Bowen Hills

Suburb (SAL)

Greater Brisbane / Brisbane Inner - North

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL30343 How we calculate this
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.

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 comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Bowen Hills

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Bowen Hills

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Bowen Hills has an estimated 6,072 residents, up from 4,898 at the 2021 Census — a change of 1,174 people, or 24.0%. Growth has averaged 4.3% a year over five years, faster than 93% of areas nationally. 294 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Interstate and internal migration accounts for 58.0% of that increase. That puts 3,530 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 ABS demographic updates for the region and new home addresses verified by AreaSearch since the Census, the suburb of Bowen Hills has a projected population of approximately 6,072 in May 2026. This represents a growth of 1,174 people (24.0%) compared to the 2021 Census, which recorded 4,898 residents. This change is calculated using an AreaSearch resident estimate of 6,008, established from the ABS June 2025 ERP release, combined with an additional 294 validated new addresses post-Census. With this population level, the density stands at 3,530 persons per square kilometer, placing the locality in the top quartile of national areas monitored by AreaSearch.

The growth rate of 24.0% in the suburb of Bowen Hills since the 2021 census outperformed the national average (9.3%) and the state benchmark, ranking it as a leading growth zone in the region. Regional population expansion was mostly driven by interstate migration, which accounted for roughly 57.99999999999999% of the overall population rise in recent times, though overseas migration and natural growth also made positive contributions. AreaSearch utilizes projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia for individual SA2 regions, which were published in 2024 using 2022 as the baseline. For SA2 territories not covered in that dataset, or for periods after 2032, projections from the Queensland State Government released in 2023 and based on 2021 figures are applied. Because these state-level figures lack breakdowns by age, AreaSearch distributes age cohort growth proportionally using the ABS Greater Capital Region projections from 2023, based on 2022 statistics. Looking forward, the suburb of Bowen Hills is expected to experience population expansion in the highest quartile nationally, with projections pointing to an increase of 1,725 persons by 2041 across aggregated SA2 data, representing an overall increase of 27.4% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Total population for the suburb of Bowen Hills was estimated to be approximately 6,072 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,008 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Bowen Hills changed since 2021?
The suburb of bowen hills has added approximately 1,174 people and shown a 23.97% increase from the 4,898 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The population density in the suburb of Bowen Hills is estimated at 3,530 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Bowen Hills has shown a compound annual growth rate of 7.0% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Population growth in the suburb of Bowen Hills is driven by: Interstate migration (57.99999999999999%), Overseas migration (35.0%), Natural increase (7.000000000000001%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 57.99999999999999% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Bowen Hills

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508 new dwellings have been approved in Bowen Hills over the past five years, an average of 101 a year. That places the area in the 59th percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 17 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 124 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 1% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 86, broadly in line with that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

AreaSearch evaluations of building approvals from the ABS indicate that Bowen Hills average approximately 101 new residential approvals annually, with a total of about 508 dwellings approved over the last 5 financial years. In the current FY-26 period, 79 approvals have been logged. The historical ratio of 2.3 new residents per year per dwelling between FY-21 and FY-25 points to steady demand that underpins property values. Approved homes carry a mean construction value of $811,000, indicating that developers are targeting the high-end market with premium properties. Furthermore, commercial building approvals have reached $148.9 million during this financial year, demonstrating strong investment by local enterprises.

Relative to Greater Brisbane, Bowen Hills records 189.0% more new home approvals per capita. Although building activity has moderated in recent years, this volume provides buyers with more choices and remains significantly higher than the national benchmark, showing substantial developer trust in the area. Recent building starts consist of 1.0% freestanding houses and 99.0% medium to high-density options. Focusing on higher-density developments offers more economical entry points and caters to downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. The area has approximately 537 residents for each approved dwelling, which is typical of a mature neighborhood. Long-term forecasts indicate that Bowen Hills will gain 1,661 residents by 2041, according to the most recent quarterly projections from AreaSearch. Residential development is tracking at a moderate pace relative to this population rise, though buyers might experience heightened competition as the resident base grows.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Bowen Hills recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Bowen Hills area has seen 22 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Bowen Hills's current population of 6,072 has been supported by 101 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Bowen Hills has seen 2.01 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.79 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 537 people in the suburb of Bowen Hills, compared to one for every 143 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Bowen Hills keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 1,661 people by 2041, around 1,661 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 1.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Bowen Hills's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 101, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The population in the suburb of Bowen Hills is expected to grow by 1,661 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 1,661 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 1.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Bowen Hills has grown by approximately 4,353 people, while 508 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 8.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 101 approvals per year and a population of 6,072, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 1,661 people by 2041, around 1,661 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Bowen Hills

