Once a postcard-perfect holiday escape, the Sunshine Coast has become one of Australia’s most compelling property markets — fuelled by economic diversity, infrastructure investment, and strong population growth. For buyers and investors looking to secure a slice of Southeast Queensland’s future, this is a region where lifestyle and long-term value intersect.
A Region on the Rise
Over the past five years, the Sunshine Coast has undergone a transformation. Where once tourism and construction dominated the economy, the region has now become a hotspot for healthcare, education, professional services, and digital innovation.
The new 53-hectare Maroochydore CBD project is central to this shift — a 20-year master-planned city centre powered by smart tech, green energy, and Australia’s fastest international broadband connection. It’s not just visionary; it’s attracting businesses, residents, and billions in private and public investment.
Alongside this urban evolution, key infrastructure continues to expand. The $5 billion Oceanside Health Precinct and Sunshine Coast University Hospital have created thousands of jobs, while the Sunshine Coast Airport’s upgraded runway now allows international travel on wide-body jets. The Bruce Highway upgrade and improved public transport networks make commuting more seamless — enhancing both connectivity and liveability.
Population forecasts are being revised upward. By 2041, the Sunshine Coast and Noosa LGAs are expected to be home to nearly 590,000 people — a significant leap from 342,500 in 2021.
Growth Suburbs to Watch
Within this booming region, several suburbs stand out not just for their performance, but for the solid fundamentals backing their growth.
Maroochydore: Coastal Heart and Future City
Once a sleepy town centre, Maroochydore is now the beating heart of the Sunshine Coast’s transformation. Its master-planned CBD development is one of the largest urban renewal projects in Australia — and property values are responding.
The median house price in Maroochydore currently sits at $1.12 million, with an annual growth of 10% and five-year average growth of 13%. It’s one of the most active markets in the region with 244 house sales last year alone. For units, the suburb boasts a 4.4% median yield and strong demand from both locals and interstate migrants.
Rental demand remains high, with vacancy rates around 1.2% and median rents climbing. Investors are drawn to its walkability, lifestyle amenities, and access to employment hubs.
Buderim: Elevated Living, Consistent Demand
Leafy, elevated and home to some of the region’s best schools, Buderim remains a perennial favourite for owner-occupiers and savvy investors alike. With over 490 house transactions in the past year, it’s the busiest property market on the Sunshine Coast.
The median house price is $1.25 million, with a 13% average growth over five years and rental yields at 3.7%. Vacancy rates remain tight, and properties here tend to sell quickly due to demand from professionals, families and downsizers.
Importantly, Buderim benefits from being both a lifestyle destination and a logistics node — close to health precincts, universities, and arterial roads.
Birtinya: Health Hub with High Potential
Home to the Sunshine Coast University Hospital and a rapidly expanding health precinct, Birtinya is no longer a hidden gem — it’s a recognised growth corridor. With a median house price of $997,500 and unit yields of 4.3%, the suburb offers a mix of lifestyle and long-term returns.
Birtinya appeals particularly to medical professionals and investors seeking stable rental demand. In fact, Murray McCarthy recently secured a premium townhouse for a young couple of healthcare professionals here — within walking distance of the hospital and adjacent to green space. “This will be a fantastic investment property down the line,” Murray says.
Strong Returns, Tight Supply
Investor metrics across the Sunshine Coast are compelling. Suburbs like Nirimba (4.6% yield), Caloundra West and Baringa (4.4% each) show above-average rental returns, while areas like Nambour offer affordable entry points with upside.
The region’s vacancy rates tell a clear story — most suburbs report rates below 2%, with pockets like Palmwoods and Peregian Springs as low as 0.3%. Meanwhile, rents are rising. In Buderim, house rents are up 10% year-on-year to $880 per week. In Maroochydore, it’s $810 (up 8%) for houses and $650 (up 3%) for units.
Limited housing approvals in recent years have led to constrained supply, particularly for detached homes. While infill and greenfield developments are in the pipeline — including in areas like Palmview and Nirimba — demand continues to outpace delivery.
Local Insight: Why It Pays to Be Strategic
According to Murray McCarthy, buying well in a competitive market is all about timing, due diligence and local insight. “It’s not just about spotting growth — it’s about knowing where that growth is supported by infrastructure, employment and lifestyle,” he explains.
That’s why working with a local buyer’s agent can make a meaningful difference. Murray lives in Buderim, has worked on landmark projects like the Maroochydore CBD, and brings decades of property strategy to each client relationship.
“Whether it’s off-market properties, data-backed insights, or negotiation strategy — we give buyers the edge,” he says.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Follow the Crowd — Lead With Insight
The Sunshine Coast is no longer a speculative market — it’s a sophisticated region experiencing sustained, infrastructure-led growth. For property investors, that means opportunity. Not just in premium suburbs, but also in emerging hubs and high-yield inland areas where value is still attainable.
If you’re considering investing in one of Queensland’s fastest-growing markets, now’s the time to act — and act smart.
