Suburb profile · Greater Brisbane
Karalee has an estimated 6,021 residents, up 9.1% since the 2021 Census, with 17 projects tracked in the area around Karalee.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Karalee sits 22 kilometres west-southwest of the Brisbane CBD. According to AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 6,021 as of Aug 2026, a figure built from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released yearly, together with national address file data refreshed each quarter. That represents an increase of 500 people (9.1%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 5,521 people.
Karalee stands out for above-average median household income and a strong representation of mortgage holders. Married families are common, housing is led by detached homes, and there is a notable share of children aged 5 to 14, alongside an elevated base of utilities employment. Residents skew toward middle age and are largely drawn from family households and couples with children. Latest population estimate date: Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Karalee sits 22 kilometres west-southwest of the Brisbane CBD. According to AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 6,021 as of Aug 2026, a figure built from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released yearly, together with national address file data refreshed each quarter. That represents an increase of 500 people (9.1%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 5,521 people.
Karalee stands out for above-average median household income and a strong representation of mortgage holders. Married families are common, housing is led by detached homes, and there is a notable share of children aged 5 to 14, alongside an elevated base of utilities employment. Residents skew toward middle age and are largely drawn from family households and couples with children. Latest population estimate date: Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,110 in 2006 and 5,870 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 6,021 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 17.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 33.8%.
Karalee ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 89th 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 Karalee is $615 a week, up 12.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 2% below Greater Brisbane.
2% below Greater Brisbane on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $402 in 2017, $750 in 2026. A break means no rent was reported that year. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $615 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +12.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $750 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Ipswich Inner | $552 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Ipswich Inner, over 12 months | +8.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Ipswich | $574 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Ipswich, over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Brisbane | $627 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Brisbane, over 12 months | +7.6% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 17 projects in and around Karalee, 4 of them under construction.
Upgrade of the Warrego Highway and Mount Crosby Road interchange at Chuwar, including a new interchange at the future Moggill Pocket Arterial location, a new dual-lane bridge connecting Karalee via Junction Road, service roads with active transport paths, and minor upgrades to Mount Crosby Road.
Queensland's largest industrial development, Citiswich Business Park is a 350-hectare master-planned estate at Bundamba in the logistics hub of Brisbane's south-western corridor. Developed by Walker Corporation, the estate provides serviced industrial land and facilities for logistics, manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and wholesale retail.
Munro by Azure Development Group is a $59 million masterplanned residential community located in Bundamba, comprising 100 terrace residences across a 4.7-hectare estate. The gated community features a resort-style pool, private resident pavilion, and expansive landscaped open space.
Residential development approved for 115 townhomes, 3 retail tenancies, and 4 apartments. Total development costs of $53.45 million.
A multi-stage environmental restoration program along Bundamba Creek jointly funded by the Australian Government's Urban Rivers and Catchments Program ($3M) and Ipswich City Council ($1M).
Expansion of the Bundamba Industrial Precinct to deliver new serviced industrial lots, road and utility infrastructure, and improved freight access including integration with the Bundamba Bypass and surrounding transport network. The project continues to be identified by Ipswich City Council as a strategic employment and industrial growth area.
Major $80+ million redevelopment and expansion of Bundamba State Secondary College, including new teaching blocks, a performing arts centre, sports facilities, a leadership centre with rock climbing facilities, and an upgraded administration building. The school now operates with a maximum enrolment capacity of 1,124 students.
Development application for a Material Change of Use to establish Multiple Residential housing comprising 3 attached townhouses at 145 Chermside Road. The proposal includes associated car parking, private open space, landscaping, and civil infrastructure connections under assessment by Ipswich City Council.
Large master-planned residential community in Bundamba featuring over 600 lots, completed in stages with parks, walking paths and proximity to Bundamba train station.
Comprehensive accessibility upgrade of East Ipswich railway station delivered under the Station Accessibility Upgrade Program. The scope delivered a new pedestrian footbridge with lifts, raised platform sections for assisted boarding, new ticket facilities, accessible car parking, and upgraded security features.
Ipswich City Council approved a two-stage multiple dwelling project for 104 apartments (22 x 1-bedroom and 82 x 2-bedroom) across five titles at 28-30 Lowry St, 45-47 Flint St and 12 Pelican St (Approval: 2367/2016/MCU).