Development applications around Bowen Hills

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

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Bowen Hills

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AreaSearch tracks 15 current infrastructure and development projects inside Bowen Hills, worth an estimated $28.8 billion. A further 165 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $232.1 billion. 53 are already under construction and 78 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and transport & logistics. 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

Local infrastructure projects, major works, and urban planning changes have a significant effect on regional performance. AreaSearch has identified 68 projects that are expected to impact the locality. Key developments include the Bowen Bridge Road Upgrade, Waterfront Newstead - Mirvac Masterplan, Aire Newstead, and Oxford & Commercial, with specific details on the most relevant works provided below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Bowen Hills include: Bowen Bridge Road Upgrade (Construction); Waterfront Newstead - Mirvac Masterplan (Construction); Aire Newstead (Construction); Oxford & Commercial (Construction); and 15 Anderson Street BTR Tower (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Bowen Hills spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Residential Development, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $26.9 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Bowen Hills vicinity.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Bowen Hills ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Brisbane Stadium (Victoria Park)
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2031
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A new 63,000-seat oval stadium (expandable to around 70,000 for concerts) to be built into the topography of Victoria Park / Barrambin in inner-north Brisbane. The venue will host the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and athletics for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, then transition to legacy use as the long-term home of the Brisbane Lions (AFL), Brisbane Heat (BBL) and Queensland Bulls (cricket), with a field of play matched to the MCG. The principal architect team of COX, Hassell and Azusa Sekkei was appointed in early 2026 with a design concept inspired by the traditional Queenslander, featuring a floating roof form and bridge connectivity, sitting the stadium bowl in a natural amphitheatre between two ridges.The stadium forms part of an integrated precinct alongside the new National Aquatic Centre and is being delivered by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) under the 7.1 billion dollar Games Venues Infrastructure Program jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments. Borehole drilling commenced at the site in October 2025, early site preparations are scheduled to begin from 1 June 2026, with early works later in 2026 and major construction commencing in 2027 ahead of completion in 2031.

Sports & Recreation

Brisbane Showgrounds Regeneration Project
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2033
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A major 22-hectare urban renewal partnership between RNA and Lendlease at the Brisbane Showgrounds delivering commercial, retail, residential, and convention spaces. The precinct serves as a key Brisbane 2032 legacy venue, featuring early works for the Brisbane Athlete Village, heritage grandstand upgrades, and new housing developments.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Breakfast Creek Hotel Revitalisation
Category: Tourism
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028

Multi-stage revitalisation of the heritage-listed Breakfast Creek Hotel including refurbishment of the Spanish Garden Steakhouse, new dining facilities, hospitality upgrades and future accommodation and function improvements while retaining the hotel's heritage significance. Initial construction works commenced during 2025 following the first stage refurbishment.

Tourism

15 Anderson Street BTR Tower
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2026

Build-to-rent residential tower providing modern apartment living in Fortitude Valley with ground-level commercial spaces.

