Cost of Living in Gold Coast 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Gold Coast, QLD — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$3,320
Annual cost
$39,840
Salary needed
$68,000
Cost index
85 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Gold Coast 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $520 | $2,253 | $27,040 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $670 | $2,903 | $34,840 |
| Groceries (single) | $125 | $542 | $6,500 |
| Utilities | $54 | $235 | $2,820 |
| Transport | $43 | $185 | $2,220 |
| Internet & Phone | $24 | $105 | $1,260 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $766 | $3,320 | $39,840 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Gold Coast
Based on a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment. Assumes ~30% effective tax rate at this income level. Use our take-home pay calculator for an exact after-tax breakdown.
Gold Coast vs National Average
| Category | Gold Coast | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $520 | $490 | +6.1% |
| Groceries/week | $125 | $123 | +1.6% |
| Utilities/month | $235 | $255 | -7.8% |
| Transport/month | $185 | $182 | +1.6% |
| Petrol/litre | $1.96 | $1.98 | -1.0% |
| Median house | $900,000 | $880,000 | +2.3% |
Property Prices in Gold Coast 2026
Median House Price
$900,000
Median Unit Price
$620,000
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Compare Gold Coast With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Gold Coast in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Gold Coast for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $3,320/month or $39,840/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Gold Coast?
To live comfortably in Gold Coast in 2026, you need a gross salary of approximately $68,000 per year. This covers essential expenses plus a 20% buffer for discretionary spending and accounts for income tax.
Is Gold Coast expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Gold Coast has a cost of living index of 85 (Sydney = 100). It is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities.
How much is rent in Gold Coast in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Gold Coast is $520 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $670 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Gold Coast?
The median house price in Gold Coast is approximately $900,000, while the median unit price is $620,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.