Suburb profile · Greater Brisbane
Karana Downs has an estimated 3,899 residents, up 2.6% since the 2021 Census, with 14 projects tracked in the area around Karana Downs.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
The suburb of Karana Downs is located 22 kilometres west-southwest from Brisbane CBD. Its population is estimated at around 3,899 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 3,800 people. The area shows limited population expansion, alongside severely limited dwelling supply, strong mortgage holder representation and above-average median household income.
Karana Downs has a high proportion of married families and a notable 45 to 54yo presence, with residents including many middle-aged people, family households and couples without children. The community has high income levels and an elevated education employment base. The suburb is described as picturesque, with lush greenery, vibrant flora, a serene setting and views over the Brisbane River. Its well-maintained golf courses, welcoming community and range of bird and wildlife species contribute to its appeal for residents, visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Karana Downs is located 22 kilometres west-southwest from Brisbane CBD. Its population is estimated at around 3,899 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 3,800 people. The area shows limited population expansion, alongside severely limited dwelling supply, strong mortgage holder representation and above-average median household income.
Karana Downs has a high proportion of married families and a notable 45 to 54yo presence, with residents including many middle-aged people, family households and couples without children. The community has high income levels and an elevated education employment base. The suburb is described as picturesque, with lush greenery, vibrant flora, a serene setting and views over the Brisbane River. Its well-maintained golf courses, welcoming community and range of bird and wildlife species contribute to its appeal for residents, visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,919 in 2006 and 3,897 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,899 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 45 to 54, 15.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 37%.
Karana Downs ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 91st 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 Karana Downs is $668 a week, for the 12 months to Jun 2026.
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $388 in 2017, $679 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $314 in 2017, $493 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
The change over 12 months, by dwelling type, is charted in Full.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $668 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $679 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $493 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Ipswich Inner | $548 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Ipswich | $578 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Greater Brisbane | $674 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $672 a week | 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 7 tracked applications: 1 approved, 5 under assessment, 1 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Karana Downs, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 14 projects in and around Karana Downs, 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.
Large master-planned residential community in Bundamba featuring over 600 lots, completed in stages with parks, walking paths and proximity to Bundamba train station.
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.
The Terrace complex consists of two nine-storey and two 11-storey buildings, totaling 31,000sq m. Developed by Christopher Zenonos in Brisbane, the project includes an increase to 303 apartments and basement levels with flood immunity.
A high-density residential development site with preliminary plans for 94 units over two residential towers. The site has two street frontages and is zoned for high-density residential up to 10 storeys, with potential for commercial use on the lower floors.
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 5 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 1, 2027 1, 2028 2, 2029 0, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 1. 7 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 7 substantial development applications lodged in and around Karana Downs over the period covered (about 4.4 years), 3 in the last 12 months; 5 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 1, 2023 0, 2024 0, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 3.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 7 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.4 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 11th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 4 | ABS building approvals | 10th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.4 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.4 years) |
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Karana Downs area has seen 4 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Karana Downs's current population of 3,899 has been supported by 4 approvals on average over recent years.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Karana Downs's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 4, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Karana Downs has grown by approximately 28 people, while 19 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Karana Downs include: Warrego Highway - Mount Crosby Road Interchange Upgrade (Planning); Centenary Motorway (Darra - Yamanto), planning (Proposed); Ipswich Smart City Program (Construction); Ipswich Better Bus Network (Construction); and Ipswich to Springfield Central Public Transport Corridor (I2S) (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Karana Downs spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Health & Medical, among others.
The suburb of Karana Downs ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
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.
Karana Downs has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,899 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 520 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,800 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 99 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 7.50 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Karana Downs was estimated to be approximately 3,899 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,897 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Karana Downs has added approximately 99 people and shown a 2.61% increase from the 3,800 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Karana Downs is estimated at 520 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Karana Downs has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Karana Downs is driven by: Overseas migration (61.0%), Natural increase (39.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 61.0% of overall population gains.
Karana Downs's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 17.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 21.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.5% | 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 | 41 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Karana Downs at 42 years as at August 2026. That is up from the 2021 Census figure of 41 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Karana Downs is 6 years older than the Greater Brisbane 2021 Census average (36 years) and 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Karana Downs compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 14.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Karana Downs compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.6% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Karana Downs show significant variance compared to Greater Brisbane. The most over-represented age group is 55-64 year-olds (14.6% vs 10.4%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (9.6% vs 15.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.0% of the population in the suburb of Karana Downs as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 17.7% of the population in the suburb of Karana Downs as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 80% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $65,342 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $74,242 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,255 | 2021 Census, weekly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $948 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 33.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,426 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 13.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Karana Downs is approximately $69,988. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $65,342.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Karana Downs is approximately $79,521. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $74,242.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Karana Downs is approximately $69,988 compared to $66,053 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $65,342 and $61,668 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Karana Downs is approximately $79,521 compared to $82,596 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,242 and $77,113 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Karana Downs's households (~37.0% / 493 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Karana Downs is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 37.0% 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 Karana Downs is $2,255/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Karana Downs is $2,426/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Karana Downs is $948/wk.
