Area profile · Rest of Qld
Cooloola has an estimated 7,180 residents, up 9.3% since the 2021 Census, with 171 projects tracked in the area around Cooloola.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Cooloola Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 169 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is around 7,180 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 612 people (9.3%) since the 2021 Census count of 6,568 people. The estimate draws on an ABS estimated resident population of 7,148 as of June 2025 and 135 validated new addresses since the Census date. Cooloola combines high levels of outright home ownership and low average household size with above-average children per family. Its population profile also features notable 65 to 74yo and elevated 75 to 84yo groups, alongside a pronounced retail trade employment base.
The area has a high share of mature and retirement agedandolder australians, many living in lone person households or as couples without children. Education levels and income levels are lower, while population growth is moderate. Cooloola, Queensland, Australia is known for natural landscapes and outdoor activities, including beaches, rainforests, sand dunes and Great Sandy National Park.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,778 in 2001 and 7,148 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,180 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 26.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 41.5%.
Cooloola ranks in the 76th percentile nationally for development activity and the 65th 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.
The median rent in Cooloola is $540 a week, up 8.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 16% below Regional Qld.
16% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $303 in 2017, $540 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $238 in 2017, $220 in 2022. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $540 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $540 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Gympie - Cooloola | $539 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Gympie - Cooloola, over 12 months | +12.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Wide Bay | $548 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Wide Bay, over 12 months | +9.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Qld, over 12 months | +6.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $632 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, QLD, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 28 tracked applications: 2 approved, 0 under assessment, 26 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 171 projects in and around Cooloola, 53 of them under construction.
Cooloola Sands is a masterplanned residential community in Cooloola Cove by Pradella, providing around 800 homes in a mix of traditional…
Cooloola Cove Shopping Centre is a single level neighbourhood centre completed in 2009, anchored by a Woolworths supermarket and supported…
A proposed 1,200 MW wind farm of up to 226 turbines sited within the state-owned Tuan-Toolara exotic pine plantation between Gympie and…
Planning and investigation by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) to identify locations for dedicated overtaking…
Essential infrastructure reconstruction and pavement reinstatement delivered under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads is undertaking multi-stage safety and pavement widening upgrades along Kin Kin Road.
Road safety, pavement sealing, and flood resilience betterment upgrades along Cedar Pocket Road and Gap Road near Canina.
Construction of a new 26km four-lane divided highway bypassing Gympie to the east.
Proposed expansion of the existing hard-rock Kin Kin quarry (andesite/latite extraction) operated by Cordwell Resources under a lease…
Widening and safety enhancement of a 2.3km section of Tagigan Road between Tin Can Bay Road and Nall Road in Goomboorian.
Transport and Main Roads is undertaking planning and safety analysis to upgrade priority intersections along Gympie Connection Road and Tin…
The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is delivering dedicated overtaking lanes and safety upgrades along Tin Can Bay…
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 104 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 6, 2026 30, 2027 36, 2028 19, 2029 6, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 3, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3. 35 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 28 substantial development applications lodged in and around Cooloola over the past 5 years, 6 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 6, 2023 8, 2024 3, 2025 4, 2026 (to Oct) 6.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 28 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 6 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 75th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 47 | ABS building approvals | 57th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Cooloola SA2 include: Cooloola Sands (Construction); Forest Wind Farm (Proposed); Tin Can Bay Road Overtaking Lanes Investigation (Planning); Gympie Regional Disaster Recovery Infrastructure - Priority Package 01 (Construction); and Kin Kin Road Safety and Road Widening Upgrade (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Cooloola SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Cooloola SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Cooloola SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Cooloola among the top 24% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Cooloola SA2 area has seen 87 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Cooloola SA2's current population of 7,180 has been supported by 47 approvals on average over recent years.
The Cooloola SA2 has seen 6.9 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 164 people in the Cooloola SA2, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Cooloola SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 47, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Cooloola SA2 has grown by approximately 675 people, while 233 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.9 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.
Cooloola has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,180 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 6 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,568 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 612 | 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 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1,141.65 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Cooloola SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,180 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,148 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The cooloola sa2 has added approximately 612 people and shown a 9.32% increase from the 6,568 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Cooloola SA2 is estimated at 6 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Cooloola SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Cooloola SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (89.9%), Overseas migration (10.1%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 89.9% of overall population gains.
