Dog Friendly Cafe Gold Coast 2026: Top Spots

Gold Coast houses posted a median price gain of 7.4 per cent in the 12 months to June 2026, outpacing units which rose just 2.3 per cent over the same period.

The gap has widened since the end of 2025 as tourism numbers recovered and more interstate buyers sought extra space for remote work or family visits. Queensland’s overall median house price sits near $850,000, yet the Gold Coast lifestyle premium continues to push detached homes higher in select pockets while apartments compete with new supply.

Broadbeach Waters recorded the clearest split, with house values climbing 9.1 per cent while nearby units managed only 3 per cent. In Burleigh Heads, properties along Goodwin Terrace attracted downsizers looking for single-level homes near the beach, leaving unit blocks along the Gold Coast Highway with flatter results. Local agents note the Gold Coast City Council’s recent planning changes along the Pacific Highway corridor have added unit stock without matching demand for larger lots.

Suburb-level price movements

CoreLogic figures released this week show the median house price in Broadbeach Waters now sits at $1.48 million, compared with $712,000 for units. Burleigh Heads houses reached $1.31 million while units averaged $645,000. The divergence appears most pronounced in streets with direct beach access or established gardens, where buyer competition remains tight despite higher interest rates.

Downsizer demand has played a direct role. Many retirees exiting larger properties in Southport and Surfers Paradise have moved into three-bedroom houses rather than apartments, citing better access to parks and fewer body corporate fees. Tourism recovery has also lifted short-term rental yields for houses in these same streets, adding another layer of support absent from most unit complexes.

Practical steps for buyers and sellers

Sellers of detached homes in Broadbeach Waters and Burleigh Heads should expect inspections to move quickly if properties are priced within 5 per cent of recent comparables. Buyers targeting units may find more room to negotiate, particularly in buildings completed after 2023 where vacancy rates remain elevated. Those considering an upgrade should review recent sales on Goodwin Terrace and the Esplanade before making offers, as the house-unit gap shows no sign of closing before spring listings arrive.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.