Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Marcoola has an estimated 3,730 residents, up 11.2% since the 2021 Census, with 68 projects tracked in the area around Marcoola.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 98 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Marcoola pairs a laid-back coastal atmosphere with convenient access to pristine sandy beaches, lush hinterlands, and nearby nature reserves and national parks. Widely known for popular outdoor pursuits such as surfing, swimming, and fishing in crystal-clear waters, the locality also features a wholesome family environment enriched by local markets, cafes, and restaurants celebrating fresh regional produce. The area reflects a distinct housing composition marked by high apartment composition, high semi-detached housing levels, a low average household size, and an above-average renting population, alongside a substantial construction employment base and strong educational qualifications throughout the community.
Demographic estimates compiled by AreaSearch put the population for the suburb of Marcoola at around 3,730 as of August 2026, based on quarterly national address files and yearly aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 98 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Marcoola pairs a laid-back coastal atmosphere with convenient access to pristine sandy beaches, lush hinterlands, and nearby nature reserves and national parks. Widely known for popular outdoor pursuits such as surfing, swimming, and fishing in crystal-clear waters, the locality also features a wholesome family environment enriched by local markets, cafes, and restaurants celebrating fresh regional produce. The area reflects a distinct housing composition marked by high apartment composition, high semi-detached housing levels, a low average household size, and an above-average renting population, alongside a substantial construction employment base and strong educational qualifications throughout the community.
Demographic estimates compiled by AreaSearch put the population for the suburb of Marcoola at around 3,730 as of August 2026, based on quarterly national address files and yearly aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,862 in 2006 and 3,699 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,730 (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, 16.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.8%.
Marcoola ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education and the 96th 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 Marcoola is $665 a week, down 2.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 4% above Regional Qld.
4% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $430 in 2017, $620 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $381 in 2017, $573 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 | $665 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | -2.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $620 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $573 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | -5.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Maroochy | $738 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Maroochy, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sunshine Coast | $704 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sunshine Coast, over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Qld, over 12 months | +6.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $632 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, QLD, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 24 tracked applications: 18 approved, 4 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 68 projects in and around Marcoola, 15 of them under construction.
Major airport expansion completed in June 2020 featuring a new 2,450m x 45m international runway (13/31) capable of handling wide-body aircraft including A330, B777, B787, and A350. The $347 million project enables direct international flights to Asia, China, and Hawaii, with new air traffic control tower and terminal upgrades.
A collaborative project between Sunshine Coast Council and the Queensland Government (Housing Investment Fund) to deliver 22 prefabricated modular affordable homes across 11 Council-owned properties in Marcoola, behind the Chemist Warehouse on David Low Way.
The site of the former Palmer Coolum Golf Course is being developed into a private gated community named Beachside Yaroomba by Dennis Family Corporation. The project will comprise approximately 300 dwellings, including home sites, beach homes, and premium apartments, aligning with an existing 2007 residential masterplan.
A multi-stage redevelopment of the Marcoola Surf Life Saving Club facilities to modernise the club, improve services for members and the community, and enhance its operational capabilities for surf life saving.
South-facing motorway ramps are planned at West Coolum Road, Mount Coolum, as part of a staged upgrade to the Sunshine Motorway between David Low Way, Pacific Paradise, and Yandina-Coolum Road, Coolum.
Revised mixed-use community on a 12,775sq m former bowls club site, including 85 apartments, 52 short-term accommodation units (hotel), increased retail and commercial space of 1086sqm with potential gymnasium. Designed by KP Architects, planned by Place Design Group. Reduced building heights to meet community expectations.
Sunshine Coast Council is developing a concept plan and community landscape improvements for Wilkins Park in Pacific Paradise. The master plan focuses on upgraded play equipment, community gathering areas, path connectivity, and shaded open spaces.
A placemaking and streetscape project by Sunshine Coast Council to improve the amenity, safety, and character of Marcoola's town centre. The project included new footpaths, landscaping, seating, and improved pedestrian connections to enhance the public realm.
