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Is Redland City a Good Place to Live?
Have you been searching for the best suburban homes in the Greater Brisbane area? Well, Redland City offers relaxing suburban living by the bay and it’s just half an hour from the Brisbane CBD!
Residents get to enjoy an enviable lifestyle with a perfect blend of suburban living, coastal charm, and alluring countryside.
What’s more, there’s an array of affordable housing options that are ideal for growing families and professionals. Read on to see if Redland City is the right fit for you!
Things to Know About Redland City
Location
Redland City or the Redlands is a coastal area situated approximately 30 minutes southeast of central Brisbane. It’s located east of Logan City with the Gold Coast around 50 minutes south.
The coastal city is part of the metropolitan area of Brisbane, otherwise known as the Greater Brisbane area.
Population
The Redlands has an estimated population of 163,732, based on .id community, and a 304.8 people per square meter population density.
What Redland City is Known For
Redland City is an ideal place to call home if you’re looking for a city that’s teeming with culture and adventure from the country to the coast. It’s a beautiful mix of coastal and suburban living, with Minjerribah or North Stradbroke Island just across its shores.
The city took its name from Redland Bay known for its rich, reddish, fertile soil, and was originally inhabited by the Turrbal, Jagera, and Quandamooka people. The Redlands only gained city status in 2008 after the merging of the Cleveland and Tingalpa Shires.
Today, even though it’s considered a city, the area still maintains that relaxing rural and coastal town atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for tourists as well, as it’s the jump off point to North Stradbroke Island.
This island is one of the largest sand islands in the world and is a perfect place to learn more about the rich indigenous culture of the region. It’s also well-known for its crystal blue waters, lakes deemed sacred by its people, and abundant marine and wildlife.
There’s no shortage of adventure in the Redlands. It boasts myriad explorations from its idyllic countryside and pristine coastlines, to heritage attractions and a first-class winery.
Benefits of Living in Redland City
Redland City is essentially suburban living by the bay and it’s a family-friendly area with schools and parks within close proximity. It’s also just around 30 minutes from Brisbane, so the city center is still easily accessible.
But going to the city won’t be necessary, unless you work there, as most essentials such as supermarkets and shopping centers can be found close by.
The Redlands also has various affordable housing options and offers great value for money with bigger spaces and plots of land.
Let’s take a look at more reasons why Redland City is a great place to call home.
Lifestyle
Many people move to the Redlands because of the lifestyle – peaceful neighborhoods, friendly communities, lush bushlands, pristine waters, and fascinating culture.
A lot of families, retirees, and even singles like to call this city home because of its great location as well, having Brisbane and the Gold Coast just half an hour away.
On top of all that, an island paradise lies just across the bay – what more could you ask for?
Living in Redland City allows residents to enjoy Southeast Queensland’s wonderful climate, tranquil walks by the bay, fresh seafood, and a plethora of other activities.
A state-of-the-art winery can also be found within the city, Sirromet Winery in the suburb of Mount Cotton. The winery offers wine tours and tastings, weddings and functions, as well as an accommodation which is an idyllic setting to reconnect with nature.
Redland City is a haven for those searching for a laid-back lifestyle not too far away from central Brisbane with family-friendly communities and beautiful natural escapes.
Housing
What families and new homeowners love about purchasing homes in Redland City is that it gives you more bang for your buck with its lifestyle appeal and larger lot sizes.
You can purchase a 4-bedroom home for more or less $800,000, while homes of that size would already cost almost $2,000,000 in Brisbane’s inner-city suburbs.
The suburb of Capalaba in Redland City was even recognized as one of the most affordable and liveable suburbs in Brisbane.
Capalaba’s median property price for homes is at $775,000, while the median cost of apartment units is at $501,000.
Another notable suburb, Cleveland, ranked 68th out of the 260 suburbs in Greater Brisbane for liveability. The median price for a 3-bedroom home in Cleveland is at $810,000 while the median price for a 2-bedroom unit is at $515,500.
Meanwhile, Redland Bay is another local favorite for its neighborly spirit and lots of green spaces. The median price for a 3-bedroom house in this suburb is at $720,000, while the median price for apartment units is at $638,000.
There are many other options in Redland City but what really attracts homebuyers is the affordability of bigger houses with larger land areas that you won’t find in Brisbane.
Plus, it offers opportunities to commune with nature away from the bustle of the city, but still close enough to the essentials.
Healthcare
Redland City has ample healthcare facilities with Redland Hospital in Cleveland as its major public hospital. The hospital is a major healthcare facility for Redland City as well as Brisbane’s southern bayside suburbs with a total of 194 overnight beds.
