Area profile · Rest of Qld
Coolum Beach has an estimated 17,236 residents, up 8.1% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Coolum Beach.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 103 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD in QLD, Australia, the Coolum Beach Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an expanding coastal market celebrated for its picturesque seaside setting, turquoise waters, and lush natural surroundings. As of Aug 2026, the area's population is estimated at around 17,236, demonstrating strong expansion patterns with an increase of 1,288 people (8.1%) since the 2021 Census reported 15,948 residents. This updated baseline is informed by the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 17,064 recorded as of June 2025, alongside an additional 374 Validated New Addresses added since the Census date.
Demographically, the community features a notable concentration of middle-aged residents, highlighted by an elevated 45 to 54yo representation. The local housing profile is defined by a strong semi-detached presence alongside a high apartment composition.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 103 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD in QLD, Australia, the Coolum Beach Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an expanding coastal market celebrated for its picturesque seaside setting, turquoise waters, and lush natural surroundings. As of Aug 2026, the area's population is estimated at around 17,236, demonstrating strong expansion patterns with an increase of 1,288 people (8.1%) since the 2021 Census reported 15,948 residents. This updated baseline is informed by the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 17,064 recorded as of June 2025, alongside an additional 374 Validated New Addresses added since the Census date.
Demographically, the community features a notable concentration of middle-aged residents, highlighted by an elevated 45 to 54yo representation. The local housing profile is defined by a strong semi-detached presence alongside a high apartment composition.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,780 in 2001 and 17,064 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 17,236 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 14.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 33.4%.
Coolum Beach ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for population growth and the 75th for development activity.
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 Coolum Beach is $749 a week, up 7.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 17% above Regional Qld.
17% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $456 in 2017, $832 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $338 in 2017, $618 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $749 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $832 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $618 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +7.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Maroochy | $738 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Maroochy, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sunshine Coast | $704 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sunshine Coast, over 12 months | +5.3% | 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 54 tracked applications: 46 approved, 7 under assessment, 1 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 11 projects in Coolum Beach (2 under construction) and 92 more in the surrounding area.
Enclave Coolum Beach is a boutique residential development featuring 17 luxurious two- and three-bedroom apartments designed by Jessica Hardwick Architecture for the Griffin Group. Located just 200 metres from Coolum Beach, the project offers coastal luxury living with sustainable design, premium finishes, and easy access to local amenities.
Residential community on the former Sekisui House Yaroomba Beach site. Following Sunshine Coast Council cancelling the Sekisui approval, Dennis Family Corporation is progressing a smaller community under the historic Hyatt Masterplan comprising up to 330 dwellings.
Queensland Government Backing Indigenous Arts (BIA) initiative, established in 2007 and renewed for 2026-2030 with $4.3 million for 17 Indigenous Art Centres across Queensland through the BIA Multi-Year Fund.
Completed visitor infrastructure improvement at Mount Coolum National Park on the Sunshine Coast. Sunshine Coast Council and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service jointly delivered a new modular public amenities building beside the summit walking track car park.
New AFL and netball sports precinct at Coolum State High School, Coolum Beach, delivered by Sunshine Coast Council in partnership with the Queensland Government, AFL Queensland and Coolum State High School.
South-facing motorway ramps are planned at West Coolum Road, Mount Coolum, as part of a staged upgrade to the Sunshine Motorway between David Low Way, Pacific Paradise, and Yandina-Coolum Road, Coolum.
Luxurious beachfront apartment development at First Bay, Coolum Beach. Features architecturally striking design with premium finishes and direct beach access. Represents high-end residential development on the Sunshine Coast.
Council-designed road link to extend Suncoast Beach Drive to South Coolum Road with a new roundabout and future connection to the proposed Sunshine Motorway interchange at West Coolum Road. Corridor land acquisitions are being finalised; construction is contingent on future funding and is tentatively programmed for the 2031-2036 period.
Intersection safety upgrades along the David Low Way corridor at Coolum Beach, including a $1.0-$1.2 million makeover at David Low Way & Scrub Road (new pedestrian refuge, dedicated right-turn lane into Scrub Road, lighting and line marking).
