Lexi Webster
Townsville is a city located in Queensland, Australia, and is the largest urban area located north of the Sunshine Coast. As of 2024, Townsville's population is 201,313, making it the largest settlement in North Queensland and Northern Australia. The population has been growing steadily over the years, with 179,011 people living in the city in 2021, and an estimated population of 190,000 in 2014. Townsville is expected to have a population of approximately 264,899 by 2046.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 201,313 as of 2024 |
| Population growth rate | 2-3% |
| Population density | 259 people per square kilometre |
| Gender | 49.9% male, 50.1% female |
| Median age | 33 years |
| Age distribution | 21.1% aged 0-14, 9.8% over 65 |
| Marital status | 44.1% married, 39.4% never married, 12.4% separated/divorced, 4.1% widowed |
| Ancestry | 30.7% Australian, 27.4% English, 8.7% Irish, 7% Scottish, 4.1% German |
| Country of birth | 80.2% Australia, New Zealand, England, Philippines, Scotland, USA, India, South Africa |
| Languages spoken | 87.5% English only, Greek, Cantonese, Spanish, Arabic, Filipino, Italian |
| Religious affiliation | 28.1% Catholic, 21.9% none, 18.2% Anglican, 6.5% Uniting Church, 3.6% Presbyterian, 1.5% Christian, 1.2% Eastern Orthodox, 1% Buddhism, 1% Lutheran |
| Main occupations | 28.2% professionals, 17.1% managers, 14.6% community and personal service workers, 12.4% clerical and administrative workers, 11% technicians |
| Average household size | 2.45 |
| Number of dwellings | 83,411 |
| Climate | Dry tropical |
| Average sunny days per year | 300-320 |
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What You'll Learn
Population growth and projections
Townsville, Australia, is the 13th largest city in the country and the unofficial capital of North Queensland. The city has experienced significant population growth over the years, with a current population of approximately 201,443 people. This figure represents an official count, while other estimates place the number at around 198,143 or even 204,541 as of June 2024.
The population of Townsville has grown steadily, with an average growth rate of 1.55% over the last 13 years since 2011. The growth rate has ranged from 1.14% to 2.37%, adding approximately 2,220 to 3,977 people to the city's population each year. The population of Townsville was recorded as 4,000 in 1882 and increased to 13,000 by 1891. By 1901, Townsville's town hall was officially opened by Lord Hopetoun during his goodwill tour of northern Australia.
The city has a diverse population, with over 60% of residents born in Australia. The remaining population hails from countries like New Zealand, England, the Philippines, Scotland, the United States, India, and South Africa. The most common ancestries in Townsville are Australian (30.7%), English (27.4%), Irish (8.7%), Scottish (7%), and German (4.1%). The population of Townsville is younger than the averages for both Queensland and Australia, partly due to the high turnover of residents associated with the government services and army base.
Looking ahead, projections indicate that Townsville's population will continue to grow. By 2046, the city's population is estimated to reach approximately 264,899 people. This growth aligns with Townsville's diverse and dynamic economy, which includes significant industries such as retail trade, health and education services, government administration, defence, construction, mining, manufacturing, and property and business services. The city's infrastructure, location, and government planning continue to attract new industries, contributing to its economic prosperity and population growth.
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Population density and housing
Townsville, Australia, is the 13th largest city in the country and the largest urban area located north of the Sunshine Coast. It is known as the Second Capital of Queensland and the unofficial capital of North Queensland. The population of Townsville has grown significantly since 1882 when it was just 4,000. By 1891, the population had increased to 13,000, and in 1901, Lord Hopetoun officially opened Townsville's town hall. As of 2021, the population was 179,011, and the current official population count is 201,443. It is estimated that by 2046, the population will be approximately 264,899. The population density is about 1061 people per square kilometre or 2750 people per square mile.
The population of Townsville is younger than the averages for both Queensland and Australia. This is partly due to the high turnover of residents, as the army base and government services bring many short to medium-term workers to the area. The most common ancestry in Townsville is Australian (30.7%), followed by English (27.4%), Irish (8.7%), Scottish (7%), and German (4.1%). The most common country of birth is Australia (80.2%), and over 75% of people speak only English. The main occupations of residents are professionals (28.2%), managers (17.1%), community and personal service workers (14.6%), clerical and administrative workers (12.4%), and technicians and trades workers (11%).
In terms of housing, 80.7% of people in Townsville live in single-family dwellings, while 5.6% live in semi-detached houses or townhouses, and 12.6% live in apartments. Townsville offers affordable housing, along with world-class education facilities, leading healthcare access, entertainment, dining precincts, and a wide range of outdoor recreation options. The city is well-connected, with an international airport and the biggest cargo and container port in Northern Australia.
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Demographics and ancestry
As of the 2021 census, Townsville's urban population was 188,316, having grown by an average annual rate of 0.92% year-on-year over the preceding five years. Townsville is the 16th-largest city in Australia and the sixth-largest in Queensland. The demographic characteristics of the population of Townsville are similar to the rest of Australia, with some notable differences.
The median age of Townsville residents is 35 years, slightly lower than the national median of 38. The population has a relatively even distribution across different age groups, with a larger proportion of residents in the younger age brackets. Those under 15 years old make up 19.4% of the population, while those of retirement age (65 years and above) constitute 14.3%. This is indicative of a relatively young population compared to the national average, suggesting a higher birth rate and/or inward migration of young individuals and families.
