Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Mooloolaba has an estimated 8,660 residents, up 5.6% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Mooloolaba.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Mooloolaba sits 88 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch's analysis estimates its population at around 8,660 as of Aug 2026, an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figure derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 458 people (5.6%) since the 2021 Census, when the population stood at 8,202 people. The suburb has a comparatively older age profile, with a median age of 44, and its households are made up largely of lone person and group households. Its population growth pattern is best described as moderate.
Market conditions in the suburb include a strong presence of apartments, an unemployment rate below the average, an above-average renting population, a low average household size, a notable real estate employment base and outstanding service amenity.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Mooloolaba sits 88 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch's analysis estimates its population at around 8,660 as of Aug 2026, an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figure derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 458 people (5.6%) since the 2021 Census, when the population stood at 8,202 people. The suburb has a comparatively older age profile, with a median age of 44, and its households are made up largely of lone person and group households. Its population growth pattern is best described as moderate.
Market conditions in the suburb include a strong presence of apartments, an unemployment rate below the average, an above-average renting population, a low average household size, a notable real estate employment base and outstanding service amenity.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,666 in 2006 and 8,650 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,660 (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, 15.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32%.
Mooloolaba ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 92nd 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 Mooloolaba is $710 a week, up 6.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 11% above Regional Qld.
11% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $490 in 2017, $910 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $374 in 2017, $680 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $710 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $910 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $680 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 | +8.4% | 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 82 tracked applications: 53 approved, 23 under assessment, 6 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in Mooloolaba (3 under construction) and 86 more in the surrounding area.
Major foreshore revitalisation project delivering beachfront parkland, new community facilities, and coastal protection works across four stages. Stage One Northern Parkland (1 hectare of revitalised parkland with boardwalk, playground and coastal pathways) was completed and opened in June 2022.
The Mooloolaba Transport Corridor Upgrade is a staged road upgrade widening Brisbane Road and Walan Street from two to four lanes between Culbara Street and Venning Street. The project improves traffic capacity, pedestrian and cyclist facilities, intersections, landscaping and public transport access.
Restoration of erosion-affected areas on Mooloolaba Beach using sand dredged from the Mooloolah River mouth to protect against severe weather impacts, including post-cyclone recovery efforts.
A 1.6km separated cycle track featuring a 2m wide cycle path physically separated from traffic lanes by concrete barriers. The project improves safety and connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians, linking schools, TAFE, businesses, and Mooloolaba as part of Queensland's Priority A Principal Cycle Network.
A $250-million, 4.5-star hotel with 180 guest rooms, commercial tenancies, parking, four restaurants and function facilities. Major hospitality development designed by Cottee Parker Architects supporting Mooloolaba's tourism infrastructure and accommodation capacity
The Alex Bluff Foreshore Coastal Pathway project involves the construction of approximately 680 metres of coastal pathway and elevated timber-look boardwalk with a new ocean viewing platform.
Part of Stage 1 Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation featuring Coromesh play net by KOMPAN, expanded beachfront parkland by 40%, enhanced family-friendly facilities, landscaping, and reforestation celebrating Sunshine Coast lifestyle
State-of-the-art high school facility serving the growing Mountain Creek and Aura communities with modern learning environments and specialised facilities.
New 8-floor apartment development with 17 residences in prime Mooloolaba location. Features modern residential living with contemporary design and quality finishes in heart of Mooloolaba tourism precinct
Mid-rise residential development featuring 67 residences across 8 floors with 188 car spaces. Modern apartment living along the Brisbane Road corridor with convenient access to Mooloolaba Beach and commercial 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.
New residential apartment development in central Mooloolaba location along Brisbane Road corridor. Modern apartment living with convenient access to beach, retail and dining precincts
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 40 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 3, 2026 14, 2027 8, 2028 6, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 4, 2033 1. 19 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 82 substantial development applications lodged in and around Mooloolaba over the past 5 years, 15 in the last 12 months; 23 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 6, 2023 11, 2024 18, 2025 38, 2026 (to Oct) 7.
Key application 1 Mooloolaba Esp Mooloolaba Multi-Resi | $252m | 46 dwellings | 16 storeys Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 82 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 44th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 28 | ABS building approvals | 41st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 53 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 23 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Mooloolaba include: Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation Project (Construction); Mooloolaba Transport Corridor Upgrade (Construction); Mooloolaba - Alexandra Headland Local Plan Area (Planning); Mooloolaba Beach Nourishment Project (Completed); and Karawatha Drive Cycle Track (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Mooloolaba spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
The suburb of Mooloolaba ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Mooloolaba compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Mooloolaba area has seen 37 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Mooloolaba's current population of 8,660 has been supported by 28 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Mooloolaba has seen 3.4 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 466 people in the suburb of Mooloolaba, 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 Mooloolaba's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 28, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Mooloolaba has grown by approximately 311 people, while 141 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.2 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.
