The Gold Coast is home to an impressive number of top-ranking schools, offering families a wealth of educational opportunities from private to public institutions.

With the new school year starting next week, parents not fortunate enough to be within walking distance of the school gate will be preparing to tackle the school run — a daily challenge that can drain time, energy, and patience.

A strategic property purchase can ease the burden by placing families within easy reach of sought-after schools, along with the security of high-performing price growth.
Data analysis conducted by K Intel has identified the highest growth suburbs within a 5km radius of the Gold Coast’s best-performing high schools (as ranked by schools comparison site Better Education).

Here are the outperformers:

33 Veronica Drive, Tallai

Somerset College, Mudgeeraba
Worongary and Tallai emerged as the best options for families seeking a high-performing suburb in proximity to leading independent school Somerset College. From the centre of Worongary you can be at Somerset’s gates in about 15 minutes* via the M1. The suburb has experienced notable growth in the past 12 months, with the median house price reaching $1,313,000. This represents 9 per cent growth over the past 12 months and 95 per cent over the past five years. New developments such as the luxury master-planned community SkyRidge Estate, currently under construction, are attracting families to the area. Also showing promising growth is the suburb of Tallai, which offers spacious residential properties on larger land parcels among tranquil natural surroundings. Despite its ambiance it provides convenient access to essential amenities, including Somerset College, which is a scenic 10-minute* drive. The median house price in Tallai has risen 7 per cent over the past 12 months, to $1,606,000 and 78 per cent in the past five years.

—

15 Julatten Drive, Robina

All Saints Anglican School, Merrimac
All Saints Anglican School is highly rated across both its junior and high schools and is conveniently located in a central Gold Coast position. When it comes to growth suburbs, Robina and Varsity Lakes are a good choice for those seeking to minimise the school commute. Robina has come along in leaps and bounds. A 12 per cent price spurt in the past 12 months has landed it in the million-dollar club with a median house price of $1,230,000. Over five years, prices have climbed 89 per cent. Surrounded by sporting facilities, green open spaces and generous retail options, the hub is a great place for families with properties in high demand. Neighbouring Varsity Lakes also offers convenience alongside proximity to beaches and has shown promising price growth in the past 12 months of 14 per cent.

—

68 Greg Norman Crescent, Parkwood

A.B. Paterson College, Arundel
Parents wanting their children to attend co-educational, non-denominational private school A.B Paterson should consider the suburbs of Labrador and Parkwood. Both have shown significant house price growth rising 17 per cent and 16 per cent, respectively, in the past 12 months and 68 per cent and 83 per cent over the past five years. Parkwood, in particular, has grown in leaps and bounds, with several record sales boosting the median to $1,130,000. Properties turn over quickly here, remaining on market for just 17 days, indicating high demand and future growth. Labrador has the attraction of access to the Broadwater for families seeking a water-based lifestyle. Both suburbs will deliver you to A.B. Paterson in about a 10-minute* drive.

Emmanuel College, Carrara
Emmanuel College is a school of choice for families who seek proximity to the beach as well as a good education for their children. While adjoining several popular suburbs, the best performers for price growth are Carrara and nearby Gilston. Families who buy in the scenic estates around Emerald Lakes could reduce the school run to a stroll, cycle ride or if slightly further away a short drive. The median house price in Carrara is $1,142,000, with growth in the suburb soaring 22 per cent over the past 12 months and 89 per cent over five years. Maryland and Riverbend avenues offer luxury properties fronting Main River. Gilston, while a little further away, is an excellent choice for those seeking a semi-rural lifestyle, with easy access to amenities. It is also good for those attending All Saints Anglican School in Merrimac.

—

7-9 McMillan Court, Southport

St Hilda’s School and The Southport School, Southport
These Anglican girls’ and boys’ independent day and boarding schools are among the most recognised in the country for academic excellence. Families seeking to eliminate or shorten the trip to the school gates could consider buying in the elite TSS precinct or enclave of Regatta Parade, which have direct access to Main River. While Southport has seen 10 per cent growth in the past 12 months, those who can handle a short drive may wish to consider nearby Ashmore, where prices have risen 19 per cent in the past 12 months to a median of $1,050,000. Over five years growth has reached 83 per cent. Ashmore offers a balanced lifestyle, combining leafy streets and quiet living with proximity to key amenities, including shopping centres, parks, and public transport. Its central location ensures convenient access to both coastal areas and the hinterland, making it a versatile option for families.

* Timings are approx and subject to changing traffic conditions