The suburb features a large and diverse range of retail and commercial businesses, thanks mostly to the Westfield shopping centre, but also the busy Gympie Road which is lined with many shops and offices itself.

Westfield Chermside consists of around 370 specialty stores and food outlets, as well as a three story Myer store, 16 screen cinema complex and a large bowling alley. The centre also contains the Chermside Bus Station.

In addition to the retail and commercial development, Chermside is also home to the large Prince Charles Hospital and Holy Spirit Northside Private Hospital.

Chermside's population was 6,348 at the last census in 2006, and with the ever growing number of apartments in the suburb, particularly the sizable developments centred around the shopping centre, the population is set to increase over the coming years.

Due to its strong infrastructure and facilities, as well as good public transport, the area has been tipped as a future 'mini CBD' of Brisbane. The planned Northern Busway will further enhance public transport in the area.

Surrounding suburbs include Wavell Heights, Kedron, Aspley and Stafford.