Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Maroochydore has an estimated 23,539 residents, up 14.1% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Maroochydore.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Positioned 90 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Maroochydore functions as a vibrant coastal centre supported by outstanding service amenity. According to AreaSearch's demographic modeling, Maroochydore's population is estimated at around 23,539 as of August 2026, synthesising annualized SA2 Estimated Resident Population (ERP) data and quarterly national address releases. This marks an expansion of 2,910 people (14.1%) from the 20,629 residents counted at the 2021 Census. Benefiting from population drivers and development activity well above average, the suburb ranks among the top 10% of areas nationally for population growth.
The local residential profile is distinguished by a low average household size and an above-average renting population, alongside a strong apartment presence and high semi-detached housing levels. Demographically, the community is characterised by a high proportion of older australians and elderly residents, who largely reside in lone person households and group households.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Positioned 90 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Maroochydore functions as a vibrant coastal centre supported by outstanding service amenity. According to AreaSearch's demographic modeling, Maroochydore's population is estimated at around 23,539 as of August 2026, synthesising annualized SA2 Estimated Resident Population (ERP) data and quarterly national address releases. This marks an expansion of 2,910 people (14.1%) from the 20,629 residents counted at the 2021 Census. Benefiting from population drivers and development activity well above average, the suburb ranks among the top 10% of areas nationally for population growth.
The local residential profile is distinguished by a low average household size and an above-average renting population, alongside a strong apartment presence and high semi-detached housing levels. Demographically, the community is characterised by a high proportion of older australians and elderly residents, who largely reside in lone person households and group households.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 14,120 in 2006 and 23,117 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 23,539 (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, 16.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.6%.
Maroochydore ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for development activity and the 93rd for amenities.
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 Maroochydore is $720 a week, up 5.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 13% above Regional Qld.
13% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $483 in 2017, $852 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $357 in 2017, $692 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $720 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $852 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $692 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 | +3.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| 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 234 tracked applications: 168 approved, 28 under assessment, 38 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 15 projects in Maroochydore (6 under construction) and 61 more in the surrounding area.
Australia's largest greenfield CBD development on a 53-60 hectare site in Maroochydore. A multi-billion dollar masterplanned project featuring commercial, retail, residential, civic, and cultural facilities, including the Sunshine Coast Council headquarters.
Sunshine Coast Council is preparing a new planning scheme to replace the Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014. The proposed scheme sets the land use planning framework for the region, guiding growth, housing diversity, local plans, environmental protection, climate resilience, centres and employment areas.
Twin eight-storey towers with 205 two, three, and four-bedroom apartments, featuring a 25-metre rooftop infinity pool, gym, and commercial spaces at ground level. Located near Maroochydore City Centre, designed for luxury coastal living.
The Millwell is a mixed-use development featuring 205 apartments across two eight-level towers with ground-floor commercial space. The project includes the Sunshine Coast's first 25-metre rooftop infinity-edge pool, private dining rooms, and 360-degree views spanning the Maroochy River and Sunshine Coast beaches.
A premium residential development comprising 251 dwellings across two 19-storey towers, including one to four-bedroom apartments, townhouses, and penthouses. The project features ground-floor retail, dining, and commercial spaces. Amenities include a rooftop terrace, 20-metre pool, gym, saunas, cold plunge pools, co-working spaces, and a sunset lawn.
Boutique land estate comprising five spacious lots ranging from 1,502 to 2,288 square metres, located at Kuluin's highest point adjoining Martins Creek Conservation Reserve. The elevated position offers scenic views, privacy, and flood-free living.
Stage 6 of the Mooloolaba to Maroochydore Cycleway will deliver a 1.2 km, 5 metre wide off-road shared path along Alexandra Parade between Mary Street and Sixth Avenue.
Twin 19-storey mixed-use towers delivering 251 premium apartments, townhouses and penthouses in the heart of Maroochydore City Centre - Australia's largest greenfield CBD. The development features one to four-bedroom residences across 2,162 square metres of commercial space and 382 car parks.
