The Gold Coast, a prominent city in Queensland, is diverse in its offerings, from pristine beaches to bustling urban centres. However, as with any city, some areas experience higher crime rates than others. This article provides a detailed look into the Gold Coast suburbs with the most notable crime rates.
Our metrics are derived from the total offences reported to the Queensland Police Service over a 12-month period up to April 2023, divided by the suburb’s resident population, resulting in a crime rate per 1,000 residents.
The data is sourced from the 2022 ABS Estimated Resident Population, Redsuburbs.com.au and the Queensland Police Service.
Broadbeach: A Closer Look
Broadbeach, known for its scenic views and vibrant lifestyle, presents a contrasting picture when it comes to its crime statistics. This prompts the question: is Gold Coast safe?
Crime Rate: 353.2 per 1,000 residents. This represents a 33% increase from the previous year.
- Total Offences: 2,397 offences
- Crime Rank: 19/100 (higher number means more crime)
- Median Unit Price: $770,000
With a population of 6,786 residents, Broadbeach, one of the more notable Gold Coast suburbs, has recorded 2,397 offences. This suburb, while popular for its attractions and amenities, has a crime rate that suggests residents and visitors should exercise a degree of caution.
Beyond the crime statistics, Broadbeach’s high cost of living and occasional traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons, might be deterrents for potential residents.
The area, while offering a plethora of dining and entertainment options, also faces challenges like limited parking spaces and noise levels that peak during holiday seasons.
Surfers Paradise: Beyond the Waves
Crime Rate: 248.9 per 1,000 residents. This represents a 6% increase from the previous year.
- Total Offences: 6,679 offences
- Crime Rank: 37/100 (higher number means more crime)
- Median House Price: $2,780,000
While Surfers Paradise is often in the limelight for its beaches and best suburbs in Gold Coast entertainment options, the crime statistics offer a more nuanced perspective.
The area’s crime rate stands at 248.9 per 1,000 residents. The reasons behind these numbers could range from its status as a major tourist hub to the transient nature of its population.
Apart from its crime rate, Surfers Paradise is often criticized for its commercialisation, which some feel detracts from its natural beauty.
The area, while bustling with nightlife and activities, can also be a bit overwhelming for those seeking a quieter residential experience. The high number of tourists can lead to overcrowded beaches and longer wait times at local amenities.
Southport: A Deeper Dive
Crime Rate: 158.8 per 1,000 residents. This represents a 6% increase from the previous year.
- Total Offences: 5,938 offences
- Crime Rank: 25/100 (higher number means more crime)
- Median House Price: $900,000
Southport, compared to some of the worst suburbs in sunshine coast, fares better, but its central location and commercial significance make it a hub of activity on the Gold Coast.
However, with a crime rate of 158.8 per 1,000 residents, there’s a need to delve deeper into the factors contributing to these statistics.
Whether it’s the area’s higher population density or other socio-economic factors, understanding the reasons can provide a more comprehensive view of the suburb.
Note: There are 84.45% suburbs with less property violent crimes than Southport in Australia.
Beyond the crime figures, Southport faces challenges like urban congestion and a lack of green spaces compared to other Gold Coast suburbs. Its central location, while advantageous for business, means it’s often busy, leading to noise pollution and a fast-paced environment that might not suit everyone.
Broadbeach Waters: A Suburb of Contrasts
Broadbeach Waters, adjacent to the renowned Broadbeach and not far from some of the worst suburbs in southeast Queensland, offers a mix of residential tranquillity and commercial buzz, especially around the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.
Crime Rate: 140.6 per 1,000 residents. This represents a 14% decrease from the previous year. In 2022 in Broadbeach Waters, there were 518 cases of Theft.
- Total Offences: 1,158 offences
- Crime Rank: 19/100 (higher number means more crime)
- Median House Price: $2,000,000
Despite its serene residential areas, Broadbeach Waters has recorded 1,158 offences. The Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, a significant attraction in the suburb, might be a contributing factor to the crime rate.
As with any area that sees a mix of locals and visitors, especially in commercial zones, there’s a potential for a varied range of incidents. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and take standard precautions.
