Overall score
Caloundra
61.7/100
Golden Beach
41.4/100
Caloundra vs Golden Beach, QLD suburb comparison
Caloundra for beach lifestyle and investment; Golden Beach for retirees and schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CaloundraGolden Beach
Crime rate
Caloundra
26.8 / 1k
Golden Beach
26.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Caloundra
305
Golden Beach
74
Population
Caloundra
3,932
Golden Beach
5,646
Metric leadCaloundra 6Golden Beach 4across 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesGolden Beach
- Best for beach lifestyleCaloundra
- Best for investmentCaloundra
- Best for best valueCaloundra
- Best for best schoolsGolden Beach
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.
| Category | Caloundra | Golden Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 61.7/100 | 41.4/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 29.1/100 | 2.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 26.8 / 1k | 26.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 4 | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | 7 | 10 |
| Public transport stops | 26 | 27 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 42.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 305 | 74 |
| Population | 3,932 | 5,646 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 2/10 | 4/10 |
Comparison summary
Caloundra reads as a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone; Golden Beach is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby. Caloundra leans into coastal living, while Golden Beach feels more inland and suburban in character.
On the data, Caloundra is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Golden Beach answers with parks and reserves and public transport access. On housing, Caloundra sits in a affordable band, compared with a expensive feel in Golden Beach.
Families and people chasing a beach lifestyle may find Caloundra the better fit, while retirees are more likely to prefer Golden Beach.