With more people choosing to call Mackay home and demand for property continuing to rise, the answer is yes, Mackay is a fantastic place to live in 2025. The city offers affordable real estate properties, strong job opportunities, and an enviable outdoor lifestyle. Home to Australia’s longest stretch of subtropical rainforest and a thriving economy, Mackay is attracting families, professionals, and investors at a rapid pace.
But what’s it really like to live in Mackay? In this guide, we explore the population trends, housing market, cost of living, and lifestyle opportunities to help you decide if Mackay is the right move for you in 2025.
As of the 2021 Census, Mackay’s population has grown to 80,455 residents (now 138,000) and will reach 140,386 by the end of June 2025, with an almost equal gender split of 49.9% male and 50.1% female, and a median age of 38 years. The city remains a family-oriented community, home to 32,126 families, with an average of 1.9 children per family and a household size of 2.6 people. There are 34,582 private dwellings, reflecting the region’s ongoing housing demand, with median monthly mortgage repayments at $1,716 and median weekly rent at $540. Mackay’s economy is driven by industries such as coal mining, healthcare, education, and retail, offering strong employment opportunities. With its affordable housing, expanding infrastructure, and coastal lifestyle, Mackay continues to attract new residents seeking a balanced and prosperous way of life.
Mackay’s population has surged by over 60% in recent years, making it one of the fastest-growing areas in Far North Queensland. With its affordable living, employment prospects, and high quality of life, this growth is expected to continue.
| Statistic |
Figure |
| Total Population |
138,000 |
| Male/Female Ratio |
50.3% / 49.7% |
| Median Age |
38 |
The region’s population growth is fuelled by young families, with the average household size increasing as more people move to Mackay for its affordable housing and job security.
The real estate market in Mackay is booming, with property prices and rental demand rising significantly over the past few years. Despite this growth, Mackay remains far more affordable than Brisbane or other major Queensland cities.
| Property Type |
Median Price |
Price Growth (YoY) |
| House |
$470,000 |
+21.3% |
| Apartment |
$325,000 |
+14.0% |
If you’re in search of residential properties for sale in Mackay, delve into our current listings here.
Rental Market (2024-2025)
| Rental Type |
Median Cost per Week |
Price Growth (YoY) |
| House |
$530 |
+6.0% |
| Apartment |
$420 |
+5.0% |
The number of private dwellings has increased by 55% since 2016, yet housing demand still exceeds supply, driving continued price growth.
For those in search of apartment units or rental properties in Mackay, you can explore our current listings here.
Household Income & Mortgage Costs
| Metric |
Figure |
| Median Weekly Household Income |
$1,853 |
| Median Monthly Mortgage Repayment |
$1,733 |
Despite rising housing prices, Mackay’s cost of living remains lower than major metropolitan areas, making it a great place for families and investors looking for value.
Mackay’s economy is diverse and expanding, providing strong employment opportunities across multiple industries.
Key Employment Sectors
- Mining & Resources – The Bowen Basin continues to drive high-paying jobs.
- Agriculture – Mackay remains a major hub for sugarcane and livestock.
- Renewable Energy – Solar and wind projects are growing.
- Tourism & Hospitality – Proximity to the Great Barrier Reef boosts tourism.
- Construction & Infrastructure – New developments drive demand for skilled workers.
Mackay’s high wages in mining and trades make it an attractive location for workers looking for strong employment prospects with a lower cost of living.
Mackay offers a relaxed, outdoor-focused lifestyle with plenty of activities for families, professionals, and retirees.
Best Beaches & Outdoor Activities
Annual Events & Festivals
Mackay hosts major community events that bring the city to life, including:
- Mackay Festival of Arts – A celebration of local talent.
- River Sessions Music Festival – Live music and entertainment.
- Weekly Farmers’ Markets – Fresh local produce and artisan goods.
For families, Mackay also boasts excellent schools, sports facilities, and a strong sense of community.
Infrastructure & Public Transport
Mackay continues to see significant investment in infrastructure, improving its transport network and overall connectivity.
| Transport Mode |
Details |
| Public Transport |
Bus services, but limited in outer suburbs |
| Roads & Highways |
Bruce Highway provides easy regional access |
| Airport |
Mackay Airport connects to Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne |
Mackay’s compact size means most commutes are under 15 minutes, making it easy to get around without the traffic of larger cities.
Yes, Mackay is a great place to live in 2025. With more people moving to the area and property demand increasing, it offers affordable housing, strong job opportunities, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. The city continues to grow, with improving infrastructure and a thriving economy, making it an ideal choice for families, professionals, and investors.
- Housing prices are rising but remain affordable compared to major cities.
- Employment is strong, with high-paying jobs in mining, agriculture, and tourism.
- The lifestyle is unbeatable, with stunning beaches, national parks, and a welcoming community.
- Infrastructure is improving, ensuring convenience and connectivity.
For families, professionals, and investors, Mackay presents a rare opportunity to enjoy the best of coastal living without the high costs of capital cities.
At Mackay City Property, we offer a vast range of rental and residential properties to help you find the perfect home in Mackay. Whether you’re looking to rent, buy, or invest, our team is here to assist. Contact us today to explore your options!