Masterplanned residential community on a 104 hectare site between the Maroochy River and the Sunshine Motorway, on land adjacent to the existing Twin Waters estate. Sunshine Coast Council granted preliminary approval in December 2023 after a decade long approvals process.
A vibrant public space enhancement project undertaken by the Sunshine Coast Council. The upgrade included significant embellishments to Timari Street, Menzies Drive, and the service road beside David Low Way, featuring outdoor dining areas, public art, landscaping, shade trees, lighting, increased footpath space, new seating, and formalized traffic and…
A resort-style residential aged care facility that opened in 2017. The facility provides comprehensive care services, including dementia and palliative care, and features amenities such as an onsite caf,, hairdressing salon, and library.
An established resort-style land lease community for over 50s operated as Vantage by AVID. Residents own their home and lease the land, with access to a clubhouse, heated pool and spa, gym, indoor bowls, tennis and pickleball, cinema, library, workshop, golf simulator and more inside a secure gated estate. Previously known as Living Gems Pacific Paradise.
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 19 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 5, 2027 8, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 19 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 24 substantial development applications lodged in and around Marcoola over the past 5 years, 6 in the last 12 months; 4 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 6, 2023 5, 2024 7, 2025 2, 2026 (to Oct) 4.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 24 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 6 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 9.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 32 | ABS building approvals | 45th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 18 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Marcoola include: Marcoola Affordable Housing Project (Completed); Sunshine Motorway West Coolum Road Upgrade Interchange (Planning); Stockland Twin Waters (Construction); Coolum to Peregian Springs Reservoir Trunk Water Supply Main (Completed); and Sunshine Coast Infrastructure Coordination Plan (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Marcoola spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Sports & Recreation, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
The suburb of Marcoola ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Marcoola recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Marcoola area has seen 36 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Marcoola's current population of 3,730 has been supported by 32 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Marcoola has seen 9.1 approval 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 203 people in the suburb of Marcoola, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Marcoola's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 32, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Marcoola has grown by approximately 275 people, while 158 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
Marcoola has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,730 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +11.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 255 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,355 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 375 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 14.61 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Marcoola was estimated to be approximately 3,730 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,699 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Marcoola has added approximately 375 people and shown a 11.18% increase from the 3,355 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Marcoola is estimated at 255 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Marcoola has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.2% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Marcoola is driven by: Overseas migration (93.0%), Interstate migration (7.000000000000001%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 93.0% of overall population gains.
Marcoola hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 45 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 80th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 21.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.3% | 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 | 45 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Marcoola at 45 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 45 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 45 years as at August 2026, Marcoola is 4 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 7 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 Marcoola compared to the Regional Qld region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 16.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Marcoola compared to the Regional Qld region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 10.4% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Marcoola is broadly in line with Regional Qld.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.1% of the population in the suburb of Marcoola as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.1% of the population in the suburb of Marcoola as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $53,754 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $69,613 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,401 | 2021 Census, weekly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $768 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,764 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 26.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Marcoola is approximately $57,576. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $53,754.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Marcoola is approximately $74,562. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $69,613.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Marcoola is approximately $57,576 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,754 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Marcoola is approximately $74,562 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $69,613 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Marcoola's households (~31.8% / 441 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Marcoola is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.8% 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 Marcoola is $1,401/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Marcoola is $1,764/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Marcoola is $768/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Marcoola had a median income among taxpayers of $53,754 with the average level standing at $69,613. This is slightly lower than average on a national basis and compares to levels of $56,722 and $71,544 across Regional Qld respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $57,576 (median) and $74,562 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Marcoola is $4,834 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Marcoola's disposable income is $4,834 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Marcoola remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 64.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,972 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,799 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,057 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Marcoola has approximately 1,972 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.1%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Marcoola stands at 4.1%, which is broadly in line with Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Marcoola is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.1% of employment), construction (15.3%), and retail trade (9.7%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Marcoola 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 Marcoola is 64.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Qld.
