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Cost of moving home on the Gold Coast

If you're planning a big move but struggling to budget, or even know what to budget for, we’ve got the compete cost breakdown for movers on the Gold Coast.
By · February 4, 2025
Cost of moving home on the Gold Coast

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Whether you’re upgrading to a beachfront apartment or heading to a quieter suburb, relocating in the Gold Coast is about more than just packing boxes and booking removalists. With this iconic coastal region’s blend of residential areas, beachside communities, and growing urban hubs, the costs of moving can fluctuate depending on where you’re going and how you’re getting there.

From the cost of navigating the more distant suburbs to the potential headaches of securing a spot in the city’s high-demand areas, it’s easy to miss a few expenses along the way. But no need to worry, we’re here to help you out.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the costs you’ll need to plan for—everything from hiring movers to those unexpected fees that can pop up. Plus, we’ve got a few smart tips to help you cut costs and make your Gold Coast move as smooth as possible.

How much do Gold Coast removalists charge?

On the Gold Coast, you can expect removalist rates to sit somewhere between $120 and $210 per hour, with most companies having a minimum two-hour charge. The final bill will depend on factors like the size of the truck, how many movers you need, and how far you're moving. It’s also worth noting that prices can fluctuate—weekends and end-of-month periods are often busier, which can push rates up.

To avoid any unexpected costs, it's a smart move to get a few quotes and make sure you're aware of any local conditions that might affect the price, such as the accessibility of your property or traffic issues in popular areas like Broadbeach or Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast removalists charge between $120 and $210 per hour.

Moving within the Gold Coast - costs by home size

The cost of hiring movers on the Gold Coast will depend a lot on where you're coming from and where you're headed.

If you’re moving out of a bustling area like Surfers Paradise or the heart of Broadbeach, you might see higher rates, mainly because of tight streets, parking challenges, and the general hustle and bustle.

On the other hand, if you're in a more spacious suburb like Currumbin or Coomera, longer distances between properties could add a little extra to your moving bill.

To make it clearer, we’ve outlined what you can expect to pay a moving company based on the size of your home.

Size of home Removalists cost
Studio or 1-bed unit $270 - $720
2-bed unit $540 - $1,080
2-bed home $850 - $1,200
3-bed home $900 - $1,600
4-bed home $1,080 - $2,000

The main things you'll pay for are the truck, the time spent moving, and the basic services like loading and unloading. If you’ve got a large home or heavier items, don’t be surprised if the price increases a bit.

We’ll break everything down for you shortly, but if you're keen to get the essentials right away, feel free to skip ahead and see what's usually included in a removalist quote—and what extra charges you might need to keep an eye on for moves on the Goldie.

Interstate moving costs from Gold Coast

When it comes to moving interstate from the Gold Coast, costs can change quite a bit depending on the distance. To give you a clearer picture, we've put together some up-to-date figures from Gold Coast removalists who regularly do moves to Western Australia. These numbers reflect the latest trends from 2025, so you can get a good sense of what to expect.

Moving costs Gold Coast to Perth

Size of home Average cost
Average 2-bed unit $3,500
Average 2-bed house $4,080
Average 3-bed house $5,000

Removalists on the Gold Coast charge between $3,500 and $8,000 for a big interstate move such as Perth.

Keep in mind, these are just ballpark figures, so it’s always a good idea to get a few quotes based on your exact needs.

What’s included in a moving companies quote?

woman taping up removalist box

When you receive your first quote, it will usually include the basics—things like the truck, movers' time, and some basic insurance for your belongings. You’ll likely also have access to equipment like trolleys and furniture blankets to make things easier.

But there are a few things that could bump up the price:

  • In busy areas like Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach, parking can be a challenge, and that can add extra time and cost.
  • Older homes in places like Coolangatta or Burleigh Heads might have narrow staircases or tricky access points, which can slow the process down.
  • Weekend or public holiday moves often come with a premium due to higher demand.

To avoid any surprises, it's always a good idea to double-check with your movers about these factors before you lock in your booking.

Expert tip: Ask for a detailed breakdown of your quote so you know exactly what's covered and where extra charges might pop up.

Local area knowledge - your key to a smoother moving experience

The layout and traffic flow on the Gold Coast can have a big impact on how much your move will cost and how smoothly it goes. Knowing the local area—like where traffic often slows down or which streets are trickier to navigate—can help you plan your move more efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays.

