In 2025, the Sunshine Coast was ranked the second-best performing property market in Australia, with price growth between 12% and 16%. Yet beneath the headline numbers, it was the rental yields that told the real story.
Demand for rentals outstripped supply across both the Sunshine Coast and Noosa LGAs. Vacancy rates hovered below 1%, driven by:
* Population growth from interstate migration
* Strong employment in healthcare, construction, and education
* Limited new housing stock
* Continued appeal of lifestyle-driven regional living
The best returns weren’t necessarily on the beachfront. They were in emerging, family-friendly suburbs where affordability met infrastructure — areas that offered a high quality of life without the coastal price tag.
Top Rental Return Suburbs Based on 2025 Performance
These suburbs achieved the strongest rental yields on the Sunshine Coast in 2025, based on local performance data and rental market activity.
1. Nirimba – 4.6% Gross Rental Yield
Nirimba led the region in 2025 for rental performance. Part of Stockland’s Aura development, it’s a well-planned community with new homes, schools, retail and transport links. Tenants are drawn to its affordability and convenience to Caloundra and the Bruce Highway. Investors benefit from low vacancy rates, strong tenant retention and ongoing population inflow.
2. Baringa – 4.4% Gross Rental Yield
Just next door, Baringa has become a magnet for young families and key workers. The suburb’s growing town centre, schools and walkability made it one of the most sought-after areas for renters last year. High-quality housing stock and steady population growth have kept yields firm heading into 2026.
3. Caloundra West – 4.4% Gross Rental Yield
Caloundra West offered one of the Coast’s best combinations of affordability and demand in 2025. Modern housing, proximity to beaches, and excellent commuter access made it ideal for long-term tenants. With Aura’s expansion continuing, rental yields in this corridor are expected to remain stable in 2026.
4. Nambour – 4.1% Gross Rental Yield
Often overlooked, Nambour quietly delivered some of the region’s strongest rental returns relative to entry price. Its affordability (median house price around $785,000) and improving amenity attracted steady tenant demand from essential workers and young families. Planned transport and hospital upgrades will likely underpin further rental growth through 2026.
5. Little Mountain – 4.0%+ Gross Rental Yield
An inland growth suburb close to Caloundra, Little Mountain combined affordability, family-friendly living and access to major employment hubs. Investors benefited from solid yields and minimal vacancy, making it one of the more consistent performers in 2025.
Suburbs to Watch in 2026
While the 2025 yield leaders remain solid choices, a few new contenders are emerging.
Palmview
Rapid development, proximity to Sippy Downs and access to the Bruce Highway position Palmview as a likely high-yield performer in 2026.
Peregian Springs
With premium schools and growing family demand, Peregian Springs offers potential for rental uplift this year.
Beerwah
This hinterland township continues to attract tenants seeking value and space. Improved transport connections make it one to watch for consistent rental returns.
The Investor Takeaway
The Sunshine Coast rental market remains undersupplied and competitive. Yields above 4% are still achievable in well-chosen growth corridors, particularly south of Maroochydore where affordability meets infrastructure.
For investors, the key to success in 2026 is local insight — understanding not just where yields are highest, but where tenant demand is most sustainable.
Working with a buyers agent on the Sunshine Coast helps you identify suburbs with genuine yield performance, avoid overpaying, and uncover off-market opportunities before the broader market catches on.
Thinking about investing on the Sunshine Coast in 2026?
Let’s find a property that delivers strong, consistent returns. Book your free strategy call with Murray McCarthy Buyers Agent and make your next investment decision with confidence.
