Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Kuranda has an estimated 3,351 residents, up 2.4% since the 2021 Census, with 43 projects tracked in the area around Kuranda.
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.
Kuranda sits 1,404 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates the suburb of Kuranda's population at around 3,351 as of Aug 2026, drawing on aggregated SA2-level ERP (Estimated Resident Population) counts, which are released yearly, alongside national address file data updated each quarter. That figure reflects minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 3,273 people.
The local economy is anchored by a notable healthcare employment base, with education and administrative employment also elevated. The age profile leans toward middle-aged and mature residents, including pronounced representation of 45 to 54 year olds, a marked proportion aged 55 to 64 and a considerable share aged 65 to 74. Overall, population growth patterns point to moderate expansion.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Kuranda sits 1,404 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates the suburb of Kuranda's population at around 3,351 as of Aug 2026, drawing on aggregated SA2-level ERP (Estimated Resident Population) counts, which are released yearly, alongside national address file data updated each quarter. That figure reflects minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 3,273 people.
The local economy is anchored by a notable healthcare employment base, with education and administrative employment also elevated. The age profile leans toward middle-aged and mature residents, including pronounced representation of 45 to 54 year olds, a marked proportion aged 55 to 64 and a considerable share aged 65 to 74. Overall, population growth patterns point to moderate expansion.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,660 in 2006 and 3,344 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,351 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 15.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.1%.
Kuranda ranks in the 90th percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 67th for population growth.
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 Kuranda is $540 a week, up 17.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 16% below Regional Qld.
16% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $362 in 2017, $420 in 2021. 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 | $540 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +17.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Cairns | $545 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Cairns, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 43 projects in and around Kuranda, 13 of them under construction.
A rural residential subdivision development on Barnwell Road in Kuranda, bordering Cain Creek. Initially proposed as a six-lot development, it was approved by the Mareeba Shire Council as a four-lot subdivision.
Council's 10-year program (circa $31m) to install and replace trunk and distribution water mains across Cairns' Northern Beaches to improve flow, reduce breakages, and increase reliability for about 34,000 residents.
A state-of-the-art $235 million waterpark and luxury resort development on the former Paradise Palms site. The project features 22 slides, including a three-level tower and the King Cobra slide, plus wave and lagoon pools. The masterplan includes 364 villas, 127 ensuited caravan sites, and a fully renovated clubhouse.
The Palms is a major masterplanned redevelopment of the former Paradise Palms Golf Course into a mixed-use precinct. The project features approximately 330 residential lots and the $210 million Reefsedge Waterpark and Tourist Park, which includes over 20 water slides, resort pools, 364 villas, and 47 caravan sites.
Proposed Catholic primary school within The Palms masterplanned community at the former Paradise Palms site in Kewarra Beach. The school is intended to service growing enrolments across the Cairns Northern Beaches. Cairns Catholic Education continues to identify the school as a future project subject to funding, statutory approvals and delivery scheduling.
Independent living retirement apartments developed by St John's Community Care in Clifton Beach. The project comprises two towers with 32 two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments and shared amenities such as a heated pool, gym, library, allied health rooms and outdoor areas. Officially inaugurated in June 2024 and now selling with apartments available.
Residential development featuring terraced housing and apartments in Trinity Park. Multiple building types proposed with contemporary tropical architecture and landscaped outdoor spaces.
A large-scale residential development at the site of an old quarry in Kewarra Beach, Cairns. The approved project involves 216 apartments across three six-storey buildings and two single-storey buildings, with four lakeside villas.
Masterplanned house-and-land estate by Kenfrost Homes spanning pockets near Cottesloe Drive, Clifton Beach. The Clifton Beach side launched in late 2023 with ongoing construction and sales. Estate marketing highlights generous lots, proximity to beach and schools, and on-site agents daily.
Construction of three shore-connected rock breakwaters along Arlington Esplanade at Clifton Beach, designed to trap northward-moving sand and reduce long-term coastal erosion.
Extension of Miami Road to create a direct local link between Kewarra Beach and Trinity Beach, with drainage, landscaping, upgraded street lighting, and a new roundabout at Miami Road / Poolwood Road to improve safety and reduce reliance on Captain Cook Highway.
A community title scheme estate featuring 249 residential house and land packages on a 19.58ha beachfront site at Trinity Park. Approved by Cairns Regional Council, the project will dedicate about 35% of the site to open space, including a mangrove conservation area and wetlands rehabilitation.
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 20 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 4, 2027 10, 2028 1, 2029 1, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 9 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 2 substantial development applications lodged in and around Kuranda over the period covered (about 2.8 years), 1 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 2.8 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 29th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 7 | ABS building approvals | 15th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 2.8 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Kuranda include: Barnwell Road Subdivision Project (Approved); Northern Beaches Water Network Upgrade (Construction); The Palms (Construction); Estia on Arlington (Completed); and Breakwaters - Clifton Beach Erosion Management (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Kuranda spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Residential Development, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
The suburb of Kuranda ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Kuranda compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Kuranda area has seen 9 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Kuranda's current population of 3,351 has been supported by 7 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Kuranda has seen 2.3 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 742 people in the suburb of Kuranda, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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 Kuranda's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 7, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Kuranda has grown by approximately 133 people, while 37 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.6 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.
