Area profile · Rest of Qld
Maroochy Hinterland has an estimated 7,496 residents, up 9.8% since the 2021 Census, with 119 projects tracked in the area around Maroochy Hinterland.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Positioned 97 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD, the Maroochy Hinterland Statistical Area (Lv2) in QLD, Australia, is defined by its rolling hills, lush greenery, scenic country lanes, and rustic charm. Renowned as a peaceful retreat, the district combines picturesque natural scenery with outdoor recreation such as horse riding, bird watching, and hiking, supported by an engaging arts and crafts community and warm local hospitality. Demographic analysis from AreaSearch estimates the Maroochy Hinterland population at approximately 7,496 as of Aug 2026. This reflects an addition of 666 people (9.8%) since the 2021 Census result of 6,830 residents, informed by an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 7,415 from the ABS as of June 2025 alongside 119 Validated New Addresses recorded post-Census.
Demographically, the community is characterised by moderate expansion patterns and a notable concentration of mature-aged and retired individuals, largely comprising couples without children.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,489 in 2001 and 7,415 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,496 (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, 17.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.4%.
Maroochy Hinterland ranks in the 77th percentile nationally for health and the 69th 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 Maroochy Hinterland is $628 a week, up 9.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 2% below Regional Qld.
2% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $408 in 2017, $727 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $270 in 2017, $488 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $628 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +9.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $727 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +9.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $488 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 | +8.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sunshine Coast Hinterland | $705 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sunshine Coast Hinterland, over 12 months | +9.6% | 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 27 tracked applications: 9 approved, 11 under assessment, 7 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Maroochy Hinterland, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 119 projects in and around Maroochy Hinterland, 35 of them under construction.
A boutique residential estate offering 58 home sites ranging from 600 sqm to over 2000 sqm, with a mix of flat and sloping blocks.
A proposed 66-lot residential master-planned subdivision on a 7.66-hectare site at Burnside.
Clifton Sunshine Coast is an over-50s lifestyle and land lease resort community developed by Clifton Lifestyle at 3-53 Savilles Road…
Parklane Estate is a 38-lot residential subdivision in Burnside on the Sunshine Coast.
A proposed 103-lot residential subdivision across a 12.68-hectare site at Burnside.
A boutique land development in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland offering 68 lots ranging from 450m2 to 6,205m2 with elevated views, scenic…
A 2.83 hectare (7 acre) site zoned Emerging Community, offered for sale as an ideal residential subdivision opportunity with potential for…
A residential subdivision development near Woombye comprising 45 homesites ranging from 800m2 to 1,300m2, offering turnkey house packages…
The project transforms the Nambour waste facility into a regional hub to support sustainable waste management and a circular economy.
A boutique residential subdivision project offering 25 house and land opportunities in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Boutique residential community nestled in the hillside of Nambour, consisting of 63 residential homesites with beautiful views to the…
A State Government community housing initiative delivering 8 social housing units (four 1-bedroom and four 2-bedroom) at Carter Road with…
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 59 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 9, 2026 20, 2027 16, 2028 7, 2029 4, 2030 1, 2031 1, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 23 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 27 substantial development applications lodged in and around Maroochy Hinterland over the period covered (about 4.1 years), 11 in the last 12 months; 11 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 3, 2023 5, 2024 5, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 11.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.1 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 27 | ABS building approvals | 39th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 9 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.1 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.1 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 include: The Grove Nambour Heights (Construction); Clifton Sunshine Coast Land Lease Community (Construction); 165-171 Burnside Road Residential Subdivision (Dev. Application); Parklane Estate Burnside (Construction); and Windsor Park Estate (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Maroochy Hinterland when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 area has seen 61 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Maroochy Hinterland SA2's current population of 7,496 has been supported by 27 approvals on average over recent years.
The Maroochy Hinterland SA2 has seen 3.9 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 243 people in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Maroochy Hinterland SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 27, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 has grown by approximately 656 people, while 136 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.8 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 Maroochy Hinterland are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,496 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 14 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,830 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 666 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 526.31 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,496 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,415 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The maroochy hinterland sa2 has added approximately 666 people and shown a 9.75% increase from the 6,830 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is estimated at 14 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.5% per annum.
Population growth in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (67.7%), Overseas migration (28.0%), Natural increase (4.3%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 67.7% of overall population gains.
Maroochy Hinterland ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 51 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 94th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 30.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 17.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 44.8% | 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 | 52 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.5% | 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 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 16.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 17.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 at 51 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 52 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 51 years as at August 2026, Maroochy Hinterland is 10 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 13 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 17.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.6% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (17.6% vs 10.9%) and 85+ year-olds (3.1% vs 2.3%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (6.6% vs 12.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.3% of the population in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 30.0% of the population in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 76% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $51,324 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $64,418 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,337 | 2021 Census, weekly | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $651 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 16.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,602 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is approximately $54,973. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $51,324.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is approximately $68,998. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $64,418.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is approximately $54,973 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $51,324 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is approximately $68,998 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,418 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Maroochy Hinterland SA2's households (~27.4% / 714 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.4% 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 Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is $1,337/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is $1,602/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is $651/wk.
