Aroona vs Caloundra, QLD suburb comparison

Aroona for retirees and families; Caloundra for beach lifestyle.

See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.

Head to head

Visual comparison

AroonaCaloundra

Overall score

Aroona

48.6/100

Caloundra

61.7/100

Crime rate

Aroona

26.8 / 1k

Caloundra

26.8 / 1k

Nearby amenities

Aroona

20

Caloundra

305

Population

Aroona

3,466

Caloundra

3,932

Metric leadAroona 3Caloundra 61 tiedacross 10 compared metrics

Livability profile

Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs

Quick verdicts

Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)

Audience fit

Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100

All metrics

Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.

Full comparison table

Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.

CategoryAroonaCaloundra
Overall score48.6/10061.7/100
Housing (desirability)76.0/10029.1/100
Crime rate26.8 / 1k26.8 / 1k
Schools & preschools54
Parks & reserves57
Public transport stops926
Walkability13.5/100100.0/100
Nearby amenities20305
Population3,4663,932
SEIFA (IRSAD decile)7/102/10

Comparison summary

Aroona is a settled metro mid-sized suburb that balances access with everyday calm, while Caloundra is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone. Caloundra leans into coastal living, while Aroona feels more inland and suburban in character.

Aroona tends to lead on housing affordability and stronger socioeconomic advantage, while Caloundra stands out for a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves. On housing, Aroona sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Caloundra.

Retirees and investors may find Aroona the better fit, while people chasing a beach lifestyle and households prioritising schools are more likely to prefer Caloundra.

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