Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Noosa Heads has an estimated 5,385 residents, up 5.2% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Noosa Heads.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
The suburb of Noosa Heads lies 118 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 5,385 as of Aug 2026, a figure derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. That represents an increase of 265 people (5.2%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 5,120 people. The area also has a notable real estate employment base and a strong presence of apartments.
Standout features of the suburb of Noosa Heads include a high proportion of mature and retirement-age Australians, with a population made up largely of group households and couples without children. Its population growth shows strong expansion patterns. Set on a picturesque coastline famed for crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches and lush national parks, the suburb has a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to nature enthusiasts, surfers and beach-lovers.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Noosa Heads lies 118 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 5,385 as of Aug 2026, a figure derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. That represents an increase of 265 people (5.2%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 5,120 people. The area also has a notable real estate employment base and a strong presence of apartments.
Standout features of the suburb of Noosa Heads include a high proportion of mature and retirement-age Australians, with a population made up largely of group households and couples without children. Its population growth shows strong expansion patterns. Set on a picturesque coastline famed for crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches and lush national parks, the suburb has a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to nature enthusiasts, surfers and beach-lovers.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,809 in 2006 and 5,323 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 5,385 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 16.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 26.6%.
Noosa Heads ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for education and the 93rd 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 Noosa Heads is $1,075 a week, up 4.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 68% above Regional Qld.
68% above Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $729 in 2017, $1,330 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $399 in 2017, $910 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $1,075 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,330 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +7.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $910 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 | +10.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Noosa | $874 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Noosa, over 12 months | +4.4% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 10 projects in Noosa Heads (4 under construction) and 57 more in the surrounding area.
Expansion of the Noosa Civic shopping centre and a new Village Mixed Use precinct anchored by Reading Cinemas. Features an expanded green spine with lawn space, build-to-rent apartments, professional suites, and a gateway office building.
Development of 3 bespoke terrace homes in Noosa Junction offering luxury coastal living with private pools, private lifts, and rooftop terraces. Each terrace features 3 bedrooms (or 2 bedrooms plus media room), 2-3 bathrooms, flowing open-plan layouts, ducted air conditioning, and high-end finishes.
State Facilitated Development application for a mixed-use build-to-rent precinct comprising 195 apartments, ground-floor commercial and retail uses, rooftop communal facilities and basement parking. The proposal includes a minimum 15% affordable housing component, with a higher proportion possible through government funding.
Capital Prudential's $43 million boutique residential development comprising 38 meticulously crafted two and three-bedroom apartments and townhomes. Located in the heart of Noosaville, designed by Blackwood Architecture and constructed by QLD Built.
Tea Tree Residences represents the pinnacle of Noosa luxury with a rare signature of coastal form and function. The development is a collaboration between Chris Clout Design and MBC Prestige, featuring 6 villas at 24 Katharina Street and 2 penthouses at 10 Natasha Avenue.
Sunrise Beach Village is a boutique retirement community featuring 122 high-quality independent living homes, a mix of two and three-bedroom villas and apartments, co-located with the BlueCare Sunrise Beach Aged Care facility. Amenities include a community clubhouse, heated swimming pool, private theatre, e-bike hire, and fitness centre.
Purpose-built medical hub within the Noosa Business Centre. Now operational with tenants including Icon Cancer Centre, Sunshine Coast Radiology, Noosa Civic Family Practice and allied health, delivering advanced oncology and diagnostic services locally.
Luxury residential development inspired by Corsican coastal elegance, offering contemporary apartment living in central Noosa Heads location near Hastings Street.
A luxury hotel and villas in Noosa Heads on a 2.4ha site with pools, tennis court, wellness facilities, cinema, and function spaces. Focus on sustainability with carbon-neutral goal and vermicomposting.
Unitywater is undertaking essential renewal and maintenance works at the existing Noosa Wastewater Treatment Plant to maintain safe and reliable wastewater services and improve capacity during wet weather events.
Premium master-planned residential community of 189 homes designed by 12 renowned Australian architects. Features recreation club with pool, tennis court, gym, and man-made lake surrounded by natural bushland.
A $3.5 million bridge refurbishment of the Garth Prowd Bridge in Noosa Heads (formerly connecting Noosa Sound to Noosa Heads, renamed in honour of triathlon pioneer Garth Prowd in 2017).
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 25 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 4, 2026 9, 2027 9, 2028 0, 2029 2, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 16 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 4.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 60th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 24 | ABS building approvals | 36th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Noosa Heads include: Noosa Business Centre Village Precinct (Under Assessment); Noosa Junction Station - State Facilitated Mixed-Use Development (Under Assessment); Bottlebrush Noosa Heads (Approved); Sunrise Beach Village (Construction); and Tea Tree Residences (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Noosa Heads spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Communities, and Residential Development, among others.
The suburb of Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Noosa Heads area has seen 33 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Noosa Heads's current population of 5,385 has been supported by 24 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Noosa Heads has seen 4.7 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 320 people in the suburb of Noosa Heads, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Noosa Heads's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 24, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Noosa Heads has grown by approximately 201 people, while 122 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Noosa Heads 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 | 5,385 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 418 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 5,120 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 265 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 12.88 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Noosa Heads was estimated to be approximately 5,385 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 5,323 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Noosa Heads has added approximately 265 people and shown a 5.18% increase from the 5,120 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Noosa Heads is estimated at 418 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Noosa Heads has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.3% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Noosa Heads 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.
