Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Atherton has an estimated 8,375 residents, up 8.4% since the 2021 Census, with 48 projects tracked in the area around Atherton.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Atherton lies 1,370 kilometres northwest from Brisbane CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the suburb of Atherton had an estimated population of around 8,375 as of Aug 2026, using aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is 651 people (8.4%) higher than the 7,724 people recorded at the 2021 Census. The area combines moderate population expansion with affordable housing options, a low average household size, an above-average number of children per family, and elevated retail trade employment. Its population includes notable shares of people aged 85 and over and 75 to 84yo.
The suburb of Atherton has lower-quartile income levels and a high proportion of older australians, including elderly residents who largely live in lone person households. These characteristics sit alongside its agricultural significance and rural setting in tropical North Queensland, amid rainforests, rolling hills and fertile plains.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Atherton lies 1,370 kilometres northwest from Brisbane CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the suburb of Atherton had an estimated population of around 8,375 as of Aug 2026, using aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is 651 people (8.4%) higher than the 7,724 people recorded at the 2021 Census. The area combines moderate population expansion with affordable housing options, a low average household size, an above-average number of children per family, and elevated retail trade employment. Its population includes notable shares of people aged 85 and over and 75 to 84yo.
The suburb of Atherton has lower-quartile income levels and a high proportion of older australians, including elderly residents who largely live in lone person households. These characteristics sit alongside its agricultural significance and rural setting in tropical North Queensland, amid rainforests, rolling hills and fertile plains.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,787 in 2006 and 8,206 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,375 (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, 12.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 28.9%.
Atherton ranks in the 73rd percentile nationally for amenities and the 68th 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 Atherton is $430 a week, up 3.6% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 33% below Regional Qld.
33% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $316 in 2017, $509 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $249 in 2017, $350 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $430 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $509 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $350 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 | -2.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Cairns | $545 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Cairns, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Qld, over 12 months | +6.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $632 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, QLD, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 14 tracked applications: 1 approved, 10 under assessment, 3 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 48 projects in and around Atherton, 18 of them under construction.
A major retail development spanning 16,400sqm designed to revitalise the Tablelands economy. The precinct features a new Bunnings Warehouse as the anchor tenant, alongside a Harvey Norman and other national large-format retailers. The project includes specialised showrooms, hardware supplies, and garden centres with over 400 parking spaces.
Priors Creek Parklands is a major Atherton CBD precinct revitalisation led by Tablelands Regional Council. The project is transforming a former rail corridor into a family-focused parklands and mixed-use destination with an open-air amphitheatre and main stage, nature walk trail, public amenities, fitness and leisure areas, shared paths, event spaces, and…
The $86.4 million redevelopment of Atherton Hospital delivered modern healthcare infrastructure for the Tablelands region. Key components include a new four-storey Clinical Services Building housing a state-of-the-art emergency department, medical imaging, maternity services with birth suites, operating and endoscopy theatres, and a sterilising unit.
A three-storey mixed-use development providing 27 affordable rental units (12 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom) with ground-floor commercial premises for potential food outlets, offices, shops, or healthcare services, complementing the adjacent Priors Creek Development.
A small-scale neighbourhood shopping centre proposed by Tom Hedley's HEDZ Constructions Pty Ltd, comprising two single-storey buildings with four retail tenancies delivered across two stages. Stage 1 will see three tenancies built at the front of the site, with a fourth tenancy at the rear forming Stage 2.
A 72MW ground-mounted solar photovoltaic facility spanning 110 hectares on the Atherton Tablelands. The project utilises approximately 196,000 solar modules to generate 147GWh of clean energy annually, enough to power over 18,000 homes.
The Haren Street Residential Aged Care Facility is an approved 120-bed single-level aged care development designed across a 2.89-hectare site in Mareeba, North Queensland.
Upgrade of fruit handling laboratories at Mareeba research facility, enabling scientists to provide research services to expanding and new horticultural industries. Part of Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries infrastructure program.
New social housing development providing affordable housing options for vulnerable Queenslanders. Part of Queensland Government's Homes for Queenslanders program targeting key regional centres with housing supply challenges.
Safety upgrades delivered along approximately 21 km of the Kennedy Highway between Mareeba and Atherton. Works included wide centre line treatments, audio tactile line marking, shoulder widening, safety barriers and targeted intersection upgrades (turning lanes, bike lanes, improved lighting and line marking).
A major recycling facility transforming 6,000 tonnes of agricultural, commercial, and consumer plastic waste annually into products like plastic bags and clips for the banana industry. The facility employs 45 people across three shifts and promotes a circular economy, supported by a $1.08 million grant from the Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund.
Mareeba Central is an approved neighbourhood shopping centre on the former sawmill site at 232 Byrnes Street and Close Avenue, Mareeba. The approved development comprises a Woolworths supermarket, retail tenancies, a food and drink outlet and on-site parking.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 27 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 8, 2027 11, 2028 2, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 1. 5 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 14 substantial development applications lodged in and around Atherton over the past 5 years, 3 in the last 12 months; 10 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 3, 2023 2, 2024 1, 2025 5, 2026 (to Oct) 3.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 14 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 65th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 42 | ABS building approvals | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Atherton include: Priors Creek Parklands (Construction); Atherton Large Format Retail Precinct (Construction); Atherton Hospital Redevelopment (Completed); Vernon Apartments (Approved); and Tolga Main Street Shopping Centre (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Atherton spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Retail, and Health & Medical, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Atherton recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Atherton area has seen 80 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Atherton's current population of 8,375 has been supported by 42 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Atherton has seen 5.3 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 203 people in the suburb of Atherton, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Atherton's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 42, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Atherton has grown by approximately 231 people, while 211 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
Atherton has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,375 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 89 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 27th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,724 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 651 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 94.19 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Atherton was estimated to be approximately 8,375 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,206 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Atherton has added approximately 651 people and shown a 8.43% increase from the 7,724 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Atherton is estimated at 89 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Atherton has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Atherton is driven by: Interstate migration (66.0%), Overseas migration (34.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 66.0% of overall population gains.
