Damon Mcknight
Cairns is a city in Queensland, Australia, on the tropical north-east coast of Far North Queensland. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics of Queensland, and the Atherton Tableland. The population of Cairns has grown significantly over the years, with an estimated population of 153,181 people as of the 2021 census. In 2023, the population was estimated to have grown to 175,398, and it is predicted to reach 160,779 by the end of June 2025. The growth in population is attributed to the strong tourism industry, which has created numerous job opportunities, and the city's appeal as a relaxed retirement destination.
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What You'll Learn
Cairns' population in 2021 was 153,181
Cairns is a city in Queensland, Australia, on the tropical north-east coast of Far North Queensland. It was founded in 1876 and named after Sir William Wellington Cairns, following the discovery of gold in the nearby Hodgkinson River. The city has grown significantly since its founding, and in the 2021 census, the population of Cairns was recorded as 153,181.
Cairns has experienced a consistent and strong population growth rate over the last decade, with an average annual growth rate of 1.9% to 2.3%. This growth is largely attributed to the robust tourism industry, which has created many job opportunities in the city. Cairns attracts over two million visitors annually, making it a top global tourist destination. The city's tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef—one of the seven natural wonders of the world—are significant draw factors.
In addition to tourism, Cairns' relaxed lifestyle has attracted retirees from around the world, further contributing to its population growth. The median age of the population in Cairns is 39 years, with a diverse range of occupations and industries. The top occupations include professionals, managers, sales workers, community and personal service workers, and clerical and administrative workers. The main industries in Cairns are accommodation and food services, retail trade, healthcare and social assistance, transport, and public administration.
The population of Cairns comprises people from various ancestries and nationalities. According to the 2021 census, 68.2% of the population were born in Australia, with the next most common countries of birth being England (4.0%), New Zealand (2.9%), Papua New Guinea (1.5%), the Philippines (1.3%), and India (1.2%). The city also has a notable community of Papua New Guineans, with approximately 10,000 residents.
Cairns has a projected population growth trajectory, with an estimated population of 160,779 expected by the end of June 2025. This growth is accommodated within the Cairns region, solidifying its position as a significant city in Queensland and a popular tourist destination.
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The population is growing at 1-2% annually
The population of Cairns, Australia, is growing at a rate of 1-2% annually. In 2006, the population of Cairns was 98,349. By 2016, this figure had risen to 240,190. The population continued to grow, and in 2021, the city of Cairns had a population of 153,181 people. The urban area of Cairns, however, had a population of over 150,000, with some sources placing it at 169,312.
The population growth rate in Cairns has been consistently strong over the years, ranging from 0.56% to 2.3% annually. The average annual growth rate over the last 13 years has been 1.06%. The population growth is attributed to several factors, including the robust tourism industry, which has created numerous job opportunities. Cairns is a popular tourist destination due to its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. The city attracts over two million visitors annually, making it one of the world's top tourist hotspots.
In addition to tourism, Cairns' relaxed lifestyle has attracted many retirees from around the world, contributing to the population growth. The city has also experienced an influx of immigrants, with a significant number of international holidaymakers and a growing interest from the Chinese leisure market. The top countries of birth for people in Cairns include Australia, England, New Zealand, Japan, Korea, and India.
The population growth in Cairns has had a significant impact on the region. It is predicted that two-thirds of Tropical North Queensland's population growth will be accommodated within the Cairns region. This growth has resulted in the development of new communities and infrastructure to cater to the increasing population. The city has become a major regional centre, with a diverse range of industries contributing to its economy, including tourism, healthcare, education, aviation, marine, and defence.
The population growth in Cairns is expected to continue, with estimates placing the city's population at 166,494 in 2025. The consistent and strong population growth in Cairns highlights the city's appeal as a desirable place to live and visit, contributing to its development and significance in Australia.
