
Townsville, a city on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, has a population of over 200,000 people, making it the largest settlement in North Queensland and Northern Australia. Townsville's population has grown significantly over the years, from 4,000 people in 1882 to 13,000 by 1891, and is expected to reach 208,146 by the end of June 2025. The city is known for its diverse economy, strong tourism, and beautiful weather, attracting retirees and young people alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 201,443 (as of 2024) |
| Population Projection | 208,146 (by the end of June 2025) |
| Population Projection | 264,899 (by 2046) |
| Population in 1882 | 4,000 |
| Population in 1891 | 13,000 |
| Population in 2018 | 194,072 |
| Population in 2021 | 192,768 |
| Population Density | 259 people per square kilometer |
| Average Household Size | 2.45 |
| Average Number of Sunny Days | 300-320 |
| Number of Mammals | 53 species |
| Top Languages Spoken (apart from English) | Greek, Cantonese, Spanish, Arabic, Filipino, Italian |
| Top Religious Groups | Catholic, No religion, Anglican, Uniting Church, Presbyterian and Reformed, Christian, Eastern Orthodox, Lutheran |
| Main Industries | Public administration and safety, Health care and social assistance, Accommodation and food services, Professional, scientific and technical services, Education and training, Construction, Retail trade, Manufacturing, Mining |
| Main Occupations | Professionals, Managers, Community & personal service workers, Clerical & administrative workers, Technicians & trades workers, Sales workers, Labourers, Machinery operators & drivers |
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What You'll Learn

Population growth
Townsville, a city on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, has experienced significant population growth over the years. The city's population has grown from 4,000 people in 1882 to 13,000 by 1891, and it continues to expand. In 2021, the Census usual resident population of Townsville was 192,768, with an average household size of 2.45. The current official population count is 201,443, and it is estimated that by 2046, the population will reach approximately 264,899 people. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including tourism, attractive weather, and the city's diverse economy.
Tourism plays a crucial role in Townsville's population growth. The city boasts a range of popular attractions, including "The Strand," a tropical beach and garden strip, Riverway, a riverfront parkland, and Reef HQ, a large tropical aquarium showcasing the Great Barrier Reef's native flora and fauna. These attractions draw visitors from all over, contributing to the city's thriving tourism industry. Additionally, Townsville's pleasant weather, with an average of 300 to 320 sunny days per year, makes it an appealing destination for retirees and young people looking for a sunny place to live.
Townsville's diverse economy also contributes to its population growth. The city is home to significant governmental, community, and major business administrative offices, serving as the main centre for government administration outside of Brisbane. Major industries include retail trade, health and education services, government administration, defence, construction, mining, manufacturing, and property and business services. The presence of various research institutions, such as James Cook University and the Australian Institute of Marine Science, further enhances the city's economic diversity and attracts students and professionals alike.
The expansion of the Port of Townsville and the development of the inner-city CBD have also played a role in Townsville's population growth. The $30 million operations to expand the port aim to accommodate larger cargo and passenger ships, increasing the city's transport capabilities and potentially attracting more residents. Additionally, the construction of a new rail passenger terminal and the re-siting of the railway workshops have freed up prime real estate, leading to gentrification and population growth in the central business district.
Townsville's population growth has resulted in the expansion of the city's borders on multiple occasions in 1882, 1918, 1936, 1958, and 1964. These expansions were undertaken to maintain separate urban and rural administrations. The city's population density is currently 259 people per square kilometer, ranking it as the fourth most populated city in Queensland. Townsville's growth is expected to continue, with projections estimating a population of over 208,000 by the end of June 2025, showcasing the city's ongoing appeal and development.
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Population demographics
Townsville is a city located on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia. It is the largest settlement in North Queensland and Northern Australia. Townsville's population has grown significantly over the years. In 1882, its population was 4,000, which increased to 13,000 by 1891. As of 2024, Townsville's population is estimated to be 201,313, with projections indicating a further increase to approximately 264,899 by 2046. This growth can be attributed to factors such as tourism, attractive weather, and the presence of a diverse economy with various industries.
According to the 2021 census, the City of Townsville had a population of 192,768 people, living in 83,411 dwellings, with an average household size of 2.45. The population density in Townsville is 259 people per square kilometre, ranking it as the fourth most populated city in Queensland. The local government area of Townsville covers 3,736 square kilometres, which is 0.2% of the total area of Queensland.
Townsville has a diverse population, with over 60% of its residents being Australian-born. The city also attracts people from other countries, with significant numbers from New Zealand, England, the Philippines, Scotland, the United States, India, and South Africa. The presence of international residents adds to the cultural fabric of the city.
The main occupations of Townsville residents vary across different sectors. According to census data, 28.2% work in professional roles, 17.1% are managers, 14.6% are community and personal service workers, 12.4% are clerical and administrative workers, 11% are technicians and trades workers, 5.9% are sales workers, 4.6% are labourers, 4.5% are machinery operators and drivers, and the remaining 1.7% have occupations that are inadequately described or not stated.