They provide a range of specialties such as general medicine and surgery, cardiology, renal dialysis, pediatrics, orthopedics, and obstetrics and gynecology.
They also offer emergency services, pathology, pharmacy, medical imaging, and other specializations. At the same location in Cleveland, you can also find a private hospital, Mater Health Center.
There’s also a recently opened satellite hospital in Redland Bay that can cater to emergencies and other medical services.
In addition, North Stradbroke Island is also equipped with healthcare facilities, Stradbroke Island Medical Center and Dunwich Health Service Center.
Education
Redland City is a great choice for families with growing kids as there are state primary and secondary schools within the suburbs and there’s also several private institutions.
The island suburbs in Minjerribah also have a state school, Dunwich State School, that caters to Prep to Year 6. The school serves families residing on the island’s three major towns, Amity Point, Point Lookout, and Dunwich.
Moreover, the Redlands also has a TAFE (Tertiary and Further Education) campus in Alexandra Hills. Some colleges within the city such as Redlands College, also offer various vocational and certificate courses in business, hospitality, and more.
In addition, it’s great that the Redland City Council offers free environmental education programs through the Redlands IndigiScapes Centre. These programs allow students to immerse themselves in the natural environment found on the Redland Coast.
Jobs
There are lots of employment opportunities in Redland City with key industries in healthcare and social assistance, construction, retail, and education and training.
With its proximity to Brisbane and other areas in Greater Brisbane, approximately 52.3% of residents travel outside of the Redlands for work, based on id community.
The Redland City Council also has plenty of job openings which can allow you to shape your career in a role that improves the lives of people in the community.
What’s more, the Redlands will also be a part of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics as the Redlands Whitewater Centre will be the venue of one of the events – canoe slalom.
This major event will definitely create jobs, improve lifestyle, and boost the city’s economy. This world-class canoe slalom venue will also encourage the youth to get to know the sport and even pave the way for future Olympians.
Transportation
When it comes to transport, especially when traveling to and from work, 61.6% of Redland City residents use a private vehicle.
Many residents also use public transport such as trains and buses. There are five railway stations in the Redlands and trains run from the Brisbane Central Station to Cleveland with travel time taking approximately one hour.
If you’re not yet familiar with bus and train routes, you can plan your journey through the TransLink website.
A lot of residents walk or bike to work, too. You can check the city’s walking and cycling routes along with safety tips for pedestrians and cyclists here.
If you’re coming from the Brisbane airport, the Redlands is conveniently just a 35-minute drive from there.
Meanwhile, the Redlands also has ferries to transport you to the islands such as Minjerribah, Coochiemudlo Island, and the South Moreton Bay islands.
Furthermore, with the population of the city growing, more bus services are in operation, improving the city’s accessibility to key areas.
Notable Suburbs in Redland City
The most notable suburbs in Redland City are based on safety, accessibility to the essentials, convenience of public transport, and overall livability.
Here are the best suburbs to consider in Redland City!
- Capalaba has a population of 18,002 and it attracts a lot of families and new homeowners because of its abundance in essential amenities within the suburb. It has shopping centers, sports facilities, a library, and pockets of green spaces.
It’s near the suburb of Cleveland where you can find the Redland Hospital. There’s also a major bus station within the locality, making it one of the most accessible suburbs in Redland City.
The suburb has two state primary schools and one secondary school. It also has a specific-purpose school for children who need further support to be able to return to a conventional classroom or undergo vocational training.
- Redland Bay has a population of 17,056 and is one of the most sought-after suburbs in the Redlands as homes are pretty affordable for a bayside location.
Residents enjoy its relaxing country atmosphere by the bay with all the essential amenities within easy access as well as awesome sports and leisure activities.
This includes golf, tennis, cycling, fishing, and cricket, plus, it boasts some of the most scenic foreshore trails in the Redlands. The suburb is also home to several parks and conservation areas which are perfect for nature lovers.
The jump off point to the southern islands, Russell, Macleay, Lamb, and Karragarra is in Redland Bay as well.
The suburb has two state primary schools, while the nearest secondary school is in the neighboring suburb, Victoria Point.
- Cleveland has a population of 15,850 and is a coastal and central area that also serves as the gateway to beautiful Minjerribah.
Cleveland is considered one of the most liveable suburbs in the Greater Brisbane area. It boasts an attractive coastal lifestyle with an array of stunning destinations close by, plus vibrant bayside dining at Raby Bay Harbour.
It has all the essential amenities and more with the Redlands Museum, Redland Performing Arts Center, and Redland Art Gallery located in the suburb.
