Whitfield
QLD 4870 • Rest of QLD
About Whitfield
Whitfield is a quiet, leafy residential suburb situated on the edge of the Cairns highlands, approximately 5 kilometres west of Cairns CBD within the Cairns Regional Council area. With a population of 4,262 and a median age of 45, the suburb is home to a mix of established families, retirees, and professionals who value its elevated position and proximity to the World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics rainforest. The community reflects the diverse character of Far North Queensland, with a notable Indigenous population and residents from across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
Whitfield benefits from an enviable natural setting, with walking trails into the surrounding rainforest and easy access to the Cairns Botanic Gardens located nearby. The suburb is largely residential in character with local parks and schools, while Cairns city centre — with its full range of shopping, dining, healthcare, and entertainment — is a short drive away. The area's relaxed tropical lifestyle, leafy streets, and green surrounds make Whitfield a popular choice for those who want to live close to the conveniences of Cairns without sacrificing the natural beauty and tranquillity of Far North Queensland.
Whitfield falls under postcode 4870 and is governed by Cairns Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Cairns electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Sunbus Cairns Routes — Cairns CBD 15-20 min
Commute to Cairns CBD
🛣️ Car is the primary mode of transport; Sunbus routes connect to Cairns CBD
Most errands require a car; the suburb is primarily residential with limited local retail and services
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Brinsmead Road
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394 Sheridan Street
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418 Mulgrave Road
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Cnr Sheridan and Upward Streets
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251 Draper Street
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177 Abbott Street
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18 Balaclava Road
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254 Pease Street
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10 Corkill Street
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50-60 Cowley Street
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5 Atkinson Street
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Hoare St
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Mayers Street
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122 Mulgrave Road
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13 Loeven Street
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Intake Road
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Jungara Road
Housing 2021 Census
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 191
- 2. New Zealand 112
- 3. Japan 56
- 4. Philippines 47
- 5. India 44
- 6. Scotland 39
- 7. Papua New Guinea 37
- 8. Germany 29
- 9. South Africa 29
- 10. China 24
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)