Suburb profile · Rest of Qld
Tolga has an estimated 3,560 residents, up 12.1% since the 2021 Census, with 48 projects tracked in the area around Tolga.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Tolga sits 1,376 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD, in the tropical north of Queensland. According to AreaSearch's analysis, the suburb's population is estimated at around 3,560 as of Aug 2026. That figure draws on aggregated SA2-level ERP (Estimated Resident Population) counts, released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. Since the 2021 Census, which recorded 3,177 people, the population has grown by 383 people (12.1%). Strong outright home ownership and a detached housing focus define the local housing market, and the area stands out for above-average numbers of children per family. The local economy includes a notable agricultural employment base, elevated utilities employment and a pronounced presence of mining employment.
Residents have a comparatively older age profile, with a median age of 44, and households are largely made up of couples without children. A significant level of infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should support performance and demand, while population growth patterns show moderate expansion.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Tolga sits 1,376 kilometres northwest of the Brisbane CBD, in the tropical north of Queensland. According to AreaSearch's analysis, the suburb's population is estimated at around 3,560 as of Aug 2026. That figure draws on aggregated SA2-level ERP (Estimated Resident Population) counts, released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. Since the 2021 Census, which recorded 3,177 people, the population has grown by 383 people (12.1%). Strong outright home ownership and a detached housing focus define the local housing market, and the area stands out for above-average numbers of children per family. The local economy includes a notable agricultural employment base, elevated utilities employment and a pronounced presence of mining employment.
Residents have a comparatively older age profile, with a median age of 44, and households are largely made up of couples without children. A significant level of infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should support performance and demand, while population growth patterns show moderate expansion.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,211 in 2006 and 3,520 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,560 (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, 13.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 33.5%.
Tolga ranks in the 83rd percentile nationally for health and the 80th 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 Tolga is $605 a week, up 20.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 5% below Regional Qld.
5% below Regional Qld on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $332 in 2017, $520 in 2026. A break means no rent was reported that year. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $605 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +20.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $520 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Cairns | $545 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Cairns, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 48 projects in and around Tolga, 18 of them under construction.
A small-scale neighbourhood shopping centre proposed by Tom Hedley's HEDZ Constructions Pty Ltd, comprising two single-storey buildings with four retail tenancies delivered across two stages. Stage 1 will see three tenancies built at the front of the site, with a fourth tenancy at the rear forming Stage 2.
A major retail development spanning 16,400sqm designed to revitalise the Tablelands economy. The precinct features a new Bunnings Warehouse as the anchor tenant, alongside a Harvey Norman and other national large-format retailers. The project includes specialised showrooms, hardware supplies, and garden centres with over 400 parking spaces.
Priors Creek Parklands is a major Atherton CBD precinct revitalisation led by Tablelands Regional Council. The project is transforming a former rail corridor into a family-focused parklands and mixed-use destination with an open-air amphitheatre and main stage, nature walk trail, public amenities, fitness and leisure areas, shared paths, event spaces, and…
A three-storey mixed-use development providing 27 affordable rental units (12 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom) with ground-floor commercial premises for potential food outlets, offices, shops, or healthcare services, complementing the adjacent Priors Creek Development.
The $86.4 million redevelopment of Atherton Hospital delivered modern healthcare infrastructure for the Tablelands region. Key components include a new four-storey Clinical Services Building housing a state-of-the-art emergency department, medical imaging, maternity services with birth suites, operating and endoscopy theatres, and a sterilising unit.
A 72MW ground-mounted solar photovoltaic facility spanning 110 hectares on the Atherton Tablelands. The project utilises approximately 196,000 solar modules to generate 147GWh of clean energy annually, enough to power over 18,000 homes.
The Haren Street Residential Aged Care Facility is an approved 120-bed single-level aged care development designed across a 2.89-hectare site in Mareeba, North Queensland.
Upgrade of fruit handling laboratories at Mareeba research facility, enabling scientists to provide research services to expanding and new horticultural industries. Part of Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries infrastructure program.
New social housing development providing affordable housing options for vulnerable Queenslanders. Part of Queensland Government's Homes for Queenslanders program targeting key regional centres with housing supply challenges.