Stage 1 focuses on the redevelopment of the North Ipswich Reserve, featuring a new contemporary Western Grandstand with a minimum of 2,000 seats, new field lighting, and upgraded player facilities including changerooms and medical rooms.
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 6 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 1, 2027 2, 2028 2, 2029 0, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 1. 7 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 2 substantial development applications lodged in and around Karalee over the period covered (about 3.1 years), none in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Status of the 2 tracked applications: 1 approved, 0 under assessment, 1 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.1 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 0 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 46th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 20 | ABS building approvals | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.1 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Karalee include: Warrego Highway - Mount Crosby Road Interchange Upgrade (Planning); Citiswich Business Park (Construction); Bundamba Industrial Precinct Expansion (Planning); Centenary Motorway (Darra - Yamanto), planning (Proposed); and Woodlinks Village (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Karalee spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Business Parks & Technology Hubs, among others.
The suburb of Karalee ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Karalee among the top 30% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Karalee area has seen 51 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Karalee's current population of 6,021 has been supported by 20 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Karalee has seen 3.6 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 8.1 approval in Greater Brisbane. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 228 people in the suburb of Karalee, compared to one for every 117 in Greater Brisbane.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Karalee's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 20, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Karalee has grown by approximately 717 people, while 101 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 7.1 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.
Karalee lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,021 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 391 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +3.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 5,521 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 500 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 15.39 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Karalee was estimated to be approximately 6,021 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 5,870 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Karalee has added approximately 500 people and shown a 9.06% increase from the 5,521 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Karalee is estimated at 391 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Karalee has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.3% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Karalee is driven by: Interstate migration (47.0%), Natural increase (38.0%), Overseas migration (15.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 47.0% of overall population gains.
Karalee'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 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 23.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.4% | 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 | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Karalee 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, Karalee is comparable to the Greater Brisbane 2021 Census average (36 years) and similarly aligned with 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 Karalee compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 17.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Karalee compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Karalee show significant variance compared to Greater Brisbane. The most over-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (17.1% vs 12.3%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.9% vs 1.8%) and 25-34 year-olds (9.1% vs 15.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 23.0% of the population in the suburb of Karalee as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.0% of the population in the suburb of Karalee as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 88% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $67,498 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 78th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $76,649 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,559 | 2021 Census, weekly | 91st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,042 | 2021 Census, weekly | 82nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 39.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,662 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 11.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Karalee is approximately $72,297. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $67,498.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Karalee is approximately $82,099. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $76,649.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Karalee is approximately $72,297 compared to $66,053 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $67,498 and $61,668 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Karalee is approximately $82,099 compared to $82,596 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $76,649 and $77,113 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Karalee's households (~33.9% / 594 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Karalee is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 33.9% of households. In comparison, Greater Brisbane's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 33.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Karalee is $2,559/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Karalee is $2,662/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Karalee is $1,042/wk.
The suburb of Karalee shows a median taxpayer income of $67,498 and an average of $76,649 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is higher than average nationally, contrasting with Greater Brisbane's median income of $61,668 and average income of $77,113. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $72,297 (median) and $82,099 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Karalee is $9,564 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Karalee's disposable income is $9,564 compared to $6,725 for Greater Brisbane, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Karalee places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 80.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,577 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,608 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,631 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Karalee has approximately 3,577 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.5%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Karalee stands at 1.5%, which is 2.8 percentage points below Greater Brisbane's rate of 4.3%. 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 Karalee is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.0% of employment), education & training (11.6%), and construction (11.1%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Karalee has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Brisbane saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Karalee is 80.2%, 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 70.1%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The suburb of Karalee shows notable specialisation in public administration & safety, which employs 11.1% of the local workforce compared to 7.0% across Greater Brisbane. 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.
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The suburb of Karalee's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 2.9% decline, ranking 29th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Karalee 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 | 16.9% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 4.0% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 23.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.2% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
23.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Karalee have university qualifications, compared to 30.5% in Greater Brisbane.
34.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Karalee have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.8% in Greater Brisbane.
The suburb of Karalee ranks in the 71th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Karalee are: Certificate (28.2%), Bachelor Degree (16.9%), Advanced Diploma (13.3%).
32.2% of the population in the suburb of Karalee is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.6% in primary school, 9.4% in secondary school, 4.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Karalee is 1041, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Karalee, with a combined enrollment of approximately 563 students.
