Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Caloundra West has an estimated 7,964 residents, up 9.5% since the 2021 Census, with 82 projects tracked in the area around Caloundra West.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Caloundra West is located 75 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD and has an estimated population of around 7,964 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. ERP means Estimated Resident Population. This is an increase of 694 people (9.5%) since the 2021 Census, when 7,270 people were recorded. The area combines below-average unemployment, strong service amenity, a notable healthcare employment base, elevated 35 to 44yo presence and pronounced representation of 5 to 14yo, alongside a strong semi-detached presence.
Its population growth ranks in the top 10% of areas nationally. These characteristics place population trends, local services and planned infrastructure among the key features of the suburb of Caloundra West.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Caloundra West is located 75 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD and has an estimated population of around 7,964 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. ERP means Estimated Resident Population. This is an increase of 694 people (9.5%) since the 2021 Census, when 7,270 people were recorded. The area combines below-average unemployment, strong service amenity, a notable healthcare employment base, elevated 35 to 44yo presence and pronounced representation of 5 to 14yo, alongside a strong semi-detached presence.
Its population growth ranks in the top 10% of areas nationally. These characteristics place population trends, local services and planned infrastructure among the key features of the suburb of Caloundra West.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,267 in 2006 and 7,962 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,964 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 16.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 36.9%.
Caloundra West ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for population growth and the 93rd 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 Caloundra West is $720 a week, up 4.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 13% above Regional Qld.
13% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $450 in 2017, $745 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $720 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $745 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Caloundra | $742 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Caloundra, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sunshine Coast | $704 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sunshine Coast, over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Qld, over 12 months | +6.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $632 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, QLD, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 29 tracked applications: 25 approved, 2 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 82 projects in and around Caloundra West, 33 of them under construction.
The Sunshine Coast Industrial Park is a 215-hectare major regional industrial hub delivered by Economic Development Queensland. Designed for medium to high-impact manufacturing, logistics, and large-scale industrial activities, Stage 2 delivers fully serviced industrial lots with direct Bruce Highway access.
Aura Home + Life is an $80 million, 20,000 sqm large-format home and lifestyle retail precinct in the Aura master-planned community. Developed by Capital Property Group, the centre is under construction and reported as 85 percent leased, with confirmed national tenants including Spotlight, Anaconda, Harris Scarfe, Rebel, The Good Guys, Pillow Talk…
Planning and expansion program delivering additional specialist outpatient and satellite healthcare facilities adjacent to Sunshine Coast University Hospital. The project provides expanded clinical capacity, diagnostic services, and day treatment rooms supporting communities across the southern Sunshine Coast corridor.
Road safety improvements including raised pedestrian crossings on the southern leg of the roundabout, painted central splitter islands at approaches to crossings, flexible bollards on traffic islands, and lighting upgrades.
Major commercial and industrial employment precinct within Stockland's Aura masterplanned community. The business park accommodates industrial, logistics, office, technology, research, light manufacturing and showroom uses.
Stockland's 2360 hectare masterplanned community continues in active construction with new residential precincts, the Aura Town Centre, Aura Parklands and Lagoon, wastewater infrastructure and enabling works supporting the future Direct Sunshine Coast Rail (The Wave).
The Comiskey Group, in partnership with Stockland, has broken ground on the $68 million Aura Hotel, set to become the Sunshine Coast's largest entertainment venue and one of Australia's biggest hospitality developments.
Program to deliver 10 sporting grounds totalling 70 hectares across the Aura masterplanned community. Four venues are now open, including the Baringa Sports Complex (AFL fields, tennis and pickleball courts) and Nirimba Rugby League Grounds, joining the earlier Nirimba Sports Complex and Baringa Football Grounds.
Multi-stage independent living retirement resort in Baringa comprising 169 apartments with resort-style community facilities including a pool, community spaces, BBQ area and secure parking. The project remains under staged construction and marketing, with display units open and residents progressively occupying completed stages.
