Suburb profile · Greater Brisbane
Shorncliffe has an estimated 1,944 residents, up 1.9% since the 2021 Census, with 43 projects tracked in the area around Shorncliffe.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Shorncliffe is located 17 kilometres north-northeast from Brisbane CBD. Its population is estimated at around 1,944 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 1,907 people. The local profile includes a well-educated population, strong school performance, above-average median household income, notable representation of residents aged 55 to 64 and 45 to 54, and a pronounced real estate employment base. Residents include a high proportion of middle-aged and mature and retirement-aged people, and the area is very well educated and affluent.
Shorncliffe is known for its picturesque coastal setting, calm waters, sandy beaches and lush parklands, alongside a village atmosphere and heritage-listed architecture. Art events, festivals and markets contribute to local culture, while the pier offers opportunities for strolling, fishing and bay views. Walking and cycling tracks provide access to the surrounding landscape.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Shorncliffe is located 17 kilometres north-northeast from Brisbane CBD. Its population is estimated at around 1,944 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 1,907 people. The local profile includes a well-educated population, strong school performance, above-average median household income, notable representation of residents aged 55 to 64 and 45 to 54, and a pronounced real estate employment base. Residents include a high proportion of middle-aged and mature and retirement-aged people, and the area is very well educated and affluent.
Shorncliffe is known for its picturesque coastal setting, calm waters, sandy beaches and lush parklands, alongside a village atmosphere and heritage-listed architecture. Art events, festivals and markets contribute to local culture, while the pier offers opportunities for strolling, fishing and bay views. Walking and cycling tracks provide access to the surrounding landscape.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,896 in 2006 and 1,944 in 2025. The Aug 2026 estimate (ABS June 2025 base) is the same.
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 19%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 24.5%.
Shorncliffe ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 90th for income.
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 Shorncliffe is $480 a week, for the 12 months to Jun 2026 and 29% below Greater Brisbane.
29% below Greater Brisbane on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $305 in 2017, $521 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $200 in 2017, $326 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 | $480 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $521 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $326 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sandgate | $633 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Brisbane - North | $678 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Greater Brisbane | $674 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 67 tracked applications: 57 approved, 9 under assessment, 1 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 43 projects in and around Shorncliffe, 9 of them under construction.
Final stages of the Taigum Gardens land estate in Taigum, releasing new house and land packages along Lemke Road with homes expected to be delivered from late 2025 through 2026.
House and land packages in peaceful residence surrounded by bushland. Features 5 different home designs from 3-5 bedrooms with premium inclusions. Close to parks, schools and transport links.
Staged renovation and extension of the Bracken Ridge Tavern to modernise dining, bar, gaming and family spaces while the venue remains open. Works include refreshed interiors and outdoor areas, staged relocation of the main entrance, a temporary restaurant location during construction, and a new Italian eatery alongside an upgraded Panama Jacks steakhouse.
A boutique community of 82 architecturally designed 3 and 4 bedroom townhomes by Peet Limited, 18 km north of Brisbane CBD in Nudgee. Located 120m from Nudgee train station and walking distance to the Banyo cafe strip, with easy access to the Gateway Motorway, Brisbane Airport and local parks.
Emerald Park is a collection of 36 three-bedroom, two-level contemporary townhomes in three stages in the established Bridgeman Downs community, about 13km north of the Brisbane CBD. Stages 1 and 2 sold out; Stage 3 was released later.
Road upgrade and widening of Beams Road in Carseldine to improve traffic flow and safety. Project included intersection improvements and enhanced pedestrian and cycling facilities.
Construction of a new section of road to connect Railway Parade to Saint Achs Street in Nudgee, including a new pedestrian crossing, new kerb ramps on Saint Achs Street, and extension of the footpath network to improve safety and connectivity for road and active transport users.
Taigum Square is a single level sub regional shopping centre located on the corner of Church and Beams Roads in Taigum, approximately 15 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. The centre is owned and managed by Vicinity Centres and is anchored by Big W and Woolworths, supported by around 45 specialty stores and several freestanding tenancies.
Upgrade of a 5.8 km section of the Gateway Motorway between Depot Road at Bracken Ridge and the Bruce Highway interchange south of the Pine River at Bald Hills. The project delivers additional motorway lanes, an improved Gateway Motorway curve at Bracken Ridge, and upgraded connections with the Bruce Highway, Bracken Ridge Road and the Deagon Deviation.
Upgrade of Nudgee Recreation Reserve delivering multi-use sports fields with lighting, new clubhouse with change rooms and community spaces, and a 223-space car park with improved access to Nudgee Station. The reserve now serves as Football Queensland's north Brisbane base.
