Maroochydore Investment & Lifestyle Report – Sunshine Coast Buyer’s Agent Analysis

November 24, 2025|Sunshine Coast Council

Could Maroochydore be the Best areas to buy on Sunshine Coast? Read on to find out!

Overview: The Sunshine Coast’s Thriving Heart

Maroochydore, the vibrant heart of the Sunshine Coast, offers a dynamic blend of urban sophistication and relaxed coastal living. As the region’s principal centre for business, retail, and recreation, it presents a compelling lifestyle proposition for residents and a lucrative opportunity for investors. The suburb is defined by its stunning natural assets, including the pristine Maroochy River and the iconic Maroochydore Beach, which provide a picturesque backdrop for a wide array of water-based activities. Its strategic location, coupled with significant ongoing investment in infrastructure and development, positions Maroochydore as a key driver of the Sunshine Coast’s economic growth and a highly desirable place to live, work, and play.

Maroochydore’s transformation into a modern CBD is reshaping the Sunshine Coast’s economic landscape. The suburb is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by major infrastructure projects and a surge in population. This growth is attracting businesses, professionals, and families seeking a lifestyle that combines the convenience of urban living with the beauty of a coastal environment. The suburb’s diverse housing stock, ranging from modern apartments to spacious family homes, caters to a wide range of buyers and budgets. The ongoing development of the Maroochydore City Centre is creating a new urban precinct that will rival any major city, with state-of-the-art office buildings, retail spaces, and public amenities. This transformation is not only enhancing the suburb’s economic vitality but also creating a vibrant and dynamic community that is attracting people from across Australia and beyond.

Suburb Snapshot

Maroochydore’s property market is a testament to its status as the Sunshine Coast’s premier urban centre, with a median house price of $1,208,131 in 2024, reflecting a solid 9.8% annual growth 1. This impressive performance is fuelled by strong demand from a diverse range of buyers, including families, professionals, and investors, all drawn to the suburb’s exceptional lifestyle and employment opportunities. The market is highly active, with 219 house sales recorded in the past year, indicating a healthy level of turnover and sustained buyer confidence 1.

Geographically, Maroochydore is perfectly positioned to offer the best of the Sunshine Coast. It is located approximately 100 kilometres (an 80-minute drive) north of the Brisbane CBD, making it an accessible destination for city commuters and visitors 2. As the designated Central Business District of the Sunshine Coast, it serves as the region’s primary commercial and administrative hub. The suburb is also in close proximity to other key coastal destinations, including Kawana (approximately 10 kilometres or a 15-minute drive) and Caloundra (approximately 20 kilometres or a 25-minute drive), providing easy access to a wide range of amenities and attractions across the southern Sunshine Coast.

Transport and Connectivity

Maroochydore benefits from excellent transport connectivity, with a range of options for residents and visitors. The suburb is serviced by regular bus services, including the Sunshine Coast public transport network, which provides connections to other key destinations across the region. The nearby Sunshine Coast Airport, located approximately 15 kilometres north of Maroochydore, provides direct flights to major Australian cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, as well as international destinations. The airport is undergoing a major expansion, with a new runway and terminal planned, which will further enhance the region’s connectivity and accessibility. For those who prefer to drive, Maroochydore is well-connected to the Bruce Highway, providing easy access to Brisbane and other destinations along the Queensland coast. The ongoing development of the Sunshine Coast public transport project, including the proposed light rail network, will further enhance the suburb’s transport connectivity and reduce reliance on private vehicles.

Demographics

Maroochydore’s demographic profile reflects its role as a major urban centre with a diverse and growing population. According to the 2021 Census, the Maroochydore – Kuluin Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) is home to 23,327 people, with a median age of 46 years 3. This indicates a mature and established community, with a significant proportion of residents in the 65+ age bracket (26.7%), highlighting the suburb’s appeal as a desirable retirement destination. However, Maroochydore also attracts a substantial number of younger residents, with those aged between 25 and 44 making up 26.3% of the population, drawn by the suburb’s employment opportunities and vibrant lifestyle 3.

