Roma Surrounds

Roma Surrounds has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch

Based on AreaSearch's analysis, Roma Surrounds's population is around 6,280 as of Feb 2026. This reflects an increase of 291 people (4.9%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 5,989 people. The change is inferred from the estimated resident population of 6,248 from the ABS as of June 2024 and an additional 136 validated new addresses since the Census date. This population level equates to a density ratio of 0.10 persons per square kilometer, providing ample space per person. Roma Surrounds's 4.9% growth since the 2021 census exceeded the SA3 area (3.8%), marking it as a growth leader in the region. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by natural growth, which contributed approximately 51.0% of overall population gains during recent periods, although all drivers, including interstate and overseas migration, were positive factors.

AreaSearch adopts ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 areas not covered by this data, and for years post-2032, Queensland State Government's SA2 area projections, released in 2023 and based on 2021 data, are adopted. It should be noted that these state projections do not provide age category splits; hence, where utilized, AreaSearch applies proportional growth weightings in line with the ABS Greater Capital Region projections (released in 2023, based on 2022 data) for each age cohort. As we examine future population trends, projections indicate a decline in overall population, with the area's population expected to decline by 319 persons by 2041 according to this methodology. However, growth across specific age cohorts is anticipated, led by the 75 to 84 age group, which is projected to grow by 80 people. See the age section for more details.

Residential development activity is lower than average in Roma Surrounds according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets

Roma Surrounds has recorded around 11 residential properties granted approval per year, with 59 homes approved over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) and 3 so far in FY-26. With an average of 5.3 people per year moving to the area for each dwelling built over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), demand significantly exceeds new supply, which usually results in price growth and increased buyer competition, while new properties are constructed at an average value of $339,000, aligned with broader regional development. There have also been $5.8 million in commercial approvals this financial year, indicating limited commercial development focus.

When measured against Rest of Qld, Roma Surrounds records somewhat elevated construction (22.0% above regional average per person over the 5 year period), preserving reasonable buyer options while sustaining existing property demand, though development activity has moderated in recent periods. This is likewise lower than nationally, reflecting market maturity and pointing to possible development constraints. Further, recent building activity consists entirely of detached houses, maintaining the area's traditional low density character with a focus on family homes appealing to those seeking space. The estimated count of 1002 people in the area per dwelling approval reflects its quiet, low activity development environment.

With population projections showing stability or decline, Roma Surrounds should see reduced housing demand pressures, benefiting potential buyers.

Roma Surrounds has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 50% nationally

Nothing can influence an area's performance as much as changes to local infrastructure, major projects, and planning initiatives. In total 23 projects have been identified by AreaSearch that are likely to have an impact on the area. Key projects include the Maranoa Pump Track Community Infrastructure, Carnarvon Highway Culvert Replacement North of Roma, Roma Airport General Aviation Apron Upgrade, and Denise Spencer Aquatic Centre Redevelopment, with the list below detailing those likely to be of most relevance.

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

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

The exceptional employment performance in Roma Surrounds places it among Australia's strongest labour markets

Roma Surrounds has a balanced workforce spanning white and blue collar employment, with diverse sector representation, an unemployment rate of just 2.1%, and 5.4% estimated employment growth over the past year. As of December 2025, 3,645 residents are in work, while the unemployment rate is 1.9% below Regional Qld's rate of 4.0%, and workforce participation is well beyond standard (74.7% compared to Regional Qld's 65.4%). Based on Census responses, a high 25.3% of residents work from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts should be considered.

The key industries of employment among residents are agriculture, forestry & fishing, health care & social assistance, and education & training. The area shows particularly strong specialization in agriculture, forestry & fishing, with an employment share 9.0 times the regional level. Meanwhile, health care & social assistance has a limited presence with 9.0% employment compared to 16.1% regionally. While local employment opportunities exist in the area, it appears many residents commute elsewhere for work, based on the count of Census working population to local population.

Based on AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS data, the 12-month period saw employment increase by 5.4% alongside a labour force increase of 6.2%, causing the unemployment rate to rise by 0.8 percentage points. By comparison, Regional Qld recorded employment growth of 0.7%, labour force growth of 1.0%, and unemployment rising 0.3 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 can offer further insight into potential future demand within Roma Surrounds. These projections, covering five and ten-year periods, have been mapped against the local employment profile to estimate growth patterns. While national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, growth rates differ significantly between industry sectors. Applying these industry-specific projections to Roma Surrounds's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 4.5% over five years and 10.6% over ten years (please note this is a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not take into account localised population projections).

Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment

As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Roma Surrounds SA2's median income among taxpayers is $49,818, with an average of $56,901. This is lower than average on a national basis, and compares to Regional Qld's median of $53,146 and average of $66,593. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.91% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $54,755 (median) and $62,540 (average) as of September 2025. Census data reveals household, family and personal incomes all rank modestly in Roma Surrounds, between the 31st and 42nd percentiles. Income analysis reveals the predominant cohort spans 30.6% of locals (1,921 people) in the $1,500 - 2,999 category, reflecting patterns seen in the surrounding region where 31.7% similarly occupy this range. Housing costs are manageable with 92.4% retained, though disposable income sits below average at the 40th percentile and the area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 5th decile.

Roma Surrounds is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership

Dwelling structure within Roma Surrounds, as evaluated at the latest Census, comprised 97.1% houses and 2.9% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings), in comparison to Regional Qld's 76.4% houses and 23.6% other dwellings. Meanwhile, the level of home ownership within Roma Surrounds was well beyond that of Regional Qld, at 49.2%, with the remainder of dwellings either mortgaged (29.9%) or rented (20.9%). The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was well below the Regional Qld average at $1,114, while the median weekly rent figure was recorded at $155, compared to Regional Qld's $1,655 and $345. Nationally, Roma Surrounds's mortgage repayments are significantly lower than the Australian average of $1,863, while rents are substantially below the national figure of $375.

Roma Surrounds has a typical household mix, with a fairly typical median household size

Family households dominate at 72.0% of all households, comprising 32.2% couples with children, 32.5% couples without children, and 6.7% single parent families. Non-family households make up the remaining 28.0%, with lone person households at 25.6% and group households comprising 2.5% of the total. The median household size of 2.5 people matches the Regional Qld average.

Roma Surrounds faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally

The area faces educational challenges, with university qualification rates (14.0%) substantially below the Australian average of 30.4%. This represents both a challenge and an opportunity for targeted educational initiatives. Bachelor degrees lead at 11.4%, followed by graduate diplomas (1.5%) and postgraduate qualifications (1.1%). Trade and technical skills feature prominently, with 39.7% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials, including advanced diplomas (9.9%) and certificates (29.8%).

Educational participation is notably high, with 29.9% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 14.8% in primary education, 9.3% in secondary education, and 1.9% pursuing tertiary education.

No public transport data available for this catchment area.

Roma Surrounds's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts

Health data indicates relatively positive outcomes for Roma Surrounds residents, with AreaSearch's analysis of mortality rates and health conditions showing results broadly in line with national benchmarks. The prevalence of common health conditions is quite low across both younger and older age cohorts, and the rate of private health cover is very low at approximately 48% of the total population (~2,989 people). This compares to 52.5% across Regional Qld. The national average is 55.7%.

The most common medical conditions in the area were found to be asthma and arthritis, impacting 8.7 and 8.5% of residents, respectively, while 69.3% declared themselves as completely clear of medical ailments compared to 67.6% across Regional Qld. Health outcomes among the working-age population are broadly typical. The area has 20.8% of residents aged 65 and over (1,308 people). Health outcomes among seniors are particularly strong, with national rankings even higher than the general population.

The latest Census data sees Roma Surrounds placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics

Roma Surrounds was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.6% of its population being citizens, 95.4% born in Australia, and 98.3% speaking English only at home. The main religion in Roma Surrounds is Christianity, which makes up 69.7% of the population. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.

In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Roma Surrounds are Australian, comprising 36.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 26.5%, English, comprising 29.8% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 4.9% of Roma Surrounds (vs 4.7% regionally), Australian Aboriginal at 4.7% (vs 3.9%) and Irish at 8.8% (vs 8.2%).

Roma Surrounds's median age exceeds the national pattern

The 42-year median age in Roma Surrounds is close to Regional Qld's average of 41 and similarly well above the Australian median of 38. Compared to the Regional Qld average, the 0 - 4 cohort is notably over-represented (7.0% locally), while 15 - 24 year-olds are under-represented (10.3%). Since the 2021 Census, the 15 to 24 age group has grown from 8.9% to 10.3% of the population, while the 75 to 84 cohort increased from 6.0% to 7.1%. Conversely, the 45 to 54 cohort has declined from 14.0% to 12.0% and the 55 to 64 group dropped from 14.7% to 13.1%. Population forecasts for 2041 indicate substantial demographic changes for Roma Surrounds. The 75 to 84 age cohort is projected to see notable expansion, growing by 62 people (14%) from 444 to 507. The aging population dynamic is clear, with those 65+ comprising 76% of projected growth. Conversely, the 45 to 54 and 0 to 4 cohorts are expected to experience population declines.