Could Bongaree be best suburb in Moreton Bay? Read on to find out!
Overview: Coastal Charm with Growth Potential
Bongaree, a serene coastal suburb nestled on the western shores of Bribie Island, offers a unique blend of tranquil seaside living and convenient access to urban amenities. Its calm, protected beaches along the Pumicestone Passage create a relaxed atmosphere, making it a haven for retirees, families, and those seeking a peaceful escape. The suburb boasts a strong sense of community, supported by a variety of local shops, cafes, and recreational facilities. With its rich natural beauty, including stunning sunsets over the Glass House Mountains and abundant parklands, Bongaree provides an idyllic lifestyle. Its proximity to both Brisbane and the broader Sunshine Coast ensures residents enjoy the best of both worlds—a quiet coastal retreat with city conveniences just a short drive away.
The suburb’s name, Bongaree, honours Bungaree, an Aboriginal man who accompanied Matthew Flinders on his circumnavigation of Australia in 1802-1803. This historical connection adds depth to the area’s cultural significance. Today, Bongaree serves as the gateway to Bribie Island, welcoming visitors and residents alike with its charming foreshore, historic jetty, and vibrant community atmosphere. The suburb has evolved from a quiet fishing village into a thriving residential area, yet it has retained its laid-back coastal character. This evolution has been carefully managed, ensuring that development enhances rather than detracts from the natural environment and community values that make Bongaree so special.
Suburb Snapshot
Bongaree presents a compelling property market, characterized by strong growth and a desirable coastal lifestyle. As of 2024, the median house price stands at $891,000, with an impressive annual growth rate of 16.5% over the last 12 months 1. This significant appreciation reflects the suburb’s increasing popularity among buyers seeking value and a sea-change environment.
Geographically, Bongaree is strategically positioned for both seclusion and accessibility. It is located approximately 75 km (Approx. 70 minutes’ drive) from the Brisbane CBD, offering a manageable commute for those working in the city. The heart of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore’s CBD, is about 72 km (Approx. 60 minutes’ drive) away. Closer to home, the key hubs of Kawana Waters and Caloundra are 70 km (Approx. 55 minutes’ drive) and 62 km (Approx. 50 minutes’ drive) away, respectively, providing easy access to a wide range of shopping, dining, and recreational facilities.
The suburb’s location on the western side of Bribie Island, adjacent to the Pumicestone Passage, provides a unique advantage. Residents enjoy calm, sheltered waters ideal for boating and fishing, while the ocean beaches on the eastern side of the island are just a short drive away. The Bribie Island Bridge connects the suburb to the mainland at Sandstone Point, ensuring seamless access to major employment centres, airports, and regional attractions. This balance of island tranquility and mainland connectivity is a key drawcard for buyers seeking a lifestyle change without sacrificing convenience.
Demographics
Bongaree’s demographic profile is heavily influenced by its reputation as a premier retirement destination, which shapes its community and housing landscape. According to the 2021 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Census, the suburb is home to 8,162 residents, with a notable gender split of 54.5% female and 45.5% male. The median age is 67 years, significantly higher than the Queensland and Australian median of 38, underscoring its appeal to an older population 6.
The housing types in Bongaree reflect a community that values space and traditional living. Separate houses constitute the majority of dwellings at 64%, while semi-detached homes and townhouses account for 28% of the housing stock. The homeownership rate is exceptionally high, with 56% of homes being fully owned outright and another 24% being purchased, indicating a stable, long-term resident base. Rentals make up just 13% of the housing landscape, while other tenure types account for the remainder 1. The family composition further reinforces this, with 72% of households being couples without children, highlighting the suburb’s popularity among empty nesters and retirees 1.
The average household size in Bongaree is 1.8 people, reflecting the predominance of couples and single-person households. The median weekly household income is $826, which is lower than the Queensland average, consistent with the suburb’s large retiree population. Despite this, the median monthly mortgage repayment of $1,568 suggests that those who are purchasing homes have manageable debt levels relative to property values. The average number of motor vehicles per dwelling is 1.4, indicating that most households are self-sufficient in terms of transportation, which is essential given the island’s geography and limited public transport options.
