Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Mareeba has an estimated 12,854 residents, up 8.7% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Mareeba.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Mareeba lies 1,398 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD, in Far North Queensland, Australia. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 12,854 as of Aug 2026, a figure derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and from national address file data that is updated each quarter. This reflects an increase of 1,029 people (8.7%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 11,825 people. The local economy and community profile reflect several distinct features, including above-average children per family, a notable agricultural employment base, elevated utilities employment, a pronounced mining employment presence, a substantial focus on public administration employment, and a marked presence of residents aged 75 to 84.
Residents are somewhat older than in the typical Australian area, with a median age of 41. The area generally has a lower level of education and lower-quartile income levels, while its population growth shows moderate expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Mareeba lies 1,398 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD, in Far North Queensland, Australia. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 12,854 as of Aug 2026, a figure derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and from national address file data that is updated each quarter. This reflects an increase of 1,029 people (8.7%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 11,825 people. The local economy and community profile reflect several distinct features, including above-average children per family, a notable agricultural employment base, elevated utilities employment, a pronounced mining employment presence, a substantial focus on public administration employment, and a marked presence of residents aged 75 to 84.
Residents are somewhat older than in the typical Australian area, with a median age of 41. The area generally has a lower level of education and lower-quartile income levels, while its population growth shows moderate expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 9,368 in 2006 and 12,752 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 12,854 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 13.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.3%.
Mareeba ranks in the 74th percentile nationally for development activity and the 71st 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 Mareeba is $440 a week, up 10.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 31% below Regional Qld.
31% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $334 in 2017, $510 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $229 in 2017, $334 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $440 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +10.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $510 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $334 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.8% | 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 | |
| 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 25 tracked applications: 18 approved, 0 under assessment, 7 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 8 projects in Mareeba (3 under construction) and 31 more in the surrounding area.
The Haren Street Residential Aged Care Facility is an approved 120-bed single-level aged care development designed across a 2.89-hectare site in Mareeba, North Queensland.
Mareeba Central is an approved neighbourhood shopping centre on the former sawmill site at 232 Byrnes Street and Close Avenue, Mareeba. The approved development comprises a Woolworths supermarket, retail tenancies, a food and drink outlet and on-site parking.
A 72MW ground-mounted solar photovoltaic facility spanning 110 hectares on the Atherton Tablelands. The project utilises approximately 196,000 solar modules to generate 147GWh of clean energy annually, enough to power over 18,000 homes.
A $2.14 million revitalisation initiative funded by the Australian Government's regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP) to develop construction-ready plans for Mareeba's CBD. The Masterplan was formally endorsed at the February 2026 Council meeting following extensive community engagement involving over 800 participants.
Upgrade of fruit handling laboratories at Mareeba research facility, enabling scientists to provide research services to expanding and new horticultural industries. Part of Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries infrastructure program.
New social housing development providing affordable housing options for vulnerable Queenslanders. Part of Queensland Government's Homes for Queenslanders program targeting key regional centres with housing supply challenges.
A major recycling facility transforming 6,000 tonnes of agricultural, commercial, and consumer plastic waste annually into products like plastic bags and clips for the banana industry. The facility employs 45 people across three shifts and promotes a circular economy, supported by a $1.08 million grant from the Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund.
Safety upgrades delivered along approximately 21 km of the Kennedy Highway between Mareeba and Atherton. Works included wide centre line treatments, audio tactile line marking, shoulder widening, safety barriers and targeted intersection upgrades (turning lanes, bike lanes, improved lighting and line marking).
A small-scale neighbourhood shopping centre proposed by Tom Hedley's HEDZ Constructions Pty Ltd, comprising two single-storey buildings with four retail tenancies delivered across two stages. Stage 1 will see three tenancies built at the front of the site, with a fourth tenancy at the rear forming Stage 2.
A major retail development spanning 16,400sqm designed to revitalise the Tablelands economy. The precinct features a new Bunnings Warehouse as the anchor tenant, alongside a Harvey Norman and other national large-format retailers. The project includes specialised showrooms, hardware supplies, and garden centres with over 400 parking spaces.
Vistas at Redlynch is a completed and sold-out 136-lot masterplanned residential estate developed by Kenfrost Homes in Redlynch, approximately 12 km from Cairns CBD.
A three-storey mixed-use development providing 27 affordable rental units (12 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom) with ground-floor commercial premises for potential food outlets, offices, shops, or healthcare services, complementing the adjacent Priors Creek Development.
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 22 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 7, 2027 10, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 1. 5 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 25 substantial development applications lodged in and around Mareeba over the past 5 years, 4 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 6, 2023 4, 2024 7, 2025 5, 2026 (to Oct) 3.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 25 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 65th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 65 | ABS building approvals | 68th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 18 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Mareeba include: Mareeba Central (Dev. Approval); Haren Street Residential Aged Care Facility (Approved); Mareeba CBD Project Blueprint (Planning); Enviroplas Recycling Plant (Completed); and Mareeba Solar Farm (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Mareeba spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Retail, and Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Mareeba among the top 26% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Mareeba area has seen 133 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Mareeba's current population of 12,854 has been supported by 65 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Mareeba has seen 5.4 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 190 people in the suburb of Mareeba, 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 Mareeba's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 65, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Mareeba has grown by approximately 787 people, while 327 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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 Mareeba are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,854 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 27 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 11,825 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,029 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 480.20 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Mareeba was estimated to be approximately 12,854 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,752 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Mareeba has added approximately 1,029 people and shown a 8.70% increase from the 11,825 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Mareeba is estimated at 27 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Mareeba has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.3% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Mareeba is driven by: Overseas migration (46.0%), Interstate migration (39.0%), Natural increase (15.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 46.0% of overall population gains.
