Introduction: A Hidden Gem for Family Buyers on the Gold Coast
Introduction: A Hidden Gem for Family Buyers on the Gold Coast
Highland Park doesn’t get the headlines — and that’s exactly what makes it appealing to smart buyers in 2025.
Located just west of Nerang and only 15 minutes from Broadbeach, Highland Park offers affordable, high-quality housing with access to top schools, parks, shopping, and major roadways.
It’s a suburb favoured by locals, quietly outperforming flashier postcodes thanks to its balance of price, privacy, and family-oriented living.
Whether you’re upgrading, relocating from Brisbane, or buying your first home with kids in tow, Highland Park should be on your shortlist.
Section 1: What Makes Highland Park a Family-Focused Suburb?
Feature | Why It Matters for Families |
|---|---|
School Catchments | Public + private school access |
Parks + Playgrounds | Multiple local green spaces + bike trails |
Shopping Proximity | Close to Nerang Mall, Robina Town Centre |
Easy Commute Access | Quick M1 access to Brisbane + Coastline |
Housing Variety | Large blocks, single and double storey |
Location Overview
5 mins to Nerang Station
8 mins to Metricon Stadium
15 mins to Broadbeach
20 mins to Gold Coast Airport
Under 1 hour to Brisbane via M1
Norton’s often describes Highland Park as “close to everything, but removed enough to breathe.”
Section 2: Schools & Education Access
Highland Park is located near some of the Gold Coast’s top-performing state and private schools.
Local Schools:
William Duncan State School
Worongary State School
Nerang State High School
Nearby Private Options:
Emmanuel College
St. Michael’s College
Silkwood School
All Saints Anglican School (within 15 minutes)
Proximity to schooling is a major driver of long-term demand, especially for families relocating from Brisbane or Sydney.
Section 3: Property Types in Highland Park (2025)
Property Type | Description | Price Range (2025) |
|---|---|---|
Single-Storey Brick Homes | Built 1980–2000, often on large blocks | $880K–$1.15M |
Renovated 4-Bed Homes | Modernised interiors, pools, outdoor zones | $1.1M–$1.35M |
Two-Storey Family Homes | Multiple living zones, views, garages | $1.2M–$1.6M |
Townhouses (Family-Oriented) | 3–4 bed, secure complexes, low body corp | $720K–$850K |
Dual Living Homes | Often self-contained granny flat setups | $1.35M–$1.6M |
Most homes are built on 600–900m² blocks, offering space for kids, pets, and future upgrades.
Section 4: Market Trends + Price Performance
Year | Median House Price |
|---|---|
2020 | $735,000 |
2022 | $920,000 |
2025 (Q2) | $1.18M |
Average time on market: 12–18 days
Auction clearance rates rising year-on-year
Norton’s buyer base includes Brisbane relocators, upgraders, and lifestyle-chasers
Section 5: Buyer Profiles in 2025
Buyer Segment | Characteristics |
|---|---|
Brisbane Families | Working from home 2–3 days/week, upsizing |
Local Upgraders | Selling townhouses in Robina, Varsity, Nerang |
Regional Movers (NSW/VIC) | Seeking better lifestyle for growing kids |
First-Home Upgraders | Moving out of unit/townhome, targeting 4-bed |
Multigenerational Families | Preferring dual-living or granny flat homes |
Highland Park attracts practical buyers who value space, safety, and long-term growth.
Section 6: Family Features that Add Value
When buying or selling in Highland Park, the following home features command premiums:
✅ Fenced backyard with room for a trampoline or pool
✅ Covered outdoor entertainment space
✅ Solar system (6.6kW+) and ducted aircon
✅ Two internal living zones (lounge + rumpus or media)
✅ Walk-in pantry and modern kitchen
✅ Nearby bus stops or school route access
Section 7: Lifestyle Amenities Families Love
Highland Park may not have beachfront views, but it delivers day-to-day lifestyle wins for families.
Parks & Playgrounds
Alexander Clark Park
McLaren Road Park
Hinze Dam trails (15 minutes drive)
Services
Medical centres, dental clinics, and allied health
Pet-friendly cafés, childcare centres, and swim schools
Easy access to major shopping at Robina and Pacific Fair
Section 8: Real Buyer Story
Meet the Reynolds Family
Moved from Wynnum, Brisbane in early 2024
Bought a renovated 4-bed home on a 760m² block in Highland Park
Paid $1.12M with outdoor kitchen + pool
Kids walk to school, both parents work hybrid
“We loved the idea of space without losing access to city life.”
Section 9: How Norton’s Supports Family Buyers
As active agents in Highland Park, we specialise in:
Pre-market access to family-ready homes
Renovation potential assessments
Buyer education around local schools and transport
Dual-living property matching for multigenerational setups
Exit strategy support for upsizing or relocating
Section 10: Family Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Waiting for “the perfect house” – well-priced homes sell within 2 weeks
❌ Ignoring older homes – these often have the most renovation upside
❌ Forgetting zoning – dual-living approvals depend on block and setback rules
❌ Not budgeting for solar, fencing, or ducted upgrades
❌ Overpaying for unnecessary features – focus on block size and layout
Final Word: Should You Buy a Family Home in Highland Park?
✅ Yes — if you want:
Generous blocks
School access without school zone premiums
A safe suburb that’s not overrun by tourists
Long-term growth and liveability
Highland Park is Gold Coast practicality at its best — where families can live affordably, upgrade over time, and access all the city has to offer without compromise.
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. Norton’s Real Estate Agency disclaims all liability for decisions made from this content. Always seek advice from a licensed real estate agent, solicitor, and financial planner before purchasing property.