Residential Development

Exhibition Precinct Redevelopment
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2034
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Exhibition Precinct is a major mixed-use urban renewal area in Bowen Hills, anchored by the upgraded Exhibition railway station being delivered as part of the Cross River Rail project. Sitting within the wider 108 hectare Bowen Hills Priority Development Area, the precinct will leverage new year-round rail services to support residential and commercial growth between the RNA Showgrounds, King Street dining precinct, Herston Quarter and the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital. The Bowen Hills PDA development scheme provides for long-term growth of around 23,000 new homes and approximately one million square metres of commercial, retail and industrial floor space across the broader area.The upgraded Exhibition station is under construction, featuring a 165 metre island platform and new pedestrian links to Bowen Bridge Road, with daily services expected to support nearly 10,000 passenger movements per weekday by 2036. Responsibility for development scheme preparation and assessment within the Cross River Rail PDAs transferred from the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority to Economic Development Queensland in November 2022.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Bowen Bridge Road Upgrade
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Road infrastructure upgrade on Bowen Bridge Road, Bowen Hills, to support increased traffic generated by the Cross River Rail project and surrounding urban developments. Works include intersection improvements, new pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, enhanced public transport integration, and improved connectivity between Bowen Hills, Fortitude Valley, and the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital precinct. The project is being delivered in coordination with Cross River Rail's Exhibition station and Northern Tunnel Portal works, with construction activity in the Bowen Bridge Road corridor continuing through 2025.

Transport & Logistics

Cross River Rail - Exhibition Station
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Major rebuild of Exhibition Station to provide year-round rail services for the first time. Key features include a new 165m island platform, a state-of-the-art concourse with lifts and escalators for full accessibility, and a pedestrian link to Bowen Bridge Road. While major construction was finalized by late 2025 and the station operates for major events at the RNA Showgrounds, full year-round high-frequency services are integrated with the wider Cross River Rail tunnel opening scheduled for 2029.

Transport & Logistics

Bowen Hills PDA Parks and Green Corridor Network
Category: Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2031
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The parks, open space and active transport network planned for the 108-hectare Bowen Hills Priority Development Area (PDA), located 3km north of the Brisbane CBD and administered by Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) under the Economic Development Act 2012. The PDA is bounded by Bowen Bridge Road and Enoggera Creek to the west, the Mayne Rail Yards and Breakfast Creek to the north, Water Street and St Pauls Terrace to the south, and Breakfast Creek, Cintra Road and Markwell Street to the east.The green network links existing landmark open spaces including Bowen Park, Perry Park, Alexandria Park, Jeays Street Park and Hurworth Street Park with new and upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections. The Bowen Hills PDA Development Charges and Offset Plan (DCOP), reissued July 2026, schedules the trunk parks and community facilities works: Alexandria Park embellishments including playground (approximately 3.0 million dollars base cost), Jeays Street Park playground, an outdoor fitness node at Perry Park, landscaping, seating and path connections at Hurworth Street Park, a new Mayne Road Park with embellishments and land acquisition (approximately 3.4 million dollars base cost), and a 1,000sqm branch library within 200m of Bowen Hills railway station, both programmed for 2026-2031. Complementary active transport works in the transport schedule include a new rail-corridor bridge for pedestrians and cyclists on the southern side of O'Connell Terrace, a vehicle and pedestrian bridge over the rail corridor at Hudd Street, and cycle and streetscape upgrades to O'Connell Terrace, Edmondstone Road, Brookes Street, Mayne Road, Hamilton Place, Tufton Street and Abbotsford Road. Development within the PDA is assessed by EDQ against the Bowen Hills PDA Development Scheme (Amendment No. 3), which took effect on 3 July 2009 and was amended on 1 April 2010, 21 June 2019 and 9 December 2022. The scheme requires communal open space of up to 80 per cent of a new development's site area for residential applications and mandates best practice sustainability certification. The PDA provides for long-term growth of around 23,000 new homes and one million square metres of commercial, retail and industrial floor space, with the open space network intended to offset that density and improve waterway corridors along Enoggera and Breakfast Creeks. Delivery is incremental and largely developer-triggered through the infrastructure offset framework, with most remaining items programmed for the 2026-2031 window.

