Area profile · Rest of Qld
Cape York has an estimated 8,567 residents, up 9.8% since the 2021 Census, with 84 projects tracked in the area around Cape York.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Cape York Statistical Area (Lv2), located 1,473 kilometres east from Darwin CBD in Queensland, Australia, is celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity, vast wilderness areas, and ancient Indigenous Australian heritage that includes sacred sites and historical rock art. Within the residential sector, market dynamics are highlighted by an above-average renting population, affordable housing options, and families characterised by above-average children per family alongside a notable proportion 0 to 4yo. The local economy is underpinned by an elevated public administration employment base together with pronounced arts and recreation employment, while planned infrastructure and major project spending are positioned to drive performance and economic demand.
Demographic analysis indicates that Cape York's population reached approximately 8,567 as of August 2026, based on the latest population estimate date of Aug 2026. This reflects moderate expansion patterns, increasing by 764 people (9.8%) from the 2021 Census baseline of 7,803 people.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,545 in 2001 and 8,515 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,567 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 14.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 26.4%.
Cape York ranks in the 79th percentile nationally for development activity and the 78th for infrastructure drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 7 tracked applications: 0 approved, 0 under assessment, 7 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Cape York, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 84 projects in and around Cape York, 27 of them under construction.
The Cooktown Multi-Purpose Health Service (MPHS) Redevelopment is a $200 million regional hospital transformation delivered by Health…
Greenfield residential subdivision at 2 Hope Street, Cooktown, reconfiguring one lot into 12 residential lots under Cook Shire DA/4310 with…
Douglas Shire Council is delivering landside road and ramp upgrades on both sides of the Daintree River together with a new four-lane…
$14.8 million primary health centre serving remote Daintree communities with essential healthcare services and emergency capabilities.
Development of a second water intake on the Mossman River, approximately 5 km downstream of the Mossman Gorge Visitors Centre, to improve…
Construction of a 5.2km shared cycleway priority link connecting Mossman CBD to Newell Beach along the Captain Cook Highway and Newell…
Shared path construction to encourage active travel between Cooya Beach and Mossman.
Proposed mixed-use renewal of the Port Douglas marina into a modern waterfront precinct, including a 5-star hotel, new superyacht berths…
Douglas Shire Council is progressing the replacement and upgrade of the existing Port Douglas Skatepark with a modern community facility.
Four luxury freehold villas (each four bedrooms with private pool) on individual titles with no body corporate fees, located on Warner…
DA-approved site for a premium mixed-use (residential and commercial) development on Port Douglas' main street.
Bespoke splash park with a rainforest meets reef nature theme, zero depth, designed for families and visitors.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 35 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 7, 2027 16, 2028 3, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1. 25 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 7 substantial development applications lodged in and around Cape York over the period covered (about 3.2 years), none in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2023 (part year) 1, 2024 0, 2025 6, 2026 (to Oct) 0.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 7 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.2 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 0 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 68th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 48 | ABS building approvals | 58th percentile nationally |
Currently, there are limited major infrastructure and planning changes identified for Cape York in the available data.
Infrastructure projects impacting the Cape York SA2 encompass various sectors supporting community growth and economic development.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Cape York SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Cape York among the top 21% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Cape York SA2 area has seen 188 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Cape York SA2's current population of 8,567 has been supported by 48 approvals on average over recent years.
The Cape York SA2 has seen 5.9 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.3 approvals in Regional Qld. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 178 people in the Cape York SA2, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Cape York SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 48, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Cape York SA2 has grown by approximately 544 people, while 242 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Cape York reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,567 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 0 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,803 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 764 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 112,961.00 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Cape York SA2 was estimated to be approximately 8,567 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,515 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The cape york sa2 has added approximately 764 people and shown a 9.79% increase from the 7,803 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Cape York SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Cape York SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Cape York SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (64.4%), Overseas migration (35.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 64.4% of overall population gains.
