Cleveland

Population growth drivers in Cleveland are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends

Based on AreaSearch's analysis, Cleveland's population is around 17,561 as of Feb 2026. This reflects an increase of 1,710 people (10.8%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 15,851 people. The change is inferred from the estimated resident population of 16,769 from the ABS as of June 2024 and an additional 279 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 1,481 persons per square kilometer, which is above the average seen across national locations assessed by AreaSearch. Cleveland's 10.8% growth since the 2021 census exceeded the SA4 region (8.3%) and the national average, marking it as a growth leader in the region. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by overseas migration, which contributed approximately 58.0% of overall population gains during recent periods.

AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 areas not covered by this data, and for years post-2032, Queensland State Government's SA2 area projections, released in 2023 and based on 2021 data, are adopted. It should be noted that these state projections do not provide age category splits; hence where utilised, AreaSearch is applying proportional growth weightings in line with the ABS Greater Capital Region projections (released in 2023, based on 2022 data) for each age cohort. Anticipating future population dynamics, an above-median population growth of statistical areas across the nation is projected, with the area expected to grow by 2,547 persons to 2041 based on the latest annual ERP population numbers, reflecting an increase of 10.0% in total over the 17 years.

AreaSearch assessment of residential development activity positions Cleveland among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide

Cleveland has recorded around 130 residential properties granted approval per year, with 651 homes approved over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) and 111 so far in FY-26. Given an average of 1.4 new residents per year per dwelling constructed over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), supply and demand appear well-balanced, creating stable market conditions, while new properties are constructed at an average value of $389,000—moderately above regional levels—indicating an emphasis on quality construction. Additionally, $42.0 million in commercial approvals have been registered this financial year, indicating strong commercial development momentum.

Compared to Greater Brisbane, Cleveland has 18.0% less new development (per person), while it ranks in the 82nd percentile of areas assessed nationally. Recent construction comprises 41.0% detached dwellings and 59.0% medium and high-density housing. This focus on higher-density living creates more affordable entry points and suits downsizers, investors, and first-home buyers. This marks a significant departure from existing housing patterns (currently 60.0% houses), suggesting diminishing developable land availability and responding to evolving lifestyle preferences and housing affordability needs. The location has approximately 131 people per dwelling approval, indicating an expanding market.

Population forecasts indicate Cleveland will gain 1,755 residents through to 2041 (from the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate). With current construction levels, housing supply should adequately meet demand, creating favourable conditions for buyers while potentially enabling growth that exceeds current forecasts.

Cleveland has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 29thth percentile nationally

Nothing can influence an area's performance as much as changes to local infrastructure, major projects, and planning initiatives. In total, 15 projects have been identified by AreaSearch that are likely to have an impact on the area. Key projects include the Redlands Health and Wellness Precinct, Toondah Harbour Priority Development Area, Redland Hospital Expansion, and Cleveland Centre Master Plan Implementation, with the list below detailing those likely to be of most relevance.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.

Employment performance in Cleveland exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators

Cleveland has a skilled workforce, with essential services sectors well represented, an unemployment rate of only 3.2%, and 5.1% in estimated employment growth over the past year. As of December 2025, 8,641 residents are in work while the unemployment rate is 1.0% below Greater Brisbane's rate of 4.1%, and workforce participation lags significantly (60.3% compared to Greater Brisbane's 71.2%). Based on Census responses, a moderate 17.8% of residents were found to work from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts should be considered.

The key industries of employment among residents are health care & social assistance, construction, and retail trade. The area demonstrates a particularly notable concentration in construction, with employment levels at 1.3 times the regional average. Conversely, professional & technical services show lower representation at 7.8% versus the regional average of 8.9%. The ratio of 0.6 workers for each resident, as at the Census, indicates a level of local employment opportunities above the norm.

Based on AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS data, the 12-month period saw employment increasing by 5.1% alongside the labour force increasing by 5.3%, resulting in unemployment rising by 0.2 percentage points. This compares to Greater Brisbane, where employment grew by 3.2%, the labour force expanded by 3.0%, and unemployment fell 0.1 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 can offer further insight into potential future demand within Cleveland. These projections, covering five and ten-year periods, have been mapped against the local employment profile to estimate growth patterns. While national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, growth rates differ significantly between industry sectors. Applying these industry-specific projections to Cleveland's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 6.6% over five years and 13.6% over ten years (please note this is a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not take into account localised population projections).

The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis

The Cleveland SA2's income level is extremely high nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The Cleveland SA2's median income among taxpayers is $55,707 and the average income stands at $87,599, which compares to figures for Greater Brisbane's of $58,236 and $72,799 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.91% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $61,228 (median) and $96,280 (average) as of September 2025. From the 2021 Census, household, family and personal incomes all rank modestly in Cleveland, between the 31st and 37th percentiles. The data shows the largest segment comprises 26.4% earning $1,500 - 2,999 weekly (4,636 residents), mirroring regional levels where 33.3% occupy this bracket. Housing affordability pressures are severe, with only 82.1% of income remaining, ranking at the 28th percentile and the area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 5th decile.