The Caloundra TAFE Centre of Excellence is a new Queensland Government training campus focused on construction and allied trades. The facility will provide industry-standard workshops, advanced learning spaces and collaboration areas to support workforce development for housing, major infrastructure and Brisbane 2032 Olympic projects.
Exclusive residential estate featuring only 13 lots with Lot 13 being 1535sqm. Premium land parcels designed for custom homes in established Little Mountain location with bushland backdrop and no passing traffic.
Road upgrade delivering duplication of Aura Boulevard and Graf Drive to four lanes, upgraded intersections, new shared pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, and increased traffic capacity to support the continued expansion of the Aura masterplanned community. Construction has commenced in stages as part of Stockland's transport infrastructure program.
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 34 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 4, 2026 12, 2027 7, 2028 7, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 1, 2032 2. 22 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 29 substantial development applications lodged in and around Caloundra West over the past 5 years, 2 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 7, 2023 12, 2024 4, 2025 4, 2026 (to Oct) 2.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 29 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 71st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 47 | ABS building approvals | 57th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 25 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Caloundra West include: Sunshine Coast Industrial Park (Construction); Aura Central Avenue & Bruce Highway Connection Roadworks (Construction); Aura Business Park (Construction); Aura (Caloundra South) (Construction); and Plantation Retirement Resort Baringa (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Caloundra West spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Business Parks & Technology Hubs, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
The suburb of Caloundra West ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Caloundra West when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Caloundra West area has seen 50 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Caloundra West's current population of 7,964 has been supported by 47 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Caloundra West has seen 6.3 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 315 people in the suburb of Caloundra West, 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 Caloundra West's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 47, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Caloundra West has grown by approximately 963 people, while 233 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Caloundra West lies within the top 4% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,964 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 990 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 51st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +3.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,270 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 694 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 8.04 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Caloundra West was estimated to be approximately 7,964 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,962 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Caloundra West has added approximately 694 people and shown a 9.55% increase from the 7,270 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Caloundra West is estimated at 991 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Caloundra West has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.2% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Caloundra West is driven by: Interstate migration (82.0%), Natural increase (12.0%), Overseas migration (6.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 82.0% of overall population gains.
Caloundra West's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 37 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 36th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 22.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 21.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 46.9% | 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 | 37 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Caloundra West at 37 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 37 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 37 years as at August 2026, Caloundra West is 4 years younger than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Caloundra West compared to the Regional Qld region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 16.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Caloundra West compared to the Regional Qld region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 6.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Caloundra West show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (7.2% vs 5.3%). The most under-represented age group is 55-64 year-olds (6.5% vs 12.4%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 22.7% of the population in the suburb of Caloundra West as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.9% of the population in the suburb of Caloundra West as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $56,118 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 37th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $70,365 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,571 | 2021 Census, weekly | 39th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $751 | 2021 Census, weekly | 38th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 15.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,800 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 23.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Caloundra West is approximately $60,108. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $56,118.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Caloundra West is approximately $75,368. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $70,365.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Caloundra West is approximately $60,108 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,118 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Caloundra West is approximately $75,368 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,365 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Caloundra West's households (~36.9% / 997 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Caloundra West is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.9% 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 Caloundra West is $1,571/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Caloundra West is $1,800/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Caloundra West is $751/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Caloundra West is just below the national average, with the median assessed at $56,118 while the average income stands at $70,365. This contrasts to Regional Qld's figures of a median income of $56,722 and an average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $60,108 (median) and $75,368 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Caloundra West is $5,452 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Caloundra West's disposable income is $5,452 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market in Caloundra West shows considerable strength compared to most other Australian regions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 54.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,247 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,692 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,330 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Caloundra West has approximately 3,247 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.5%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Caloundra West stands at 2.5%, which is 1.4 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Caloundra West is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (21.2% of employment), construction (11.9%), and retail trade (11.1%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Caloundra West 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 Caloundra West is 54.1%, 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 Caloundra West shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 21.2% of the local workforce compared to 16.1% across Regional Qld. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of Caloundra West'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 1.7% decline, ranking 25th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Caloundra West ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
18.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Caloundra West have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
38.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Caloundra West have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Caloundra West ranks in the 69th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Caloundra West are: Certificate (31.0%), Bachelor Degree (13.1%), Advanced Diploma (12.2%).