Atherton hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 28.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 44.6% | 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 | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Atherton at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Atherton is 5 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Atherton compared to the Regional Qld region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 10.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Atherton compared to the Regional Qld region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 10.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Atherton show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (4.4% vs 2.3%) and 75-84 year-olds (10.7% vs 7.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.9% of the population in the suburb of Atherton as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 28.0% of the population in the suburb of Atherton as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 9% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $48,279 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 11th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $58,321 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,099 | 2021 Census, weekly | 7th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $641 | 2021 Census, weekly | 17th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 10.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,490 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 37.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Atherton is approximately $51,712. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $48,279.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Atherton is approximately $62,468. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $58,321.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Atherton is approximately $51,712 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $48,279 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Atherton is approximately $62,468 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,321 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Atherton's households (~28.9% / 895 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Atherton is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 28.9% 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 suburb of Atherton is $1,099/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Atherton is $1,490/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Atherton is $641/wk.
The suburb of Atherton's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Atherton's median income among taxpayers is $48,279 and the average income stands at $58,321, 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 $51,712 (median) and $62,468 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Atherton is $3,997 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Atherton's disposable income is $3,997 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment drivers in Atherton are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 11% of areas assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 54.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,553 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,627 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,800 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Atherton has approximately 3,553 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.5%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Atherton stands at 6.5%, which is 2.6 percentage points above Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Atherton is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.9% of employment), retail trade (12.2%), and agriculture, forestry & fishing (10.8%). Other significant employers include education & training and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Atherton 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 increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Atherton is 54.7%, 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 suburb of Atherton shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 10.8% of the local workforce compared to 4.5% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.4, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Atherton'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 0.8% decline, ranking 23rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Atherton: university qualifications 17.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 983.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.5% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 17.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
17.4% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Atherton have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
41.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Atherton have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Atherton ranks in the 37th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Atherton are: Certificate (30.5%), Bachelor Degree (12.5%), Advanced Diploma (10.5%).
28.9% of the population in the suburb of Atherton is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.9% in primary school, 10.1% in secondary school, 2.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Atherton is 983, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Atherton, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,155 students.
The suburb of Atherton includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Atherton features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 34.4% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 18.8% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.6% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,094 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,355 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 62.0% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Atherton had 3,094 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.4% to an estimated 3,355 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Atherton is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 62.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (34.4%), group households (3.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,918 family households, couples with children account for 18.8% of all households, couples without children at home 28.6%, and single parent families 13.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Atherton shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.4% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 62.0% compared to 70.4% in Regional Qld. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Atherton have an average of 1.9 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 40.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.3% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 34.4% of all households in the suburb of Atherton, higher than the average for Regional Qld of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.5% of households, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%.
Atherton 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 | 15.1% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.3% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.3% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 84.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 6.0% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
Atherton was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 86.3% of its population being citizens, 84.9% born in Australia, and 93.3% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Atherton was found to be Christianity, which makes up 54.8% of people in Atherton. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Atherton are English, comprising 27.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 6.0% of Atherton (vs 3.9% across Regional Qld), Italian at 5.3% (vs 2.4%) and German at 4.2% (vs 4.7%).
15.1% of the suburb of Atherton population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
6.7% of the population in the suburb of Atherton speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
6.0% of the suburb of Atherton population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
86.3% of the suburb of Atherton population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Atherton 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 | 38.2% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 38.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 82.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 20th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 23.2% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $280 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 84th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Atherton, 38.6% of homes are owned outright, 23.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 38.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 82.2% of dwellings in the suburb of Atherton are houses.
In the suburb of Atherton, 6.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 9.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Atherton stands at 38.6%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Atherton is $1,300, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Atherton is $765, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Atherton, households with mortgages typically spend 27.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Atherton is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Atherton shows mortgage holders spending 27.3% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 25.5% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Atherton consists of 82.2% detached houses, 9.7% semi-detached dwellings, 6.9% apartments, and 1.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Atherton consumes approximately 16.1% of median household income ($4,759 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Atherton show attached dwellings contributing 28% of approvals compared to 18% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 72% of applications versus 82% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Atherton is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 48.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 17th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.0% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
Around 48.4% of people in the suburb of Atherton are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Atherton, 7.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
6.5% of people in the suburb of Atherton are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.1% of the suburb of Atherton population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.2% of people in the suburb of Atherton have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Atherton, 48.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 713 m away and the nearest school 908 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 73 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 713 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 908 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 4 long day care centres with 333 places in Atherton, about 1.3 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Atherton is built to order and emailed to you.
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The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Atherton.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Atherton recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Atherton ranks in the 68th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Atherton is $430 a week, +3.6% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Atherton has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Atherton hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 9% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment drivers in Atherton are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 11% of areas assessed across Australia.
Education in Atherton: university qualifications 17.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 983.
Atherton features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Atherton ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Atherton is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Atherton is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport in Atherton: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Atherton has an estimated 8,375 residents, up 8.4% since the 2021 Census, with 48 projects tracked in the area around Atherton.
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 Atherton.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to May 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or 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 (SAL30096). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (May 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Atherton 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 Atherton with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 31 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 31st percentile nationally |
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