The suburb of Marcoola shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 15.3% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% across Regional Qld. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The suburb of Marcoola's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 1.7% decline, ranking 25th out of 37 regions nationally.
Marcoola demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 16.6% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 24.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.2% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 32.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
24.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Marcoola have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
32.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Marcoola have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Marcoola ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Marcoola are: Certificate (30.2%), Bachelor Degree (16.6%), Advanced Diploma (13.1%).
27.8% of the population in the suburb of Marcoola is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.2% in primary school, 7.5% in secondary school, 5.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
Marcoola features high concentrations of group households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 30.4% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,388 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,543 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 64.6% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Marcoola had 1,388 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 11.2% to an estimated 1,543 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Marcoola is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 64.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.4%), group households (5.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 897 family households, couples with children account for 20.5% of all households, couples without children at home 31.4%, and single parent families 11.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Marcoola shows distinct household patterns. Conversely, family households are under-represented at 64.6% compared to 70.4% in Regional Qld. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Marcoola have an average of 1.6 children, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 41.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.2% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 30.4% of all households in the suburb of Marcoola, 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 5.0% of households, above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Marcoola 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 | 17.2% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 85.1% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 82.8% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
Marcoola was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 85.1% of its population being citizens, 82.8% born in Australia, and 94.3% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Marcoola, at 44.0% of people, although more residents (52.5%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.4% of the population, compared to 1.1% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Marcoola are English, comprising 32.5% of the population, Australian, comprising 24.5% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 9.5% of Marcoola (vs 7.8% across Regional Qld), French at 0.7% (vs 0.5%) and Dutch at 1.7% (vs 1.1%).
17.2% of the suburb of Marcoola population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
5.7% of the population in the suburb of Marcoola speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
2.0% of the suburb of Marcoola population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
85.1% of the suburb of Marcoola population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Marcoola displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 41.1% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 43.4% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 46th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.7% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 24.3% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $406 | 2021 Census, weekly | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 29.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 83rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Marcoola, 29.2% of homes are owned outright, 29.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 41.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 43.4% of dwellings in the suburb of Marcoola are houses.
In the suburb of Marcoola, 32.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 24.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Marcoola stands at 29.2%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Marcoola is $1,733, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Marcoola is $1,237, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Marcoola, households with mortgages typically spend 28.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 29.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Marcoola is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Marcoola shows mortgage holders spending 28.5% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 29.0% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Marcoola consists of 43.4% detached houses, 24.3% semi-detached dwellings, 32.3% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Marcoola consumes approximately 20.4% of median household income ($6,066 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Marcoola show attached dwellings contributing 26% of approvals compared to 57% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 74% of applications versus 43% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Marcoola's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 52.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 46th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.4% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.6% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
Around 52.9% of people in the suburb of Marcoola are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Marcoola, 4.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
7.3% of people in the suburb of Marcoola are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.7% of the suburb of Marcoola population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.0% of people in the suburb of Marcoola have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Marcoola, 52.9% 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 pharmacy is 1.0 km away and the nearest child care centre 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 | 66 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 66th percentile nationally |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 5.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 7.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 14.6 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 Marcoola 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 Marcoola.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Marcoola recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Marcoola has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 4% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Marcoola is $665 a week, -2.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Marcoola has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Marcoola hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment conditions in Marcoola remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
Marcoola demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Marcoola features high concentrations of group households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Marcoola ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Marcoola displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Marcoola's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport in Marcoola: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Marcoola has an estimated 3,730 residents, up 11.2% since the 2021 Census, with 68 projects tracked in the area around Marcoola.
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 Marcoola.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 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 (SAL31761). 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 (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, 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 Marcoola 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 Marcoola 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 | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.4% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