Cape York's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 35 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 21st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 22.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Cape York SA2 at 35 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 35 years as at August 2026, Cape York is 6 years younger than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 3 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Cape York SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 14.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Cape York SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 5.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Cape York SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (7.7% vs 5.3%). The most under-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (0.5% vs 2.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 22.5% of the population in the Cape York SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 15.1% of the population in the Cape York SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 76% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $56,907 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $65,317 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,063 | 2021 Census, weekly | 5th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $520 | 2021 Census, weekly | 4th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 10.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,253 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 38.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cape York SA2 is approximately $60,953. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $56,907.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cape York SA2 is approximately $69,961. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $65,317.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cape York SA2 is approximately $60,953 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,907 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cape York SA2 is approximately $69,961 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $65,317 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Cape York SA2's households (~26.4% / 618 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Cape York SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 26.4% of households. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Cape York SA2 is $1,063/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Cape York SA2 is $1,253/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Cape York SA2 is $520/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Cape York SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $56,907 with the average level standing at $65,317. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $56,722 and $71,544 across Regional Qld respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $60,953 (median) and $69,961 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Cape York SA2 is $4,097 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The cape york sa2's disposable income is $4,097 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Cape York face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 9% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 10.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,337 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 8,489 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,710 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Cape York SA2 has approximately 3,337 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 10.1%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Cape York SA2 stands at 10.1%, which is 6.3 percentage points above Regional Qld's rate of 3.8%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Cape York SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (18.8% of employment), health care & social assistance (14.1%), and agriculture, forestry & fishing (11.1%). Other significant employers include education & training and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Cape York SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Cape York SA2 is 55.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The cape york sa2 shows notable specialisation in public administration & safety, which employs 18.8% of the local workforce compared to 5.9% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.2, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The cape york sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 8.8% growth, ranking 8th out of 37 regions nationally.
Cape York faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 14.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 33.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 17.6% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
14.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Cape York SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
41.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Cape York SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The cape york sa2 ranks in the 8th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Cape York SA2 are: Certificate (35.6%), Bachelor Degree (10.1%), Advanced Diploma (8.6%).
33.7% of the population in the Cape York SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 17.6% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 1.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Cape York SA2 is 764, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 13 schools within the Cape York SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,062 students.
The cape york sa2 includes 9 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 3 combined schools.
Cape York features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.7 people | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 30.9% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 16.7% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,337 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,566 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 66.4% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Cape York SA2 had 2,337 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.8% to an estimated 2,566 households today.
The average household size in the Cape York SA2 is 2.7 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 66.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.9%), group households (2.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,552 family households, couples with children account for 24.9% of all households, couples without children at home 21.9%, and single parent families 16.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Cape York SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 30.9% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Cape York SA2 have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 24.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 59.3% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 30.9% of all households in the Cape York SA2, higher than the average for Regional Qld of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.9% of households, below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
In terms of cultural diversity, Cape York records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 28.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 71.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.9% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 89.2% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 38.3% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
Cape York was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 81.9% of its population being citizens, 89.2% born in Australia, and 71.7% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Cape York was found to be Christianity, which makes up 57.6% of people in Cape York. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Cape York are Australian Aboriginal, comprising 38.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Qld's 3.9%, Australian, comprising 16.0% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 26.5%, and English, comprising 15.8% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 29.6%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Samoan is notably overrepresented at 0.3% of Cape York (vs 0.2% across Regional Qld), Other at 12.7% (vs 6.9%) and Maori at 0.5% (vs 0.8%).
10.8% of the Cape York SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
28.3% of the population in the Cape York SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
38.3% of the Cape York SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
81.9% of the Cape York SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Cape York is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 58.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 27.6% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 86.5% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,286 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 15th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 14.1% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $130 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 12.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 80th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Cape York SA2, 27.6% of homes are owned outright, 14.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 58.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 86.5% of dwellings in the Cape York SA2 are houses.
In the Cape York SA2, 2.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 5.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Cape York SA2 stands at 27.6%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Cape York SA2 is $1,286, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Cape York SA2 is $509, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Cape York SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 12.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Cape York SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Cape York SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.9% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 12.2% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the Cape York SA2 consists of 86.5% detached houses, 5.3% semi-detached dwellings, 2.0% apartments, and 6.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Cape York consumes approximately 11.1% of median household income ($4,603 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Cape York show attached dwellings contributing 18% of approvals compared to 14% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 82% of applications versus 86% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Cape York's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 29th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 76.7% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 81.9% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
Around 50.0% of people in the Cape York SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the Cape York SA2, 3.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
4.2% of people in the Cape York SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.4% of the Cape York SA2 population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.9% of people in the Cape York SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Cape York SA2, 50.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 7.3 km away and the nearest child care centre 12.1 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 3 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 7.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 12.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 20.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 25.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 44.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 45.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 47.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 135 places in Cape York, about 4.9 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Cape York among the top 21% of areas assessed nationwide.
Cape York ranks in the 78th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Cape York reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Cape York's population is younger than the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 76% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Cape York face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 9% of areas assessed nationally.
Cape York faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Cape York features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional Qld.
In terms of cultural diversity, Cape York records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Cape York is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Cape York's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport in Cape York: transport access 10/100.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Cape York has an estimated 8,567 residents, up 9.8% since the 2021 Census, with 84 projects tracked in the area around Cape York.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Cape York.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (315011396). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Cape York from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Cape York with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 10 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 10th percentile nationally |
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.