Completed upgrade of the former roundabout at the intersection of Yandina-Coolum Road, South Coolum Road and School Road, adjacent to Coolum State School.
Construction of a new 10km trunk water main at Mount Coolum connecting to existing water infrastructure on the western side of the Sunshine Motorway and north to the Peregian Springs water reservoir, enhancing water supply security for the growing Peregian Springs and broader Sunshine Coast community, servicing about 11,000 people.
Development of 22 modern industrial warehouse units within the Coolum Beach Industrial Estate. The project has been completed and units are now ready for occupation, with most sold or leased and only a limited number remaining available. Each unit includes high-bay warehouse space, mezzanine, kitchenette, bathroom, three-phase power and dedicated parking.
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 40 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 11, 2027 16, 2028 4, 2029 3, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 17 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 54 substantial development applications lodged in and around Coolum Beach over the past 5 years, 10 in the last 12 months; 7 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 7, 2023 13, 2024 10, 2025 17, 2026 (to Nov) 7.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 54 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 46th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 59 | ABS building approvals | 64th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 46 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 7 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Coolum Beach SA2 include: Beachside Yaroomba Residential Community (Planning); Beachside Yaroomba (Residential Community) (Planning); Enclave Coolum Beach (Pre-construction); Sunshine Motorway West Coolum Road Upgrade Interchange (Planning); and David Low Way Intersection Upgrades (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Coolum Beach SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Manufacturing, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Coolum Beach among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Coolum Beach SA2 area has seen 148 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Coolum Beach SA2's current population of 17,236 has been supported by 59 approvals on average over recent years.
The Coolum Beach SA2 has seen 3.5 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 231 people in the Coolum Beach SA2, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Coolum Beach SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 59, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Coolum Beach SA2 has grown by approximately 1,008 people, while 294 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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.
Population growth drivers in Coolum Beach are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 17,236 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 952 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 50th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 15,948 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,288 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 18.11 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Coolum Beach SA2 was estimated to be approximately 17,236 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 17,064 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The coolum beach sa2 has added approximately 1,288 people and shown a 8.08% increase from the 15,948 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Coolum Beach SA2 is estimated at 952 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Coolum Beach SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Coolum Beach SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (87.6%), Interstate migration (12.4%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 87.6% of overall population gains.
Coolum Beach hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 44 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 74th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 21.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 20.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 51.8% | 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 | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Coolum Beach SA2 at 44 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Coolum Beach is 3 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 6 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Coolum Beach SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 14.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Coolum Beach SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.9% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Coolum Beach SA2 is broadly in line with Regional Qld.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.0% of the population in the Coolum Beach SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.3% of the population in the Coolum Beach SA2 as at August 2026.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $54,668 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 31st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $76,123 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,703 | 2021 Census, weekly | 47th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $794 | 2021 Census, weekly | 48th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 21.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,071 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 22.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Coolum Beach SA2 is approximately $58,555. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $54,668.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Coolum Beach SA2 is approximately $81,535. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $76,123.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Coolum Beach SA2 is approximately $58,555 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,668 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Coolum Beach SA2 is approximately $81,535 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $76,123 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Coolum Beach SA2's households (~33.4% / 2,040 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Coolum Beach SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 33.4% 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 Coolum Beach SA2 is $1,703/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Coolum Beach SA2 is $2,071/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Coolum Beach SA2 is $794/wk.
The Coolum Beach SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $54,668 and an average of $76,123 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is higher than average nationally, contrasting with Regional Qld's median income of $56,722 and average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $58,555 (median) and $81,535 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Coolum Beach SA2 is $6,062 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The coolum beach sa2's disposable income is $6,062 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment environment in Coolum Beach shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 64.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 9,005 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 14,777 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,244 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Coolum Beach SA2 has approximately 9,005 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.6%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Coolum Beach SA2 stands at 2.6%, which is 1.2 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.8%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Coolum Beach SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.9% of employment), construction (13.7%), and education & training (10.8%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Coolum Beach SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Coolum Beach SA2 is 64.9%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Qld.
