Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Mount Coolum has an estimated 4,756 residents, up 4.6% since the 2021 Census, with 65 projects tracked in the area around Mount Coolum.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Mount Coolum is located 100 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD. Its population is estimated at around 4,756 as of Aug 2026, based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 211 people (4.6%) since the 2021 Census, when the population was 4,545 people. The area shows moderate population expansion, with a high proportion of middle-aged residents and elevated 45 to 54yo representation.
The suburb of Mount Coolum has a notably well-educated community, substantial healthcare and arts and recreation employment, pronounced education employment, and high semi-detached housing levels.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Mount Coolum is located 100 kilometres north from Brisbane CBD. Its population is estimated at around 4,756 as of Aug 2026, based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 211 people (4.6%) since the 2021 Census, when the population was 4,545 people. The area shows moderate population expansion, with a high proportion of middle-aged residents and elevated 45 to 54yo representation.
The suburb of Mount Coolum has a notably well-educated community, substantial healthcare and arts and recreation employment, pronounced education employment, and high semi-detached housing levels.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,146 in 2006 and 4,726 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 4,756 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 45 to 54, 14.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 35.7%.
Mount Coolum ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education and the 95th for infrastructure drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Mount Coolum is $820 a week, up 20.6% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 28% above Regional Qld.
28% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $494 in 2017, $1,001 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $381 in 2017, $600 in 2026. A break means no rent was reported that year. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $820 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +20.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,001 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +9.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $600 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 | 0.0% | 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 5 tracked applications: 5 approved, 0 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 65 projects in and around Mount Coolum, 12 of them under construction.
South-facing motorway ramps are planned at West Coolum Road, Mount Coolum, as part of a staged upgrade to the Sunshine Motorway between David Low Way, Pacific Paradise, and Yandina-Coolum Road, Coolum.
The site of the former Palmer Coolum Golf Course is being developed into a private gated community named Beachside Yaroomba by Dennis Family Corporation. The project will comprise approximately 300 dwellings, including home sites, beach homes, and premium apartments, aligning with an existing 2007 residential masterplan.
Enclave Coolum Beach is a boutique residential development featuring 17 luxurious two- and three-bedroom apartments designed by Jessica Hardwick Architecture for the Griffin Group. Located just 200 metres from Coolum Beach, the project offers coastal luxury living with sustainable design, premium finishes, and easy access to local amenities.
Comprehensive infrastructure upgrades to Mount Coolum National Park including improved walking tracks, visitor facilities, car parking areas, and interpretive signage. Designed to enhance visitor experience while protecting the natural environment.
A multi-stage redevelopment of the Marcoola Surf Life Saving Club facilities to modernise the club, improve services for members and the community, and enhance its operational capabilities for surf life saving.
A collaborative project between Sunshine Coast Council and the Queensland Government (Housing Investment Fund) to deliver 22 prefabricated modular affordable homes across 11 Council-owned properties in Marcoola, behind the Chemist Warehouse on David Low Way.
Luxurious beachfront apartment development at First Bay, Coolum Beach. Features architecturally striking design with premium finishes and direct beach access. Represents high-end residential development on the Sunshine Coast.
Replacement of existing roundabout near Coolum State School with improved traffic signals and pedestrian facilities. Designed to enhance safety for school children and improve traffic flow during peak periods.
Construction of a new 10km trunk water main at Mount Coolum connecting to existing water infrastructure on the western side of the Sunshine Motorway and north to the Peregian Springs water reservoir, enhancing water supply security for the growing Peregian Springs and broader Sunshine Coast community, servicing about 11,000 people.
Council-designed road link to extend Suncoast Beach Drive to South Coolum Road with a new roundabout and future connection to the proposed Sunshine Motorway interchange at West Coolum Road. Corridor land acquisitions are being finalised; construction is contingent on future funding and is tentatively programmed for the 2031-2036 period.
Intersection safety upgrades along the David Low Way corridor at Coolum Beach, including a $1.0-$1.2 million makeover at David Low Way & Scrub Road (new pedestrian refuge, dedicated right-turn lane into Scrub Road, lighting and line marking).
Major airport expansion completed in June 2020 featuring a new 2,450m x 45m international runway (13/31) capable of handling wide-body aircraft including A330, B777, B787, and A350. The $347 million project enables direct international flights to Asia, China, and Hawaii, with new air traffic control tower and terminal upgrades.
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 18 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 6, 2027 7, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 17 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 5 substantial development applications lodged in and around Mount Coolum over the past 5 years, 2 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 1, 2023 1, 2024 0, 2025 2, 2026 (to Oct) 1.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 8 | ABS building approvals | 17th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Mount Coolum include: Beachside Yaroomba Residential Community (Planning); Sunshine Motorway West Coolum Road Upgrade Interchange (Planning); Coolum to Peregian Springs Reservoir Trunk Water Supply Main (Completed); Marcoola Affordable Housing Project (Completed); and Bli Bli Major Sport and Recreation Precinct (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Mount Coolum spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Transport & Logistics, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
The suburb of Mount Coolum 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 Mount Coolum compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Mount Coolum area has seen 16 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Mount Coolum's current population of 4,756 has been supported by 8 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Mount Coolum has seen 1.7 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 590 people in the suburb of Mount Coolum, 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 Mount Coolum's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 8, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Mount Coolum has grown by approximately 128 people, while 40 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Mount Coolum 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 | 4,756 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +4.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 951 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 50th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,545 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 211 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5.00 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Mount Coolum was estimated to be approximately 4,756 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,726 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Mount Coolum has added approximately 211 people and shown a 4.64% increase from the 4,545 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Mount Coolum is estimated at 951 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Mount Coolum has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Mount Coolum is driven by: Overseas migration (66.0%), Interstate migration (25.0%), Natural increase (8.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 66.0% of overall population gains.