The household structure in Maroochydore is varied, with couples without children representing the largest cohort at 57% of families, followed by couples with children and one-parent families 1. The suburb has a relatively high proportion of rental properties, with 42% of residents renting their homes, which is indicative of a strong rental market and presents a significant opportunity for property investors 1. The median weekly household income is $1,384, and the average household size is 2.1 people, reflecting a mix of smaller households, including singles, couples, and retirees 3.

Cultural Diversity and Education

Maroochydore is a culturally diverse suburb, with residents from a wide range of backgrounds. The most common ancestries are English (42.8%), Australian (30.6%), and Irish (11.3%), reflecting the suburb’s strong Anglo-Celtic heritage 3. The suburb also has a small but growing population of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents, who make up 2.3% of the population 3. The educational attainment of Maroochydore residents is relatively high, with 20.6% holding a Bachelor Degree or above, and a further 10.5% holding an Advanced Diploma or Diploma 3. This reflects the suburb’s strong employment base in professional and technical occupations, as well as its appeal to educated professionals seeking a high quality of life.

Property Market Overview

Maroochydore’s property market is characterised by strong and consistent growth, making it one of the most attractive investment destinations on the Sunshine Coast. The median house price has reached $1,208,131, a significant increase of 9.8% over the past year 1. This growth is underpinned by high demand, limited supply, and the suburb’s exceptional lifestyle and economic fundamentals. The unit market is also performing strongly, with a median price of $820,000, representing a 2.7% annual increase 1. The strong performance of both the house and unit markets reflects the broad appeal of Maroochydore to a diverse range of buyers, from first-home buyers and young families to downsizers and investors.

Rental Market Dynamics

The rental market in Maroochydore is exceptionally tight, with a vacancy rate of less than 1% across the Sunshine Coast, ensuring strong rental returns for investors 4. This low vacancy rate is a result of strong population growth, limited new supply, and the suburb’s appeal as a desirable place to live. The median house rent is $850 per week, delivering a healthy rental yield of 3.7%, while the median unit rent is $700 per week, with an even more impressive yield of 4.4% 1. These figures highlight the strength of the rental market and the potential for investors to achieve both capital growth and positive cash flow. The tight rental market also means that landlords have strong negotiating power, with rents continuing to rise in line with demand. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, as the Sunshine Coast’s population continues to grow and the supply of rental properties remains constrained.

Long-Term Trends (2006–2024)

Long-term data for Maroochydore reveals a consistent and sustainable growth trajectory. While specific data from 2006 is not readily available, analysis of the market over the past decade shows a clear upward trend, with property values consistently outperforming many other regional markets. This long-term growth is a testament to the suburb’s enduring appeal and the ongoing investment in infrastructure and development, which continues to enhance its liveability and economic prosperity.

Notable Recent Sales

Recent high-value sales in Maroochydore underscore the strength of the premium property market. Notable transactions in 2025 include:

•36 Maroubra Street: $3,065,000 (4 bed, 1 bath, 1 car, 764m²)

•50 Schirrmann Drive: $2,150,000 (3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car, 707m²)

•74 Maroochy Waters Drive: $2,065,000 (3 bed, 2 bath, 4 car, 879m²)

These sales demonstrate the strong demand for high-quality, well-located properties in Maroochydore and the willingness of buyers to invest significant sums to secure a foothold in this desirable market.

Education Options

Maroochydore offers a comprehensive range of educational facilities, catering to students of all ages. The suburb is home to several highly regarded schools, providing families with excellent options for their children’s education. Maroochydore State School is a well-established primary school with a strong focus on academic excellence and student wellbeing 5. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum, including specialist programs in music, art, and physical education, and has a strong reputation for fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Maroochydore State High School is a leading secondary school known for its innovative curriculum and diverse range of extracurricular programs 6. The school offers a wide range of subjects, including vocational education and training programs, and has a strong focus on preparing students for further education and employment.