While its waterfront properties are highly sought after, Broadbeach Waters faces issues like occasional flooding and higher insurance premiums due to its proximity to water. The area, while serene, also requires residents to be prepared for the challenges that come with waterfront living.
Main Beach: The Coastal Enigma
Main Beach, a narrow coastal suburb, is renowned for its high-rise apartments and beautiful beaches.
Crime Rate: 136.0 per 1,000 residents. This represents a 13% increase from the previous year.
- Total Offences: 547 offences
- Crime Rank: 23/100 (higher number means more crime)
- Median Unit Price: $1,300,000
With its strategic location and attractions, Main Beach has seen 547 offences. While the crime rate is noteworthy, it’s essential to consider the suburb’s unique characteristics, including its blend of residential and commercial spaces.
The data underscores the importance of community awareness and proactive measures in ensuring safety.
Coolangatta: The Southernmost Suburb
Coolangatta, the Gold Coast’s southernmost suburb, is known for its surfing spots and shared history with its twin town, Tweed Heads.
Crime Rate: 131.3 per 1,000 residents. This represents a 4% increase from the previous year.
- Total Offences: 860 offences
- Crime Rank: 23/100 (higher number means more crime)
- Median House Price: $1,775,000
Coolangatta’s charm is undeniable, with its beaches and proximity to the New South Wales border. However, the crime statistics present a rate of 131.3 offences per 1,000 residents.
Such numbers in a tourist-friendly area highlight the need for both residents and visitors to be vigilant and informed. Factors like tourism influx and nightlife could play a role in these figures.
While Coolangatta’s beaches and festivals are major attractions, the suburb faces challenges like occasional traffic bottlenecks, especially near the New South Wales border. Its popularity as a tourist destination means that during peak seasons, locals might experience overcrowded beaches and a shortage of amenities.
Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads, a suburb that beautifully marries the beach with bushland, offers both natural beauty and a bustling commercial scene.
Crime Rate: 124.8 per 1,000 residents. This represents a 8% increase from the previous year.
- Total Offences: 1,157 offences
- Crime Rank: 19/100 (higher number means more crime)
- Median House Price: $1,500,00
While Burleigh Heads is often celebrated for its national park and family-friendly beaches, the crime rate stands at 124.8 per 1,000 residents. The blend of natural attractions and commercial establishments might influence these numbers.
Apart from its crime rate, Burleigh Heads, while celebrated for its national park and family-friendly beaches, has seen a surge in popularity, leading to increased property prices and rental rates. The suburb’s growing popularity has also led to concerns about overdevelopment, potentially impacting its natural charm.
The blend of commercial establishments with natural attractions means that residents need to balance the perks of accessibility with the challenges of living in a bustling area.
Suggested reading: Enhance your understanding of Australian residential zones by exploring the best suburbs in Australia.
FAQs on Worst Suburbs in Gold Coast
Q: Where not to live in Queensland?
A: Fortitude Valley, Bowen Hills, Herston and Newstead in Brisbane, and Cairns are some of the most dangerous suburbs in Queensland, according to 4BC.
Q: Is Gold Coast safe to live in?
A: Yes, the Gold Coast is a safe place to live, but crime can still occur. It is important to be alert and vigilant of your surroundings to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime. (source: Gold Coast City Council)
Q: Is the Gold Coast a rich area?
A: The Gold Coast has a similar proportion of high-income and low-income households to the rest of South East Queensland. (source: id.com.au)
Q: What is the fastest growing suburb in Gold Coast?
A: Maudsland and Pimpama are the fastest growing suburbs in the Gold Coast, with rent growth of 19.3% and 18.9% in 2022 respectively. (source: OpenAgent)
Q: Does Gold Coast have a drug problem?
A: Yes, the Gold Coast has a high demand for alcohol and other drugs, particularly in the northern region. There is a strong correlation between mental health problems and alcohol and other drug use. (source: Gold Coast Health)
Please note that this is just a sample of FAQs about the Gold Coast. There are many other factors to consider when choosing a place to live, such as proximity to work, schools, and amenities. It is important to do your own research and talk to people who live in the area to get a better understanding of what it is like.
We’d like to highlight that our intention in exploring the suburbs of Gold Coast is purely analytical, and we encourage our readers to approach the data themselves, recognising that every community is multifaceted and ever-evolving.
