Gold Coast vs Sunshine Coast: Gym Franchise Potential and Regional Market Comparison
South East Queensland continues to be one of Australia’s strongest regions for fitness business growth. Among the most frequently compared markets are the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Both regions attract steady population growth, lifestyle-driven residents and strong health awareness, but they offer very different opportunities for gym franchise owners.
If you are considering entering the Queensland fitness market, understanding how these two regions differ is essential. Location, demographics and lifestyle patterns all influence how a gym performs long term.
Summary: The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast both present strong gym franchise opportunities, but for different reasons. The Gold Coast offers higher population density, faster turnover and strong demand in established suburbs, while the Sunshine Coast provides steady, community-driven growth with lower saturation. Choosing between them depends on whether you prioritise scale and energy or stability and long-term retention.
Population growth and lifestyle differences
Both regions are growing, but the type of growth varies.
The Gold Coast attracts a mix of young professionals, renters, hospitality workers and interstate movers. Many residents value convenience and flexibility due to varied work hours and active lifestyles. This supports gyms that offer 24/7 access and straightforward membership options.
The Sunshine Coast tends to attract families, retirees and remote workers seeking a slower pace of life. Population growth here is consistent rather than rapid, which creates opportunities for gyms that focus on long-term relationships and community engagement.
Gold Coast gym market: high energy and higher competition
The Gold Coast gym market is well established and competitive. Many suburbs already support multiple fitness options, including large chains, boutique studios and independent gyms.
Key characteristics of the Gold Coast fitness market include:
Higher population density in urban and coastal suburbs
Strong demand for flexible training hours
Greater member turnover, particularly in rental-heavy areas
Faster growth potential when sites are chosen carefully
While competition is stronger, the volume of potential members means well-positioned gyms can scale quickly. Success here often comes from efficient operations, strong branding and the ability to stand out in busy local markets.
Sunshine Coast gym market: steady demand and community focus
The Sunshine Coast fitness market is less saturated and more relationship-driven. Suburbs are spread out, and many residents prefer local gyms that feel familiar and welcoming.
Common traits of the Sunshine Coast market include:
Lower competition in many suburban areas
Strong member loyalty once trust is built
Higher importance placed on community atmosphere
Slower but more predictable growth
Gyms that integrate into the local community and offer practical, no-pressure fitness environments often perform well over time.
Cost considerations and site selection
From a business perspective, site selection and operating costs differ between the two regions.
On the Gold Coast, commercial rents in popular suburbs can be higher, and site availability may be limited. However, higher foot traffic and denser populations can offset these costs.
The Sunshine Coast often offers more affordable leasing options and less pressure on premium locations. This can reduce upfront risk, particularly for first-time franchise owners.
In both regions, suburban shopping precincts and neighbourhood hubs tend to outperform CBD-style locations.
Which region is better for a gym franchise?
There is no single answer. The right choice depends on your goals, experience and appetite for competition.
The Gold Coast may suit owners who:
Want faster-paced growth
Are comfortable operating in competitive markets
Aim to scale across multiple locations over time
The Sunshine Coast may suit owners who:
Prefer stable, long-term member bases
Value community engagement
Want lower saturation and reduced competitive pressure
What matters most is having a fitness model that works across different demographics and can adapt to both environments.
Why a proven franchise model matters in regional markets
Both the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast favour gyms that are run with strong systems and consistency. Independent operators often face challenges with branding, operational structure and long-term growth, especially in rapidly developing regions.
Stepz Fitness offers a proven gym franchise model built specifically for suburban and regional Australia. With more than 30,000 members across 22 locations, the brand provides franchise partners with established systems, strong brand recognition and a scalable club format that performs well in both high-energy and community-focused markets.
For those comparing opportunities between the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, a structured franchise model can reduce risk and provide a clearer pathway into either region.
Key takeaways
Both regions offer strong gym franchise potential, but with different risk and growth profiles
The Gold Coast provides higher density and faster growth with more competition
The Sunshine Coast offers steadier demand and stronger long-term retention
Suburban, community-based gyms perform well in both markets
A scalable franchise model reduces risk across diverse regional conditions
FAQ
Is the Gold Coast oversaturated with gyms?
Some suburbs are competitive, but population density and turnover still support new gyms when locations are chosen carefully.
Is the Sunshine Coast a good place for a first gym franchise?
Yes. Lower competition and strong community loyalty can make it an attractive option for first-time owners.
Do gym members behave differently between regions?
Gold Coast members often prioritise flexibility and convenience, while Sunshine Coast members tend to value familiarity and long-term relationships.
Can the same gym model work in both regions?
Yes, provided the model is adaptable, affordable and designed for suburban markets rather than city-only environments.
