Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Palm Island has an estimated 2,418 residents, up 13.1% since the 2021 Census, with 50 projects tracked in the area around Palm Island.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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Located 1,168 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Palm Island had an estimated population of around 2,418 as of Aug 2026, according to AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 280 people (13.1%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,138 people. The area's growth has been supported by 87 validated new addresses. Development activity is high and population drivers are strong, although the suburb shows limited expansion patterns in terms of population growth.
Residents are characterised by a high proportion of children, with notable representation among those aged 0 to 4 and 5 to 14. The suburb has a high share of renters, an above-average household size and a notable healthcare employment base. Education levels tend to be lower, and income sits in the lower quartile. Significant infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should drive performance and demand.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 1,168 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD, the suburb of Palm Island had an estimated population of around 2,418 as of Aug 2026, according to AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 280 people (13.1%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,138 people. The area's growth has been supported by 87 validated new addresses. Development activity is high and population drivers are strong, although the suburb shows limited expansion patterns in terms of population growth.
Residents are characterised by a high proportion of children, with notable representation among those aged 0 to 4 and 5 to 14. The suburb has a high share of renters, an above-average household size and a notable healthcare employment base. Education levels tend to be lower, and income sits in the lower quartile. Significant infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should drive performance and demand.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,089 in 2006 and 2,371 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,418 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 20.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 27.3%.
Palm Island ranks in the 84th percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 59th for development activity.
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 Palm Island is $369 a week, for the 12 months to Jun 2026 and 45% below Regional Qld.
45% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Units: $206 in 2017, $325 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
The change over 12 months, by dwelling type, is charted in Full.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $369 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $325 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Townsville | $528 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Qld | $670 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, QLD | $672 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
AreaSearch tracks 50 projects in and around Palm Island, 13 of them under construction.
A series of underwater art installations near Townsville, including the 'Coral Greenhouse' at John Brewer Reef and the 'Ocean Siren' at The Strand. It is the only underwater art museum in the Southern Hemisphere.
The North Queensland Bio-Energy (NQBE) facility is a proposed $640 million integrated sugar, ethanol, and renewable power plant located on an 80-hectare site south of Ingham. As of early 2026, the project remains in the planning phase while awaiting favorable market conditions and finalized financing.
A project to improve water security in the Ingham area, funded under the Building our Regions program. The project involved the extension of the water main along Orient Road.
Proposed ~4,400 sqm manufacturing facility with ~550 sqm office and retail showroom for Moduline in Ingham CBD. Development Application lodged 24 Feb 2025 for Medium Impact Industry (furniture manufacturing, display and sales) across multiple lots fronting Herbert St and Lynn St. State assessment (SARA) advice issued 17 Mar 2025.
Construction of a culvert crossing on Dutton Street to provide a linkage between the north and south of Ingham during flood events. The project was fully funded under the National Flood Infrastructure Mitigation Program.
A list of priority projects for the Hinchinbrook Shire, including upgrades to marine and tourism infrastructure, recycling facilities, and digital connectivity. Specific projects include the Dungeness Marine Access Upgrade, Wallaman Falls Eco and Adventure Tourism, and Forrest Beach Boat Ramp Facilities.
Two critical infrastructure projects to unlock more than 180 new homes in Ingham. The projects are funded through the Queensland Government's Residential Activation Fund and align with the Hinchinbrook Shire Council's Local Housing Action Plan to address housing shortages.
Atlantic North Ingham is a proposed mixed-use development at 70 Townsville Road, Ingham, designed to expand the commercial hub of Hinchinbrook Shire. The precinct comprises six retail showrooms of approximately 800 square metres each, an 18-room motel, and a 30-bed dormitory building for school groups and tourists.
Transformation of an 800-metre concrete stormwater drain into a naturalised waterway with ponds, rocky creek bed, and 97,000 native plants from 75 species to improve water quality, biodiversity, and community aesthetics while benefiting the Great Barrier Reef.
Master planned beachside residential community in Townsville's Northern Beaches by Swanland Group. Current releases are selling, with coastal lots near Halifax Bay and access to beaches, shopping, schools and sports facilities.
Completed staged expansion of a district-level sports park in Townsville's Northern Beaches area, including upgraded rugby league fields, inclusive playground, fitness circuit, oval, and Townsville's largest dog park.
Sanctum is a large-scale master-planned residential community in Townsville's Northern Beaches growth corridor, approximately 25 minutes north of the Townsville CBD and Airport. Delivered by Maidment Group across a 700 hectare site, the project will accommodate up to 4800 families over a 20-25 year development period.
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 12 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 3, 2027 3, 2028 3, 2029 1, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 17 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 6.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 14 | ABS building approvals | 26th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Palm Island include: Bruce Highway (Townsville-Ingham) upgrade program (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure projects impacting the suburb of Palm Island are primarily focused on Transport & Logistics.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the suburb of Palm Island, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
With an infrastructure score in the top 30%, the suburb of Palm Island demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Palm Island when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Palm Island area has seen 52 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Palm Island's current population of 2,418 has been supported by 14 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Palm Island has seen 6.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.3 approvals in Regional Qld. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 90 people in the suburb of Palm Island, 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 Palm Island's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 14, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Palm Island has grown by approximately 135 people, while 72 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Palm Island is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,418 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 27 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,138 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 280 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 88.85 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Palm Island was estimated to be approximately 2,418 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,371 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Palm Island has added approximately 280 people and shown a 13.10% increase from the 2,138 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Palm Island is estimated at 27 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Palm Island has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.8% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Palm Island is driven by: Natural increase (99.0%), Overseas migration (1.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 99.0% of overall population gains.