Busy spots on the Gold Coast

As you'd expect, some areas experience more congestion than others, which can make your move take longer (and cost more). If you’re moving from or to any of these hotspots, a little extra planning can go a long way:

  • Surfers Paradise
  • Broadbeach
  • Southport
  • Coolangatta
  • Burleigh Heads

TIP: If you're moving in or out of these areas, try to pick a time when traffic is lighter—early mornings or weekdays tend to be much calmer.

To help you plan your best route, we’ve mapped out some of the busiest areas.

Gold Coast Traffic Areas

Parking zones on the Gold Coast

Parking in busy areas can be a real challenge, especially when you're moving. Here are a few spots where parking issues are more likely to pop up for your moving truck:

  • Surfers Paradise: With its popularity and high foot traffic, parking here can be tight, particularly during peak hours.
  • Broadbeach: This bustling area can be tricky, with narrow streets and limited parking, especially around the shopping and dining spots.
  • Southport: The area can be a struggle, especially during busy periods.
  • Burleigh Heads: A popular spot for both locals and tourists, parking can be tough to find, particularly on weekends or during events.

Additional costs for movers

Beyond removalist fees, there are a few other expenses that can sneak up on you during your move. Things like stamp duty, legal fees, and property valuations can all add up quickly, whether you’re moving within the Gold Coast or relocating from further afield.

Let’s break down what to expect and how to keep these costs manageable.

Stamp Duty

When buying property on the Gold Coast, stamp duty is one of the big costs you’ll need to factor in. In Queensland, stamp duty is calculated as $17,325 plus an additional $4.50 for every $100 over $540,000. So, if you buy a home for $1 million, you could be looking at around $36,825 in stamp duty.

First-time buyers might get some concessions, but it's still a significant chunk of change. Be sure to factor this into your moving budget as it’s not a cost you can easily overlook.

To determine stamp duty on the Gold Coast, visit the Queensland Government’s calculation tool.

Property valuation

When buying a property your lender will usually require a property valuation to ensure the loan amount aligns with the market value of the home. If you're selling, getting a valuation can help you determine a fair asking price so you don’t miss the mark—whether that's setting a price too low or too high.

On the Gold Coast, property valuations typically start at around $400. While costs can vary, depending on the size and location of the property, you may find prices range from $400 to $600. It's always a good idea to shop around for quotes to ensure you're getting the best deal.

In more regional areas, valuations can rise to $1,000 or more.

Conveyancing fees

Conveyancing involves all the legal work required to ensure the smooth transfer of property ownership.

For a straightforward property transaction, you'll want to hire a licensed conveyancer to handle everything—from drafting contracts to communicating with your bank or agent.

In Queensland, the typical fees for conveyancing are:

  • For buyers: Expect to pay around $825 (including GST).
  • For sellers: The fee usually sits around $495 (including GST).

These costs cover all the legal essentials, ensuring your property transaction is completed without a hitch. While you technically could attempt the conveyancing yourself, it’s definitely not worth the risk. A qualified professional will ensure everything is in order and help you avoid future legal issues down the line.

Cleaning fees

If you're moving out of a rental, arranging a professional clean is almost always a must before handing back the keys. The cost of end-of-lease cleaning can vary depending on the size of the property and the level of work involved.

For a rough idea:

  • A two-bedroom unit will typically cost around $350 to clean.
  • Larger homes, with 4 or 5 bedrooms, could run upwards of $750 or more.

Keep in mind, these prices can fluctuate based on the property's condition and any additional services required—like carpet or window cleaning. If there are tougher cleaning jobs to handle, like built-up oven grease or hard-to-reach corners, expect the price to go up a bit. It’s always a good idea to ask for a detailed quote so you’re prepared for any extra costs.

Real estate agent fees

Commission rates in Queensland have been deregulated since December 2014, meaning agents now have more flexibility in setting their fees.

While there's no standard rate, commissions are usually negotiable, much like in other parts of Australia. The typical commission rate for residential home sales in Queensland falls somewhere between 1.5% and 2.5% of the sale price.

For example, if you're selling a property for $1 million, the commission could range from $15,000 to $25,000—but it’s important to remember, this is negotiable.

Always ask your agent what’s included in the fee, as some may bundle in services like marketing, professional photos, and hosting open homes, while others might charge extra for those.

It’s always worth discussing and ensuring you're clear on what you're paying for so you can get the best value out of the deal.

Home styling: what is it and is it worth the dollars?

woman with artwork and bubblewrap

Home styling, or staging, can make a huge impact on how quickly your property sells—and how much you get for it. It's all about making your space look its best, from arranging furniture to adding decor that creates an inviting atmosphere. This helps potential buyers or renters picture themselves living in your home.