Precincts & Urban Renewal

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Bowen Hills

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4,685 residents of Bowen Hills are employed, from a labour force of 4,900. Unemployment sits at 4.4%, with participation at 85.1%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 7.1% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth, so in an area growing as fast as this one it understates the likely rise in local jobs. The working-day population is estimated at 12,425, about 2.0 times the resident population, so the area draws in more workers than it sends out. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Bowen Hills has a highly qualified local workforce, featuring a strong concentration of professionals, a jobless rate of 4.4%, and an estimated 2.0% annual increase in employment, based on aggregated regional data from AreaSearch. In March 2026, there were 4,685 employed residents, while the unemployment rate closely matched the Greater Brisbane level of 4.3%. Workforce participation stands exceptionally high at 85.1%, compared to 70.4% across Greater Brisbane. Census records indicate that a moderate 20.4% of residents worked from home, although this figure was likely influenced by COVID-19 restriction periods. The primary employment fields for residents are professional & technical services, healthcare & social assistance, and accommodation & food services.

The locality is highly specialized in professional & technical services, with a concentration 1.8 times the regional average. Conversely, education & training accounts for just 4.3% of local employment, compared to 9.4% across the region. With 2.9 workers per resident at the time of the Census, the area operates as a jobs hub, importing workers from elsewhere and containing more employment positions than residents. According to AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS statistics aggregated from regional levels, the year ending March 2026 saw employment expand by 2.0% and the labor force grow by 2.9%, leading to a 0.9 percentage point increase in the unemployment rate. In comparison, Greater Brisbane saw employment rise by 3.2% and the labor force grow by 3.4%, with its unemployment rate increasing by 0.1 percentage points. National employment forecasts released by Jobs and Skills Australia in May-25 provide context for future labor demand in Bowen Hills. These projections, spanning five and ten years, have been applied to the local workforce structure to model potential expansion. Nationally, employment is expected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though rates vary by sector. Projecting these industry trends onto the local employment distribution suggests Bowen Hills employment could rise by 7.1% over five years and 14.4% over ten years, using a basic weighted extrapolation that excludes local demographic projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Bowen Hills has approximately 4,685 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.4%. 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 suburb of Bowen Hills's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Bowen Hills stands at 4.4%, which is broadly in line with Greater Brisbane's rate of 4.3%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Bowen Hills is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (15.8% of employment), health care & social assistance (15.4%), and accommodation & food (12.8%). Other significant employers include retail trade and administrative & support.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Bowen Hills has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Greater Brisbane saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Bowen Hills is 85.1%, 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 Greater Brisbane average of 70.4%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Bowen Hills's employment market?
The suburb of bowen hills shows notable specialization in professional & technical, which employs 15.8% of the local workforce compared to 8.9% regionally. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Bowen Hills's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 7.1% over the next five years and 14.4% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Bowen Hills compare nationally?
The suburb of bowen hills's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 4.6% decline, ranking 28.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the suburb of Bowen Hills, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 42.8% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include professional & technical (15.8%), health care & social assistance (15.4%), and finance & insurance (5.0%). With projected employment growth of 7.1% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Bowen Hills

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Median household income in Bowen Hills is $1,551 a week (about $81,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,042 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $47,697 a year against an average of $71,141. The average runs 49% above the median, a wider spread than most areas and a sign of a concentrated group of high earners. 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

According to local ATO statistics compiled by AreaSearch for the 2023 financial year, income levels in the suburb of Bowen Hills are higher than the national average. The median taxpayer income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $47,697, while the average income is $71,141, compared to Greater Brisbane averages of $58,236 and $72,799. Adjusting these figures for a Wage Price Index increase of 11.36% since the 2023 financial year yields estimated figures of approximately $53,115 (median) and $79,223 (average) as of March 2026. Census statistics show individual earnings are in the 82nd percentile nationally ($1,042 per week), though household incomes are lower, ranking in the 38th percentile.