Property Market Overview
The property market in Bongaree is vibrant and demonstrates strong investment potential, with both houses and units showing significant growth. The market is characterized by high demand, as evidenced by rising prices and solid rental yields. Over the past 12 months, Bongaree has recorded 91 house sales, indicating a healthy level of market activity 1. The price range for houses in the last year has been diverse, with sales ranging from $400,000 to $1,860,000, catering to a broad spectrum of buyers from first-home purchasers to those seeking premium waterfront properties. The median sale price of $891,000 positions Bongaree as an accessible entry point into the Sunshine Coast property market, particularly when compared to more expensive coastal suburbs further north.
House Market
The median house price in Bongaree reached $891,000 in 2024, with an annual growth of 16.5% 1. The median weekly rent for houses is $650, delivering a healthy rental yield of 3.8% 1. This indicates a strong return for investors and a competitive market for tenants.
Unit Market
The unit market is also performing exceptionally well. The median unit price is $632,500, having grown by 15.0% over the past year 1. The median rent for units is $495 per week, resulting in an attractive rental yield of 4.1% 1.
Vacancy Rates
The vacancy rate in Bongaree was recorded at 2.1% as of November 2024, which, while slightly higher than the broader Moreton Bay region’s rate of 0.8%, still points to a relatively tight rental market 7 8.
Long-Term Trends (2007–2025)
Over the past 18 years, Bongaree’s housing market has demonstrated consistent growth, with the median house price rising from $380,000 in 2007 to $891,000 in 2025. This represents an average annual growth rate of approximately 4.85%, highlighting the suburb’s enduring appeal and investment potential. The suburb experienced significant growth spurts, particularly in 2010 (9.2%), 2013 (7.9%), 2017 (15.4%), 2021 (18.5%), and 2022 (26.6%), reflecting its enduring appeal among buyers and investors 1.
These growth periods often coincided with broader market trends and increased demand for coastal properties, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021-2022 period saw exceptional growth as buyers sought lifestyle changes and the ability to work remotely. This surge demonstrated Bongaree’s resilience and attractiveness as a destination for both owner-occupiers and investors. The consistent upward trajectory over nearly two decades underscores the suburb’s fundamental strength and its position as a sound long-term investment.
Notable Recent Sales
Recent sales in Bongaree highlight the suburb’s value and desirability. Properties such as 79 Pentas Drive, which sold for $2,000,000 in September 2025, 89 Pentas Drive, which sold for $1,785,000 in October 2025, and 49 Jacaranda Drive, which sold for $1,125,000 in September 2025, showcase the premium prices achievable in the area 2. These sales reflect the strong demand for well-located, quality homes on Bribie Island.
Education Options
Bongaree and the surrounding Bribie Island area provide a range of quality educational facilities, catering to families with children of all ages. The suburb is well-serviced by public schools and has access to private education options, ensuring a variety of choices for residents.
For primary-aged children, Bribie Island State School, located in Bongaree, is a central and well-regarded institution. It serves students from Prep to Year 6 and fosters a strong sense of community among its 647 students 9. For secondary education, Bribie Island State High School offers a comprehensive curriculum for students from Year 7 to 12. As the main secondary school for the island, it plays a vital role in the local community.
In addition to the public school offerings, St Michael’s College provides a private, co-educational primary education from Prep to Year 6. Set in a peaceful, natural environment, the school is known for its commitment to quality schooling and personalised attention. The school’s bushland setting offers students a unique learning environment that emphasises connection with nature and outdoor education.
For younger children, the area is well-equipped with numerous childcare centres. Families can choose from 5 to 8 different facilities, including Eco Kids Early Learning, Play Patch Early Learning Centre, and the Bribie Island Community Kindergarten, ensuring ample options for early childhood education and care 10 11. The average cost of childcare in Bongaree is approximately $109.50 per day, which is competitive with regional averages. Most centres offer long day care services, with many reporting current vacancies, indicating good availability for families moving to the area.
For families seeking secondary education options beyond the local state high school, nearby Caboolture and the broader Moreton Bay region offer additional choices, including Catholic and independent schools. The proximity to these facilities, combined with the strong local primary and secondary schools, ensures that families in Bongaree have access to a comprehensive range of educational pathways for their children.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Life in Bongaree is defined by its relaxed coastal charm and access to a wide array of amenities that cater to a leisurely and active lifestyle. The suburb’s prime location on the Pumicestone Passage provides residents with calm, protected waters, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The iconic Bongaree Beach is a local favourite, offering picturesque picnic spots and family-friendly swimming areas 12. The foreshore is lined with parks, playgrounds, and exercise equipment, creating a vibrant hub for community activity.