Concept for a future rail station serving Bridgeman Downs within wider north-west Brisbane transport planning. Official material identifies the North West Transport Corridor as a preserved strategic transport corridor and Brisbane City Council consultation material has considered rail, busway, road and active transport options, but there is no funded or…
Plans filed for a 32-room co-living project comprising four buildings aimed at providing affordable housing options.
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 17 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 7, 2027 2, 2028 0, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 2. 11 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 67 substantial development applications lodged in and around Shorncliffe over the past 5 years, 14 in the last 12 months; 9 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 7, 2022 9, 2023 5, 2024 16, 2025 16, 2026 (to Oct) 14.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 67 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 14 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 6 | ABS building approvals | 13th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 57 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 9 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Shorncliffe include: Bridgeman Downs Neighbourhood Plan (Completed); Gateway Motorway and Bruce Highway Upgrades (Planning); Gateway Motorway, Bracken Ridge to Pine River Upgrade (Planning); Gateway to Bruce Upgrade (G2BU) (Detailed Design); and Port of Brisbane Rail Infrastructure Enhancement (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Shorncliffe spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
The suburb of Shorncliffe 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 in Shorncliffe is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Shorncliffe area has seen 6 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Shorncliffe's current population of 1,944 has been supported by 6 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Shorncliffe has seen 3.1 approval per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 8.1 approval in Greater Brisbane. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 646 people in the suburb of Shorncliffe, compared to one for every 117 in Greater Brisbane.
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 Shorncliffe's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 6, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Shorncliffe has grown by approximately 12 people, while 30 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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.
Shorncliffe has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,944 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,597 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 1,907 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 37 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.22 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Shorncliffe was estimated to be approximately 1,944 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 1,944 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Shorncliffe has added approximately 37 people and shown a 1.94% increase from the 1,907 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Shorncliffe is estimated at 1,593 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Shorncliffe has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Shorncliffe is driven by: Overseas migration (59.0%), Interstate migration (41.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 59.0% of overall population gains.
Shorncliffe hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 47 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 85th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 21.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 18.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.7% | 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 | 47 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 5.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 19.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Shorncliffe at 47 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 47 years as at August 2026, Shorncliffe is 11 years older than the Greater Brisbane 2021 Census average (36 years) and 9 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 Shorncliffe compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 19.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Shorncliffe compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 5.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Shorncliffe show significant variance compared to Greater Brisbane. The most over-represented age groups are 55-64 year-olds (19.0% vs 10.4%) and 65-74 year-olds (14.4% vs 8.0%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.3% vs 1.8%) and 25-34 year-olds (5.3% vs 15.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.8% of the population in the suburb of Shorncliffe as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.2% of the population in the suburb of Shorncliffe as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 10% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $70,667 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 85th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $85,447 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,259 | 2021 Census, weekly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $930 | 2021 Census, weekly | 71st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 40.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,099 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 23.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is approximately $75,691. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $70,667.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is approximately $91,522. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $85,447.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is approximately $75,691 compared to $66,053 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,667 and $61,668 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is approximately $91,522 compared to $82,596 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $85,447 and $77,113 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Shorncliffe's households (~24.5% / 174 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Shorncliffe is the $4000+ group, representing about 24.5% of households. In comparison, Greater Brisbane's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 33.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is $2,259/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is $3,099/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is $930/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Shorncliffe's median income among taxpayers is $70,667, with an average of $85,447. This is extremely high nationally, and compares to Greater Brisbane's median of $61,668 and average of $77,113. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $75,691 (median) and $91,522 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Shorncliffe is $8,703 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Shorncliffe's disposable income is $8,703 compared to $6,725 for Greater Brisbane, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Shorncliffe has been broadly consistent with national averages.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 72.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,155 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 1,720 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,205 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Shorncliffe has approximately 1,155 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.1%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Shorncliffe stands at 4.1%, which is broadly in line with Greater Brisbane's rate of 4.3%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Shorncliffe is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.8% of employment), education & training (11.8%), and professional & technical (10.7%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Shorncliffe has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Brisbane saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Shorncliffe is 72.8%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Brisbane average of 70.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Brisbane.
The suburb of Shorncliffe shows notable specialisation in public administration & safety, which employs 10.1% of the local workforce compared to 7.0% across Greater Brisbane. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Shorncliffe'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 2.9% decline, ranking 29th out of 37 regions nationally.
Shorncliffe shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 21.6% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 38.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 19.6% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
38.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Shorncliffe have university qualifications, compared to 30.5% in Greater Brisbane.