Palm Island hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 27 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 1st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 7.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 31.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 30.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.0% | 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 | 27 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 15.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 8.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 5.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 1.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Palm Island at 27 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 27 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 27 years as at August 2026, Palm Island is 14 years younger than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 11 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Palm Island compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 20.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Palm Island compared to the Regional Qld region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 5.2% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Palm Island show significant variance compared to Regional Qld. The most over-represented age groups are 0-4 year-olds (11.6% vs 5.3%) and 5-14 year-olds (20.1% vs 12.0%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.1% vs 2.3%) and 75-84 year-olds (1.9% vs 7.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 31.7% of the population in the suburb of Palm Island as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 7.2% of the population in the suburb of Palm Island as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $58,473 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 47th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $69,219 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $973 | 2021 Census, weekly | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $384 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 7.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $898 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 40.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Palm Island is approximately $62,630. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $58,473.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Palm Island is approximately $74,140. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $69,219.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Palm Island is approximately $62,630 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,473 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Palm Island is approximately $74,140 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $69,219 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Palm Island's households (~27.3% / 135 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Palm Island is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 27.3% 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 Palm Island is $973/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Palm Island is $898/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Palm Island is $384/wk.
The suburb of Palm Island shows a median taxpayer income of $58,473 and an average of $69,219 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is just below the national average, contrasting with Regional Qld's median income of $56,722 and average income of $71,544. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $62,630 (median) and $74,140 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Palm Island is $3,687 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Palm Island's disposable income is $3,687 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Palm Island face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 3% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 82.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 26.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 74 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,423 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 430 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Palm Island has approximately 74 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 82.8%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Palm Island stands at 82.8%, which is 78.9 percentage points above Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Palm Island is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (33.0% of employment), education & training (23.3%), and public administration & safety (15.6%). These three sectors alone account for 71.9% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Palm Island 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 Palm Island is 26.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Palm Island shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 33.0% of the local workforce compared to 16.1% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.0, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Palm Island's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 0.8% decline, ranking 23rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Palm Island faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 7.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.1% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 70.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 0.5% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 21.0% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
7.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Palm Island have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
70.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Palm Island have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Palm Island ranks in the 2th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Palm Island are: Certificate (18.1%), Bachelor Degree (4.9%), Advanced Diploma (4.5%).
30.3% of the population in the suburb of Palm Island is currently engaged in formal education, including 21.0% in primary school, 6.4% in secondary school, 0.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Palm Island is 667, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Palm Island, with a combined enrollment of approximately 459 students.
The suburb of Palm Island includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.
Palm Island features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.7 people | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 21.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 27.6% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 30.0% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 494 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 559 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 75.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.5 per family | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Palm Island had 494 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.2% to an estimated 559 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Palm Island is 3.7 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 75.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (21.1%), group households (3.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 372 family households, couples with children account for 27.6% of all households, couples without children at home 11.2%, and single parent families 30.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Palm Island shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Palm Island have an average of 2.5 children, slightly above the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 9.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 85.1% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 21.1% of all households in the suburb of Palm Island, 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 3.7% of households, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%.
In terms of cultural diversity, Palm Island records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 43.3% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 56.7% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 93.2% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 97.8% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 72.6% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
Palm Island was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 93.2% of its population being citizens, 97.8% born in Australia, and 56.7% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Palm Island was found to be Christianity, which makes up 81.7% of people in Palm Island. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Palm Island are Australian Aboriginal, comprising 72.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Qld's 3.9%, Other, comprising 16.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Qld's 6.9%, and Australian, comprising 4.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Regional Qld's 26.5%.
2.2% of the suburb of Palm Island population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
43.3% of the population in the suburb of Palm Island speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
72.6% of the suburb of Palm Island population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
93.2% of the suburb of Palm Island population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Palm Island is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 97.8% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 87.9% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,167 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 79th percentile nationally |
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $125 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 12.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 5th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 51.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.2 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Palm Island, 2.2% of homes are owned outright, 0.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 97.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 87.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Palm Island are houses.
In the suburb of Palm Island, 8.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Palm Island stands at 2.2%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Palm Island is $2,167, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Palm Island is $529, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Palm Island, households with mortgages typically spend 51.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 12.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Palm Island is 1.2, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Palm Island shows mortgage holders spending 51.4% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 12.8% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Palm Island consists of 87.9% detached houses, 0.6% semi-detached dwellings, 8.2% apartments, and 3.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Palm Island consumes approximately 12.6% of median household income ($4,213 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Palm Island show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 12% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 88% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Health performance in Palm Island is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 52.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 46th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 83.9% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 86.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
Around 52.8% of people in the suburb of Palm Island are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Palm Island, 3.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
2.8% of people in the suburb of Palm Island are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 7.2% of the suburb of Palm Island population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.3% of people in the suburb of Palm Island have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Palm Island, 52.8% 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 4.4 km away and the nearest hospital 4.4 km.
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 | 16 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 16th percentile nationally |
| Nearest pharmacy | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 33.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 48.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 49.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 56.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 57.0 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).
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 Palm Island 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 Palm Island.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Palm Island when compared nationally.
Palm Island has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 16% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Palm Island is $369 a week for the 12 months to Jun 2026.
Palm Island is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Palm Island hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Palm Island face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 3% of areas assessed nationally.
Palm Island faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Palm Island features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional Qld.
In terms of cultural diversity, Palm Island records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Palm Island is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Qld.
Health performance in Palm Island is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport in Palm Island: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Palm Island has an estimated 2,418 residents, up 13.1% since the 2021 Census, with 50 projects tracked in the area around Palm Island.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 15 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 Palm Island.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 2025. 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 (SAL32260). 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 2025) 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 Palm Island 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 Palm Island 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 | 0.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 0.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