The Redland Hospital is also located in Cleveland along with convenient access to its own train station. And with two primary and two secondary schools within the suburb, Cleveland makes a superb choice for families.
- Alexandra Hills has a population of 16,542 and is one of the most family-friendly suburbs in Redland City because of its selection of primary to secondary schools.
It sits right in the middle of major suburbs Cleveland and Capalaba with parks and conservation areas that allow the whole family to stay active outdoors.
Notably, Windemere Road Park has a variety of recreational facilities such as a climbing wall, skate/bike bowl, dog off-leash areas, and a basketball court.
The suburb is also conveniently close to everything with shopping centers and supermarkets easily accessible within the area. Plus, Cleveland is just a short 10-minute drive away.
It has three state primary schools, two private primary schools, and one state high school, making the suburb a terrific option for growing families.
- Wellington Point has a population of 12,661 and is a charming bayside suburb perched on a peninsula with lots of great spots for the family to enjoy. You can go fishing, boating, kayaking, or just relax, have a picnic, and soak up the sun.
A key attraction at Wellington Point is King Island, and you don’t even need a boat to get there! At low tide, you can walk across a one-kilometer sandbar and explore King Island through its sandy pathways between the mangroves.
After a day of adventure, you can enjoy a scrumptious meal at one of its restaurants near the bay. The suburb also enjoys easy access to shopping centers, supermarkets, and a train station.
Schools are accessible, too, with a state primary and secondary school as well as Redlands College which is a private primary and secondary school. The school also offers extensive vocational and certificate programs.
- Mount Cotton has a population of 12,661 and is an idyllic countryside suburb with residential pockets tucked amidst lush bushlands. It enjoys a laid-back country lifestyle with the bay just minutes away.
Key attractions you can find in Mount Cotton are the award-winning Sirromet Winery and Mount Cotton Hill Climb. The latter is a hill climbing racing circuit owned by the MG Car Club of Queensland.
Mount Cotton is also home to conservation areas where you can spot some native wildlife such as koalas and wallabies. It also has community parks, a mobile library, and recreational facilities such as Supa Golf at Sirromet Winery.
It also has access to a local shopping center, a state primary school, and a day care center. The nearest high school is at its neighboring suburb Victoria Point, while the nearest train station is in Cleveland.
- Victoria Point has a population of 15,358 and is a growing bayside suburb with lots of recreational amenities, two shopping centers, and several schools.
The suburb has all the essential amenities and leisure activities, so it’s another great choice for growing families. It’s also the gateway to Coochiemudlo Island which is just a 10-minute ferry ride from Victoria Point.
The island is perfect for a day trip to soak up some Vitamin D, enjoy a picnic and barbecue, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or just stroll and go for a swim.
On the mainland, there’s also lots of fun to be had with several parks and conservation areas that are awesome spots for a walk or a picnic. While you can also go paddleboarding at Thompson’s Beach.
You can enjoy an array of dining options as well while overlooking a lake which is a part of Eprapah Creek.
Victoria Point has access to two state and two private primary to secondary schools, while the nearest train station is in Cleveland.
What to See and Do in Redland City
Discover Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island)
Website: https://stradbrokeisland.com/
Location: Moreton Bay, QLD
Minjerribah or North Stradbroke Island is a pristine paradise just 25 minutes from Cleveland in Redland City. The island is teeming with natural treasures from stunning beaches and fascinating marine and wildlife, to enchanting lakes and scenic walks!
It’s a must-visit Brisbane destination whether you’re a local or tourist as the island is also known for its rich indigenous culture. Visitors will get to immerse themselves in the indigenous heritage of the Quandamooka people, the island’s original inhabitants.
Whether you’re searching for your next adventure or just want to find a spot to relax and soak up the sun, you’ll find everything you need on this island!
You can swim or catch some waves on Cylinder Beach, take a scenic stroll on North Gorge Walk, explore the lakes, go camping, and get a guided tour of the island. You can even spot humpback whales during migration season from Point Lookout!
Humpback whale migration is from late May to early November, while you can spot other marine life such as dolphins, turtles, and manta rays all-year round.
Take a Sea Walk to King Island
Location: Wellington Point, Redlands QLD
One of the best walks you could do in Brisbane is the King Island sea walk! You can walk across the ocean from Wellington Point to the island, particularly at low tide, so you can follow a one-kilometer long sandy pathway.
Along the way, you’ll get to see diverse marine life such as small mud crabs and other shellfish. King Island itself is a protected conservation area and you can wander the island through a sandy pathway between the mangroves.
Just be sure to head back before the path disappears and always check tide times before starting the ocean walk. The best times to go are usually early in the morning until before 9am and in the afternoon from 4pm onwards.