30.4% of the population in the suburb of Caloundra West is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.7% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 4.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Caloundra West is 1065, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Caloundra West, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,448 students.
The suburb of Caloundra West includes 1 combined school.
Caloundra West features high concentrations of single parent families, with a larger average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 22.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.3% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,705 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,963 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 74.2% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Caloundra West had 2,705 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.5% to an estimated 2,963 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Caloundra West is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 74.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.6%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.1%).
Of the 2,007 family households, couples with children account for 33.1% of all households, couples without children at home 26.3%, and single parent families 14.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Caloundra West shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Caloundra West have an average of 1.7 children, matching the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 46.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.9% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 22.6% of all households in the suburb of Caloundra West, similar to the average for Regional Qld of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.1% of households, below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
In terms of cultural diversity, Caloundra West records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 22.7% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.3% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.9% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 77.3% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
Caloundra West was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 77.3% of its population born in Australia, 86.9% being citizens, and 92.3% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Caloundra West, at 48.0% of people, although more residents (49.7%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 0.9% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Caloundra West are English, comprising 33.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.8% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 8.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: New Zealand is notably overrepresented at 1.2% of Caloundra West (vs 0.9% across Regional Qld), Maori at 1.2% (vs 0.8%) and German at 4.3% (vs 4.7%).
22.7% of the suburb of Caloundra West population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
7.7% of the population in the suburb of Caloundra West speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
2.1% of the suburb of Caloundra West population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
86.9% of the suburb of Caloundra West population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Caloundra West is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 32.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 29.5% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 83.3% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,842 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 37.8% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 16.6% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $465 | 2021 Census, weekly | 84th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 29.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Caloundra West, 29.5% of homes are owned outright, 37.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 32.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 83.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Caloundra West are houses.
In the suburb of Caloundra West, 0.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 16.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Caloundra West stands at 29.5%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Caloundra West is $1,842, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Caloundra West is $1,355, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Caloundra West, households with mortgages typically spend 27.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 29.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Caloundra West is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Caloundra West shows mortgage holders spending 27.1% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 29.6% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Caloundra West consists of 83.3% detached houses, 16.6% semi-detached dwellings, 0.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Caloundra West consumes approximately 19.9% of median household income ($6,802 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Caloundra West show attached dwellings contributing 20% of approvals compared to 17% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 80% of applications versus 83% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health outcomes in Caloundra West are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 53.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 46th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 66.8% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.0% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
Around 53.2% of people in the suburb of Caloundra West are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Caloundra West, 5.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
8.1% of people in the suburb of Caloundra West are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.5% of the suburb of Caloundra West population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.7% of people in the suburb of Caloundra West have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Caloundra West, 53.2% 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 506 m away and the nearest school 748 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 | 91 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 91st percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 506 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 748 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 798 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 807 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 810 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.2 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 2 long day care centres with 244 places in Caloundra West, about 2.4 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 Caloundra West is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
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 Caloundra West.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Caloundra West when compared nationally.
Caloundra West has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 7% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Caloundra West is $720 a week, +4.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Caloundra West lies within the top 4% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Caloundra West's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
The labour market in Caloundra West shows considerable strength compared to most other Australian regions.
The educational profile of Caloundra West ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Caloundra West features high concentrations of single parent families, with a larger average household size than Regional Qld.
In terms of cultural diversity, Caloundra West records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Caloundra West is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Health outcomes in Caloundra West are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport in Caloundra West: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Caloundra West has an estimated 7,964 residents, up 9.5% since the 2021 Census, with 82 projects tracked in the area around Caloundra West.
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 Caloundra West.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Sep 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 (SAL30493). 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 (Sep 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 Caloundra West 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 Caloundra West 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 | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 12.4% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
