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Brisbane's key economic facts

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Explore key facts about Brisbane’s economic development, population and growth. Download reports for detailed figures.

People walking through the Queen Street Mall retail precinct in Brisbane City.

Facts and figures

Council regularly gathers information about Brisbane’s economy including important statistics and research. 

Get to know Brisbane’s key facts and figures for a deeper understanding of our city’s economic landscape.

Brisbane at a glance

Land area - 1342.7 km2

Total area of Brisbane is 1342.7 km2, consisting of 190 suburbs, plus islands and localities in Moreton Bay.

Resident population - 1.32 million

As of June 2023, 1.32 million people call Brisbane home.  

Average household size - 2.5 persons

According to the 2021 Census, the average household in Brisbane is made up of 2.5 persons.

Gross Regional Product - $181 billion

Brisbane region’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) was estimated at $181 billion in 2020-21.

Registered businesses - 143,000

There were more than 143,000 registered businesses in Brisbane in 2023-24.

Labour force – 814,000

As of September 2024, Brisbane had a labour force of more than 814,000 people.

Local employment – 68%

According to the 2021 Census, 68% of people work and live within Brisbane LGA.

Working age population – 70%

As of June 2023, 70% of Brisbane’s population were working age (between 15-64 years).

For more figures on resident population, resident labour force and projected jobs growth, download Brisbane's Economic Profile.

Brisbane's Economic Development Plan 

Gain insight into our strategy to make Brisbane a global hub for tourism, business and culture.

The Brisbane Economic Development Plan includes facts and figures behind our initiatives to:

  • attract investment
  • support local businesses
  • promote global connections
  • enhance quality of life
  • advance business growth.

Download the plan for more statistics showing Brisbane’s commitment to long-term prosperity and sustainability.

For more insights into the local economy, visit Brisbane Economic Development Agencyopens in a new tab.  

Frequently asked questions