The religious landscape of Townsville is diverse. According to statistics, 26.2% of the population identify as Catholic, 24.4% have no religion, 14.2% are Anglican, 3.6% are part of the Uniting Church, 3.4% are Presbyterian and Reformed, 1.5% identify as Christian, 1.2% are Eastern Orthodox, and 1% are Buddhists or Lutherans. These religious groups contribute to the city's cultural and spiritual diversity.
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Population density
Townsville, a city on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, has experienced significant population growth since its early days. In 1882, Townsville's population was just 4,000 people, but by 1891 it had already grown to 13,000. Over the years, the population continued to expand, and in 2014, the estimated population was approximately 178,600 to 190,000 people. As of 2024, the population of Townsville is estimated to be around 201,313. With a projected growth rate of 1.55% from 2011 to 2025, the population is expected to reach 208,146 by the end of June 2025.
When it comes to population density, Townsville stands at about 2.94 people per square kilometre or 2750 people per square mile as of 2017. Another source states that the population density is 1061 people per square kilometre, while yet another source gives a figure of 259 people per square kilometre, ranking Townsville as the fourth most populated city in Queensland. The urban area of Townsville spans 693.3 square kilometres, while the city proper covers 54.1 square miles.
The population of Townsville is younger than the averages for both Queensland and Australia. This is attributed to a high turnover in population due to the presence of government services and an army base, resulting in a significant number of short to medium-term residents. Additionally, the city attracts mineworkers who stay for a limited period without permanently settling or bringing their families. These factors contribute to a slower rate of population growth compared to other cities.
Townsville's population growth is influenced by several factors. One significant aspect is tourism, which consistently generates job opportunities and attracts both retirees and young individuals to the city. The city's strong tourism industry, combined with its reputation as the industrial heart of northern Australia, contributes to its population expansion. Additionally, the city's pleasant weather and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef make it an attractive destination for many.
In summary, Townsville, Australia, has seen a steady increase in its population over the years, with projections indicating continued growth. The city's population density ranges across different estimates, and its growth is influenced by various factors, including tourism, industrial development, and its appeal as a desirable place to live.
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Population projections
Townsville, a city located on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, has experienced fluctuations in its population over the years. As of 2024, the population of Townsville was 201,313, making it the largest settlement in North Queensland and Northern Australia.
Historical data reveals that Townsville's population has grown significantly since the 19th century. In 1882, the population stood at 4,000 people and increased to 13,000 by 1891. By 2006, the population had reached 128,808, showcasing a substantial increase over time.
Looking ahead, population projections for Townsville indicate further growth. According to estimates, the population is expected to reach 208,146 by the end of June 2025, with an average growth rate of 1.55% over the previous 13 years. Another estimate places the 2025 population at 190,457, representing a 1.35% annual change.
In the longer term, the Queensland Government Population Projections estimate that by 2046, Townsville's population will be approximately 264,899. This projection highlights the anticipated continued growth of the city, which is influenced by factors such as its diverse economy, tourism, and its status as a major industrial and administrative centre.
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Population history
Townsville, a city on the north-eastern coast of Queensland, Australia, has experienced population growth and a changing demographic composition over the years. Townsville's population has grown significantly since its early days as a settlement. In 1882, the population was recorded at 4,000 people, and by 1891, it had more than tripled to 13,000 residents. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including its establishment as a regional centre and its role in industries such as mining and government services.
In 2006, the population of Townsville was 128,808, and it has continued to grow steadily. The estimated population for 2024 was 201,313, and by June 2025, it is expected to reach 208,146. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including tourism, which has consistently been a driver of economic development in the region, creating numerous job opportunities. Additionally, Townsville's pleasant weather, with an average of 300 to 320 sunny days per year, has attracted retirees and young people to the city.
The population of Townsville is relatively young compared to the averages for Queensland and Australia. The median age of residents is 33 years, with 21.1% of the population being 0-14 years old and only 9.8% over 65. This youthful demographic is partly due to the presence of government services and the army base, which bring in short to medium-term residents with specific job requirements. The city also has a high turnover rate, with many mine workers choosing not to relocate permanently.
The population density of Townsville is approximately 259 people per square kilometre, ranking it as the fourth most populated city in Queensland. The main occupations of Townsville residents include professionals (28.2%), managers (17.1%), community and personal service workers (14.6%), and clerical and administrative workers (12.4%). The most common religions are Catholic (26.2%-28.1%), followed by those with no religious affiliation (21.9%-24.4%).
Townsville's population is predominantly Australian-born, with over 60% to 80.2% of residents born in Australia. The remaining population consists of individuals from various countries, including New Zealand, England, the Philippines, Scotland, the United States, India, and South Africa. Townsville's diversity is also reflected in its languages, with 75%-to-87.5% of residents speaking only English, and the remaining population speaking languages such as Greek, Cantonese, Spanish, Arabic, Filipino, and Italian.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 2024, Townsville has a population of 201,313 people.
The Census usual resident population of Townsville in 2021 was 192,768.
In June 2018, Townsville had a population of 194,072.
Townsville's population density is 259 people per square kilometre.
According to the census, the main occupations of people living in Townsville are professionals (28.2%), managers (17.1%), community and personal service workers (14.6%), and clerical and administrative workers (12.4%).























