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Mackay is the personification of North Queensland’s rapid growth.
Home to Australia’s most expansive stretch of subtropical rainforest, endless national parks, and one of the fastest growing local economies in Far North Queensland, Mackay’s local population has grown by more than 60% in the most recent census period as new residents and businesses seek new opportunities in Mackay.
But what’s it like to live in Mackay and what can new residents expect when they move? To find out, we’ve put together an overview of the local area, demographics, real estate market, and lifestyle to give a clearer picture of what makes this emerging North Queensland area such a desirable prospect for those seeking a fresh outlook.
Population and Demographics
Home to some 121,691 residents with an almost 50/50 male and female split as of the last reported data in 2021, Mackay has an average age of 38 – aligning almost exactly to the 38.8 national average for Australia in June 2023. Mackay’s local population grew by more than 60% in the five-year period between 2016 and 2021 and is tipped to continue exponential growth over the coming years.
- Total population: 121,691
- Male: 50.3%
- Female: 49.7%
- Median age: is 38
- Family and Household Structure
Just like Mackay’s broader population, the number of families residing in Mackay grew by 63.1% between the 2016 and 2021 Australian Census period. Mackay’s average age increased by just two years (36 to 38) between the same period which indicates that while the existing population begins to age, more young families continue to flock to Mackay where the average children per household grew by some 14%.
- Families in Mackay: 32,126
- Average children per family: 1.9
- Average children across all households: 0.8
- Average household size: 2.6
Living & Housing Costs
The total number of private dwellings grew by some 55% between 2016 and 2021 (33,570 up to 52,200) underscoring the growing demand in the area. The rapid growth has done little to dampen local demand for real estate which has soared by more than 35% over the last three years.
- Private Dwellings: 52,200
- Median Weekly Household Income: $1,853
- Median monthly mortgage repayments: $1,733
Real Estate Market
The continued surge in demand for property in regional Queensland is particularly evident in Mackay where the median house price has increased by some 19.7% between Nov 2023 – Oct 2024. For would-be investors, the strong increase in rental prices is an attractive prospect in Mackay.
- Median House Price: $455,000 (Up 19.7% between Nov 2023 – Oct 2024)
- Median House Rental Cost: $540 per week (Up 12.5% between Nov 2023 – Oct 2024)
- Median Apartment Price: $317,000 (Up 15.3% between Nov 2023 – Oct 2024)
- Median Rental Cost: $400 per week (Up 5.3% between Nov 2023 – Oct 2024)
*Note: Population and demographics, family and household structure, and living and housing costs data is courtesy of the most recent data available through the 2021 census. Real estate market data is courtesy of the latest data from realestate.com.au.
Mackay Lifestyle
Mackay’s lifestyle is inherently one that is closely intertwined with the outdoors. As we mentioned off the top, it’s hard to get away from the fact that Mackay is home to Australia’s longest stretch of subtropical rainforest. Knocking on the door of the Great Barrier reef, Mackay presents endless opportunities for outdoor exploration in national parks, waterways, and along the expansive coastline.
For families, Mackay is quickly developing a new, family-oriented community. Schools, attractive job prospects, and affordable housing options relative to metro areas in Queensland mean that Mackay is attracting a fresh wave of new locals. An increasingly remote and digital national workforce, as well as a strong economic base in mining and agriculture mean that Mackay has plenty of opportunities for those looking to balance work, family, and lifestyle while escaping the high cost of living in metro areas.
Is Mackay a Go for 2025?
"Paris is always a good idea," they say—but for those looking to break into the real estate market and achieve the perfect work-life balance, Mackay might just be an even better choice.
Real estate prices in Mackay are continuing to outpace national averages. In spite of new developments, Mackay’s rapid population growth means that demand far outweighs supply. For those looking to break into the market and make a move North, Mackay is well worth a look in 2025.