In terms of income brackets, the $1,500 - 2,999 weekly band accounts for 36.3% of the population (2,204 individuals), which aligns with the metropolitan average of 33.3% in the same bracket. Housing affordability is constrained, with residents retaining only 76.2% of their income, placing the area in the 29th percentile, while the SEIFA index for income ranks the locality in the 8th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is approximately $53,115. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $47,697.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is approximately $79,223. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $71,141.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is approximately $53,115 compared to $64,852 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $47,697 and $58,236 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is approximately $79,223 compared to $81,069 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $71,141 and $72,799 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Bowen Hills according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~36.3% / 2,204 persons) of the suburb of Bowen Hills's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Bowen Hills compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Bowen Hills is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.3% of the population. In comparison, Greater Brisbane's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 33.3% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Bowen Hills according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $1,551/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Bowen Hills according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $2,169/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Bowen Hills according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $1,042/wk.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the suburb of Bowen Hills had a median income among taxpayers of $47,697 with the average level standing at $71,141. This is above the national average and compares to levels of $58,236 and $72,799 across Greater Brisbane respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $53,115 (median) and $79,223 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $5,120 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of bowen hills's disposable income is $5,120 compared to $6,725 for Greater Brisbane, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Bowen Hills

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Bowen Hills had 2,685 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 3% detached houses and 95% apartments. 12% are owned with a mortgage, 84% rented and 5% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $390 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,614 a month, a total housing cost higher than 87% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 25.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 24.0%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

The mix of housing in Bowen Hills at the last Census consisted of 3.0% detached houses and 97.0% alternative dwellings like townhouses and apartments, differing from the Brisbane metro split of 73.5% houses and 26.5% alternative dwellings. Home ownership in Bowen Hills is low compared to the Brisbane metro area, standing at 4.8%, with the remaining properties occupied by residents with a mortgage (11.6%) or renting tenants (83.6%). The median monthly mortgage payment of $1,614 was lower than the Brisbane metro median, while the median weekly rent was $390, compared to Brisbane metro medians of $1,863 and $380.

On a national scale, mortgage costs in Bowen Hills are lower than the Australian median of $1,863, while weekly rents exceed the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
In the suburb of Bowen Hills, 4.8% of homes are owned outright, 11.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 83.6% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Bowen Hills are houses?
According to the latest data, 3.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Bowen Hills are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Bowen Hills are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Bowen Hills, 94.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Bowen Hills stands at 4.8%, compared to 26.7% in Greater Brisbane.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $1,614, compared to $1,863 in Greater Brisbane.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $390, compared to $380 in Greater Brisbane.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
In the suburb of Bowen Hills, 2.8% of rentals are $0-149/week, 29.4% are $150-349/week, 65.6% are $350-649/week, 1.8% are $650-949/week, and 0.5% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Bowen Hills is $1,600, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
In the suburb of Bowen Hills, households with mortgages typically spend 24.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Bowen Hills is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Bowen Hills compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Bowen Hills shows mortgage holders spending 24.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% regionally), while renters spend 25.1% of income on rent (vs 20.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Bowen Hills consists of 3.0% detached houses, 2.5% semi-detached dwellings, 94.5% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,599. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,614/month, and renters paying $1,689/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Bowen Hills relative to local incomes?
Housing in Bowen Hills consumes approximately 23.8% of median household income ($6,716 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 suburb of Bowen Hills?
Recent development applications in Bowen Hills show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 97% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 3% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Bowen Hills is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Bowen Hills

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Bowen Hills counted 2,685 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 3,329 today, averaging 1.6 people each. 6% are couples with children, fewer than in 98% of areas nationally, against 25% couples without children. 51% of households are people living alone, and families average 0.4 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up 35.8% of local households, consisting of couples with children (5.7%), couples without children (25.1%), and single parents (3.3%). Non-family households represent 64.2% of the total, with single person dwellings at 51.2% and group houses at 13.0%. The median household occupancy of 1.6 people is lower than the Greater Brisbane median of 2.6.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Bowen Hills had 2,685 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 24.0% to an estimated 3,329 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Bowen Hills is 1.6 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Brisbane and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 35.8% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (51.2%), group households (13.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 961 family households, 5.7% are couples with children, 25.1% are couples without children at home, and 3.3% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Brisbane, the suburb of Bowen Hills shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 51.2% (versus 23.6% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 35.8% compared to the regional 71.7%. 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 suburb of Bowen Hills have an average of 0.4 children, slightly below the Greater Brisbane average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Marriage patterns reveal 18.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 71.3% have never married. This compares to 45.0% married and 38.4% never married across Greater Brisbane.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 51.2% of all households in the suburb of Bowen Hills, higher than the regional average of 23.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 13.0% of households, well below the Greater Brisbane average of 4.7%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Bowen Hills

