Murray

Population growth drivers in Murray are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends

Based on analysis of ABS population updates for the broader area and new addresses validated by AreaSearch, the estimated population of Murray as of Feb 2026 is around 1,739 people. This reflects an increase of 0 people (0.0%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 1,739 people. The change is inferred from the resident population of 1,739, estimated by AreaSearch following examination of the latest ERP data release by the ABS in June 2024 and address validation since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 144 persons per square kilometer, providing significant space per person and potential room for further development. Over the past decade, Murray has demonstrated resilient growth patterns with a compound annual growth rate of 1.4%, outpacing the SA3 area. Population growth for the suburb was primarily driven by overseas migration, which was essentially the sole driver of population gains during recent periods.

AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with a base year of 2022. For areas not covered by this data and years post-2032, Queensland State Government's SA2 area projections are adopted, released in 2023 and based on 2021 data. It should be noted that these state projections do not provide age category splits; hence where utilised, AreaSearch is applying proportional growth weightings in line with the ABS Greater Capital Region projections for each age cohort, released in 2023 and based on 2022 data. Anticipating future population dynamics, projections indicate a decline in overall population over this period, with the suburb's population expected to shrink by 16 persons by 2041 according to this methodology. However, growth across specific age cohorts is anticipated, led by the 25 to 34 age group, which is projected to grow by 192 people.

The level of residential development activity in Murray is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally by AreaSearch

Murray had less than one dwelling approval annually between 2015 and 2019. This minimal development reflects the rural nature of the area, where housing needs drive development rather than market demand. Few approvals mean individual projects can greatly impact annual growth figures.

Murray's construction activity was significantly lower than Rest of Qld during this period. Development levels were also below national averages.

Murray has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 40% nationally

Changes in local infrastructure, major projects, and planning initiatives significantly influence an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified eight projects that may impact the area. Notable projects include Kirwan Health Campus Expansion, Annandale Christian College Master Plan, Townsville University Hospital Expansion, and Riverway Arts Centre and Library. The following list details those most relevant:.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.

Error processing employment analysis

The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment

AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for financial year 2023 shows Murray's median income among taxpayers is $86,912. The average income is $102,735. This places Murray in the top percentile nationally. In comparison, Rest of Qld has a median income of $53,146 and an average of $66,593. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.91% since financial year 2023, estimated incomes for September 2025 would be approximately $95,525 (median) and $112,916 (average). Census 2021 data shows individual earnings in Murray are at the 94th percentile nationally ($1,302 weekly), but household income ranks lower at the 22nd percentile. Income distribution indicates that 84.6% of locals (1,471 people) fall within the $800 - 1,499 category, unlike regional trends where 31.7% are in the $1,500 - 2,999 range. Housing costs allow for retention of 91.9% of income, but disposable income is below average at the 32nd percentile.

Murray is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region

In Murray, as per the latest Census evaluation, all dwellings were houses (100.0%) with none being semi-detached, apartments, or other dwellings. This contrasts with Non-Metro Qld's 76.4% houses and 23.6% other dwellings. Home ownership in Murray was at 0.0%, with all dwellings either mortgaged (0.0%) or rented (100.0%). The median monthly mortgage repayment was $0, significantly lower than Non-Metro Qld's average of $1,863 and the national figure of $2,759 as of 2021. The median weekly rent in Murray was recorded at $107, substantially below Non-Metro Qld's $345 and the national figure of $450.

Murray features high concentrations of lone person households, with a lower-than-average median household size

Family households account for 0.0% of all households, including 0.0% couples with children, 0.0% couples without children, and 0.0% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 100.0%, with lone person households making up 100.0% and group households comprising 0.0%. The median household size is 1.0 people, smaller than the Rest of Qld average of 2.5.

Murray shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators

The area's university qualification rate is 15.6%, significantly lower than Australia's average of 30.4%. This disparity presents both a challenge and an opportunity for targeted educational initiatives. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 13.1%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (1.7%) and graduate diplomas (0.8%). Vocational credentials are prevalent, with 59.5% of residents aged 15 and above holding them, including advanced diplomas (10.0%) and certificates (49.5%).

Educational participation is high, with 60.0% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes tertiary education at 45.0%, primary education at 0.0%, and secondary education also at 0.0%.

No public transport data available for this catchment area.

Health performance in Murray is well below average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts

Murray faces significant health challenges based on AreaSearch's assessment. Mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence are substantial across both younger and older age groups. Approximately 68% of Murray's total population (1,180 people) has private health cover, compared to 52.5% in the rest of Queensland and a national average of 55.7%.

The most common medical conditions are asthma and mental health issues, affecting 3.9% and 1.8% of residents respectively. Ninety-five percent of Murray's residents claim to be completely clear of medical ailments, compared to 67.6% in the rest of Queensland. Health outcomes among working-age populations are generally typical. Only 1.1% of residents are aged 65 and over (19 people), lower than the 20.4% in the rest of Queensland. However, health outcomes among seniors in Murray are above average, with national rankings even higher than those of the general population.

Murray is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics

Murray's cultural diversity was found to be below average, with 40.0% of its population being citizens, 89.2% born in Australia, and 92.4% speaking English only at home. Christianity was the main religion in Murray, accounting for 35.0% of people. The most significant overrepresentation was seen in the 'Other' category, comprising 1.3% of Murray's population compared to 0.8% across the rest of Queensland.

In terms of ancestry, the top three groups were Australian (28.2%), English (27.9%), and Irish (8.7%). Notably, Hungarian (0.4%) was overrepresented in Murray compared to the regional average of 0.2%. Similarly, South African (0.8% vs 0.5%) and Serbian (0.4% vs 0.1%) were also overrepresented.

Murray hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 10% of areas nationwide

Murray's median age is 25, which is significantly lower than Rest of Qld's figure of 41 and Australia's median of 38. Murray has a higher proportion of residents aged 15-24 (66.9%), compared to Rest of Qld, but fewer residents aged 55-64 (0%). This concentration of young residents is notably higher than the national average of 12.5%. Between 2021 and present, Murray's median age has increased by 2.7 years, from 22 to 25, indicating an aging population. The key changes in age distribution show that the 25-34 age group has grown from 23.4% to 26.2%, while the 15-24 cohort has declined from 71.8% to 66.9%. Additionally, the 45-54 age group has dropped from 1.6% to 0%. By 2041, Murray's population is expected to show substantial demographic changes. The 25-34 age cohort is projected to grow by 34%, adding 155 residents to reach a total of 611. Conversely, the number of residents aged 15-24 is expected to decrease by 92.