Gold Coast's 'State of the City' report anticipates significant population and economic growth

The Gold Coast is projected to reach a population of 1 million people by 2040, from 647,000 in 2022, according to a recent State of the City report.

The report indicates the city has had substantial economic growth, with its economy now valued at nearly $50 billion.

"The Gold Coast was once a tourism only economy, now its much more than that, Gold Coast City Council chief executive Tim Baker said.

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"It's about film, its about health, its about infrastructure."

Construction represents the coast's largest industry, valued at $5 billion, with healthcare, manufacturing, professional services, and retail also contributing significantly to the local economy.

Emerging sectors such as health and wellbeing, tourism, marine, space, and education are attracting increasing investment.

The film industry is also experiencing a period of growth.

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"During COVID, we were actually more than any other city, we're the ones who saved the film and television industry," Mayor Tom Tate said.

Deloitte Australia has established its first full-service base outside of a capital city on the Gold Coast, operating from the city-owned Wyndham Building.

Tate said the city should be an attractive alternative to southern states.

"You have more opportunity to actually realise, to get a home, an apartment, start off small."

Baker also noted the appeal of the Gold Coast to younger demographics.

"The Gold Coast is punching above its weight when it comes to Melbourne and Sydney," he said.

"Young people in particular want to come to the Gold Coast in record numbers."

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.