For shopping and daily conveniences, residents are well-served by several local centres. Bribie Island Central is the area’s major shopping destination, hosting major retailers like Woolworths and Target, alongside a variety of specialty stores 13. For a more boutique experience, the Bongaree Village Shopping Precinct on First Avenue offers a collection of independent shops and cafes 14. The dining scene in Bongaree is diverse, with options ranging from casual cafes like Annie Lane Cafe to the family-friendly Bribie Island RSL and fresh seafood from Savige’s Seafood 12.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. The vast Bribie Island National Park and Recreation Area offers stunning coastal scenery, bush camping, and 4WD tracks 15. The Sylvan Beach Esplanade is another popular spot, featuring a boat ramp, dog off-leash area, and beautiful waterfront views, making it a perfect place for a stroll or a family outing.
Bongaree’s recreational offerings extend beyond the beaches and parks. The suburb is home to the Bribie Island Bowls Club and the Bribie Island RSL, both of which serve as important community gathering places. These venues host regular events, live entertainment, and social activities that bring residents together. For those who enjoy fishing, the Pumicestone Passage is renowned for its abundant marine life, including whiting, flathead, and bream. The calm waters are also ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts.
The suburb’s location on Bribie Island means residents are never far from pristine natural environments. Woorim Beach, on the ocean side of the island, offers surf breaks and long stretches of golden sand, perfect for beach walks and swimming. The island’s network of walking and cycling paths encourages an active lifestyle, with scenic routes along the foreshore and through bushland reserves. This combination of natural beauty and recreational infrastructure makes Bongaree an ideal location for those who value health, wellness, and outdoor living.
Health and Wellbeing
Bongaree provides its residents with excellent access to a comprehensive range of healthcare services, ensuring peace of mind and wellbeing for the community. The suburb is home to the Bribie Island Satellite Hospital, a modern facility located on First Avenue that includes a Minor Injury and Illness Clinic, offering convenient, local access to urgent care 16. This significantly reduces the need for residents to travel to the mainland for non-critical medical attention.
For more comprehensive medical needs, Caboolture Hospital is the nearest major public hospital, located approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Bongaree. It provides a full range of specialist services, including emergency care, surgical services, and maternity care. Additionally, Caboolture Private Hospital offers further options for private healthcare, with 43 beds and three fully equipped operating theatres, catering to patients seeking elective surgery and specialist consultations 17.
The suburb is also well-served by numerous general practitioners and allied health professionals. Medical centres such as the Bribie Island Medical Centre, Bribie Doctors Bongaree on Second Avenue, and Goodwin Drive Medical Centre provide residents with a choice of experienced doctors and comprehensive primary care services 18. These centres offer bulk billing options and extended hours, ensuring accessible healthcare for all residents. Allied health services, including physiotherapy, podiatry, and dental care, are also readily available on the island.
A number of pharmacies, including Priceline Pharmacy at Bribie Island Central and Bribie Community Pharmacy in the heart of Bongaree on First Avenue, ensure that prescription and health product needs are easily met 19. These pharmacies also offer additional services such as flu vaccinations, medication management, and health consultations. The combination of local medical facilities, proximity to major hospitals, and a range of allied health services ensures that Bongaree residents have access to comprehensive healthcare without the need for extensive travel.
Community and Employment
Bongaree’s community is characterized by its relaxed, friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of local identity, deeply rooted in its coastal lifestyle. The suburb’s demographic, with a median age of 67, fosters a vibrant retiree community, with numerous social clubs, volunteer groups, and community events catering to an active and engaged older population 6. The Bribie Island RSL and Bowls Club are central hubs for social gatherings, while local markets and festivals further enhance the community spirit. Despite the significant retiree population, the suburb also supports a working population, with a 67% full-time employment rate among those in the labor force 1.
The employment landscape in Bongaree is diverse. Key occupation sectors include Community and Personal Service Workers (16%), Professionals (16%), and Technicians and Trade Workers (16%), reflecting a mix of service-oriented, professional, and skilled trade roles 1. The tourism industry also plays a significant role in the local economy, driven by the 4.28 million visitors to the Moreton Bay region in 2021 20. This creates opportunities in hospitality, retail, and tourism-related services. For those who commute, the majority of residents (59%) travel to work by car, taking advantage of the suburb’s convenient access to the mainland via the Bribie Island Bridge 1.