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48.6% of adults in Bowen Hills hold a university qualification, including 34.7% with a bachelor degree and 11.0% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 99% of areas nationally. A further 16.2% hold a vocational qualification. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Qualifications in Bowen Hills are well above average, with 48.6% of residents aged 15+ holding a university degree, compared to 25.7% across QLD and 30.4% nationally. This educational profile positions the community well for professional employment. Bachelor degrees are the most common higher qualification at 34.7%, followed by postgraduate degrees (11.0%) and graduate diplomas (2.9%). Vocational and technical training is also represented, with 28.6% of residents aged 15+ holding qualifications such as advanced diplomas (12.4%) and certificates (16.2%). Enrolment rates in education are high, with 32.2% of the population participating in formal study.

This comprises 17.7% in higher education, 1.9% in secondary schools, and 1.8% in primary schools.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Bowen Hills have university qualifications?
48.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Bowen Hills have university qualifications, compared to 30.5% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Bowen Hills have no formal qualifications?
22.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Bowen Hills have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.8% regionally.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of bowen hills ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Bowen Hills are: Bachelor Degree (34.7%), Certificate (16.2%), Advanced Diploma (12.4%).
What proportion of the suburb of Bowen Hills's population is currently attending educational institutions?
32.2% of the population in the suburb of Bowen Hills is currently engaged in formal education, with 1.8% in primary school, 1.9% in secondary school, 17.7% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Bowen Hills is 0, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Bowen Hills

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Bowen Hills

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Public transport in Bowen Hills reaches 20 stops on 250 routes, timetabled for about 13,800 services a week. The typical home sits about 140 m from its nearest stop. Trains carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 0.4 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport services in Bowen Hills include 20 stops offering train and bus travel. These stops accommodate 250 individual routes, delivering a total of 13,777 weekly passenger journeys. Access to transport is rated as excellent, with residents living an average of 135 meters from their nearest stop. Because this is a residential area, the majority of residents commute to other locations. Private vehicles remain the primary travel method at 44%, while 22% of residents walk and 18% travel by train. Household vehicle ownership averages 0.4, which is lower than the metropolitan average.

A total of 20.4% of residents work from home, based on 2021 Census data, which may reflect COVID-19 pandemic settings. Service frequency across all routes averages 1,968 daily trips, which represents approximately 688 weekly trips for each transport stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Bowen Hills?
There are 20 public transport stops within the suburb of Bowen Hills.
How frequent are the transport services in Bowen Hills?
the suburb of Bowen Hills has 13,777 weekly trips across 250 routes, averaging 1,968 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Bowen Hills?
On average, residential properties are 135 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Bowen Hills

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73.4% of residents in Bowen Hills report no long-term health condition. 2.6% need daily assistance with core activities, and 55.4% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.2 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health outcomes for residents in Bowen Hills are generally positive. Analysis by AreaSearch indicates mortality rates and medical conditions are consistent with national trends, with a low incidence of common health issues across both younger and older cohorts, and private health insurance coverage is high, representing approximately 55% of the community (~3,363 people). Mental health conditions and asthma are the most common diagnoses, affecting 13.7 and 7.5% of residents. Conversely, 73.4% of the population reported no chronic health conditions, compared to 69.2% in Greater Brisbane. Health statistics for working-age residents are typical.

