Why the Gold Coast’s Next Growth Phase Matters for Property Investors
The Gold Coast has entered its significant economic expanding phase, growing 25% since 2020/21 to more than $55 billion and becoming Australia’s largest non-capital city economy. The 2026 State of the City Report ranks it second nationally for economic complexity, behind Sydney, reflecting a broader base across health, advanced manufacturing, education, technology, screen production and professional services.
For property investors, this matters because economic diversity, employment and population growth can broaden housing demand. The city now supports more than 350,000 jobs, 83,000 businesses and $19 billion in exports, while its population is projected to exceed one million by 2046. More than $23 billion in major projects and a record 75 active cranes reinforce confidence in the city’s direction.
Positioned in Surfers Paradise, Paradiso Place gives buyers an opportunity to participate in this growth story through a precinct combining lifestyle, connectivity and amenity in one of Australia’s most recognised destinations.
Read the full Invest Gold Coast State of the City Report 2026.
Five Key Points for Property Investors
- Population growth is expanding the demand base
The Gold Coast has more than 690,000 residents, up over 10% since 2019/20, and is projected to reach around one million people by 2046. For property investors, continued population growth can support long-term demand for well-located housing, subject to future supply and market conditions.
- A larger, more diverse economy supports resilience
Gross regional product now exceeds $55 billion after 25% growth between 2020/21 and 2024/25. More than 83,000 businesses generate $19 billion in annual exports, while the knowledge, health and wellbeing economies contribute over $13 billion and support more than 70,000 full-time equivalent jobs.
- Major investment signals confidence in the city
The report identifies more than $23 billion across 90 major projects valued above $20 million. It also records 75 active cranes in June 2026, with Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Palm Beach and Southport accounting for almost half of major projects.
- Transport and connectivity are being strengthened
Around $6 billion in committed transport infrastructure is complete or underway, excluding the $5.7 billion Logan to Gold Coast Faster Rail project. Investment in light rail, road and rail capacity is intended to improve access between homes, jobs, education and visitor destinations.
- Visitor demand remains a powerful economic driver
Almost 14.5 million visitors generated around $9 billion in expenditure in 2025. More than 680,000 international visitors and a year-round events calendar reinforce the Gold Coast’s global profile and support its accommodation, dining, retail and experience economy.
Source and publication note
Figures are drawn from Invest Gold Coast’s State of the City Report 2026, released by the City of Gold Coast on 18 June 2026. The report generally uses 2024/25 data unless otherwise stated.
General information only. Property markets and investment outcomes can change. Buyers should obtain independent financial, taxation and legal advice before making an investment decision.