Recent and Planned Developments
Bongaree and the wider Bribie Island area are benefiting from significant investment in infrastructure and community facilities, aimed at enhancing lifestyle and accommodating future growth. These developments are set to improve connectivity, safety, and recreational opportunities for residents.
One of the most significant planned projects is the Bribie Island Bridge Upgrade. Managed by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, this crucial project will see the construction of a new, two-lane bridge to carry eastbound traffic, while the existing bridge will be converted to carry two lanes of westbound traffic. The new structure will also feature a dedicated active transport path for cyclists and pedestrians, greatly improving safety and accessibility. This upgrade will alleviate traffic congestion, enhance connectivity to the mainland, and support the island’s growing population for decades to come 21.
A recently completed council-supported project is the new car park at the Bribie Island Sports Complex in Bongaree. Finalised in the 2023-24 financial year, this development provides much-needed additional parking for the popular sports facility. Its completion improves access for local sporting clubs and visitors, supporting the community’s active lifestyle and reducing parking congestion in the surrounding residential streets 22.
For more development projects in Brisbane North, [Click here].
For more development projects in South East Queensland, [Click here].
Key Statistics Table
| Metric | Statistic |
| Population | 8,162 (2021 Census) |
| Median House Price (2025) | $891,000 |
| Median Rent (House) | $650 per week |
| Rental Yield (House) | 3.8% |
| Median Unit Price (2025) | $632,500 |
| Median Rent (Unit) | $495 per week |
| Rental Yield (Unit) | 4.1% |
| Notable Parks | Bongaree Beach, Bribie Island National Park, Sylvan Beach Esplanade |
| Transport Access | Road: Bribie Island Bridge; Public Transport: Bus services to Caboolture and local areas on the mainland |
Buyer’s Agent Introduction
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Conclusion: Why Choose Bongaree?
Bongaree is an exceptional choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of tranquil coastal living and modern convenience. Its strong property market, with impressive growth in both house and unit prices, makes it a sound investment. The median house price of $891,000, combined with a 16.5% annual growth rate, demonstrates the suburb’s increasing appeal and market strength. The suburb’s idyllic lifestyle, characterized by calm beaches, abundant parklands, and a friendly community, offers an unparalleled living experience.
With excellent healthcare facilities, including the Bribie Island Satellite Hospital and easy access to Caboolture Hospital, residents can enjoy peace of mind regarding their health needs. The range of education options, from quality state schools to private institutions and numerous childcare centres, ensures families are well-catered for. Significant infrastructure upgrades on the horizon, particularly the Bribie Island Bridge Upgrade, will further enhance connectivity and support the suburb’s continued growth.
The suburb’s demographic profile, with a median age of 67, reflects its popularity as a retirement destination, yet it also supports a diverse community of working professionals and families. The low vacancy rate of 2.1% and strong rental yields of 3.8% for houses and 4.1% for units make Bongaree an attractive proposition for investors. Whether you are a retiree seeking a peaceful coastal lifestyle, a family looking for a safe and friendly community, or an investor pursuing capital growth and rental returns, Bongaree represents a unique opportunity to secure a piece of paradise on the beautiful Sunshine Coast. The suburb’s combination of natural beauty, community spirit, and strong fundamentals positions it as one of the region’s most compelling property markets.
Interested in Bongaree? Contact me today to explore this peaceful and picturesque suburb and secure your dream property.
References
[1] IPS Buyers Agents, “Suburb Flyover Report: Bongaree (House)”, 18 November 2025.
[3] Your Investment Property Magazine, accessed 18 November 2025. [Online]. Available:
[4] Walkscore, accessed 18 November 2025. [Online]. Available:
[5] Landchecker, accessed 18 November 2025. [Online]. Available:
[13] Bribie Island Central, “Home”, accessed 18 November 2025. [Online]. Available:
[16] Metro North Health, “Satellite health centres”, accessed 18 November 2025. [Online]. Available:
[18] Bribie Island Medical Centre, “Home”, accessed 18 November 2025. [Online]. Available:
[19] Priceline, “Priceline Pharmacy Bribie Island”, accessed 18 November 2025. [Online]. Available: