Mount Isa

SA2

Rest of Qld / Outback - North

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Sep 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 315021405 How we calculate this
Chart Color Schemes
Loading map data ...
Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

0 People

est. as @ -- *

ABS ERP | -- people | --

2021 Census | -- people

Land Area
--
Land Area
Population Density
--
Density
Unemployment Rate
--
Unemployment
Development
--
Resi Approvals
Get My Report

Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.

Median Price
$0
1yr Sales Volume
0
Find a Recent Sale
Type Specified (1) | Limit 50

Sales Detail

Loading rental data…

DemographicsPopulation Growth in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Mount Isa has an estimated 18,162 residents, down from 18,317 at the 2021 Census. The population has thinned by an average 0.8% a year over five years, slower than 95% of areas nationally. That puts 264 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to research from AreaSearch, the resident count for Mount Isa stands at roughly 18,162 as of Aug 2026. Relative to the 2021 Census total of 18,317 people, this represents a reduction of 155 people (0.8%). The calculation draws upon the ABS estimated resident population figure of 18,162 recorded as of June 2025 alongside an additional 10 validated new addresses logged following the Census date. With a density of 264 persons per square kilometer, the locality offers ample room per person and substantial capacity for upcoming development. In contrast to the 0.8% decline seen across Mount Isa post-census, the broader SA3 area expanded by 1.9%, illustrating diverging demographic trajectories.

Local population expansion was predominantly fueled by natural increase, which accounted for roughly 55.3% of recent demographic additions. SA2 projections published by ABS/Geoscience Australia in 2024 (using 2022 as a baseline) are utilised by AreaSearch. Where SA2 coverage is absent, or across timeframes following 2032, projections produced by the Queensland State Government in 2023 (utilising 2021 data) are incorporated. Because these state figures omit age cohort breakdowns, AreaSearch applies proportional distribution weights derived from the ABS Greater Capital Region projections (published in 2023 from 2022 data) across each demographic band. Looking ahead at structural shifts, this framework projects a broad demographic reduction, with the local count contracting by 635 persons by 2041. Even so, certain segments should see expansion, particularly the 25 to 34 age bracket, which is slated to add 341 people. Detailed age statistics are provided in the relevant section.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Mount Isa SA2?
Total population for the Mount Isa SA2 was estimated to be approximately 18,162 as at Aug 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 18,162 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Mount Isa SA2 changed since 2021?
The mount isa sa2 has lost approximately 155 people and shown a 0.85% decrease from the 18,317 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Mount Isa SA2?
The population density in the Mount Isa SA2 is estimated at 264 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Mount Isa SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Mount Isa SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -1.1% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Mount Isa SA2?
Population growth in the Mount Isa SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (55.3%), Overseas migration (44.7%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 55.3% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

47 new dwellings have been approved in Mount Isa over the past five years, an average of 9 a year. That is 0.5 approvals per 1,000 residents. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Annual residential approvals in Mount Isa have averaged around 9 new homes, culminating in 47 homes across the prior 5 financial years. With the population contracting over the recent timeframe, incoming stock has likely matched market requirements, presenting buyers with solid options, while newly approved builds register an average expected construction cost of $671,000—surpassing regional benchmarks and highlighting a focus on higher-standard development. Furthermore, commercial building approvals have reached $17.4 million during the ongoing financial year, indicating steady commercial activity. Residential building output in Mount Isa tracks significantly lower than in Rest of Qld, trailing by 51.0% on an individual basis.

Such subdued development typically bolsters valuation and appetite for established dwellings. Activity also sits below the national benchmark, underscoring local market maturity and potential statutory planning bottlenecks. Of recent residential approvals, detached houses represent 11.0% while medium and high-density formats make up 89.0%. Emphasising denser living configurations provides more accessible pricing tiers that cater to first-time buyers, investors, and downsizers. This denotes a marked departure from the prevailing housing stock (where detached houses comprise 76.0%), highlighting a dwindling pool of greenfield sites alongside shifting preferences toward varied and attainable housing options. With demographic models pointing toward steady or shrinking resident numbers, Mount Isa could experience reduced accommodation strain, creating positive circumstances for purchasers.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Mount Isa SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Mount Isa SA2 area has seen 2 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Mount Isa SA2's current population of 18,162 has been supported by 9 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Mount Isa SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Mount Isa SA2 has seen 0.05 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.62 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 0 people in the Mount Isa SA2, compared to one for every 152 in the broader region.
Is the Mount Isa SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
Population forecasts suggest stable or declining population, reducing pressure on housing supply in the the Mount Isa SA2 area.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Mount Isa SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Mount Isa SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 9, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Mount Isa SA2?
Over the past five years, the Mount Isa SA2 has seen 47 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Mount Isa SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 9 approvals per year and a population of 18,162, stable population forecasts suggest a mature market with selective development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Mount Isa

Development applications around Mount Isa

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
Applications
In this area
Est. Value
Where disclosed
Under Assessment
Awaiting determination
Determined
Approved or decided
Approvals pipeline Status, location, timing and project scale
Search

Loading development applications…

Lodged Address Description Type Distance Status

SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Mount Isa

PROFILE FAQ

AreaSearch tracks 5 current infrastructure and development projects inside Mount Isa, worth an estimated $3.7 billion. A further 61 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $81.7 billion. 19 are already under construction and 21 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans energy, transport & logistics and sports & recreation. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

The progression of a region is substantially steered by major planning strategies, capital works, and civic infrastructure upgrades. AreaSearch has pinpointed 5 key undertakings that will influence the locality. Notable developments include the Mount Isa Future Ready Economy Roadmap, Mount Isa Mines - Black Star Open Cut Project, Mount Isa Police Accommodation and Justice System Resourcing, as well as the Essential Pipeline Works - City Low and high Systems, with the prominent schemes outlined below.

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

INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
All Selected

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

Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Mount Isa SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Mount Isa SA2 include: Mount Isa Future Ready Economy Roadmap (Planning); Mount Isa Mines - Black Star Open Cut Project (Planning); Mount Isa Police Accommodation and Justice System Resourcing (Construction); Essential Pipeline Works - City Low and high Systems (Completed); and Parks Improvement Program (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Mount Isa SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Mount Isa SA2 spans multiple sectors including Energy, Transport & Logistics, and Manufacturing, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Mount Isa SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $3.7 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Mount Isa SA2 vicinity.
How does the Mount Isa SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The Mount Isa SA2 ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Mount Isa Future Ready Economy Roadmap
Category: Energy
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2040
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A long-term strategic framework launched in February 2025 to transition Mount Isa's economy following the mid-2025 closure of Glencore's underground copper operations. The roadmap outlines 28 pathways and 400 actions across five sectors: energy, mining, transport, agriculture, and tourism. Key initiatives include the $2.4 billion CopperString 2032 project, large-scale renewable energy generation, gravitational energy storage in mine shafts, and the development of a critical minerals research hub.

Energy

Mount Isa Mines - Black Star Open Cut Project
Category: Manufacturing
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2045
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Glencore is advancing a feasibility study to reopen the Black Star Open Cut mine. The project aims to supply zinc, lead, and copper ores to Mount Isa processing facilities following the July 2025 closure of underground copper operations. It is expected to create 300-400 jobs with a potential mine life of 20 years, targeting first production by 2027 or 2028.

Manufacturing

Parks Improvement Program
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Mount Isa City Council delivered park upgrades across 11 parks in Mount Isa and Camooweal under an $800,000 program. Works included new shade structures, seating, fencing upgrades and play equipment replacements, with staged reopenings through late 2024 and program completion by the end of FY 2024/25.

Sports & Recreation

Mount Isa Police Accommodation and Justice System Resourcing
Category: National Security
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

More than $10.9 million will be invested in Mount Isa police accommodation and justice system resourcing to make Queensland safer.

National Security

Essential Pipeline Works - City Low and high Systems
Category: Environmental & Disaster Management
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   

Mount Isa City Council wishes to advise of upcoming infrastructure works occurring on the Mount Isa Reticulation Network, and the Town Low and High systems, as part of a water infrastructure improvement project.

Environmental & Disaster Management

North to East Australia (NEA) Pipeline
Category: Energy
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

APA Group is investigating a proposed 1561km gas transmission pipeline to connect Beetaloo Basin gas supplies in the Northern Territory to APA's existing South West Queensland Pipeline, linking into the east coast gas grid. In December 2025 APA received a Northern Territory Government pipeline permit to begin corridor survey work, with the pipeline described as a potentially transformational project for east coast gas security. The NEA Pipeline would complement APA's nearly complete 37km Sturt Plateau Pipeline, which will bring gas to Darwin from mid-2026.APA holds 100 percent ownership of the proposed project, with an indicative opening in the 2030s subject to further engineering, stakeholder engagement, First Nations consultation and a final investment decision. This supersedes earlier, more generic Northern Territory to eastern gas market connection concepts, including the completed 622km Northern Gas Pipeline (Tennant Creek to Mount Isa) which already links NT gas to the east coast market.

Energy

Outback Way - Queensland Corridor
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2031
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Program of sealing, widening and planning works on the Queensland section of the 2720 km Outback Way corridor, focused on roads forming the route between Winton and Boulia. Current Australian Government material identifies the Queensland corridor package as upgrade and widening of priority sections of the Kennedy Developmental Road and planning for future upgrades, with benefits including improved road safety, productivity, freight reliability, tourism access and better connectivity for remote communities.

Transport & Logistics

Mount Isa-Townsville Rail Corridor Upgrade
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Upgrade to address capacity constraints on the rail line between Townsville and Mount Isa, including enhancements and construction of a new rail corridor for better access to the Port of Townsville.

Transport & Logistics

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

10,386 residents of Mount Isa are employed, from a labour force of 10,774. Unemployment sits at 3.6%, with participation at 77.0%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 5.1% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local labour pool in Mount Isa features strong capabilities across industrial and manufacturing sectors, accompanied by an unemployment rate sitting at merely 3.6%. By March 2026, employed residents reached 10,386, with local unemployment tracking 0.3% below the 3.9% recorded across Regional Qld, and participation levels remaining exceptionally strong at 77.0% versus 64.2% regionally. Census records show that only 2.2% of workers operated from home, though pandemic-related movement restrictions must be taken into account. Resident workers are primarily engaged in mining, health care & social assistance, alongside education & training.

The mining sector displays an exceptionally heavy local concentration, registering staffing numbers 8.8 times higher than the regional norm. Conversely, construction accounts for merely 4.3% of the workforce, falling short of the 10.1% observed across Regional Qld. Although employment options exist locally, comparison of Census workplace destinations against resident numbers indicates that a substantial proportion of workers commute to external areas for employment. According to AreaSearch evaluations of ABS and SALM metrics, the year ending March 2026 recorded a 0.9% contraction in the labour force alongside a 0.8% drop in overall employment, leading to a 0.1 percentage point reduction in the unemployment rate. Over the identical timeframe across Regional Qld, employment edged up by 0.1%, the workforce grew by 0.3%, and the jobless rate increased by 0.1 percentage points. Additional perspective on future labour requirements within Mount Isa is provided by Jobs and Skills Australia national industry projections from Mar-26. These five and ten-year models have been synthesised with local workforce distributions to project prospective staffing trends. Against nationwide employment expansions of 6.6% across five years and 13.7% across ten years, sector trajectories vary substantially. When weighted against the local industry baseline, Mount Isa is projected to generate employment gains of 5.1% across five years and 12.0% across ten years (bearing in mind that this represents a direct sector weighting rather than an adjustment for localized population changes).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Mount Isa SA2?
As of March 2026, the Mount Isa SA2 has approximately 10,386 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.6%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
How does the Mount Isa SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Mount Isa SA2 stands at 3.6%, which is broadly in line with Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Mount Isa SA2?
The employment landscape in the Mount Isa SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are mining (31.7% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.1%), and education & training (8.8%). These three sectors alone account for 53.6% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include retail trade and public administration & safety.
How has employment changed recently in the Mount Isa SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Mount Isa SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Mount Isa SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Mount Isa SA2 is 77.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Mount Isa SA2's employment market?
The mount isa sa2 shows notable specialization in mining, which employs 31.7% of the local workforce compared to 3.6% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 8.8, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Mount Isa SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Mount Isa SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 5.1% over the next five years and 12.0% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Mount Isa SA2 compare nationally?
The mount isa 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 experienced 2.5% growth, ranking 6.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Mount Isa SA2?
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the Mount Isa SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 24.5% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (13.1%), education & training (8.8%), and professional & technical (1.7%). With projected employment growth of 5.1% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Median household income in Mount Isa is $2,236 a week (about $116,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,158 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $73,220 a year against an average of $83,998. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

Taxation metrics compiled by AreaSearch from the ATO for financial year 2023 demonstrate exceptionally strong earnings levels for the Mount Isa SA2 compared to broader national figures. Local taxpayers recorded a median income of $73,220 and an average income of $83,998, surpassing the respective benchmarks of $53,146 and $66,593 across Regional Qld. Incorporating a Wage Price Index uplift of 11.36% since financial year 2023 places modeled values at roughly $81,538 for median earnings and $93,540 on average by March 2026. Across personal, family, and household levels in the 2021 Census, earnings consistently achieved between the 80th and 88th percentiles nationally.

Income distribution is centered around the $1,500 - 2,999 weekly band, taking in 35.4% of residents (6,429 people), closely mirroring the regional proportion of 31.7%. Furthermore, high-income individuals form a substantial segment, with 33.2% making more than $3,000 per week, reflecting considerable local spending capacity. Community members retain 88.7% of their earnings following housing expenses, indicating strong discretionary financial capacity, while the area is positioned within the 4th decile on the SEIFA income scale.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2 is approximately $81,538. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $73,220.
What is the average taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2 is approximately $93,540. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $83,998.
How does the median taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2 is approximately $81,538 compared to $59,183 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $73,220 and $53,146 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Mount Isa SA2 is approximately $93,540 compared to $74,158 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $83,998 and $66,593 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Mount Isa SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~35.4% / 6,429 persons) of the Mount Isa SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Mount Isa SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Mount Isa SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 35.4% of the population. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Mount Isa SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Mount Isa SA2 is $2,236/wk.
What is the median family income in the Mount Isa SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Mount Isa SA2 is $2,652/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Mount Isa SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Mount Isa SA2 is $1,158/wk.
How does the Mount Isa SA2's income rank nationally?
The Mount Isa SA2's income level is among the highest in Australia according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The Mount Isa SA2's median income among taxpayers is $73,220 and the average income stands at $83,998, which compares to figures for Regional Qld's of $53,146 and $66,593 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $81,538 (median) and $93,540 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Mount Isa SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Mount Isa SA2 is $8,591 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Mount Isa SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The mount isa sa2's disposable income is $8,591 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Mount Isa had 6,328 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 76% detached houses and 4% apartments. 33% are owned with a mortgage, 50% rented and 18% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $275 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,546 a month. Rent absorbs 12.3% of household income here and mortgage repayments 16.0%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the time of the most recent Census, the residential landscape in Mount Isa was composed of 75.6% standalone houses alongside 24.4% alternative dwellings such as apartments, semi-detached properties, and other formats, compared to 76.4% houses and 23.6% other categories across Regional Qld. Fully owned dwellings accounted for 17.6% of properties, trailing the broader regional standard, with 32.8% carrying a mortgage and 49.6% occupied by tenants. Median monthly mortgage obligations were recorded at $1,546, below the Regional Qld benchmark of $1,655, while typical weekly rental outlays sat at $275 compared to $345 regionally.

On a nationwide scale, local mortgage commitments sit well beneath the Australian median of $1,863, with weekly rent tracking significantly below the national figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Mount Isa SA2?
In the Mount Isa SA2, 17.6% of homes are owned outright, 32.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 49.6% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Mount Isa SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 75.6% of dwellings in the Mount Isa SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Mount Isa SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Mount Isa SA2, 4.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 16.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Mount Isa SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Mount Isa SA2 stands at 17.6%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Mount Isa SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Mount Isa SA2 is $1,546, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
What is the median weekly rent in the Mount Isa SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Mount Isa SA2 is $275, compared to $345 in Regional Qld.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Mount Isa SA2?
In the Mount Isa SA2, 20.4% of rentals are $0-149/week, 42.9% are $150-349/week, 35.2% are $350-649/week, 1.3% are $650-949/week, and 0.2% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Mount Isa SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Mount Isa SA2 is $1,098, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Mount Isa SA2?
In the Mount Isa SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 16.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 12.3% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Mount Isa SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Mount Isa SA2 is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Mount Isa SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Mount Isa SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 16.0% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% regionally), while renters spend 12.3% of income on rent (vs 22.9% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Mount Isa SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Mount Isa SA2 consists of 75.6% detached houses, 16.0% semi-detached dwellings, 4.2% apartments, and 4.2% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Mount Isa SA2?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,098. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,546/month, and renters paying $1,191/month.
How affordable is housing in the Mount Isa SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Mount Isa consumes approximately 11.3% of median household income ($9,682 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Mount Isa SA2?
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Mount Isa counted 6,328 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.6 people each. 31% are couples with children, against 23% couples without children. 28% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.7 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families constitute 67.9% of local living arrangements, consisting of couples with children at 30.6%, couples without children at 22.9%, and single-parent households at 13.2%. The remaining 32.1% consists of non-family living arrangements, which includes lone-person households at 28.1% and group setups making up 3.9%. Average household occupancy stands at 2.6 people, slightly exceeding the 2.5 benchmark for Regional Qld.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Mount Isa SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Mount Isa SA2 had 6,328 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 6,274 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Mount Isa SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 67.9% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (28.1%), group households (3.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 4,296 family households, 30.6% are couples with children, 22.9% are couples without children at home, and 13.2% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Mount Isa SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional Qld, the Mount Isa SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Mount Isa SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, matching the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Mount Isa SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 37.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 48.7% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 28.1% of all households in the Mount Isa SA2, similar to the regional average of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.9% of households, well below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
Loading household composition data...

EducationSchools & Education in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

18.6% of adults in Mount Isa hold a university qualification, including 13.3% with a bachelor degree and 3.3% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 81% of areas nationally. A further 33.3% hold a vocational qualification. 15 schools serve the area, with 3,670 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 881 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Educational attainment in the district presents noticeable headwinds, as tertiary degree holders represent 18.6% of the population, trailing the nationwide average of 30.4% and highlighting space for targeted educational programs. Bachelor qualifications comprise the largest share at 13.3%, followed by postgraduate study at 3.3% and graduate diplomas at 2.0%. Meanwhile, vocational and technical credentials show strong representation, with 40.9% of residents aged 15+ holding trade qualifications, made up of certificates (33.3%) and advanced diplomas (7.6%). Community educational engagement is robust, with 33.0% of local citizens actively enrolled in study programs.

This group includes 13.7% attending primary schools, 9.5% in secondary education, and 3.2% undertaking tertiary studies.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Mount Isa SA2 have university qualifications?
18.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Mount Isa SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Mount Isa SA2 have no formal qualifications?
40.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Mount Isa SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% regionally.
How does the Mount Isa SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The mount isa sa2 ranks in the 19th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Mount Isa SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Mount Isa SA2 are: Certificate (33.3%), Bachelor Degree (13.3%), Advanced Diploma (7.6%).
What proportion of the Mount Isa SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
33.0% of the population in the Mount Isa SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 13.7% in primary school, 9.5% in secondary school, 3.2% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Mount Isa SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Mount Isa SA2 is 881, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Mount Isa SA2?
There are 15 schools within the Mount Isa SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,670 students.
What types of schools are available in the Mount Isa SA2?
The mount isa sa2 includes 8 primary schools, 5 secondary schools, 2 combined schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Mount Isa

PROFILE FAQ
Explore the surrounds Search this catchment for any place type — schools, cafés, supermarkets, transport — and drop your own custom points on the map.
Open

Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Getting around Mount Isa means driving: households keep an average of 1.4 vehicles, and no scheduled public transport appears in the current timetable feeds. Service data is built from operators' published GTFS timetables; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

Is public transport available in Mount Isa?
Limited or no public transport data is available for the Mount Isa SA2.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

76.3% of residents in Mount Isa report no long-term health condition. 3.3% need daily assistance with core activities, and 61.6% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 7.1 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Mount Isa demonstrates pronounced healthcare demands based on AreaSearch analysis of chronic condition incidence and mortality statistics, with widespread health issues apparent across older and younger demographics alike, while private health insurance adoption is remarkably high at roughly 62% of the local populace (11,187 people). In comparison, coverage stands at 52.5% across Regional Qld and 55.7% nationally. Asthma and mental health conditions form the most prevalent reported illnesses locally, recorded among 7.2 and 5.6% of the population, whereas 76.3% of community members reported having no health conditions, exceeding the 67.6% recorded throughout Regional Qld.

Health metrics among residents under 65 track ahead of standard benchmarks. Meanwhile, senior residents aged 65 and over make up 9.0% of the community (1,640 people), below the 20.3% observed in Regional Qld, with local figures outperforming nationwide rankings.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Mount Isa SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 61.6% of people in the Mount Isa SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.5% in the broader region of Regional Qld.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Mount Isa SA2?
In the Mount Isa SA2, 3.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Mount Isa SA2?
7.2% of people in the Mount Isa SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Mount Isa SA2?
Diabetes affects 4.8% of the the Mount Isa SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Mount Isa SA2?
3.1% of people in the Mount Isa SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional Qld, 4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Mount Isa SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Mount Isa SA2, 61.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.5%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Mount Isa is largely Australian-born, at 81.8% of residents, with 10.9% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are Australian (25.6%) and English (21.8%). 14.6% of residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Demographic composition in Mount Isa aligns closely with broader regional standards, with Australian citizens making up 80.9% of the population, 81.8% born within Australia, and 89.1% speaking only English in their households. Christianity is the leading religious affiliation, representing 51.6% of residents, which is comparable to the 52.2% recorded across Regional Qld. Looking at ancestral backgrounds based on parental country of birth, the primary lineages across Mount Isa consist of Australian at 25.6%, English at 21.8% (tracking below the regional figure of 29.6%), and Australian Aboriginal at 14.6% (tracking markedly above the 3.9% regional rate).

Distinct variations also appear across other cultural heritages, with Maori background accounting for 1.8% locally compared to 0.8% regionally, Filipino heritage representing 3.0% compared to 0.9%, and Samoan background at 0.5% compared to 0.2%.

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Mount Isa SA2?
Mount Isa was found to be roughly in line with the wider region's average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.9% of its population being citizens, 81.8% born in Australia, and 89.1% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Mount Isa SA2?
The main religion in Mount Isa was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.6% of people in Mount Isa. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
What are the top countries of origin in the Mount Isa SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Mount Isa are Australian, comprising 25.6% of the population, English, comprising 21.8% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 29.6%, and Australian Aboriginal, comprising 14.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 3.9%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maori is notably overrepresented at 1.8% of Mount Isa (vs 0.8% regionally), Filipino at 3.0% (vs 0.9%) and Samoan at 0.5% (vs 0.2%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
18.2% of the the Mount Isa SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% regionally.
What percentage of the the Mount Isa SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
10.9% of the population in the Mount Isa SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in the wider region.
How many people in the Mount Isa SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
14.6% of the the Mount Isa SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Mount Isa SA2?
80.9% of the the Mount Isa SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Mount Isa

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

The median resident of Mount Isa is 31, younger than 95% of areas nationally. 32.7% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

Mount Isa features a prominent concentration of young families. Young people and children aged 0 - 24 represent 37.2% of the population as at August 2026, relative to 29.6% across Regional Qld, whereas seniors and retirees aged 65+ make up 9.0% compared to 20.4% regionally. The estimated median age in Mount Isa is 31 as at August 2026, matching the figure from the 2021 Census and sitting 10 years beneath the Regional Qld median of 41 recorded in that Census, while the national median was 38 at that time. Across specific cohorts, mature adults and early retirees aged 45 - 64 reduced from 22.4% at the Census to an estimated 21.3%.

Moving toward 2041, adults aged 25 - 44 are forecast to experience the largest numerical increase, rising by 345 (6%) to reach 6,246, whereas younger cohorts and mature adult demographics are projected to contract.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Mount Isa SA2?
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Mount Isa SA2 at 31 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 31 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
How does the Mount Isa SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At an estimated 31 years as at August 2026, Mount Isa is 10 years younger than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 7 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Mount Isa SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Mount Isa SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 18.5% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Mount Isa SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Mount Isa SA2 compared to the Regional Qld region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 5.2% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Mount Isa SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional Qld region. The most over-represented age groups are 0-4 year-olds (8.5% vs 5.3%) and 25-34 year-olds (18.5% vs 12.6%). The most under-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (2.9% vs 7.1%) and 85+ year-olds (0.9% vs 2.3%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Mount Isa SA2?
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 23.0% of the population in the Mount Isa SA2 as at August 2026.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Mount Isa SA2?
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 9.0% of the population in the Mount Isa SA2 as at August 2026.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Mount Isa

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Sep 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the SA2 boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to Aug 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to Aug 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · Jul 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Sep 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Sep 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily May 2026 4 months ago all 5 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated May 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 6 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 2 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 2 months ago all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 10 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for Aug 2026, not a 2021 count (18,317 at the 2021 Census → 18,162 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to Aug 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (315021405). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Mount Isa SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., 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.
Where does the data on this Mount Isa page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Mount Isa data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Aug 2026), property sales & rents (Sep 2026), infrastructure projects (May 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to Aug 2026), age profile (to Aug 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas