Dual tower beachfront development featuring 637 apartments across 51-storey and 77-storey towers directly opposite Surfers Paradise Beach. The project delivers oversized 1 to 4 bedroom residences with floor-to-ceiling glass, a world-class beachfront retail precinct, and resort-style amenities including infinity pools, sky lounges, indoor heated pool and…
Meriton's Cypress Palms is a two-tower high-rise apartment development in Surfers Paradise, planned at 90 and 76 storeys with about 1310 apartments.
COAST by Sammut is a luxury absolute beachfront residential tower at Northcliffe Beach in Surfers Paradise. The project comprises 54 residences across 38 levels, with resort-style amenities including two pools, a commercial-sized gym, yoga studio, reformer pilates studio, sauna, steam room, massage studio, poolside cabanas, entertainment areas, BBQ area…
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 112 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 38, 2027 24, 2028 23, 2029 11, 2030 4, 2031 2, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 2. 22 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 97 substantial development applications lodged in and around Surfers Paradise over the past 5 years, 15 in the last 12 months; 8 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 14, 2022 26, 2023 19, 2024 10, 2025 17, 2026 (to Oct) 11.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 97 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 30.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 97th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 870 | ABS building approvals | 99th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 77 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 8 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Surfers Paradise include: Surfers Paradise Revitalisation (Pre-Approval); Iconica (Construction); Chevron One Residences (Construction); Royale Gold Coast (Construction); and 26 Vista (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Surfers Paradise spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Commercial & Industrial, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Surfers Paradise higher than 91% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Surfers Paradise area has seen 1,943 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Surfers Paradise's current population of 32,660 has been supported by 870 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Surfers Paradise has seen 30.1 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 32 people in the suburb of Surfers Paradise, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Surfers Paradise's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 870, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Surfers Paradise has grown by approximately 5,541 people, while 4,350 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.3 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 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 | 32,660 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +23.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 5,635 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 95th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +3.9% | 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 | 26,412 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 6,248 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +4.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +3.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5.80 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Surfers Paradise was estimated to be approximately 32,660 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 32,050 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Surfers Paradise has added approximately 6,248 people and shown a 23.66% increase from the 26,412 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is estimated at 5,631 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Surfers Paradise has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is driven by: Overseas migration (83.0%), Interstate migration (13.0%), Natural increase (4.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 83.0% of overall population gains.
Surfers Paradise's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 40 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 21.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 37.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 60.6% | 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 | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 4.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 25.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.4% | 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 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Surfers Paradise at 40 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Surfers Paradise is comparable to the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) yet 2 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Surfers Paradise compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 25.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Surfers Paradise compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 4.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Surfers Paradise show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (25.9% vs 12.6%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (4.0% vs 12.0%) and 0-4 year-olds (2.6% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 6.6% of the population in the suburb of Surfers Paradise as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.7% of the population in the suburb of Surfers Paradise as at August 2026.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 15% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,733 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,586 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,323 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $775 | 2021 Census, weekly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,707 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is approximately $51,127. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,733.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is approximately $86,316. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,586.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is approximately $51,127 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,733 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is approximately $86,316 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,586 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Surfers Paradise's households (~28.9% / 3,300 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.9% 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 suburb of Surfers Paradise is $1,323/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is $1,707/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is $775/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Surfers Paradise's median income among taxpayers is $47,733, with an average of $80,586. This is very high nationally, and compares to Regional Qld's median of $56,722 and average of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $51,127 (median) and $86,316 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is $4,487 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Surfers Paradise's disposable income is $4,487 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Surfers Paradise ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 18,920 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 30,047 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 19,505 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Surfers Paradise has approximately 18,920 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 March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Surfers Paradise stands at 3.0%, which is 0.9 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are accommodation & food (18.1% of employment), health care & social assistance (12.4%), and retail trade (9.7%). Other significant employers include construction and professional & technical.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Surfers Paradise 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 increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is 65.0%, 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 suburb of Surfers Paradise shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 18.1% of the local workforce compared to 8.3% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.2, 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.
