Concerned about the worst suburbs in Sunshine Coast? Crime rates have surged across several areas, with some suburbs ranking among the most dangerous in Queensland.
While the Sunshine Coast is known for its beaches and relaxed lifestyle, recent data highlights growing safety concerns in key suburbs.
The worst suburbs in Sunshine Coast in 2025 are Caloundra, Maroochydore, Noosa Heads, Mooloolaba, Kawana, and Nambour, based on the latest crime statistics. Below, we examine crime rates, median house prices, and what’s changed since last year.
1. Caloundra: A Crime Hotspot Despite Coastal Appeal
- Crime Rate: ~23,561 incidents per 100,000 people (2024)
- Crime Rank: 28/100 (higher number = more crime)
- Safety Comparison: Safer than only 7% of Queensland suburbs
- Median House Price: $920,000 (+12.5% in the past year)
Caloundra remains the highest-crime suburb on the Sunshine Coast, topping local police reports for incidents. Assaults have increased,and break-ins are frequent, particularly around busy tourist areas. Despite rising property prices, many potential buyers weigh the crime risk before investing in this coastal area.
While the property prices remain competitive, potential residents eyeing cheap houses for sale in Sunshine Coast should factor in safety concerns.
2. Maroochydore: High Crime in the Urban Centre
- Crime Rate: ~15,191 incidents per 100,000 people (2024)
- Crime Rank: 20/100
- Safety Comparison: Safer than only 15% of Australian suburbs
- Median House Price: $1.1 million (+5.8% in the past year)
As the Sunshine Coast’s central business district, Maroochydore experiences high crime rates, especially theft and unlawful entries. While property demand remains strong, buyers should factor in the suburb’s safety ranking before moving in.
Maroochydore’s central location and bustling urban environment make it a hub of activity on the Sunshine Coast. However, with urbanisation comes challenges similar to those seen in the worst suburbs in Gold Coast.
While Maroochydore is bustling, those considering the cheapest rent in Sunshine Coast might ponder over the suburb’s safety aspects.
3. Noosa Heads: Safer, But Still a Concern
- Crime Rate: ~14,517 incidents per 100,000 people (2024) (down 15% from 2023)
- Crime Rank: 16/100
- Safety Comparison: Safer than 16% of Australian suburbs
- Median House Price: $2.2 million (+21% in the past year)
Noosa Heads’ crime rate has declined, but tourist-related offences remain an issue. Property prices have soared, making it one of the most expensive Sunshine Coast suburbs. While improving, crime remains a factor for buyers considering this coastal hotspot.
4. Mooloolaba: Theft and Drug-Related Crime on the Rise
- Crime Rate: ~7,632 incidents per 100,000 people (2024)
- Crime Rank: 13/100
- Safety Comparison: Safer than only 32% of Queensland suburbs
- Median House Price: $1.6 million (+23% in the past year)
Mooloolaba sees high rates of property crime, particularly theft from cars and homes. The suburb’s nightlife and tourism make it a crime hotspot, though demand for housing remains high.
5. Kawana: High Rates of Violent Crime
- Crime Rate: ~12,461 incidents per 100,000 people (2024) (up 48% from 2023)
- Crime Rank: 26/100
- Safety Comparison: Safer than only 34% of Australian suburbs
- Median House Price: $1.6 million
Kawana’s violent crime rate has surged, with police reporting increased assaults, particularly near nightlife precincts. Car theft and break-ins are also rising, making it one of the worst suburbs in Sunshine Coast for safety.
6. Nambour: Crime Issues in an Inland Hub
- Crime Rate: ~11,129 incidents per 100,000 people (2024) (up 5% from 2023)
- Crime Rank: 18/100
- Safety Comparison: Safer than only 22% of Australian suburbs
- Median House Price: $760,000 (+15.2% in the past year)
Nambour’s crime remains higher than other Sunshine Coast suburbs, with frequent break-ins and property offences. Despite recent police efforts, crime rates have stayed elevated.
Suggested reading: Make an informed decision on your next move. Our detailed guide on the best suburbs in Australia awaits your perusal.
FAQ Section on Worst Suburbs in Sunshine Coast
Q: What suburbs have the lowest crime in the Sunshine Coast?
A: Bokarina, Burnside, Kuluin, Meridan Plains, and Pacific Paradise are among 14 suburbs with the lowest rates of robberies on the Sunshine Coast in the past 10 years.
Q: What are the negatives of the Sunshine Coast?
A: One of the negatives of the Sunshine Coast is that getting around isn’t always easy. Public transportation can be limited in some areas, and it can take a long time to get to where you need to go.
Q: Is it better to live in Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast?
A: The Sunshine Coast has everything the Gold Coast has in terms of natural attractions, plus slightly more. The beaches are equally spectacular but less crowded, and the hinterland has additional features to make it slightly more attractive.
Q: What is the richest street in the Sunshine Coast?
A: Arakoon Crescent in Sunshine Beach is the richest street in the Sunshine Coast. It is an exclusive 500m enclave with some of the most expensive properties in the region.
Q: What is the median house price in Nambour?
A: The median house price in Nambour, Queensland, Australia is $672,500 as of September 2023. This represents a 0.4% increase in the past 12 months.