The cost of home staging on the Gold Coast varies based on a few key factors:

  • The level of service you choose
  • The size of your property
  • How long you want your home staged

Here's a general breakdown of what you can expect:

  • Consultation: Expect to pay between $150 to $500 for an initial consultation, depending on the stylist’s experience.
  • Basic staging service: A basic service typically costs between $2,500 and $3,000.

For a full home staging package, the cost for a six-week hire can be:

  • Studio or one-bedroom apartment: Around $2,500
  • Two-bedroom apartment: Around $3,600
  • Two-bedroom house: Around $4,400
  • Three-bedroom house: Around $5,000
  • Four-bedroom family home: Around $6,000
  • Homes with five or more bedrooms: Typically $7,000+

Keep in mind that costs may also increase if you need outdoor spaces styled or if your property has multiple living areas.

While it’s an upfront cost, home staging can help your property stand out in the competitive Gold Coast market, potentially leading to a quicker sale and a higher price.

The pros and cons of backloading

If you’re looking to stretch your moving budget, backloading could be a smart choice. It’s a more affordable way to move, where you share space on a removal truck with other people heading in the same direction. You only pay for the portion of the truck that your items occupy, which can really help cut costs—especially for longer moves.

However, be prepared for a longer wait. Since you’re sharing the truck with others, your move might take a bit longer than usual, and there’s a higher chance your items will be handled more than once. This could mean a bit more risk of damage. But many movers offer insurance, so your things are covered in case something goes wrong.

If you're okay with a slightly slower move and a bit of extra handling, backloading can save you a lot of money, making it a great option for budget-conscious movers.

Money saving tips for Gold Coast movers

Moving doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some savvy ways to keep costs down:

  1. Book early: Secure your movers ahead of time. Mid-week and mid-month bookings are often cheaper and less hectic.
  2. Consider backloading: If you’re flexible on timing, sharing a truck with others can be a major cost-saver, especially for long-distance moves.
  3. Declutter before you go: The less stuff you move, the lower your moving costs. Start early and offload any items you don’t need.
  4. Pick off-peak times: Try scheduling your move in the early morning or on a weekday to avoid peak traffic times and save time and money.
  5. Get multiple quotes: Don’t settle for the first offer—shop around and compare prices to find the best deal.
  6. Plan parking ahead: In busy Gold Coast areas, parking can be tricky. Ensure there's a spot reserved for the movers to avoid unexpected fees or delays.

By taking these steps, you can keep your move smooth and wallet-friendly.

Essential budgeting and planning tips

Here’s a quick and easy budgeting reference for a typical 3-bedroom house move within the Gold Coast:

Buying and selling costs on the Gold Coast

Service Cost
Removalists (Local move) $120 - $210 per hour (min. 2 hours)
Conveyancing fees $495 (sellers), $825 (buyers)
Stamp Duty Approx. $36,825 (for a $1M home)
Real Estate Agent Fees Negotiable, typically 1.5% - 2.5% of the sale price
Marketing $1,000 - $8,000
Property Valuation $400 - $600 (metro), up to $1,000 (regional)
Inspections (Building and Pest) $400 - $800
Home Styling (optional) $2,500 - $7,000+
Professional cleaning $250 - $750
Utility connections $50 - $200
Estimated Total $61,000 - $100,000+ (varies based on property and services)

Rental costs on the Gold Coast

Service Cost 
Removalists (Local move) $120 - $210 per hour (min. 2 hours)
End-of-lease cleaning $250 - $750
Bond (typically 4 weeks' rent) $2,000 - $3,000+
First month’s rent $2,000 - $3,000+
Packing materials $100 - $300
Cleaning for new property $150 - $400
Utility connection fees $50 - $200
Pet bond (if applicable) $200 - $500
Renters’ insurance $10 - $30/month
Application fees $90 - $150
Estimated Total $4,100 - $10,000+ (varies based on home size)

*Figures will vary depending on the location on the Gold Coast you are moving to.

Choosing trustworthy Gold Coast removalists

three removalists in truck

Moving to, from, or within the Gold Coast can be an exciting adventure, but it’s also full of hidden costs that can sneak up on you. From removalist fees and stamp duty to home styling and those unexpected extras, it's important to understand all the expenses involved before you dive in.

At Upmove, we get that moving can be overwhelming—that’s why we're here to make things easier. We connect you with trusted, affordable Gold Coast removalists who know the local area and can offer you a fair, transparent quote.

With some thoughtful planning, expert help, and a clear budget, you can reduce stress and enjoy a smoother transition into your new home. Whether you're moving around the Gold Coast or anywhere else in Australia, Upmove has you covered every step of the way.

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