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The suburb of Surfers Paradise'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 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 | 22.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 32.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 22.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 15.1% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 30.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
32.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Surfers Paradise have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
30.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Surfers Paradise have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Surfers Paradise ranks in the 69th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Surfers Paradise are: Bachelor Degree (22.6%), Certificate (22.1%), Advanced Diploma (15.1%).
31.5% of the population in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is currently engaged in formal education, including 4.9% in primary school, 4.3% in secondary school, 7.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is 1038, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Surfers Paradise, with a combined enrollment of approximately 615 students.
The suburb of Surfers Paradise includes 1 primary school.
Surfers Paradise 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 | 4th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 39.9% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 9.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 11,420 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 14,122 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 50.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.1 per family | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Surfers Paradise had 11,420 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 23.7% to an estimated 14,122 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is 1.9 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 50.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (39.9%), group households (9.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,813 family households, couples with children account for 11.0% of all households, couples without children at home 31.6%, and single parent families 7.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Surfers Paradise shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 39.9% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 50.9% 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 suburb of Surfers Paradise 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 34.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 43.5% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 39.9% of all households in the suburb of Surfers Paradise, 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 9.2% of households, above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Surfers Paradise 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 | 45.6% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 28.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 71.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 63.0% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 54.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
Surfers Paradise scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 28.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 45.6% born overseas.
The main religion in Surfers Paradise was found to be Christianity, which makes up 47.4% of people in Surfers Paradise. 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 are English, comprising 25.8% of the population, Australian, comprising 16.8% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 26.5%, and Other, comprising 15.5% 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 1.4% of Surfers Paradise (vs 0.3% across Regional Qld), French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%) and Russian at 0.7% (vs 0.2%).
45.6% of the suburb of Surfers Paradise population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
28.3% of the population in the suburb of Surfers Paradise speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
1.0% of the suburb of Surfers Paradise population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
63.0% of the suburb of Surfers Paradise population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Surfers Paradise 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 | 53.0% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 28.0% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 82.0% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,606 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 35th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 19.0% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $410 | 2021 Census, weekly | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 31.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 80th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Surfers Paradise, 28.0% of homes are owned outright, 19.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 53.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 10.1% of dwellings in the suburb of Surfers Paradise are houses.
In the suburb of Surfers Paradise, 82.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Surfers Paradise stands at 28.0%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is $1,606, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is $1,246, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Surfers Paradise, households with mortgages typically spend 28.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 31.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Surfers Paradise is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Surfers Paradise shows mortgage holders spending 28.0% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 31.0% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Surfers Paradise consists of 10.1% detached houses, 7.4% semi-detached dwellings, 82.0% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Surfers Paradise consumes approximately 21.8% of median household income ($5,729 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 show attached dwellings contributing 97% of approvals compared to 90% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 3% of applications versus 10% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Surfers Paradise is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Surfers Paradise's residents are extremely healthy 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 | 57.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 70th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.2% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
Around 57.4% of people in the suburb of Surfers Paradise are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Surfers Paradise, 4.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
5.9% of people in the suburb of Surfers Paradise are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.2% of the suburb of Surfers Paradise population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.8% of people in the suburb of Surfers Paradise have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Surfers Paradise, 57.4% 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 | 25 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 25th 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 | 16,112 | 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 | 15.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 2 public transport stops within the suburb of Surfers Paradise.
The suburb of Surfers Paradise has 78 weekly trips across 5 routes, averaging 11 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 878 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 482 m away and the nearest pharmacy 485 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 25 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 95 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 95th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 482 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 485 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 559 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 575 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 663 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 681 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 725 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 816 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.7 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 3 long day care centres with 220 places in Surfers Paradise, about 3.7 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Surfers Paradise is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Surfers Paradise.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Surfers Paradise higher than 91% of real estate markets across the country.
Surfers Paradise ranks in the 66th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Surfers Paradise is $750 a week, +7.1% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Surfers Paradise 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's median age exceeds the national pattern.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 15% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
AreaSearch assessment positions Surfers Paradise ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
The educational profile of Surfers Paradise ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Surfers Paradise 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 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 features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Surfers Paradise's residents are extremely healthy 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 has an estimated 32,660 residents, up 23.7% since the 2021 Census, with 29 projects tracked in Surfers Paradise.
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.
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 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
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 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 (SAL32702). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
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 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 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.