A 12-storey mixed-use development featuring a 153-room voco hotel with water views, lifestyle-led guestrooms, a specialty restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor pool, spa, sauna, and conference spaces including a ballroom. Includes 9 luxury residences on upper levels.
A mixed-use groundscraper including a hotel tavern, ground floor retail, and four levels of offices with rooftop amenities. Located in the heart of Maroochydore.
A major urban renewal project developing a new CBD in Maroochydore, featuring mixed-use towers, commercial spaces, residential apartments, retail, cultural facilities, and innovative smart city technology. The project is in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, SunCentral Maroochydore, and Walker Corporation.
Completed upgrade of the Bruce Highway interchanges at Maroochydore Road and Mons Road near Forest Glen on the Sunshine Coast. Works included a new four-lane eastbound bridge over the Bruce Highway, conversion of the Maroochydore Road and Nambour Connection Road roundabout to a fully signalised interchange, extension and widening of all on and off-ramps…
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 24 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 7, 2027 7, 2028 4, 2029 1, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 2, 2033 1. 18 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 234 substantial development applications lodged in and around Maroochydore over the past 5 years, 43 in the last 12 months; 28 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 13, 2022 46, 2023 52, 2024 52, 2025 43, 2026 (to Oct) 28.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 234 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 43 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 14.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 91st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 311 | ABS building approvals | 96th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 168 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 28 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Maroochydore include: Sunshine Coast Infrastructure Coordination Plan (Planning); The Millwell (Construction); SOL by Walker (Construction); Maroochydore City Centre (Construction); and New Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme Project (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Maroochydore spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Residential Development, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Maroochydore higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Maroochydore area has seen 682 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Maroochydore's current population of 23,539 has been supported by 311 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Maroochydore has seen 14.6 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 67 people in the suburb of Maroochydore, 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 Maroochydore's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 311, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Maroochydore has grown by approximately 2,915 people, while 1,557 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.9 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.
Maroochydore lies within the top 8% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 23,539 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +14.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,809 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +3.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 20,629 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,910 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 13.02 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Maroochydore was estimated to be approximately 23,539 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 23,117 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Maroochydore has added approximately 2,910 people and shown a 14.11% increase from the 20,629 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Maroochydore is estimated at 1,808 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Maroochydore has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Maroochydore is driven by: Overseas migration (54.0%), Interstate migration (46.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 54.0% of overall population gains.
Maroochydore hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 47 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 85th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 28.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 51.3% | 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 | 47 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 16.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.1% | 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 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Maroochydore at 47 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 47 years as at August 2026, Maroochydore is 6 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 9 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 Maroochydore compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 16.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Maroochydore compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 6.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Maroochydore show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.9% vs 2.3%) and 75-84 year-olds (10.4% vs 7.1%). The most under-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (6.3% vs 12.0%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 10.8% of the population in the suburb of Maroochydore as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 28.2% of the population in the suburb of Maroochydore 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) | $53,774 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $68,249 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,360 | 2021 Census, weekly | 24th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $771 | 2021 Census, weekly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 15.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,769 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Maroochydore is approximately $57,597. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $53,774.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Maroochydore is approximately $73,102. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $68,249.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Maroochydore is approximately $57,597 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,774 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Maroochydore is approximately $73,102 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,249 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Maroochydore's households (~29.6% / 2,618 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Maroochydore is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.6% 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 Maroochydore is $1,360/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Maroochydore is $1,769/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Maroochydore is $771/wk.
The suburb of Maroochydore's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Maroochydore's median income among taxpayers is $53,774 and the average income stands at $68,249, which compares to figures for Regional Qld's of $56,722 and $71,544 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $57,597 (median) and $73,102 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Maroochydore is $4,710 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Maroochydore's disposable income is $4,710 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Maroochydore has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 59.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 11,679 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 28,376 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 12,290 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Maroochydore has approximately 11,679 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.0%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Maroochydore stands at 5.0%, which is 1.1 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 Maroochydore is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.8% of employment), accommodation & food (11.3%), and construction (10.5%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Maroochydore 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 Maroochydore is 59.4%, 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%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Qld.
