Southport Tops List as the Suburb with the Highest Rental Yield for Investors

Southport has taken the top spot as the suburb with the highest rental yield for investors on the Gold Coast, with yields reaching up to 5.2%. This comes as no surprise, given the suburb's proximity to popular destinations like Main Beach and Surfers Paradise, as well as its thriving business district.

The current rental market is highly competitive, with many investors looking for opportunities to maximise their returns. With the Queensland median house price sitting at around $850,000, investors are looking for suburbs that offer a lifestyle premium without breaking the bank. The Gold Coast, with its tourism recovery in full swing, is becoming an increasingly attractive option for investors, particularly in suburbs like Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

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Southport's popularity can be attributed to its vibrant atmosphere, with popular venues like the Southport Yacht Club and the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre drawing in crowds. The suburb is also home to the Gold Coast University Hospital and the Griffith University campus, making it an attractive option for students and medical professionals. Other popular suburbs like Ashmore and Benowa are also experiencing a surge in demand, with prices for two-bedroom apartments in Ashmore's Girraween Court reaching up to $620,000.

According to data from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland, the median house price in Southport is currently sitting at around $740,000, with rental yields averaging around 4.5%. However, some investors are seeing yields as high as 5.2% for properties in streets like Queen Street and Lawson Street. The Gold Coast City Council's program to revitalise the suburb's CBD is also expected to boost property values, with $12 million allocated for the project in the 2025-2026 budget.

For investors looking to get into the market, it's essential to do their research and consider factors like property management fees, maintenance costs, and tenant demand. The Queensland Government's First Home Owner Grant and the Federal Government's National Rental Affordability Scheme are also worth exploring, with eligibility criteria and application deadlines available on the Queensland Government's website. As of July 2026, the grant provides up to $15,000 towards the purchase of a new home, and the scheme offers incentives for investors to provide affordable rental housing.

As the Gold Coast continues to experience a surge in popularity, investors would be wise to keep a close eye on suburbs like Southport and Ashmore. With their high rental yields, lifestyle premium, and proximity to popular destinations, these suburbs are set to remain in high demand for the foreseeable future. Investors should be prepared to act quickly, with properties in these areas selling fast, in some cases, within days of listing. By staying informed and doing their research, investors can make the most of the current market and secure a strong return on their investment.