Cleveland displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership

Dwelling structure within Cleveland, as evaluated at the latest Census, comprised 60.5% houses and 39.5% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings), in comparison to Brisbane metro's 73.5% houses and 26.5% other dwellings. Meanwhile, the level of home ownership within Cleveland was well beyond that of Brisbane metro, at 40.5%, with the remainder of dwellings either mortgaged (28.9%) or rented (30.5%). The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was above the Brisbane metro average at $2,000, while the median weekly rent figure was recorded at $400, compared to Brisbane metro's $1,863 and $380. Nationally, Cleveland's mortgage repayments are higher than the Australian average of $1,863, while rents are exceeding the national figure of $375.

Cleveland features high concentrations of lone person households, with a lower-than-average median household size

Family households dominate at 66.9% of all households, comprising 23.5% couples with children, 31.2% couples without children, and 11.3% single parent families. Non-family households make up the remaining 33.1%, with lone person households at 31.0% and group households comprising 2.1% of the total. The median household size of 2.3 people is smaller than the Greater Brisbane average of 2.6.

Educational attainment in Cleveland aligns closely with national averages, showing typical qualification patterns and performance metrics

Educational qualifications in Cleveland trail regional benchmarks, with 22.7% of residents aged 15+ holding university degrees compared to 30.5% in Greater Brisbane. This gap highlights potential for educational development and skills enhancement. Bachelor degrees lead at 15.8%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (4.4%) and graduate diplomas (2.5%). Trade and technical skills feature prominently, with 39.2% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials, including advanced diplomas (13.4%) and certificates (25.8%).

A substantial 24.3% of the population actively pursues formal education. This includes 8.3% in secondary education, 7.7% in primary education, and 3.8% pursuing tertiary education.

Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility

Public transport analysis reveals 86 active transport stops operating within Cleveland, comprising a mix of trains and buses. These stops are serviced by 36 individual routes, collectively providing 2,198 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated as good, with residents typically located 253 meters from the nearest transport stop. As a primarily residential area, most residents commute outward; the car remains the dominant mode at 89%. Vehicle ownership averages 1.3 per dwelling. Some 17.8% of residents work from home (2021 Census; may reflect COVID-19 conditions).

Service frequency averages 314 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 25 weekly trips per individual stop.

Health performance in Cleveland is lower than average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts

Cleveland faces significant health challenges, based on AreaSearch's assessment of mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence. Common health conditions are somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts, and the rate of private health cover is exceptionally high at approximately 63% of the total population (11,116 people). This compares to 55.8% across Greater Brisbane and a national average of 55.7%.

The most common medical conditions in the area are arthritis and mental health issues, impacting 11.1% and 8.6% of residents, respectively, while 61.5% declared themselves as completely clear of medical ailments compared to 69.2% across Greater Brisbane. Working-age residents show an above-average prevalence of chronic health conditions. The area has 34.7% of residents aged 65 and over (6,098 people), which is higher than the 15.2% in Greater Brisbane. Health outcomes among seniors present some challenges, with national rankings broadly in line with the general population.

The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Cleveland was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics

Cleveland was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 9.1% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 30.4% born overseas. The main religion in Cleveland is Christianity, which makes up 55.4% of people in Cleveland, compared to 47.8% across Greater Brisbane.

In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Cleveland are English, comprising 34.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 26.8%, Australian, comprising 21.5% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South Australian is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Cleveland (vs 0.6% regionally), New Zealand at 1.1% (vs 1.0%) and Scottish at 9.1% (vs 7.4%).

Cleveland ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide

Cleveland's median age of 52 years stands notably higher than Greater Brisbane's 36 and considerably older than the national norm of 38. Compared to the Greater Brisbane average, the 75 - 84 cohort is notably over-represented (13.8% locally), while 25 - 34 year-olds are under-represented (5.0%). This 75 - 84 concentration is well above the national 6.1%. In the period since 2021, the 75 to 84 age group has grown from 10.3% to 13.8% of the population. Conversely, the 25 to 34 cohort has declined from 7.4% to 5.0% and the 5 to 14 group dropped from 10.2% to 8.9%. Demographic modeling suggests Cleveland's age profile will evolve significantly by 2041. The 75 to 84 age cohort is projected to see notable expansion, increasing by 1,159 people (48%) from 2,419 to 3,579. Notably, the combined 65+ age groups will account for 87% of total population growth, reflecting the area's aging demographic profile. In contrast, population declines are projected for the 0 to 4 and 25 to 34 cohorts.