Moving to Sunshine Coast
The quieter, greener coast
Everything people love about the Gold Coast without the high-rises — and it counts as regional for visa points.
360,000
9-10 hours ahead of the UK
$520
about £267
$78,000
about £40,000
$1,050,000
Would Sunshine Coast suit you?
Why UK movers pick it
Noosa, Maroochydore and Caloundra strung along a hundred kilometres of beach, with the Glass House Mountains behind. A new university hospital and a growing tech precinct have made it viable for professionals, not just retirees.
"Winter here is warmer than a UK heatwave."
On the weather.
"Cornwall coastal prices with year-round sunshine."
On rent.
Weather, plainly
28°C
21°C
290
105
Subtropical and slightly milder than Brisbane.
Rent compared with other cities
Weekly one-bed rent, cheapest to priciest.
How Sunshine Coast rates
Suits you if
- You want coastal life with less concrete
- You can work remotely or in health and trades
- You are chasing regional visa points
- You have young children
Think twice if
- You need a metropolitan career ladder
- You want public transport
- You want nightlife
Suburbs worth knowing
Rent shown is a weekly median for the area, with a rough UK equivalent so you can picture it.
Noosa
Upmarket, national park, expensive
UK equivalent: Padstow
Maroochydore
New CBD, beaches, practical
UK equivalent: Bournemouth centre
Caloundra
Family friendly, better value
UK equivalent: Weymouth
Indicative planning rate of A$1.95 to £1. Check a live rate before you transfer money.
Dig deeper
Jobs market+
Sunshine Coast University Hospital anchors a growing health sector; construction and trades are in constant demand.
Health, construction, tourism and remote professional work.
Schools+
Well-regarded state schools and several strong independents.
Healthcare+
New public university hospital at Birtinya plus private options.
Getting around+
Car essential. Rail link to Brisbane is being extended.
Brits here+
Large and growing British family community.
Visas+
Designated regional area — full subclass 491 and 494 access.
Other places to consider
Keep researching
Ready to plan the move to Sunshine Coast?
See how far your salary really stretches once rent, bills and tax are accounted for, then check which visa and job pathways fit your skills.