Mooloolaba 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 | 8,660 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,207 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 8,202 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 458 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.92 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Mooloolaba was estimated to be approximately 8,660 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,650 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Mooloolaba has added approximately 458 people and shown a 5.58% increase from the 8,202 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Mooloolaba is estimated at 2,209 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Mooloolaba has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.7% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Mooloolaba is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Mooloolaba hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 44 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 76th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 23.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 53.4% | 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 | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.3% | 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 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.0% | 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 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Mooloolaba at 44 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Mooloolaba is 3 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 6 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 Mooloolaba compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 15.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Mooloolaba compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 9.3% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Mooloolaba is broadly in line with Regional Qld.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.2% of the population in the suburb of Mooloolaba as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 23.6% of the population in the suburb of Mooloolaba 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) | $55,940 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $76,514 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,506 | 2021 Census, weekly | 36th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $843 | 2021 Census, weekly | 58th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,007 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 24.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mooloolaba is approximately $59,917. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,940.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mooloolaba is approximately $81,954. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $76,514.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mooloolaba is approximately $59,917 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,940 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mooloolaba is approximately $81,954 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $76,514 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Mooloolaba's households (~32.0% / 1,122 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Mooloolaba is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.0% 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 Mooloolaba is $1,506/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Mooloolaba is $2,007/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Mooloolaba is $843/wk.
The suburb of Mooloolaba shows a median taxpayer income of $55,940 and an average of $76,514 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is higher than average nationally, contrasting with Regional Qld's median income of $56,722 and average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $59,917 (median) and $81,954 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Mooloolaba is $5,367 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Mooloolaba's disposable income is $5,367 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis places Mooloolaba well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 64.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,743 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,662 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,859 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Mooloolaba has approximately 4,743 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.4%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Mooloolaba stands at 2.4%, which is 1.5 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Mooloolaba is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.6% of employment), construction (12.7%), and accommodation & food (11.5%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Mooloolaba 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 Mooloolaba is 64.3%, 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 Mooloolaba shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 11.5% 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 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Mooloolaba's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. 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 Mooloolaba ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 28.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 25.7% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 33.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
28.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mooloolaba have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
33.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mooloolaba have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Mooloolaba ranks in the 72th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Mooloolaba are: Certificate (25.7%), Bachelor Degree (20.5%), Advanced Diploma (12.4%).
25.8% of the population in the suburb of Mooloolaba is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.6% in primary school, 6.7% in secondary school, 5.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Mooloolaba is 1068, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Mooloolaba, with a combined enrollment of approximately 793 students.
The suburb of Mooloolaba includes 1 primary school.
Mooloolaba 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 | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 18.7% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,506 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,702 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 60.2% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Mooloolaba had 3,506 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.6% to an estimated 3,702 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Mooloolaba is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 60.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.1%), group households (6.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,111 family households, couples with children account for 18.7% of all households, couples without children at home 30.6%, and single parent families 10.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Mooloolaba shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.1% (versus 25.6% in Regional Qld). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 60.2% 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 Mooloolaba 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 41.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.1% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 33.1% of all households in the suburb of Mooloolaba, 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 6.8% 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 Mooloolaba 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 | 27.0% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 90.2% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.4% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 73.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
Mooloolaba was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 9.8% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 27.0% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Mooloolaba, at 46.5% of people, although more residents (49.5%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.2% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Mooloolaba are English, comprising 32.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 22.8% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: New Zealand is notably overrepresented at 1.4% of Mooloolaba (vs 0.9% across Regional Qld), French at 0.7% (vs 0.5%) and Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.5%).
27.0% of the suburb of Mooloolaba population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
9.8% of the population in the suburb of Mooloolaba speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
1.2% of the suburb of Mooloolaba population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
81.4% of the suburb of Mooloolaba population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Mooloolaba features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 42.6% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 48.0% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,762 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 47th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 23.9% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 26.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 88th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.0% | 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 Mooloolaba, 33.5% of homes are owned outright, 23.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 42.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 38.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Mooloolaba are houses.
In the suburb of Mooloolaba, 48.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 11.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Mooloolaba stands at 33.5%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Mooloolaba is $1,762, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Mooloolaba is $1,159, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Mooloolaba, households with mortgages typically spend 27.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Mooloolaba is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Mooloolaba shows mortgage holders spending 27.0% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 26.6% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Mooloolaba consists of 38.9% detached houses, 11.7% semi-detached dwellings, 48.0% apartments, and 1.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Mooloolaba consumes approximately 17.8% of median household income ($6,521 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Mooloolaba show attached dwellings contributing 41% of approvals compared to 61% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 59% of applications versus 39% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Mooloolaba's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 55.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 61st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 69.4% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 77.6% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
Around 55.7% of people in the suburb of Mooloolaba are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Mooloolaba, 4.4% 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 Mooloolaba are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the suburb of Mooloolaba population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.8% of people in the suburb of Mooloolaba have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Mooloolaba, 55.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 476 m away and the nearest pharmacy 559 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 | 92 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 476 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 559 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 597 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 616 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 720 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 738 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 741 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 886 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 7.2 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 206 places in Mooloolaba, about 1.5 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 Mooloolaba 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 Mooloolaba.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Mooloolaba compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Mooloolaba has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 7% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Mooloolaba is $710 a week, +6.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Mooloolaba has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Mooloolaba hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
AreaSearch analysis places Mooloolaba well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators.
The educational profile of Mooloolaba ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Mooloolaba 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 Mooloolaba was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Mooloolaba features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Mooloolaba's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport in Mooloolaba: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Mooloolaba has an estimated 8,660 residents, up 5.6% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Mooloolaba.
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 Mooloolaba.
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 (SAL31895). 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 Mooloolaba 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 Mooloolaba 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 | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 16.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