The coolum beach sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 13.7% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% across Regional Qld. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The coolum beach sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 1.7% decline, ranking 25th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Coolum Beach ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 29.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.0% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 31.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
29.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Coolum Beach SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
31.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Coolum Beach SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The coolum beach sa2 ranks in the 70th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Coolum Beach SA2 are: Certificate (26.8%), Bachelor Degree (19.9%), Advanced Diploma (13.0%).
26.6% of the population in the Coolum Beach SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.4% in primary school, 7.9% in secondary school, 3.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Coolum Beach SA2 is 1042, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 2 schools within the Coolum Beach SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,501 students.
The coolum beach sa2 includes 1 primary school, 1 secondary school.
Coolum Beach features high concentrations of group households and couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 24.6% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.6% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.1% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 6,114 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 6,608 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.9% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Coolum Beach SA2 had 6,114 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.1% to an estimated 6,608 households today.
The average household size in the Coolum Beach SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (24.6%), group households (4.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,335 family households, couples with children account for 28.6% of all households, couples without children at home 31.1%, and single parent families 10.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Coolum Beach SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Coolum Beach SA2 have an average of 1.6 children, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 47.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.6% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 24.6% of all households in the Coolum Beach SA2, similar to 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 4.4% of households, slightly above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%.
Coolum Beach ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 19.5% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.6% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.5% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 80.5% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
Coolum Beach was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.5% of its population born in Australia, 88.5% being citizens, and 94.6% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Coolum Beach, at 42.9% of people, although more residents (55.2%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Coolum Beach are English, comprising 32.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.0% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 9.6% of Coolum Beach (vs 7.8% across Regional Qld), Dutch at 1.7% (vs 1.1%) and French at 0.7% (vs 0.5%).
19.5% of the Coolum Beach SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
5.4% of the population in the Coolum Beach SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
1.2% of the Coolum Beach SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
88.5% of the Coolum Beach SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Coolum Beach displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with ownership patterns similar to Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 69.9% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,000 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 64th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 37.4% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 16.8% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $450 | 2021 Census, weekly | 80th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 26.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Coolum Beach SA2, 33.4% of homes are owned outright, 37.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 29.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 69.9% of dwellings in the Coolum Beach SA2 are houses.
In the Coolum Beach SA2, 12.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 16.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Coolum Beach SA2 stands at 33.4%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Coolum Beach SA2 is $2,000, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Coolum Beach SA2 is $1,317, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Coolum Beach SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Coolum Beach SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Coolum Beach SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.1% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 26.4% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the Coolum Beach SA2 consists of 69.9% detached houses, 16.8% semi-detached dwellings, 12.7% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Coolum Beach consumes approximately 17.9% of median household income ($7,374 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Coolum Beach show attached dwellings contributing 41% of approvals compared to 30% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 59% of applications versus 70% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Coolum Beach'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 | 55.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 60th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.0% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.2% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
Around 55.4% of people in the Coolum Beach SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the Coolum Beach SA2, 5.6% 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 Coolum Beach SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.5% of the Coolum Beach SA2 population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.7% of people in the Coolum Beach SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Coolum Beach SA2, 55.4% 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 pharmacy is 670 m away and the nearest child care centre 818 m.
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 | 71 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 71st percentile nationally |
| Nearest pharmacy | 670 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 818 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 852 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 868 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 880 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 982 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 12.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 16.1 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 4 long day care centres with 304 places in Coolum Beach, about 2.8 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
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Coolum Beach is built to order and emailed to you.
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The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Coolum Beach.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Coolum Beach among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Coolum Beach ranks in the 39th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Coolum Beach is $749 a week, +7.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Coolum Beach are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Coolum Beach hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment environment in Coolum Beach shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
The educational profile of Coolum Beach ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Coolum Beach features high concentrations of group households and couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Coolum Beach ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Coolum Beach displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with ownership patterns similar to Regional Qld.
Coolum Beach'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 Coolum Beach: transport access 10/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Coolum Beach has an estimated 17,236 residents, up 8.1% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Coolum Beach.
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 Coolum Beach.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing 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 (316031425). 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 (Oct 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, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Coolum Beach 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 Coolum Beach 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 | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 20.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