Residents aged 65 and older make up 7.0% of the population (425 people), which is lower than the Greater Brisbane proportion of 15.1%. Health profiles among older residents are strong, with national rankings exceeding those of the overall local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Bowen Hills have private health insurance?
Around 55.4% of people in the suburb of Bowen Hills are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 55.8% in the broader region of Greater Brisbane.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
In the suburb of Bowen Hills, 2.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.7% of people in Greater Brisbane require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
7.5% of people in the suburb of Bowen Hills are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.0% of the population across Greater Brisbane is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Diabetes affects 2.3% of the the suburb of Bowen Hills population, while in the surrounding region, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
1.7% of people in the suburb of Bowen Hills have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Brisbane, 3.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Bowen Hills, 55.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Brisbane sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 55.8%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Bowen Hills

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42.7% of Bowen Hills residents were born overseas and 29.9% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 81% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (22.6%) and Australian (16.9%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Bowen Hills displays a diverse population, with 29.9% of residents speaking a language other than English at home and 42.7% born in another country. Christianity is the most common religious affiliation, representing 33.2% of residents. The most distinct relative overrepresentation is in Judaism, which accounts for 0.2% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Greater Brisbane. Looking at ancestral backgrounds based on parents' country of birth, the three largest groups in Bowen Hills are English at 22.6%, Australian at 16.9% (which is lower than the regional figure of 23.2%), and Other at 15.3% (which is higher than the regional average of 9.4%).

Notable variations in other ancestries include Spanish representation at 1.4% (compared to 0.4% regionally), French at 1.0% (compared to 0.5%), and Korean at 1.2% (compared to 0.5%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
Bowen Hills scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 29.9% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 42.7% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The main religion in Bowen Hills was found to be Christianity, which makes up 33.2% of people in Bowen Hills. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.2% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Greater Brisbane.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bowen Hills are English, comprising 22.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 16.9% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 23.2%, and Other, comprising 15.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 9.4%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Spanish is notably overrepresented at 1.4% of Bowen Hills (vs 0.4% regionally), French at 1.0% (vs 0.5%) and Korean at 1.2% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
42.7% of the the suburb of Bowen Hills population was born overseas, compared to 28.5% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Bowen Hills population speaks a language other than English at home?
29.9% of the population in the suburb of Bowen Hills speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 18.7% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Bowen Hills identify as Australian Aboriginal?
1.2% of the the suburb of Bowen Hills population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 2.1% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
65.9% of the the suburb of Bowen Hills population holds citizenship, compared to 83.6% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Bowen Hills

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The median resident of Bowen Hills is 31, younger than 96% of areas nationally. That is 1 year older than at the 2021 Census. 56.8% 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

The median age in Bowen Hills is 31 years, which is younger than the Greater Brisbane median of 36 and the national median of 38. Compared to Greater Brisbane, Bowen Hills has a higher proportion of residents aged 25 - 34 (38.8%) but a lower share of children aged 5 - 14 (2.4%). The concentration of residents aged 25 - 34 is higher than the national level of 14.6%. Post-2021 Census data indicates the community is aging slightly, with the median age rising from 30 to 31 years. Changes include the 75 to 84 cohort increasing from 1.1% to 2.7% of the population, and the 35 to 44 cohort rising from 16.5% to 17.6%.

Meanwhile, the 15 to 24 group decreased from 20.6% to 18.0%, and the 25 to 34 group fell from 40.9% to 38.8%. Projections for 2041 point to demographic changes, with the 25 to 34 age group expected to grow by 14%, adding 320 residents to reach 2,676.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Bowen Hills is 31 years.
How does the suburb of Bowen Hills's median age compare to broader areas?
At 31 years, Bowen Hills is 5 years younger than the Greater Brisbane average (36 years) and 7 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Bowen Hills compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 38.8% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Bowen Hills compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 2.4% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Bowen Hills show significant variance compared to the Greater Brisbane region. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (38.8% vs 15.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (2.4% vs 12.5%) and 0-4 year-olds (1.9% vs 5.7%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Bowen Hills is 4.3%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Bowen Hills?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Bowen Hills is 7.0%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Bowen Hills

Data currency Refreshed

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

Everything is aggregated to the Suburb (SAL) 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) May 2026 3 months ago 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 May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 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 Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 this month all 15 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 Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 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 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month 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 — 294 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (4,898 at the 2021 Census → 6,072 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 May 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 (SAL30343). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

How do Bowen Hills suburb boundaries differ from Statistical Areas?
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/statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
Where does the data on this Bowen Hills 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 Bowen Hills 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 (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 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