The Maroochy Hinterland SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Maroochy Hinterland SA2's median income among taxpayers is $51,324 and the average income stands at $64,418, which compares to figures for Regional Qld's of $56,722 and $71,544 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $54,973 (median) and $68,998 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is $4,952 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The maroochy hinterland sa2's disposable income is $4,952 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Maroochy Hinterland faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,340 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,465 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,511 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 has approximately 3,340 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.9%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Maroochy Hinterland 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 Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.7% of employment), construction (11.3%), and education & training (10.1%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Maroochy Hinterland 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 Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is 55.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The maroochy hinterland sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 6.9% of the local workforce compared to 4.5% across Regional Qld. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The maroochy hinterland sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 1.7% decline, ranking 25th out of 37 regions nationally.
Maroochy Hinterland ranks slightly above average for education relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 17.6% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 26.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 27.8% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.0% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 33.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 24.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.0% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
26.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
33.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The maroochy hinterland sa2 ranks in the 59th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 are: Certificate (27.8%), Bachelor Degree (17.6%), Advanced Diploma (13.0%).
24.5% of the population in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.0% in primary school, 7.5% in secondary school, 3.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is 1027, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 3 schools within the Maroochy Hinterland SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 282 students.
The maroochy hinterland sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 1 combined school.
Maroochy Hinterland features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, 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 | 22.7% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 42.3% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,604 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,858 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 74.8% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 had 2,604 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.8% to an estimated 2,858 households today.
The average household size in the Maroochy Hinterland 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 74.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.7%), group households (2.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,948 family households, couples with children account for 24.1% of all households, couples without children at home 42.3%, and single parent families 7.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 have an average of 1.8 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 54.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 25.9% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 22.7% of all households in the Maroochy Hinterland 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 2.6% of households, below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Maroochy Hinterland 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 | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.9% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 80.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
Maroochy Hinterland was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.1% of its population born in Australia, 88.9% being citizens, and 95.9% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Maroochy Hinterland, at 47.8% of people, although more residents (49.9%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.6% of the population, compared to 1.1% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Maroochy Hinterland are English, comprising 34.5% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.6% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 10.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 0.8% of Maroochy Hinterland (vs 0.5% across Regional Qld), German at 5.0% (vs 4.7%) and Irish at 9.9% (vs 8.2%).
19.9% of the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
4.1% of the population in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
1.2% of the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
88.9% of the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Maroochy Hinterland 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 | 14.8% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 49.6% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 94.7% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 26.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Maroochy Hinterland SA2, 49.6% of homes are owned outright, 35.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 14.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 94.7% of dwellings in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 are houses.
In the Maroochy Hinterland SA2, 0.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 stands at 49.6%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is $841, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Maroochy Hinterland SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 29.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 29.9% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 26.2% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 consists of 94.7% detached houses, 0.7% semi-detached dwellings, 0.8% apartments, and 3.7% other dwelling types.
Housing in Maroochy Hinterland consumes approximately 14.5% of median household income ($5,789 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Maroochy Hinterland show attached dwellings contributing 3% of approvals compared to 5% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 97% of applications versus 95% 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.
Maroochy Hinterland's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 49.6% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 26th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 63.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 73.4% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
Around 49.6% of people in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the Maroochy Hinterland SA2, 5.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
7.7% of people in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.2% of the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.7% of people in the Maroochy Hinterland SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Maroochy Hinterland SA2, 49.6% 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 | 26 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 26th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 12 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 20 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 3rd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 623 | 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 | 1.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 21.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 12 public transport stops within the Maroochy Hinterland SA2.
The Maroochy Hinterland SA2 has 20 weekly trips across 1 routes, averaging 2 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 1543 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 3.2 km away and the nearest child care centre 3.7 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 12 stops nearby, 20 weekly trips, access rating 26 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 57 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 57th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 4.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 10.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 10.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 10.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 10.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 11.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 11.9 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).
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Maroochy Hinterland when compared nationally.
Maroochy Hinterland has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 31% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Maroochy Hinterland is $628 a week, +9.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Maroochy Hinterland are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
Maroochy Hinterland ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 76% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Maroochy Hinterland faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
Maroochy Hinterland ranks slightly above average for education relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Maroochy Hinterland features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Maroochy Hinterland ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Maroochy Hinterland is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Maroochy Hinterland's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Maroochy Hinterland has an estimated 7,496 residents, up 9.8% since the 2021 Census, with 119 projects tracked in the area around Maroochy Hinterland.
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 Maroochy Hinterland.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 (316061443). 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) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, 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 Maroochy Hinterland 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 Maroochy Hinterland 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.
