Sunshine Coast Property Market 2026: Mid-Year Update

The Sunshine Coast property market continues to benefit from its combination of lifestyle appeal, population growth and relative affordability compared to Brisbane and Sydney. The ongoing infrastructure investment in the region — transport, health and education facilities — is supporting sustained demand.

House prices

Sunshine Coast median house prices have risen significantly since 2020 and have stabilised at elevated levels. Noosa Heads and surrounds represent the prestige end of the market. Maroochydore, Kawana Waters and the northern growth corridors offer better affordability. The hinterland towns of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton attract a premium for lifestyle buyers.

Rental market

Vacancy rates on the Sunshine Coast are very low, reflecting the continued population growth and the conversion of some residential stock to short-term holiday rental. Three-bedroom homes in Maroochydore and Caloundra are $650-850 per week. Noosa rents at the upper end of the market are substantially higher.

Development pipeline

The Maroochydore City Centre development continues to deliver new apartment and commercial stock to the market. This is the most significant greenfield CBD development in Australia and is gradually creating a new urban heart for the region. Health and education infrastructure investment continues to support long-term demand.

Outlook

The Sunshine Coast outlook for the remainder of 2026 is for continued modest growth in property values, underpinned by population growth and infrastructure investment. The region remains one of the preferred internal migration destinations for Australians from southern capitals seeking lifestyle and affordability.

This article was compiled by AI from the sources linked above and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.