Sip Some Wine at Sirromet Winery
Website: https://sirromet.com/
Location: 850-938 Mount Cotton Rd, Mount Cotton QLD 4165
One of the hidden gems of the Redland countryside is an award-winning winery tucked in the lush suburb of Mount Cotton. Sirromet Winery is a haven for wine lovers where you can savor the finest wines while taking in stunning views of the verdant landscape.
They offer a range of tour and tasting packages for you to explore their first-class winery and get a taste of their premium selection of vino. This includes tour and tasting, winery hampers, winery tour and taste with 2-course lunch, and more.
They also have a restaurant and a cafe, the Tuscan Terrace and Cellar Door that offer a delectable dining experience. And if you wish to extend your winery retreat, you can rest and recharge at their accommodation, Sanctuary by Sirromet.
This award-winning winery is not just for wine enthusiasts as the whole family can surely enjoy this tranquil countryside retreat.
Visit Redland Museum
Website: https://www.redlandmuseum.org.au/
Location: 60 Smith St, Cleveland QLD 4163
Redland Museum is the perfect place to learn more about the history of the region with its extensive collection of artifacts, exhibitions, and memorabilia.
It’s an award-winning, volunteer-driven museum that was established by the Rotary Club of Cleveland and was opened to the public in 1970.
The collections mostly showcase the colonial and agricultural history of the Redlands. Visitors will learn more about the region’s productive farming community and why it was called the “salad bowl” of Brisbane.
Some of the displays that can be found in the museum include a blacksmith exhibit, a classroom, post office, and bedroom displays, as well as textiles, dolls, and more.
The Redland Museum is open daily from 10am to 3:30pm, while admission is $10 for adults, $6 for students, while admission is free for children.
Immerse in the Local Community at Redlands Coast Collective Markets
Website: https://www.redlandscoastcollectivemarkets.com.au/
Location: Redland City, QLD
Going to Redlands Coast Collective Markets will give you the opportunity to immerse in the city’s vibrant community and you’ll get to support local products and vendors, too!
The Collective Market features different specialty events such as Artisan Market, Kids Collective Market, and PuppyPalooza Dog Market.
The Artisan Market offers local arts and crafts, vintage trinkets and clothing, pre-loved items, and more. The Kids Collective Market has over 50 stalls for kids (and kids at heart) to enjoy such as clothes, toys, food, and pre-loved items.
Meanwhile, even our furry friends can join the fun with PuppyPalooza! This market is for fur babies and fur parents where you can find tricks and treats, accessories, food trucks for both dogs and hoomans, and more!
The Redland Coast Collective Market is held at Faith Lutheran College in Thornlands and admission is free. You can check out the market dates here.
In addition, one of the original and longest-running markets in Brisbane, Cleveland Markets, happens every Sunday, 7am to 1pm in Bloomfield Street, Cleveland. It features over 70 stalls of fresh produce, local products, coffee, food stalls, and more.
Explore the Trails
Website: https://www.redland.qld.gov.au/info/20117/tracks_and_trails_in_conservation_areas
Location: Redland City, QLD
One of the best things that locals love about the Redlands is its abundance in parks and conservation areas where you can explore the trails by walking, running, or cycling. The best part is, most of the areas are dog-friendly, so you can take your furry friends, too!
One of the best trails for adventure-seekers is the award-winning Bayview Conservation Area. This outdoor recreation reserve is best for mountain biking, trail running, horseback riding, birdwatching, and bushwalking.
Venman Bushland National Park, which is part of Tingalpa Creek, is best for slow, tranquil walks through its beautiful surroundings. You might also spot some koalas, wallabies, possums, and gliders.
The Don and Christine Burnett Conservation Area, located in Sheldon, is best for birdwatching, spotting native wildlife like koalas, walking, and mountain biking.
Meanwhile, you can also explore the Naree Budjong Djara National Park in Minjerribah. This conservation area takes you to wetlands, sand dunes, freshwater lakes, and endangered heathlands.
Soak Up the Sun at Coochiemudlo Island
Website: https://www.visitcoochiemudlo.com/
Location: Redland City, QLD
Coochiemudlo Island is perfect for a quick beach day trip as it’s just a 10-minute ferry ride from Victoria Point.
What’s great about the island is it’s just five square kilometers in size, so visitors won’t need a car to get around as you can just walk across the entire island!
You can pack for a picnic and just find your spot on the island as you soak up the sun. You can also take a dip, throw a line, and explore the melaleuca wetlands while spotting diverse marine and wildlife.
The island also has a 9-hole golf course and some water activities such as water biking, kayaking, and canoeing.