City Profile
Bundaberg, Queensland
Australia · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Bundaberg, affectionately known as 'Bundy', is a thriving regional city situated on the banks of the Burnett River in Queensland, Australia. Famous globally for its rich agricultural output—particularly sugarcane, macadamia nuts, and commercial fishing—as well as the iconic Bundaberg Rum Distillery, the city blends deep historical roots with a laid-back subtropical lifestyle. Over recent years, Bundaberg has evolved into a sought-after destination for sea-changers and retirees fleeing metropolitan housing pressures, drawn by its welcoming community spirit, historic colonial architecture, and proximity to the stunning Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Queensland, known as the "Sunshine State," offers a blend of cosmopolitan city living and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, attracting significant internal migration within Australia. Its economy, the third largest in Australia, is diverse, with major industries including healthcare and social assistance, mining, agriculture, tourism, and financial services. The climate is predominantly subtropical to tropical, featuring warm to hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. While costs vary by region, living in Queensland, particularly Brisbane, is generally more affordable than in Sydney or Melbourne, with a single person's average monthly expenses (including rent) estimated around $3,045.00.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 73 / 100 | 73.0 | 30% | 21.9 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 88.0 | 58.8 | 25% | 14.7 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $55,000 Income needed to live here: $48,000 Unemployment rate: 4.1% | 58.5 | 20% | 11.7 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.3% Job growth rate: 2.2% | 60.8 | 15% | 9.1 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 69 / 100 | 69.0 | 10% | 6.9 |
| Overall score | 64.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=62, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
17 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Bundaberg remains significantly more affordable than Australia's major eastern capitals like Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. While recent regional housing demand and construction pressures have driven up property and rental prices across coastal and inner-city pockets, everyday essentials such as groceries, local services, and dining out are still reasonably priced. Residents benefit from lower overhead costs compared to capital cities, making it an attractive location for families and retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle without excessive financial strain.
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Bundaberg's economy is anchored by health care and social assistance, manufacturing, agriculture, and a burgeoning tourism sector. Major infrastructure projects, including substantial investments in regional health facilities and civil construction, continue to drive local employment growth. While traditional industries like sugarcane cultivation and processing remain vital pillars, the area is seeing increased opportunities in professional services, retail, and remote work arrangements as more professionals relocate to regional Queensland for lifestyle flexibility.
The average salary in Bundaberg is $58,000 per year. You would need approximately $48,000 to live comfortably.
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Car ownership is common in Bundaberg, as the city layout and surrounding agricultural regions rely heavily on road connectivity. While public bus services operate throughout the urban center, most residents commute by private vehicle, enjoying relatively short travel times and minimal congestion compared to major metropolitan areas. The local airport provides direct commercial flights to Brisbane, connecting the region to broader national networks.
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