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The Best Coastal Towns in QLD

March 30, 2023
buying a beach house in september

Key takeaways:

    • Queensland has one of the best collections of beaches, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations.

    • The cost of living in many Queensland suburbs is relatively lower than in Sydney and Melbourne.

When you live in Queensland, there is no need to visit other cities for beaches. Besides the beautiful sights, Queensland University is among the top universities in the world. 

If you look at it in one way, the coastal towns in QLD are best for residential and entertainment. This article covers the best coastal towns QLD to help you find the best place to get on rent or for purchase.

Remember that Queensland is quite an expensive place to live, so there is no reason to move here unless you earn enough money. On the other hand, this is a perfect place for investment thanks to its wonders and nearby locations like the Great Barrier Reef or Coral Sea Islands.

Best coastal towns QLD

Queensland has most cities near the beaches, so finding a coastal town is relatively easy.

1. Gold Coast

best coastal towns qld
House for sale in Gold Coast
  • Median house price: $1,032,755
  • Median unit price: $663,503
  • Rent: $710 (house) and $550 (unit) per week

Gold Coast is a nice place to live in QLD with relatively lower-priced houses and units, with a low rent compared to many towns. This place is famous for its beaches, making it an excellent place for families and travellers

The population of this town is about to reach 1 million and the suburbs there are getting popular. If you are looking for a good place for investment, Gold Coast is an ideal option. Another great place in this region is the Golden Sand, which is a perfect place to stay for couples.

Some of the best suburbs in Gold Coast are Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads.

Discover more properties for sale in Gold Coast.

2. Sunshine Coast

best coastal towns qld
House for sale in Sunshine Coast
  • Median house price:  $2,750,000
  • Median unit price: $1,475,000 
  • Rent: $650 (house) and $580(unit) per week

The lush rainforests and national parks, including their nine-mile beach, are the main attraction of this area. However, you’ll need to travel at least 32 km to reach this place. 

In addition, Sunshine Coast is a safer beach town compared to Gold Coast, making it an ideal place for families. Additionally, the local markets of this area have the latest and fresh food you can enjoy daily.

Some of the best suburbs in Sunshine Coast are Palmwoods and Mountain Creek. And if you’re looking for the cheapest rent in Sunshine Coast, you can check out Beerwah or Nambour.

Discover more properties for sale in Sunshine Coast.

3. Cairns

best coastal towns qld
House for sale in Cairns
  • Median house price: $577,500
  • Median unit price: $280,000 
  • Rent: $550 (house) and $400 (unit) per week

Cairns is located on the far north side of QLD and is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Apart from this, people in this region are into music, and the bar and restaurants make it the most lively place for the night. 

Some of the best suburbs in Cairns are Palm Cove and Smithfield.

If you enjoy drinking and having a blast on weekends, this place is the best. Furthermore, it is inexpensive compared to other regions, so you can easily handle the rent. Moreover, Palm Cove in Cairns has the best suburbs, so you should check that area.

Discover more properties for sale in Cairns.

4. Port Douglas

best coastal towns qld
House for sale in Port Douglas
  • Median house price: $1,032,500
  • Median unit price: $370,000
  • Rent: $650 (house) and $450 (unit) per week

Port Douglas is also located on the far north side of Queensland, and its four-mile beach is the most famous tourist spot. In addition, it has the world’s largest reef system, making it one of the most compelling beach towns. 

In addition, the boutique shops and restaurants make it an excellent place for families. However, the house rent for a family of four to five might be a bit expensive.

Discover more properties for sale in Port Douglas.

5. Rainbow Beach

best coastal towns qld
House for sale in Rainbow Beach
  • Median house price: $813,000
  • Median unit price: $422,500
  • Rent: $670 (house) and $320 (unit) per week

Rainbow Beach is a seaside village in the Gympie Region with a population of 4,191. More than 70,000 people visit this town annually due to its warm and beautiful beaches. 

Their coloured dunes are a must-see, and those who live there can enjoy them anytime. This place might not be suitable for investment, but if you want to purchase property and put it on rent, you can earn a good profit.

Discover more properties for sale in Rainbow Beach.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the cheapest coastal town to live in QLD?

Barney Point is one of the cheapest coastal towns in QLD. It has the lowest-priced houses and units and is located in the Gladstone region.

Q2. Which coastal town has the best nearby areas?

Mission Beach is the best place to set a base so you can visit other areas and enjoy all the beauty in QLD, including their most famous North Stradbroke Island.

Q3. What is the best national park in QLD coastal towns?

Hinchinbrook Island National Park lies halfway between Cairns and Townsville and is one of the best national parks to visit.

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