Population growth drivers in Kuranda are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,351 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 29 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,273 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 78 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.5% | 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 | 114.04 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Kuranda was estimated to be approximately 3,351 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,344 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Kuranda has added approximately 78 people and shown a 2.38% increase from the 3,273 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Kuranda is estimated at 29 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Kuranda has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.9% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Kuranda is driven by: Interstate migration (56.00000000000001%), Overseas migration (34.0%), Natural increase (10.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 56.00000000000001% of overall population gains.
Kuranda hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 17.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Kuranda at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Kuranda is 5 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Kuranda compared to the Regional Qld region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 14.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Kuranda compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Kuranda show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age group is 65-74 year-olds (14.9% vs 10.9%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (7.5% vs 12.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.2% of the population in the suburb of Kuranda as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.3% of the population in the suburb of Kuranda as at August 2026.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 15% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,627 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $61,702 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,284 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $600 | 2021 Census, weekly | 11th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,617 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 31.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Kuranda is approximately $51,013. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,627.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Kuranda is approximately $66,089. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $61,702.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Kuranda is approximately $51,013 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,627 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Kuranda is approximately $66,089 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $61,702 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Kuranda's households (~29.1% / 336 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Kuranda is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.1% 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 Kuranda is $1,284/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Kuranda is $1,617/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Kuranda is $600/wk.
The suburb of Kuranda shows a median taxpayer income of $47,627 and an average of $61,702 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is lower than average on a national basis, contrasting with Regional Qld's median income of $56,722 and average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $51,013 (median) and $66,089 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Kuranda is $4,721 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Kuranda's disposable income is $4,721 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Kuranda face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 11.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 56.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,388 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,794 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,576 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Kuranda has approximately 1,388 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 11.9%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Kuranda stands at 11.9%, which is 8.0 percentage points above Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Kuranda is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.3% of employment), education & training (12.9%), and retail trade (10.4%). Other significant employers include construction and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Kuranda 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 Kuranda is 56.0%, 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 Kuranda shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 12.9% of the local workforce compared to 9.1% across Regional Qld. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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 Kuranda's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 0.8% decline, ranking 23rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Kuranda sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 17.9% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 27.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.0% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 31.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 33.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
27.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Kuranda have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
31.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Kuranda have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Kuranda ranks in the 50th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Kuranda are: Certificate (28.0%), Bachelor Degree (17.9%), Advanced Diploma (13.1%).
33.5% of the population in the suburb of Kuranda is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.3% in primary school, 11.4% in secondary school, 4.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Kuranda is 971, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Kuranda, with a combined enrollment of approximately 490 students.
The suburb of Kuranda includes 2 combined schools.
Kuranda features high concentrations of group households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with an average household size in line with Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 23.0% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,155 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,183 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 66.5% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Kuranda had 1,155 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.4% to an estimated 1,183 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Kuranda is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 66.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (29.2%), group households (4.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 768 family households, couples with children account for 23.0% of all households, couples without children at home 30.8%, and single parent families 11.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Kuranda shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Kuranda 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 37.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 40.8% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 29.2% of all households in the suburb of Kuranda, 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 4.2% of households, in line with the Regional Qld average of 4.0%.
In terms of cultural diversity, Kuranda 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 | 23.3% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 90.9% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.9% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 76.7% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
Kuranda was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 81.9% of its population being citizens, 76.7% born in Australia, and 90.9% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Kuranda, at 37.0% of people, although more residents (59.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 1.0% 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 Kuranda are English, comprising 26.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 20.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 26.5%, and Australian Aboriginal, comprising 12.0% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Qld's 3.9%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.2% of Kuranda (vs 1.1% across Regional Qld), French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%) and Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.5%).
23.3% of the suburb of Kuranda population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
9.1% of the population in the suburb of Kuranda speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
12.0% of the suburb of Kuranda population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
81.9% of the suburb of Kuranda population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Kuranda 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 | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 39.3% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 88.3% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,595 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 34.0% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $260 | 2021 Census, weekly | 16th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 46th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 84th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Kuranda, 39.3% of homes are owned outright, 34.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 26.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 88.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Kuranda are houses.
In the suburb of Kuranda, 3.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Kuranda stands at 39.3%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Kuranda is $1,595, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Kuranda is $843, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Kuranda, households with mortgages typically spend 28.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Kuranda is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Kuranda shows mortgage holders spending 28.7% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 20.2% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Kuranda consists of 88.3% detached houses, 2.4% semi-detached dwellings, 3.7% apartments, and 5.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Kuranda consumes approximately 15.2% of median household income ($5,560 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.
The level of general health in Kuranda is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 49.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 28th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.8% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.0% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
Around 49.7% of people in the suburb of Kuranda are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Kuranda, 4.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
5.8% of people in the suburb of Kuranda are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.1% of the suburb of Kuranda population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.3% of people in the suburb of Kuranda have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Kuranda, 49.7% 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 1.6 km away and the nearest school 2.5 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 | 55 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 55th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 7.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 8.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 8.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 19.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 20.7 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).
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 Kuranda 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 Kuranda.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Kuranda compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Kuranda has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Kuranda is $540 a week, +17.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Kuranda are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Kuranda hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 15% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
Employment conditions in Kuranda face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
Educational attainment in Kuranda sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Kuranda features high concentrations of group households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with an average household size in line with Regional Qld.
In terms of cultural diversity, Kuranda records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Kuranda is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
The level of general health in Kuranda is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport in Kuranda: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Kuranda has an estimated 3,351 residents, up 2.4% since the 2021 Census, with 43 projects tracked in the area around Kuranda.
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 Kuranda.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jun 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 (SAL31589). 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 (Jun 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 Kuranda 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 Kuranda 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 | 21.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