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Cairns is Queensland's 5th most populated city
Cairns is a city in Queensland, Australia, situated on the tropical north-east coast of Far North Queensland. It is Queensland's fifth most populated city, with a population of over 150,000.
The city was founded in 1876 and named after Sir William Wellington Cairns, following the discovery of gold in the Hodgkinson River. The town was created over the site of a sea-slug fishing camp. Soon after, Chinese immigrants began to experiment with crops, marking the beginning of the agricultural industry, which became the dominant industry.
Cairns has experienced rapid population growth over the last decade, with an average annual growth rate of 1.06% over the last 13 years. This growth is attributed to the consistently strong tourism industry, which has created many job opportunities, and the relaxed lifestyle, which attracts retirees. The city attracts over two million visitors annually, making it one of the world's top tourist hotspots.
Cairns is considered the gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef and is centrally located along the coastal strip. The region is framed by the Wet Tropics rainforest and the Coral Sea, making it a world-renowned tourist destination. The city has a diverse population, with people from various countries and a range of occupations.
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up 9.7% of the population
The population of Cairns, Australia, was recorded as 153,181 in the 2021 census. Of this number, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people made up 9.7% of the population. This percentage equates to approximately 14,859 people.
Cairns is a city in Queensland, Australia, on the tropical north-east coast of Far North Queensland. It is the fifth most populated city in Queensland and ranks 14th in Australia. The region has experienced an average annual growth rate of between 1.06% and 2.3% over the last decade. Based on this growth rate, the population of Cairns is expected to reach 160,779 by the end of June 2025. As of June 2023, the population was estimated to be 175,398.
The median age of the population in Cairns is 39 years, and the most common occupations are professionals and managers, at 20.9% and 19.6% respectively. The top industries in Cairns are accommodation and food services, retail trade, and healthcare and social assistance. The economy of Cairns is primarily based on tourism, healthcare, and education, with a significant capacity in aviation, marine, and defence industries.
The city attracts more than two million visitors annually, making it a popular tourist destination. Its appeal lies in its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Additionally, the relaxed lifestyle of Cairns attracts retirees from across the globe.
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The median age of people in Cairns is 39 years
The population of Cairns, Australia, was approximately 153,181 as of the 2021 census. The city has experienced an average annual growth rate of 1.06% over the last 13 years, with an estimated population of 160,779 by the end of June 2025. Cairns is Queensland's fifth most populated city, and its economy is based primarily on tourism, healthcare, and education. The city attracts over two million visitors annually, and its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef make it a popular tourist destination.
The median age of 39 years in Cairns is indicative of a mature and established community. This age group suggests that a large portion of the population is in their prime working years, contributing to the city's economic development. The median age also indicates a relatively stable and settled population, with a mix of younger and older individuals.
Occupationally, the population of Cairns is diverse, with the most common occupations being professionals, managers, sales workers, community and personal service workers, and clerical and administrative workers. The main industries in Cairns include accommodation and food services, reflecting its strong tourism focus, as well as retail trade, healthcare, and social assistance. The city's labour force comprises individuals in full-time and part-time employment, with a notable number of self-employed individuals as well.
The median age of 39 years in Cairns is also reflective of the city's appeal to retirees. The relaxed lifestyle and tropical climate attract older individuals seeking a tranquil environment. Additionally, the presence of individuals in this age group contributes to the economic growth of the city, as they bring their skills, experiences, and purchasing power. Overall, the median age of 39 years in Cairns showcases a well-rounded and dynamic population, contributing to the city's vibrant community and economy.
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Frequently asked questions
The population of Cairns, Australia, was estimated to be 166,494 in 2025.
The 2021 census recorded a population of 153,181 people in the urban area of Cairns.
The 2016 census counted 240,190 people in Cairns.
In 1995, Cairns City had a population of 40,000, while the population of Mulgrave Shire, with which it amalgamated, was 60,000.
According to the census, the main occupation of people living in Cairns City is professionals, with 20.9% of the population working in this field.