Noosa Heads ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 53 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 96th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 32.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 18.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 46.6% | 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 | 54 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 8.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 16.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Noosa Heads at 53 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 54 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 53 years as at August 2026, Noosa Heads is 12 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 15 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 Noosa Heads compared to the Regional Qld region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 12.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Noosa Heads compared to the Regional Qld region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Noosa Heads show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (12.8% vs 7.1%) and 65-74 year-olds (16.4% vs 10.9%). The most under-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (2.7% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 11.7% of the population in the suburb of Noosa Heads as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 32.2% of the population in the suburb of Noosa Heads 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) | $51,386 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $106,064 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,843 | 2021 Census, weekly | 55th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $909 | 2021 Census, weekly | 68th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 29.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,228 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 21.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is approximately $55,040. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $51,386.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is approximately $113,605. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $106,064.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is approximately $55,040 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $51,386 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is approximately $113,605 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $106,064 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Noosa Heads's households (~26.6% / 530 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Noosa Heads is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 26.6% of households. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is $1,843/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is $2,228/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is $909/wk.
The suburb of Noosa Heads's income level is exceptionally high nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Noosa Heads's median income among taxpayers is $51,386 and the average income stands at $106,064, which compares to figures for Regional Qld's of $56,722 and $71,544 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $55,040 (median) and $113,605 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Noosa Heads is $6,862 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Noosa Heads's disposable income is $6,862 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Noosa Heads demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 35% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 53.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,494 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,494 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,554 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Noosa Heads has approximately 2,494 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.3%. 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 Noosa Heads stands at 2.3%, which is 1.6 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 Noosa Heads is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are accommodation & food (17.8% of employment), health care & social assistance (12.9%), and professional & technical (11.2%). Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads is 53.9%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Noosa Heads shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 17.8% of the local workforce compared to 8.3% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.1, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 3 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The suburb of Noosa Heads'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.
Noosa Heads demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 5% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 36.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.4% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 15.0% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 22.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
36.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Noosa Heads have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
29.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Noosa Heads have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Noosa Heads ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Noosa Heads are: Bachelor Degree (26.0%), Certificate (18.4%), Advanced Diploma (15.0%).
22.4% of the population in the suburb of Noosa Heads is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.4% in primary school, 7.3% in secondary school, 2.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
Noosa Heads features high concentrations of couples without children and group 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 | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 24.6% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 20.1% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 41.2% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,994 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,097 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.4% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Noosa Heads had 1,994 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.2% to an estimated 2,097 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Noosa Heads is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (24.6%), group households (5.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,404 family households, couples with children account for 20.1% of all households, couples without children at home 41.2%, and single parent families 8.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Noosa Heads shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the suburb of Noosa Heads 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 52.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 27.4% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 24.6% of all households in the suburb of Noosa Heads, 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 5.0% of households, above the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Noosa Heads 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 | 30.3% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 91.2% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 82.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 69.7% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.5% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
Noosa Heads was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 8.8% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 30.3% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Noosa Heads, at 46.4% of people, although more residents (50.5%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.6% 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 Noosa Heads are English, comprising 33.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 19.2% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 26.5%, and Scottish, comprising 11.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 1.6% of Noosa Heads (vs 0.5% across Regional Qld), South African at 1.0% (vs 0.5%) and Hungarian at 0.4% (vs 0.2%).
30.3% of the suburb of Noosa Heads population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
8.8% of the population in the suburb of Noosa Heads speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
0.5% of the suburb of Noosa Heads population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
82.8% of the suburb of Noosa Heads population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Noosa Heads is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 24.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 50.6% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 72.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,167 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 79th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 24.5% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $550 | 2021 Census, weekly | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 29.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Noosa Heads, 50.6% of homes are owned outright, 24.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 24.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 72.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Noosa Heads are houses.
In the suburb of Noosa Heads, 19.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Noosa Heads stands at 50.6%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Noosa Heads is $2,167, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Noosa Heads is $1,124, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Noosa Heads, households with mortgages typically spend 27.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 29.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Noosa Heads is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Noosa Heads shows mortgage holders spending 27.1% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 29.8% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Noosa Heads consists of 72.3% detached houses, 8.4% semi-detached dwellings, 19.3% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Noosa Heads consumes approximately 14.1% of median household income ($7,980 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Noosa Heads show attached dwellings contributing 18% of approvals compared to 28% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 82% of applications versus 72% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Noosa Heads's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 67.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 89th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.8% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.1% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.1% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
Around 67.7% of people in the suburb of Noosa Heads are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Noosa Heads, 6.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
5.5% of people in the suburb of Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.0% of people in the suburb of Noosa Heads have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Noosa Heads, 67.7% 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 supermarket is 834 m away and the nearest pharmacy 935 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 | 63 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest supermarket | 834 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 916 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 935 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 961 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 27.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
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 Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads.
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 Noosa Heads compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads is $1,075 a week, +4.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Noosa Heads are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Noosa Heads ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment conditions in Noosa Heads demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 35% of areas assessed nationally.
Noosa Heads demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 5% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Noosa Heads features high concentrations of couples without children and group households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Qld.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Noosa Heads was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Noosa Heads is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Noosa Heads's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport in Noosa Heads: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Noosa Heads has an estimated 5,385 residents, up 5.2% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Noosa Heads.
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 Noosa Heads.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jun 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 (SAL32160). 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 (Jun 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 Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads 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 | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 31.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