Safety upgrades delivered along approximately 21 km of the Kennedy Highway between Mareeba and Atherton. Works included wide centre line treatments, audio tactile line marking, shoulder widening, safety barriers and targeted intersection upgrades (turning lanes, bike lanes, improved lighting and line marking).
A major recycling facility transforming 6,000 tonnes of agricultural, commercial, and consumer plastic waste annually into products like plastic bags and clips for the banana industry. The facility employs 45 people across three shifts and promotes a circular economy, supported by a $1.08 million grant from the Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund.
Mareeba Central is an approved neighbourhood shopping centre on the former sawmill site at 232 Byrnes Street and Close Avenue, Mareeba. The approved development comprises a Woolworths supermarket, retail tenancies, a food and drink outlet and on-site parking.
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 27 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 8, 2027 11, 2028 2, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 1. 5 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 3 substantial development applications lodged in and around Tolga over the period covered (about 4.3 years), none in the last 12 months; 1 is recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Status of the 3 tracked applications: 0 approved, 1 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.3 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 0 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 69th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 20 | ABS building approvals | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Applications under assessment | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.3 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Tolga include: Tolga Main Street Shopping Centre (Under Assessment); Atherton Hospital Redevelopment (Completed); Mareeba Solar Farm (Construction); Draft Far North Queensland Regional Plan 2025 (Under Assessment); and Smart water meter program 2023-2026 (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Tolga spans multiple sectors including Communities, Health & Medical, and Energy, among others.
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the suburb of Tolga demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Tolga among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Tolga area has seen 47 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Tolga's current population of 3,560 has been supported by 20 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Tolga has seen 6.1 approval 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 148 people in the suburb of Tolga, compared to one for every 152 in Regional Qld.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Tolga's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 20, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Tolga has grown by approximately 511 people, while 101 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 5.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Tolga 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 | 3,560 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +12.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 42 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +3.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +5.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,177 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 383 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 85.27 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Tolga was estimated to be approximately 3,560 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,520 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Tolga has added approximately 383 people and shown a 12.06% increase from the 3,177 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Tolga is estimated at 42 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Tolga has shown a compound annual growth rate of 5.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Tolga is driven by: Interstate migration (66.0%), Overseas migration (34.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 66.0% of overall population gains.
Tolga hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 44 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 76th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 23.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.7% | 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 | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Tolga at 44 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Tolga is 3 years older than the Regional Qld 2021 Census average (41 years) and 6 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Tolga compared to the Regional Qld region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 13.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Tolga compared to the Regional Qld region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 10.8% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Tolga is broadly in line with Regional Qld.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.9% of the population in the suburb of Tolga as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 23.3% of the population in the suburb of Tolga 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) | $53,852 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $65,054 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,479 | 2021 Census, weekly | 34th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $715 | 2021 Census, weekly | 31st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 16.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,837 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 27.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Tolga is approximately $57,681. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $53,852.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Tolga is approximately $69,679. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $65,054.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Tolga is approximately $57,681 compared to $60,755 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,852 and $56,722 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Tolga is approximately $69,679 compared to $76,631 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $65,054 and $71,544 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Tolga's households (~33.5% / 383 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Tolga is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 33.5% 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 Tolga is $1,479/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Tolga is $1,837/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Tolga is $715/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Tolga had a median income among taxpayers of $53,852 with the average level standing at $65,054. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $56,722 and $71,544 across Regional Qld respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $57,681 (median) and $69,679 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Tolga is $5,644 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Tolga's disposable income is $5,644 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.5%, Tolga has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 60.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,700 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,701 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,761 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Tolga has approximately 1,700 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.5%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement, though the very low unemployment rate of 3.5% indicates the ranking primarily reflects recent job losses rather than underlying labor market weakness.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Tolga stands at 3.5%, which is broadly in line with Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Tolga is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (16.3% of employment), health care & social assistance (12.8%), and retail trade (10.9%). Other significant employers include education & training and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Tolga 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 Tolga is 60.4%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional Qld average of 64.2%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Qld.
