Overall score
Caloundra
61.7/100
Pelican Waters
51.7/100
Caloundra vs Pelican Waters, QLD suburb comparison
Caloundra for beach lifestyle; Pelican Waters for retirees and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CaloundraPelican Waters
Crime rate
Caloundra
26.8 / 1k
Pelican Waters
26.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Caloundra
305
Pelican Waters
123
Population
Caloundra
3,932
Pelican Waters
7,393
Metric leadCaloundra 5Pelican Waters 41 tiedacross 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 retireesPelican Waters
- Best for beach lifestyleCaloundra
- Best for investmentPelican Waters
- Best for best valuePelican Waters
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 | Pelican Waters |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 61.7/100 | 51.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 29.1/100 | 47.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 26.8 / 1k | 26.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 4 | 1 |
| Parks & reserves | 7 | 13 |
| Public transport stops | 26 | 10 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 44.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 305 | 123 |
| Population | 3,932 | 7,393 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 2/10 | 8/10 |
Comparison summary
Caloundra is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone, while Pelican Waters is an energetic metro mid-sized suburb where cafés and local life overlap. Where Caloundra is shaped by the coast, Pelican Waters offers a more landlocked suburban rhythm.
Caloundra tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and schools and education options, while Pelican Waters stands out for housing affordability and parks and reserves. On housing, Caloundra sits in a affordable band, compared with a expensive feel in Pelican Waters.
Caloundra suits people chasing a beach lifestyle more clearly, whereas Pelican Waters is the stronger match for retirees and investors.