The suburb of Karalee includes 1 primary school.
Karalee features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Brisbane.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.1 people | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 49.0% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 29.8% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,754 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,913 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 87.5% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Karalee had 1,754 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.1% to an estimated 1,913 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Karalee is 3.1 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Brisbane and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 87.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (10.8%), group households (1.3%), and other household types (0.2%).
Of the 1,535 family households, couples with children account for 49.0% of all households, couples without children at home 29.8%, and single parent families 8.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Brisbane, the suburb of Karalee shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 87.5% (versus 71.7% in Greater Brisbane). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 10.8% compared to 23.6% in Greater Brisbane. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Karalee have an average of 1.8 children, slightly above the Greater Brisbane average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 57.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 30.6% have never married. This compares to 45.0% married and 38.4% never married across Greater Brisbane.
Single-person households represent 10.8% of all households in the suburb of Karalee, notably lower than the average for Greater Brisbane of 23.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.3% of households, below the Greater Brisbane average of 4.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Karalee ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 16.7% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.1% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.8% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
Karalee was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 83.3% of its population born in Australia, 91.8% being citizens, and 95.1% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Karalee was found to be Christianity, which makes up 53.0% of people in Karalee. This compares to 47.8% across Greater Brisbane.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Karalee are English, comprising 31.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 28.0% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 6.5% of Karalee (vs 4.2% across Greater Brisbane), South African at 0.8% (vs 0.6%) and Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.5%).
16.7% of the suburb of Karalee population was born overseas, compared to 28.5% across Greater Brisbane.
4.9% of the population in the suburb of Karalee speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 18.7% in Greater Brisbane.
2.0% of the suburb of Karalee population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 2.1% in Greater Brisbane.
91.8% of the suburb of Karalee population holds citizenship, compared to 83.6% in Greater Brisbane.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Karalee is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Brisbane.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 13.2% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 98.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,133 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 60.8% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 15.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 10th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 19.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Karalee, 26.0% of homes are owned outright, 60.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 13.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 98.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Karalee are houses.
In the suburb of Karalee, 0.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Karalee stands at 26.0%, compared to 26.7% in Greater Brisbane.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Karalee is $2,133, compared to $1,863 in Greater Brisbane.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Karalee is $1,525, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Karalee, households with mortgages typically spend 19.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 15.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Karalee is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Karalee shows mortgage holders spending 19.2% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% in Greater Brisbane), while renters spend 15.6% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Greater Brisbane).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Karalee consists of 98.3% detached houses, 1.0% semi-detached dwellings, 0.7% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Karalee consumes approximately 13.8% of median household income ($11,080 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Karalee show attached dwellings contributing 4% of approvals compared to 2% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 96% of applications versus 98% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health outcomes in Karalee are marginally below the national average with the level of common health conditions among the general population somewhat typical, though higher than the nation's average among older cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 55.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 61st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.8% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.6% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
Around 55.8% of people in the suburb of Karalee are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.1% in Greater Brisbane.
In the suburb of Karalee, 4.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.7% of people in Greater Brisbane require similar assistance.
8.2% of people in the suburb of Karalee are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.0% of the population across Greater Brisbane is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.8% of the suburb of Karalee population, while in Greater Brisbane, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.6% of people in the suburb of Karalee have heart disease. Across Greater Brisbane,3.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Karalee, 55.8% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Brisbane sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.1%.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 999 m away and the nearest supermarket 1.6 km.
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 | 15 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 15th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 999 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 8.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 8.4 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 3 long day care centres with 247 places in Karalee, about 1.4 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 Karalee 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 Karalee.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Karalee among the top 30% of areas assessed nationwide.
Karalee has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 11% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Karalee is $615 a week, +12.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Karalee lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Karalee's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 88% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The exceptional employment performance in Karalee places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
The educational profile of Karalee ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Karalee features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Brisbane.
Karalee ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Karalee is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Brisbane.
Health outcomes in Karalee are marginally below the national average with the level of common health conditions among the general population somewhat typical, though higher than the nation's average among older cohorts.
Transport in Karalee: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Karalee has an estimated 6,021 residents, up 9.1% since the 2021 Census, with 17 projects tracked in the area around Karalee.
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 Karalee.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to May 2026. Housing 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 (SAL31485). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (May 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Karalee 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 Karalee 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 | 2.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 18.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