In terms of ancestry, Townsville's population predominantly comprises individuals of European descent, reflecting the historical settlement patterns in the region. According to the 2021 census, the most common ancestries in Townsville were English (36.8%), Australian (30.9%), Irish (10.9%), Scottish (9.9%), and German (5.4%). These ancestries are consistent with those found in many other parts of Australia, indicating a significant historical influence of immigration from the United Kingdom and Europe. However, Townsville also has a notable Indigenous Australian population, with 7.7% of residents identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. This is higher than the national average of 3.3%, reflecting the strong Indigenous heritage and presence in the region.
The city also has a diverse range of other ancestries, reflecting the multicultural nature of modern Australia. Smaller but significant proportions of the population have Asian, Pacific Islander, and African ancestries, among others. This diversity is likely influenced by various factors, including international immigration, refugee intake, and the city's potential appeal as a migration destination due to its climate, lifestyle, and economic opportunities.
Townsville also exhibits a slight female bias, with 50.6% of the population being female, which is comparable to the national gender ratio. In terms of marital status, 43.6% of people aged 15 years and above are married, 12.7% are divorced or separated, and 3.2% are widowed. These figures are broadly in line with national trends, indicating similar relationship and marriage patterns between Townsville and the rest of the country.
Overall, the demographics and ancestry of Townsville, Australia, present a diverse and dynamic community. While European ancestries dominate, the significant Indigenous population and growing multicultural presence contribute to a rich cultural tapestry. The relatively young median age and the even distribution of age groups suggest a vibrant and evolving community, shaping the city's future character and prospects.
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Employment and economy
Townsville, located on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, has a population of 201,313 as of 2024. The city has a diverse economy with strengths in various sectors.
Townsville is the industrial heart of northern Australia, with a GRP of $15.1 billion in 2023. The city is a major industrial centre, home to one of the world's largest zinc refineries and a nickel refinery. Townsville is the only city globally to refine three different base metals: zinc, copper, and nickel. The city also has a diverse economy with strengths in education, healthcare, retail, construction, and manufacturing.
The dominant sectors of Townsville's economy include defence, administration, health and education, manufacturing, energy, transport, and logistics. Townsville is served by the Port of Townsville, the largest general freight and container port in northern Australia. The Port of Townsville has undergone $30 million worth of expansion operations to allow larger cargo and passenger ships to utilize the port.
The city is also a defence hub and home to thousands of military personnel. Townsville's economy has historically been supported by the Alligator Creek meatworks, which employed up to 1500 workers, many of whom resided in the city.
Townsville's population has a high turnover due to the presence of government services and an army base, resulting in a mix of short and medium-term residents. The city has a range of employment opportunities, including jobs in retail, mining and energy, customer service, education, and healthcare.
The city's central business district (CBD) has experienced population growth and gentrification due to inner-city high-density development, including the construction of a new rail passenger terminal. Townsville is also attracting investment in renewable energy projects, such as green hydrogen and polysilicon, and is the centre of CopperString 2032, Australia's largest renewable transmission project.
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History and indigenous peoples
Townsville is a city in northern Queensland, Australia. It sits on the edge of the Coral Sea and is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The city has a long and rich history, with human occupation dating back thousands of years. The traditional owners of the region are the Bindal and Wulgurukaba people, who have deep spiritual and cultural connections to the land and sea.
The Bindal people have lived in the region for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting a continuous occupation of at least 5,000 years. They are the original custodians of the land and have a strong spiritual connection to the country, which is reflected in their rich cultural heritage and traditions. The Bindal people were hunter-gatherers, utilizing the abundant natural resources of the region, including the waterways and coastal areas, which provided a plentiful source of food.
The Wulgurukaba people also have a long and rich history in the region, with a deep connection to the sea and the reefs. They are the traditional custodians of the coastal areas and have a strong cultural heritage rooted in their maritime environment. The Wulgurukaba people were skilled fishermen and traders, with a deep understanding of the sea and its resources. They traded with neighboring groups, exchanging goods and knowledge, and their canoes could be seen along the coast, a testament to their seafaring skills.
Early European settlement began in the 1860s, with the establishment of a small settlement named Castletown, later changed to Townsville in honor of Robert Towns, a prominent businessman and investor in the region. The town grew rapidly, benefiting from its position as a port and service center for the nearby goldfields and the growing pastoral industry. Townsville soon became a thriving center, with the construction of key infrastructure, including the first telegraph line to connect with the southern colonies, and the establishment of a local government.
The city has a proud military history, with a significant defense presence that continues to this day. During World War II, Townsville played a vital role as a major base for Australian and US troops, with a large military hospital and rest camp located in the city. This military heritage is still evident today, with the presence of museums, memorials, and a strong defense force community.
Today, Townsville is a diverse and multicultural city, with a population of over 180,000 people, including a significant Indigenous population. The city has a strong sense of community and a vibrant cultural life, with a thriving arts scene, festivals, and sporting events. The Bindal and Wulgurukaba people continue to play an important role in the city's cultural life, with their heritage and traditions celebrated and shared through various initiatives and events. Their connection to the land and sea remains strong, and their contributions to the rich history and character of Townsville are invaluable.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 2024, Townsville's population is estimated to be between 201,313 and 204,541.
Townsville's population was 179,011 in 2021.
Townsville's population grew to 13,000 by 1891.
It is estimated that by 2046, Townsville will have a population of approximately 264,899 people.
In 2023, Townsville's population was estimated to be 201,443.