Private and Catholic Schools

For families seeking a faith-based education, Stella Maris Catholic Primary School is a popular option, offering a nurturing environment that emphasises Catholic values and academic achievement 7. The school has a strong sense of community and offers a range of programs to support student learning and wellbeing. Pacific Lutheran College is a leading independent K-12 school located a short drive from Maroochydore in Meridan Plains, offering a holistic education with a strong academic and co-curricular program 8. The college caters to students from Kindergarten to Year 12 and has a strong reputation for academic excellence and student achievement.

Early Learning and Childcare

In addition to these schools, Maroochydore is home to a wide range of childcare and early learning centres, with 23 services available in the suburb, providing families with plenty of options for quality care and education for their young children 9. The average cost of childcare in Maroochydore is $122.18 per day, and 20 of the 23 centres have vacancies, making it relatively easy for families to find a suitable placement 9. These centres offer a range of programs, including long day care, kindergarten, and before and after school care, catering to the diverse needs of working families.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Maroochydore’s lifestyle is a major drawcard for residents and visitors alike. The suburb offers a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as a thriving retail scene. The newly redeveloped Sunshine Plaza is the largest shopping centre on the Sunshine Coast, offering a world-class retail experience with over 300 stores, including major department stores, supermarkets, and a wide range of specialty retailers. The plaza is a major destination for shoppers from across the region, and its ongoing expansion and redevelopment is further enhancing its appeal.

Natural Beauty and Recreation

The suburb’s natural assets are equally impressive. The Maroochy River provides a stunning setting for a variety of water sports, including boating, fishing, and kayaking, while the beautiful Maroochydore Beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and relaxing. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for families. The suburb also boasts a number of well-maintained parks and open spaces, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The Cotton Tree Park is a popular spot for picnics and barbecues, with its shady trees and stunning river views. The park also features a children’s playground and a network of walking and cycling paths that connect to the broader coastal pathway network.

Dining and Entertainment

Maroochydore’s dining scene is diverse and vibrant, with a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. From casual cafes and takeaway outlets to fine dining restaurants, the suburb has something for everyone. The Ocean Street precinct is a popular dining destination, with a number of restaurants and bars offering alfresco dining and stunning ocean views. The suburb also has a thriving nightlife scene, with a number of pubs, clubs, and live music venues catering to a diverse range of tastes. The ongoing development of the Maroochydore City Centre is expected to further enhance the suburb’s dining and entertainment options, with a number of new restaurants, bars, and cultural venues planned for the new CBD.

Health and Wellbeing

Maroochydore is well-serviced by a comprehensive range of health and medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to high-quality care. The suburb is home to a number of medical centres, dental clinics, and allied health services, as well as the Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital, which is located a short drive away in Birtinya. The nearby Sunshine Coast University Hospital is a major tertiary teaching hospital, providing a wide range of specialist services to the entire region.

Community and Employment

Maroochydore’s strong sense of community is fostered by a wide range of community groups, sporting clubs, and cultural organisations. The suburb has a vibrant and active community, with a regular calendar of events and festivals that bring residents together and celebrate the local culture. The Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club is a cornerstone of the community, providing not only essential beach safety services but also a social hub for residents of all ages. The club runs a range of programs, including nippers for children and masters competitions for older adults, fostering a strong sense of community spirit and connection to the ocean.

Employment Opportunities

As the Sunshine Coast’s principal employment centre, Maroochydore offers a wide range of job opportunities across a variety of sectors, including retail, hospitality, professional services, and healthcare. The suburb is home to a number of major employers, including government agencies, financial institutions, and professional services firms. The development of the new Maroochydore City Centre is expected to create thousands of new jobs, further cementing the suburb’s role as the region’s economic powerhouse. The new CBD will attract a range of businesses, from startups and tech companies to established corporations, creating a diverse and dynamic employment base. This growth in employment opportunities is expected to drive further population growth and economic prosperity in the suburb and the wider Sunshine Coast region.