29.9% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Shorncliffe have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.8% in Greater Brisbane.
The suburb of Shorncliffe ranks in the 89th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Shorncliffe are: Bachelor Degree (21.6%), Certificate (19.6%), Advanced Diploma (11.9%).
29.5% of the population in the suburb of Shorncliffe is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.6% in primary school, 9.5% in secondary school, 6.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Shorncliffe is 1106, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Shorncliffe, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,777 students.
The suburb of Shorncliffe includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.
Shorncliffe features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Greater Brisbane.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 26.1% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 36.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 710 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 724 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.5% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Shorncliffe had 710 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.0% to an estimated 724 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Shorncliffe is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Brisbane and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.1%), group households (2.3%), and other household types (1.3%).
Of the 501 family households, couples with children account for 36.9% of all households, couples without children at home 23.7%, and single parent families 9.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Brisbane, the suburb of Shorncliffe shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Shorncliffe have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Greater Brisbane average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 51.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 29.9% have never married. This compares to 45.0% married and 38.4% never married across Greater Brisbane.
Single-person households represent 26.1% of all households in the suburb of Shorncliffe, similar to the average for Greater Brisbane of 23.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.3% of households, below the Greater Brisbane average of 4.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Shorncliffe ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 17.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.7% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.2% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 82.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
Shorncliffe was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 82.7% of its population born in Australia, 91.2% being citizens, and 94.7% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Shorncliffe was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.4% of people in Shorncliffe. This compares to 47.8% across Greater Brisbane.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Shorncliffe are English, comprising 32.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Brisbane's 26.8%, Australian, comprising 25.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 12.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 10.3% of Shorncliffe (vs 7.4% across Greater Brisbane), Polish at 0.9% (vs 0.5%) and French at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
17.3% of the suburb of Shorncliffe population was born overseas, compared to 28.5% across Greater Brisbane.
5.3% of the population in the suburb of Shorncliffe speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 18.7% in Greater Brisbane.
0.8% of the suburb of Shorncliffe population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 2.1% in Greater Brisbane.
91.2% of the suburb of Shorncliffe population holds citizenship, compared to 83.6% in Greater Brisbane.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Shorncliffe 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 | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 39.1% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 82.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,201 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 35.7% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $275 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 12.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 36th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Shorncliffe, 39.1% of homes are owned outright, 35.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 25.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 82.2% of dwellings in the suburb of Shorncliffe are houses.
In the suburb of Shorncliffe, 15.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Shorncliffe stands at 39.1%, compared to 26.7% in Greater Brisbane.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Shorncliffe is $2,201, compared to $1,863 in Greater Brisbane.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Shorncliffe is $1,086, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Shorncliffe, households with mortgages typically spend 22.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 12.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Shorncliffe is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Shorncliffe shows mortgage holders spending 22.5% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% in Greater Brisbane), while renters spend 12.2% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Greater Brisbane).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Shorncliffe consists of 82.2% detached houses, 0.7% semi-detached dwellings, 15.9% apartments, and 1.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Shorncliffe consumes approximately 11.1% of median household income ($9,781 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Shorncliffe's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 59.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 76th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.6% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.3% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
Around 59.3% of people in the suburb of Shorncliffe are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.1% in Greater Brisbane.
In the suburb of Shorncliffe, 4.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.7% of people in Greater Brisbane require similar assistance.
7.5% of people in the suburb of Shorncliffe are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.0% of the population across Greater Brisbane is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.9% of the suburb of Shorncliffe population, while in Greater Brisbane, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.0% of people in the suburb of Shorncliffe have heart disease. Across Greater Brisbane,3.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Shorncliffe, 59.3% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Brisbane sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.1%.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 438 m away and the nearest child care centre 507 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 | 28 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 28th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 438 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 507 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 7.8 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 Shorncliffe 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 Shorncliffe.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Shorncliffe is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Shorncliffe has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 4% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Shorncliffe is $480 a week for the 12 months to Jun 2026.
Shorncliffe has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Shorncliffe hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 10% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
Employment performance in Shorncliffe has been broadly consistent with national averages.
Shorncliffe shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Shorncliffe features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Greater Brisbane.
Shorncliffe ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Shorncliffe is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Shorncliffe's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport in Shorncliffe: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Shorncliffe has an estimated 1,944 residents, up 1.9% since the 2021 Census, with 43 projects tracked in the area around Shorncliffe.
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 Shorncliffe.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 (SAL32558). 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) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, 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 Shorncliffe 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 Shorncliffe 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 | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 28.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