The suburb of Karana Downs's income level is higher than average nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Karana Downs's median income among taxpayers is $65,342 and the average income stands at $74,242, which compares to figures for Greater Brisbane's of $61,668 and $77,113 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $69,988 (median) and $79,521 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Karana Downs is $8,511 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Karana Downs's disposable income is $8,511 compared to $6,725 for Greater Brisbane, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Karana Downs places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 74.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,379 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,754 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,405 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Karana Downs has approximately 2,379 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.1%. 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 Karana Downs stands at 1.1%, which is 3.2 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 Karana Downs is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.7% of employment), education & training (13.2%), and construction (10.1%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Karana Downs 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 Karana Downs is 74.9%, 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%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Brisbane.
The suburb of Karana Downs shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 13.2% of the local workforce compared to 9.4% across Greater Brisbane. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The suburb of Karana Downs'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 Karana Downs 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 | 20.3% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 32.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 25.8% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.6% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.0% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
32.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Karana Downs have university qualifications, compared to 30.5% in Greater Brisbane.
29.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Karana Downs have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.8% in Greater Brisbane.
The suburb of Karana Downs ranks in the 73th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Karana Downs are: Certificate (25.8%), Bachelor Degree (20.3%), Advanced Diploma (12.1%).
30.0% of the population in the suburb of Karana Downs is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.6% in primary school, 9.0% in secondary school, 5.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Karana Downs is 1042, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Karana Downs, with a combined enrollment of approximately 589 students.
The suburb of Karana Downs includes 1 primary school.
Karana Downs features high concentrations of family households and couples without children but relatively few group households, with a larger average household size than Greater Brisbane.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.8 people | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 13.4% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 41.0% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,333 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,368 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 85.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Karana Downs had 1,333 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.6% to an estimated 1,368 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Karana Downs is 2.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Brisbane and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 85.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (13.4%), group households (1.0%), and other household types (0.3%).
Of the 1,137 family households, couples with children account for 41.0% of all households, couples without children at home 32.9%, and single parent families 10.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Brisbane, the suburb of Karana Downs shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 85.3% (versus 71.7% in Greater Brisbane). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 13.4% 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 Karana Downs have an average of 1.7 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 57.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 29.3% have never married. This compares to 45.0% married and 38.4% never married across Greater Brisbane.
Single-person households represent 13.4% of all households in the suburb of Karana Downs, 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 1.0% of households, below the Greater Brisbane average of 4.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Karana Downs 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 | 23.0% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.2% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 90.4% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 77.0% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
Karana Downs was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 77.0% of its population born in Australia, 90.4% being citizens, and 94.2% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Karana Downs, at 46.5% of people, although more residents (51.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.3% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Greater Brisbane.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Karana Downs are English, comprising 31.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 24.8% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.9% of Karana Downs (vs 0.5% across Greater Brisbane), Dutch at 2.3% (vs 1.2%) and South African at 1.0% (vs 0.6%).
23.0% of the suburb of Karana Downs population was born overseas, compared to 28.5% across Greater Brisbane.
5.8% of the population in the suburb of Karana Downs speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 18.7% in Greater Brisbane.
1.7% of the suburb of Karana Downs population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 2.1% in Greater Brisbane.
90.4% of the suburb of Karana Downs population holds citizenship, compared to 83.6% in Greater Brisbane.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Karana Downs is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 29.6% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 93.7% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,800 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 49th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 58.4% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 17.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 18.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 8th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Karana Downs, 29.6% of homes are owned outright, 58.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 12.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 93.7% of dwellings in the suburb of Karana Downs are houses.
In the suburb of Karana Downs, 1.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Karana Downs stands at 29.6%, compared to 26.7% in Greater Brisbane.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Karana Downs is $1,800, compared to $1,863 in Greater Brisbane.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Karana Downs is $1,260, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Karana Downs, households with mortgages typically spend 18.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Karana Downs is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Karana Downs shows mortgage holders spending 18.4% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% in Greater Brisbane), while renters spend 17.7% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Greater Brisbane).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Karana Downs consists of 93.7% detached houses, 4.1% semi-detached dwellings, 1.7% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Karana Downs consumes approximately 12.9% of median household income ($9,764 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Karana Downs's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 54.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 58th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 67.7% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 73.6% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
Around 54.8% of people in the suburb of Karana Downs are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.1% in Greater Brisbane.
In the suburb of Karana Downs, 4.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.7% of people in Greater Brisbane require similar assistance.
8.4% of people in the suburb of Karana Downs are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.0% of the population across Greater Brisbane is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.3% of the suburb of Karana Downs population, while in Greater Brisbane, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.5% of people in the suburb of Karana Downs have heart disease. Across Greater Brisbane,3.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Karana Downs, 54.8% 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 819 m away and the nearest supermarket 1.2 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 | 12 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 12th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 819 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 9.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 9.9 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 240 places in Karana Downs, about 0.8 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 Karana Downs 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 Karana Downs.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Karana Downs is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Karana Downs has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 9% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Karana Downs is $668 a week for the 12 months to Jun 2026.
Karana Downs has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Karana Downs's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 80% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The exceptional employment performance in Karana Downs places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
The educational profile of Karana Downs ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Karana Downs features high concentrations of family households and couples without children but relatively few group households, with a larger average household size than Greater Brisbane.
Karana Downs ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Karana Downs is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Karana Downs's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport in Karana Downs: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Karana Downs has an estimated 3,899 residents, up 2.6% since the 2021 Census, with 14 projects tracked in the area around Karana Downs.
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 Karana Downs.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 (SAL31486). 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) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, 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 Karana Downs 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 Karana Downs 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 | 2.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 23.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
