The Gold Coast’s 2026 State of the City report shows the $55 billion economy has grown 25 percent since 2020-21.
The Gold Coast is growing faster than Greater Brisbane and has outpaced the average growth of Australian capital cities, cementing its position as the nation’s largest second-city economy since 2020.
The report released by the city’s investment and economic development agency, Invest Gold Coast, details the evolution of its industries including health, advanced manufacturing, education, screen production, marine, technology, professional services, exports and the knowledge economy.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the Gold Coast had become the FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) capital of Australia, with investors not wanting to miss out.
“We’re mainly attracting people in their 40s to 50s,” Cr Tate said.
“That’s the part where you’ve done things in life and you’re ready to have a go and grow your business.”
He said many of those migrating to the city were from Victoria and did so for the lifestyle and education opportunities.
The report said the Gold Coast was home to more than 690,000 people, with the population expected to exceed one million by 2046.
It said the city was supporting more than 350,000 jobs and more than 83,000 businesses, generating $19 billion in exports annually, with advanced manufacturing being the largest contributor.
The knowledge, and health and wellbeing economies were also identified as key growth sectors, contributing more than $13 billion to the local economy, and supporting more than 70,000 full-time equivalent jobs.
The screen and game production industries were highlighted for their rapid growth, contributing more than $420 million annually and growing more than 77 percent since 2020/21.
Cr Tate said the growth was no surprise to those who had watched the evolution up close.
“As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment-driven and opportunity-focused economies in the country, our ambition has been realised and the possibilities are endless,” Cr Tate said.
“The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes – to investment, opportunity and to people who want to build something.
“It’s this mindset helping us drive major growth.”