The suburb of Tolga shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 16.3% of the local workforce compared to 4.5% across Regional Qld. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.6, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
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The suburb of Tolga's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. However, the low unemployment rate of 3.5% suggests the ranking is driven by recent job losses rather than structural weakness. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 0.8% decline, ranking 23rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Tolga: university qualifications 16.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 986.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 16.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.3% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.7% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
16.4% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Tolga have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in Regional Qld.
39.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Tolga have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% in Regional Qld.
The suburb of Tolga ranks in the 36th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Tolga are: Certificate (33.3%), Bachelor Degree (12.2%), Advanced Diploma (10.5%).
29.7% of the population in the suburb of Tolga is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.7% in primary school, 9.9% in secondary school, 3.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Tolga is 986, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Tolga, with a combined enrollment of approximately 307 students.
The suburb of Tolga includes 1 primary school.
Tolga features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with an average household size in line with Regional Qld.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 22.5% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 37.1% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,144 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,282 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 74.5% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Tolga had 1,144 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 12.1% to an estimated 1,282 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Tolga is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 74.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.5%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 852 family households, couples with children account for 28.2% of all households, couples without children at home 37.1%, and single parent families 8.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Tolga shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Tolga have an average of 1.9 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 51.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.0% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
Single-person households represent 22.5% of all households in the suburb of Tolga, 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 2.8% of households, below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Tolga 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 | 15.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.7% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 85.7% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 84.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
Tolga was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 85.7% of its population being citizens, 84.7% born in Australia, and 92.7% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Tolga was found to be Christianity, which makes up 57.7% of people in Tolga. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Tolga are Australian, comprising 29.1% of the population, English, comprising 27.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Italian is notably overrepresented at 6.9% of Tolga (vs 2.4% across Regional Qld), German at 4.3% (vs 4.7%) and Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
15.3% of the suburb of Tolga population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional Qld.
7.3% of the population in the suburb of Tolga speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in Regional Qld.
2.8% of the suburb of Tolga population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in Regional Qld.
85.7% of the suburb of Tolga population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in Regional Qld.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Tolga 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 | 13.7% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 49.6% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 98.0% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,600 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 34th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 36.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $300 | 2021 Census, weekly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 47th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Tolga, 49.6% of homes are owned outright, 36.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 13.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 98.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Tolga are houses.
In the suburb of Tolga, 0.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Tolga stands at 49.6%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Tolga is $1,600, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Tolga is $765, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Tolga, households with mortgages typically spend 25.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Tolga is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Tolga shows mortgage holders spending 25.0% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% in Regional Qld), while renters spend 20.3% of income on rent (vs 22.9% in Regional Qld).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Tolga consists of 98.0% detached houses, 0.0% semi-detached dwellings, 0.0% apartments, and 2.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Tolga consumes approximately 11.9% of median household income ($6,404 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Tolga show attached dwellings contributing 27% of approvals compared to 2% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 73% of applications versus 98% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Tolga'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 | 51.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 36th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 71.2% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.0% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 79.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
Around 51.1% of people in the suburb of Tolga are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Regional Qld.
In the suburb of Tolga, 4.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
6.4% of people in the suburb of Tolga are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.0% of the suburb of Tolga population, while in Regional Qld, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.1% of people in the suburb of Tolga have heart disease. Across Regional Qld,4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Tolga, 51.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 2.4 km away and the nearest school 2.5 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 | 51 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 51st percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 6.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 6.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 6.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 6.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 6.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 6.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 6.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 6.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.8 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 Tolga 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 Tolga.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Tolga among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Tolga has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Tolga is $605 a week, +20.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in Tolga are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Tolga hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.5%, Tolga has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally.
Education in Tolga: university qualifications 16.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 986.
Tolga features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with an average household size in line with Regional Qld.
Tolga ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Tolga is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Tolga'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 Tolga: transport access 31/100.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Tolga has an estimated 3,560 residents, up 12.1% since the 2021 Census, with 48 projects tracked in the area around Tolga.
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 Tolga.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to May 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 (SAL32840). 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 (May 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 Tolga 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 Tolga 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 | 1.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