Mount Coolum 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 | 20.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 21.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.8% | 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 | 5.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Mount Coolum 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, Mount Coolum 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 Mount Coolum compared to the Regional Qld region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 14.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Mount Coolum compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 10.3% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Mount Coolum is broadly in line with Regional Qld.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.3% of the population in the suburb of Mount Coolum as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.4% of the population in the suburb of Mount Coolum as at August 2026.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $55,636 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $77,462 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,690 | 2021 Census, weekly | 46th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $808 | 2021 Census, weekly | 51st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 19.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,100 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 22.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is approximately $59,592. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,636.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is approximately $82,970. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $77,462.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is approximately $59,592 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,636 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is approximately $82,970 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $77,462 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Mount Coolum's households (~35.7% / 637 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Mount Coolum is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 35.7% 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 Mount Coolum is $1,690/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is $2,100/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is $808/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is above the national average, with the median assessed at $55,636 while the average income stands at $77,462. 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 $59,592 (median) and $82,970 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Mount Coolum is $5,995 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Mount Coolum's disposable income is $5,995 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Mount Coolum exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,538 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,987 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,616 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Mount Coolum has approximately 2,538 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.0%. 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 Mount Coolum stands at 3.0%, which is 0.9 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 Mount Coolum is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.9% of employment), construction (11.3%), and education & training (11.2%). Other significant employers include retail trade and professional & technical.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Mount Coolum 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 Mount Coolum is 65.6%, 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 Mount Coolum shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 20.9% of the local workforce compared to 16.1% across Regional Qld. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Mount Coolum'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.
Mount Coolum demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 20.2% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 30.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
30.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mount Coolum have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
29.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mount Coolum have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Mount Coolum ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Mount Coolum are: Certificate (27.1%), Bachelor Degree (20.2%), Advanced Diploma (13.5%).
26.6% of the population in the suburb of Mount Coolum is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.4% in primary school, 7.4% in secondary school, 4.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
Mount Coolum features high concentrations of group households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.5% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 29.4% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,784 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,867 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Mount Coolum had 1,784 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.7% to an estimated 1,867 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Mount Coolum is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.0%), group households (4.7%), and other household types (0.1%).
Of the 1,233 family households, couples with children account for 28.5% of all households, couples without children at home 29.4%, and single parent families 10.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Mount Coolum shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the suburb of Mount Coolum have an average of 1.6 children, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.2% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 26.0% of all households in the suburb of Mount Coolum, similar to the average for Regional Qld of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.7% of households, slightly above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%.
Mount Coolum ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 19.7% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.4% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.8% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 80.3% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
Mount Coolum was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.3% of its population born in Australia, 88.8% being citizens, and 94.4% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Mount Coolum, at 41.4% of people, although more residents (56.3%) 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 Mount Coolum are English, comprising 32.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.0% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.8% of Mount Coolum (vs 0.5% across Regional Qld), Scottish at 9.3% (vs 7.8%) and Dutch at 1.8% (vs 1.1%).
19.7% of the suburb of Mount Coolum population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
5.6% of the population in the suburb of Mount Coolum speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
1.2% of the suburb of Mount Coolum population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
88.8% of the suburb of Mount Coolum population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Mount Coolum displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with ownership patterns similar to Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 30.0% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 30.2% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 62.6% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,863 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 39.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 28.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $450 | 2021 Census, weekly | 81st 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 | 25.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 62nd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Mount Coolum, 30.2% of homes are owned outright, 39.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 62.6% of dwellings in the suburb of Mount Coolum are houses.
In the suburb of Mount Coolum, 9.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 28.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Mount Coolum stands at 30.2%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Mount Coolum is $1,863, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Mount Coolum is $1,328, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Mount Coolum, households with mortgages typically spend 25.4% 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 Mount Coolum is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Mount Coolum shows mortgage holders spending 25.4% 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 Mount Coolum consists of 62.6% detached houses, 28.3% semi-detached dwellings, 9.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Mount Coolum consumes approximately 18.1% of median household income ($7,318 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Mount Coolum show attached dwellings contributing 50% of approvals compared to 37% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 50% of applications versus 63% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Mount Coolum's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 64th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 69.0% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 76.8% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
Around 56.1% of people in the suburb of Mount Coolum are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Mount Coolum, 6.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
7.1% of people in the suburb of Mount Coolum are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.3% of the suburb of Mount Coolum population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.9% of people in the suburb of Mount Coolum have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Mount Coolum, 56.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
From the typical resident, the nearest pharmacy is 716 m away and the nearest GP 807 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 | 71 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 71st percentile nationally |
| Nearest pharmacy | 716 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 807 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 807 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 807 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 820 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 3.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 10.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 15.0 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 is 1 long day care centre with 86 places in Mount Coolum, about 2.7 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 Mount Coolum is built to order and emailed to you.
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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 Mount Coolum.
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 Mount Coolum compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Mount Coolum has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 5% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Mount Coolum is $820 a week, +20.6% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Mount Coolum are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Mount Coolum hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Mount Coolum exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
Mount Coolum demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Mount Coolum features high concentrations of group households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
Mount Coolum ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Mount Coolum displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with ownership patterns similar to Regional Qld.
Mount Coolum's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport in Mount Coolum: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Mount Coolum has an estimated 4,756 residents, up 4.6% since the 2021 Census, with 65 projects tracked in the area around Mount Coolum.
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 Mount Coolum.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 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 (SAL31950). 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 (Jul 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 Mount Coolum 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 Mount Coolum with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 31 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 31st percentile nationally |
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 20.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