The suburb of Maroochydore shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 11.3% of the local workforce compared to 8.3% 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.
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The suburb of Maroochydore'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 1.7% decline, ranking 25th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Maroochydore ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 18.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 26.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 25.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.9% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 35.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
26.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Maroochydore have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
35.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Maroochydore have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Maroochydore ranks in the 60th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Maroochydore are: Certificate (25.6%), Bachelor Degree (18.6%), Advanced Diploma (12.9%).
25.3% of the population in the suburb of Maroochydore is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.6% in primary school, 5.6% in secondary school, 6.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Maroochydore is 1025, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 6 schools within the suburb of Maroochydore, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,327 students.
The suburb of Maroochydore includes 2 primary schools, 4 secondary schools.
Maroochydore features high concentrations of group households and lone person households 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 | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 14.6% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 33.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,854 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 10,103 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 58.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Maroochydore had 8,854 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 14.1% to an estimated 10,103 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Maroochydore is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 58.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (34.3%), group households (7.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,197 family households, couples with children account for 14.6% of all households, couples without children at home 33.0%, and single parent families 9.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Maroochydore shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.3% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 58.7% 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 Maroochydore have an average of 1.5 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 40.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.9% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 34.3% of all households in the suburb of Maroochydore, higher than 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 7.0% of households, above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Maroochydore was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 26.4% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 89.0% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 79.2% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 73.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
Maroochydore was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 11.0% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 26.4% born overseas.
The main religion in Maroochydore was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.7% of people in Maroochydore. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 2.2% 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 Maroochydore are English, comprising 32.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 22.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 4.7% of Maroochydore (vs 4.7% across Regional Qld), New Zealand at 0.9% (vs 0.9%) and Scottish at 8.8% (vs 7.8%).
26.4% of the suburb of Maroochydore population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
11.0% of the population in the suburb of Maroochydore speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
1.5% of the suburb of Maroochydore population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
79.2% of the suburb of Maroochydore population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Maroochydore 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 | 44.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 32.8% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 37.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 46th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 22.8% | 2021 Census | 9th 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 | $410 | 2021 Census, weekly | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 30.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Maroochydore, 32.8% of homes are owned outright, 22.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 44.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 37.8% of dwellings in the suburb of Maroochydore are houses.
In the suburb of Maroochydore, 36.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 24.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Maroochydore stands at 32.8%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Maroochydore is $1,733, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Maroochydore is $1,183, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Maroochydore, households with mortgages typically spend 29.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 30.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Maroochydore is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Maroochydore shows mortgage holders spending 29.4% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 30.1% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Maroochydore consists of 37.8% detached houses, 24.3% semi-detached dwellings, 36.8% apartments, and 1.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Maroochydore consumes approximately 20.1% of median household income ($5,889 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Maroochydore show attached dwellings contributing 86% of approvals compared to 62% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 14% of applications versus 38% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health outcomes in Maroochydore 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 | 52.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 43rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.6% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
Around 52.4% of people in the suburb of Maroochydore are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Maroochydore, 6.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
6.8% of people in the suburb of Maroochydore are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.9% of the suburb of Maroochydore population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.8% of people in the suburb of Maroochydore have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Maroochydore, 52.4% 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 432 m away and the nearest pharmacy 554 m.
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 | 93 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 432 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 534 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 554 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 555 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 649 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 671 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 829 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 880 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 10.6 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). There are 8 long day care centres with 630 places in Maroochydore, about 1.7 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 Maroochydore 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 Maroochydore.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Maroochydore higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Maroochydore ranks in the 72nd percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Maroochydore is $720 a week, +5.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Maroochydore lies within the top 8% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Maroochydore hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment performance in Maroochydore has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
The educational profile of Maroochydore ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Maroochydore features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Maroochydore was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Maroochydore displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Health outcomes in Maroochydore are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport in Maroochydore: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Maroochydore has an estimated 23,539 residents, up 14.1% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Maroochydore.
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 Maroochydore.
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 (SAL31772). 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 Maroochydore 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 Maroochydore 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 | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 15.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