Mareeba's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 41 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 22.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.1% | 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 | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Mareeba at 41 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 41 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 41 years as at August 2026, Mareeba is equal to the Regional Qld 2021 Census average and 3 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 Mareeba compared to the Regional Qld region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 8.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Mareeba compared to the Regional Qld region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 11.1% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Mareeba is broadly in line with Regional Qld.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.5% of the population in the suburb of Mareeba as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 22.5% of the population in the suburb of Mareeba as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 83% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $49,413 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $59,086 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,282 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $689 | 2021 Census, weekly | 26th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 13.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,607 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 31.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mareeba is approximately $52,926. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $49,413.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mareeba is approximately $63,287. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $59,086.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mareeba is approximately $52,926 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $49,413 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mareeba is approximately $63,287 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $59,086 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Mareeba's households (~29.3% / 1,254 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Mareeba is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.3% 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 Mareeba is $1,282/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Mareeba is $1,607/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Mareeba is $689/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Mareeba is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $49,413 while the average income stands at $59,086. This contrasts to Regional Qld's figures of a median income of $56,722 and an average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $52,926 (median) and $63,287 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Mareeba is $4,742 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Mareeba's disposable income is $4,742 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Mareeba face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 8% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 8.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 58.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 5,642 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 12,456 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,156 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Mareeba has approximately 5,642 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 8.3%. 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 Mareeba stands at 8.3%, which is 4.4 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 Mareeba is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (17.0% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.5%), and retail trade (9.3%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Mareeba 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 Mareeba is 58.0%, 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 Mareeba shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 17.0% of the local workforce compared to 4.5% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.8, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Mareeba'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.
Mareeba faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 46.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
15.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mareeba have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
46.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mareeba have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Mareeba ranks in the 17th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Mareeba are: Certificate (28.9%), Bachelor Degree (11.6%), Advanced Diploma (10.0%).
28.7% of the population in the suburb of Mareeba is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.0% in primary school, 9.8% in secondary school, 2.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Mareeba is 949, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 5 schools within the suburb of Mareeba, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,531 students.
The suburb of Mareeba includes 3 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Mareeba features high concentrations of single parent families 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 | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.7% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.0% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,281 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,654 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.5% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Mareeba had 4,281 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.7% to an estimated 4,654 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Mareeba is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.8%), group households (3.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,975 family households, couples with children account for 24.7% of all households, couples without children at home 30.6%, and single parent families 13.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Mareeba 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 Mareeba have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 37.3% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 26.8% of all households in the suburb of Mareeba, similar to the average for Regional Qld of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.6% of households, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%.
In terms of cultural diversity, Mareeba 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 | 19.0% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 14.6% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 85.4% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.6% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 81.0% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
Mareeba was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 19.0% of its population born overseas and 14.6% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Mareeba was found to be Christianity, which makes up 58.6% of people in Mareeba. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Mareeba are Australian, comprising 24.6% of the population, English, comprising 23.3% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 29.6%, and Italian, comprising 10.7% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Qld's 2.4%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 8.8% of Mareeba (vs 3.9% across Regional Qld), Spanish at 0.6% (vs 0.3%) and Croatian at 0.8% (vs 0.2%).
19.0% of the suburb of Mareeba population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
14.6% of the population in the suburb of Mareeba speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
8.8% of the suburb of Mareeba population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
83.6% of the suburb of Mareeba population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Mareeba 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 | 32.1% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 40.1% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 89.3% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,495 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 26th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 27.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $285 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 65th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 74th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Mareeba, 40.1% of homes are owned outright, 27.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 32.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 89.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Mareeba are houses.
In the suburb of Mareeba, 7.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Mareeba stands at 40.1%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Mareeba is $1,495, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Mareeba is $813, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Mareeba, households with mortgages typically spend 26.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Mareeba is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Mareeba shows mortgage holders spending 26.9% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 22.2% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Mareeba consists of 89.3% detached houses, 0.9% semi-detached dwellings, 7.3% apartments, and 2.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Mareeba consumes approximately 14.7% of median household income ($5,551 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Mareeba show attached dwellings contributing 15% of approvals compared to 11% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 85% of applications versus 89% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health outcomes in Mareeba are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 48.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 20th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 69.3% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
Around 48.7% of people in the suburb of Mareeba are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Mareeba, 6.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
6.3% of people in the suburb of Mareeba are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.6% of the suburb of Mareeba population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.4% of people in the suburb of Mareeba have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Mareeba, 48.7% 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 school is 1.9 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.9 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 | 71 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 71st percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.9 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 2 long day care centres with 283 places in Mareeba, about 2.6 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 Mareeba 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 Mareeba.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Mareeba among the top 26% of areas assessed nationwide.
Mareeba ranks in the 61st percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Mareeba is $440 a week, +10.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Mareeba are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Mareeba's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 83% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Mareeba face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 8% of areas assessed nationally.
Mareeba faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Mareeba features high concentrations of single parent families 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, Mareeba records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Mareeba is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health outcomes in Mareeba are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport in Mareeba: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Mareeba has an estimated 12,854 residents, up 8.7% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Mareeba.
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 Mareeba.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 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 (SAL31763). 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 (Oct 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 Mareeba 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 Mareeba 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 | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
