Cooktown

At A Glance

Cooktown, formerly “Cook’s Town,” is a historic Australian town with over 2,700 residents. Once a Gold Rush port, it’s now a fishing and tourism hub near the Endeavour River and Great Barrier Reef. Major industries include local government, healthcare, accommodation, and education. Current developments focus on the waterfront and airport. Cooktown’s heritage buildings and upcoming “Cooktown 2020” festival, marking 250 years since James Cook’s arrival, attract tourists. With its rich history and ongoing development, Cooktown blends its past with a promising future.

Transmission Coverage

Population

Total Population: The total usual resident population for the locality of Cooktown was 2,746 people.

Percentage of Women: 49.0%

Percentage of Men: 51.0%

Average Age

Median Age in the Region: The median age for people in the Cooktown locality was 44 years. This is higher than the Queensland median age of 38, indicating a slightly older population profile.

Income (Weekly Household)

The median weekly household income for Cooktown was $1,252 AUD, which is lower than the Queensland median of $1,675. This is typical of regional centres with diverse employment, including significant public service and low-wage tourism/retail jobs.

Due to the size of the locality, detailed percentage breakdowns for specific household income brackets are not published. However, the top three brackets for households based on the overall distribution are likely to be:

$1,000 – $1,249 per week: Likely the single largest cluster, aligning with the median income.

$650 – $799 per week: A high percentage due to the older population (pensions/retirees).

$2,000 – $2,499 per week: A smaller, high-earning cluster (likely professionals and skilled trades).

Industry

Health Care and Social Assistance: 19.2% of employed residents. The dominant employer, providing essential services to the local community and surrounding Cape York area.

Public Administration and Safety: 13.0% of employed residents. Reflecting the presence of Shire Council offices, police, and other government services for the region.

Construction: 10.9% of employed residents. Driven by local housing, maintenance, and infrastructure projects.

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