Recent and Planned Developments

Maroochydore is currently undergoing a period of significant transformation, with a number of major projects underway that will further enhance its liveability and economic prosperity. The most significant of these is the Maroochydore City Centre Priority Development Area (PDA), a $2.5 billion project that will create a new CBD for the Sunshine Coast 10. Declared a PDA in July 2013 by the Queensland Government, the project was designed to streamline planning and approval processes and accelerate development with a focus on economic growth. The project includes the development of new commercial and residential buildings, as well as a range of public spaces and community facilities. The new Sunshine Coast City Hall is a key feature of the new CBD, providing a modern and accessible civic centre for the community. The recently completed ParknGo Lightning Lane car park provides much-needed parking for the growing city centre, with eight storeys of parking spaces 10.

Major Infrastructure Investments

In July 2025, the Queensland Government announced an $82.9 million infrastructure boost to unlock more than 1,800 new homes in the eastern part of the Maroochydore City Centre 10. This investment in critical trunk infrastructure will pave the way for significant residential development, further increasing the suburb’s population and housing stock. Another key project is the First Avenue upgrade, which will transform one of the CBD’s key streets into a vibrant and attractive public space 11. The project includes the planting of new trees, the installation of new street furniture, and the creation of wider footpaths to improve pedestrian access and safety. This upgrade is part of a broader strategy to create a pedestrian-friendly CBD that encourages people to walk, cycle, and use public transport.

Residential Development

The SOL by Walker project is the latest major residential development to receive approval in the Maroochydore City Centre. This $300 million project will deliver 251 new homes in twin residential towers, adding to the growing stock of modern apartments in the CBD 10. These new apartments will cater to a range of buyers, from young professionals and downsizers to investors seeking high-quality, well-located properties. The ongoing development of the Maroochydore City Centre is creating a new urban lifestyle that is attracting people from across Australia and beyond, drawn by the combination of modern amenities, coastal living, and a strong sense of community.

Key Statistics Table

Statistic	Value	Source
Median House Price (2024)	$1,208,131	1
Annual House Price Growth	+9.8%	1
Median Unit Price (2025)	$820,000	1
Annual Unit Price Growth	+2.7%	1
Median House Rent	$850/week	1
House Rental Yield	3.7%	1
Median Unit Rent	$700/week	1
Unit Rental Yield	4.4%	1
Vacancy Rate (Sunshine Coast)	<1.0%	4
Population (SA2)	23,327	3
Median Age	46	3
Distance to Brisbane CBD	100km (80 mins)	2

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Conclusion

Maroochydore stands out as a premier destination for both lifestyle and investment on the Sunshine Coast. Its unique combination of stunning natural beauty, a thriving economy, and significant ongoing development creates a compelling proposition for a wide range of buyers. The suburb’s strong property market performance, characterised by consistent growth and high rental demand, makes it a lucrative choice for investors seeking both capital appreciation and positive cash flow. The median house price of $1,208,131, with an annual growth rate of 9.8%, demonstrates the strength and resilience of the local market 1. The tight rental market, with a vacancy rate of less than 1%, ensures strong rental returns and minimises the risk of vacancy periods 4.

For residents, Maroochydore offers an unparalleled lifestyle, with a vibrant urban centre, world-class recreational facilities, and a strong sense of community. The suburb’s natural assets, including the Maroochy River and Maroochydore Beach, provide a stunning backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities, while the newly redeveloped Sunshine Plaza and the emerging Maroochydore City Centre offer a diverse range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The suburb’s strong employment base, excellent educational facilities, and comprehensive health services make it an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees alike. As the heart of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore is perfectly positioned for a bright and prosperous future, making it an ideal place to invest in your future. Interested in Maroochydore? Contact me today to explore this vibrant and dynamic suburb and secure your dream property.