Cooloola ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 62 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 99th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 46.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 38.2% | 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 | 62 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 6.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 4.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 6.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 18.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 26.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Cooloola SA2 at 62 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 62 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 62 years as at August 2026, Cooloola is 21 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 24 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Cooloola SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 26.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Cooloola SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 4.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Cooloola SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (26.5% vs 10.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (16.2% vs 7.1%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (4.5% vs 12.6%) and 35-44 year-olds (6.4% vs 12.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 9.0% of the population in the Cooloola SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 46.1% of the population in the Cooloola SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 2% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $39,322 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 1st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $52,605 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $790 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Census personal income / week | $461 | 2021 Census, weekly | 2nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 4.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $968 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 51.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cooloola SA2 is approximately $42,118. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $39,322.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cooloola SA2 is approximately $56,345. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $52,605.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cooloola SA2 is approximately $42,118 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $39,322 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cooloola SA2 is approximately $56,345 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $52,605 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Cooloola SA2's households (~41.5% / 1,219 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Cooloola SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 41.5% 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 Cooloola SA2 is $790/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Cooloola SA2 is $968/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Cooloola SA2 is $461/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Cooloola SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $39,322 with the average level standing at $52,605. This is lower than average on a national basis 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 $42,118 (median) and $56,345 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Cooloola SA2 is $2,889 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The cooloola sa2's disposable income is $2,889 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Cooloola shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 37.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,304 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,771 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,422 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Cooloola SA2 has approximately 2,304 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.9%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Cooloola SA2 stands at 4.9%, which is 1.1 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 Cooloola SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are accommodation & food (16.1% of employment), retail trade (14.4%), and health care & social assistance (9.9%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Cooloola SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. 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 Cooloola SA2 is 37.8%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The cooloola sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 16.1% of the local workforce compared to 8.3% across Regional Qld. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The cooloola sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 0.9% growth, ranking 20th out of 37 regions nationally.
Cooloola 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 | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 10.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 46.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 19.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
10.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Cooloola SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
46.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Cooloola SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The cooloola sa2 ranks in the 9th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Cooloola SA2 are: Certificate (33.5%), Advanced Diploma (9.6%), Bachelor Degree (7.7%).
19.1% of the population in the Cooloola SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.3% in primary school, 6.8% in secondary school, 1.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Cooloola SA2 is 958, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the Cooloola SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 340 students.
The cooloola sa2 includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.
Cooloola features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.0 people | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 44.8% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,937 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,211 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 63.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.1 per family | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Cooloola SA2 had 2,937 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.3% to an estimated 3,211 households today.
The average household size in the Cooloola SA2 is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 63.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.1%), group households (3.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,868 family households, couples with children account for 11.2% of all households, couples without children at home 44.8%, and single parent families 7.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Cooloola SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.1% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 63.6% compared to 70.4% in Regional Qld. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Cooloola SA2 have an average of 2.1 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 51.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 21.3% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 33.1% of all households in the Cooloola 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 3.2% of households, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%.
Cooloola is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 16.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 97.8% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.2% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.8% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
Cooloola was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.2% of its population being citizens, 83.8% born in Australia, and 97.8% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Cooloola was found to be Christianity, which makes up 53.6% of people in Cooloola. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Cooloola are English, comprising 34.5% of the population, Australian, comprising 28.5% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 5.8% of Cooloola (vs 4.7% across Regional Qld), Scottish at 8.9% (vs 7.8%) and French at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
16.2% of the Cooloola SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
2.2% of the population in the Cooloola SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
2.6% of the Cooloola SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
88.2% of the Cooloola SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Cooloola is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 22.7% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 57.4% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 85.2% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $280 | 2021 Census, weekly | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 35.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 38.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Cooloola SA2, 57.4% of homes are owned outright, 19.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 85.2% of dwellings in the Cooloola SA2 are houses.
In the Cooloola SA2, 4.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 5.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Cooloola SA2 stands at 57.4%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Cooloola SA2 is $1,300, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Cooloola SA2 is $534, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Cooloola SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 38.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 35.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Cooloola SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Cooloola SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 38.0% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 35.4% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the Cooloola SA2 consists of 85.2% detached houses, 5.4% semi-detached dwellings, 4.3% apartments, and 5.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Cooloola consumes approximately 15.6% of median household income ($3,421 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Cooloola show attached dwellings contributing 12% of approvals compared to 15% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 88% of applications versus 85% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Health performance in Cooloola is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 1st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 51.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Need help with daily activities | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 66.3% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
Around 46.2% of people in the Cooloola SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the Cooloola SA2, 11.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
6.6% of people in the Cooloola SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.1% of the Cooloola SA2 population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
7.0% of people in the Cooloola SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Cooloola SA2, 46.2% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 25 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 25th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 24 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 15 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 2nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 298 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 1 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 24 public transport stops within the Cooloola SA2.
The Cooloola SA2 has 15 weekly trips across 1 routes, averaging 2 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 571 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 1.1 km away and the nearest supermarket 1.1 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 24 stops nearby, 15 weekly trips, access rating 25 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 22 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 5.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 44.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 44.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 44.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 44.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 44.6 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 is 1 long day care centre with 40 places in Cooloola, about 4.9 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
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An area report on Cooloola is built to order and emailed to you.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Cooloola among the top 24% of areas assessed nationwide.
Cooloola has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 35% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Cooloola is $540 a week, +8.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Cooloola has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Cooloola ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 2% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Cooloola shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
Cooloola faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Cooloola features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Cooloola is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Cooloola is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Cooloola is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Cooloola has an estimated 7,180 residents, up 9.3% since the 2021 Census, with 171 projects tracked in the area around Cooloola.
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 Cooloola.
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 (319031511). 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 Cooloola 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 Cooloola with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.