Mackay is a mecca of activities and fun. Beautiful beaches, great fishing, plenty of hikes and walks and so much more, Mackay is also the perfect location for families as well as workers. Mackay has plenty of opportunities in the mining industry and offers a relaxed DIDO lifestyle. It’s also only a short drive from Airlie Beach and the stunning Whitsundays. 

With a population of approximately 130,000, Mackay is one of the larger regional cities in Queensland. If you are moving to Mackay whether relocating for work or simply for a sea change, take a look at our guide to relocating to Mackay. 

Is Mackay a Nice Place to Live?

If you love the big city living, then Mackay might not be your cup of tea. It’s a regional city but it does offer plenty of restaurants, parks, cafes and shopping facilities. It also boasts lush rainforests, great schools and excellent job opportunities. 

Weather wise, you really can’t beat it as it serves up beautiful Queensland weather year-round but without the sticky hot summers of the Northern regions. Expect average temperatures range from 22°C to 31°C (72°F to 88°F), with high humidity and rainfall in summer and cooler, drier months with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) in winter. Average annual rainfall is around 1,200 mm, primarily during the wet season.

Best Suburbs to Live in Mackay

Although Mackay is a coastal regional city, it’s also incredibly affordable. You can get an average three bedroom property for around the $400,000 mark and rent is around $460 per week for the same type of home. Violent crime rates have generally been lower in Mackay compared to major metropolitan areas.

When it comes to the best suburbs in Mackay, it all depends on what you’re looking for. Below are five suburbs in Mackay to consider: 

• North Mackay is a family-friendly suburb with schools, parks, and shopping facilities.
• Mackay City is close to amenities, cafes, and the waterfront, offering a vibrant lifestyle.
• Slade Point is a coastal suburb with beach access and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Andergrove is known for its affordability and proximity to schools and amenities.
• Eimeo offers stunning ocean views and a tranquil lifestyle.

Best Schools in Mackay

There are over 40 schools in Mackay including private schools, catholic schools, high schools and primary schools. 

According to an audit from Better Education, the best schools in Mackay include:

• Whitsunday Anglican School 

• Coningsby State School 

• St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School 

• Glenella State School 

• St. Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School 

• Holy Spirit College 

• Mercy College 

Other high schools in Mackay to consider include: 

• Mackay State High School is a well-respected public school known for its strong academic programs.
• St. Patrick's College is a Catholic school for boys with a focus on holistic education.
• Mackay Christian College offers a faith-based education from early learning to Year 12.
• North Mackay State High School offers a diverse curriculum with various vocational options.

What to do in Mackay

In between work and school commitments, how will you spend your free time and family time when living in Mackay? 

There are plenty of beaches in Mackay that deliver a day of sun, sea and surf including Buchsia Beach. Just remember, you’re in stinger and croc town in Mackay so always be aware. 

If you prefer to swim without worry, the Bluewater Lagoon is your perfect place to perch for the day with several lagoon pools, picnic areas and a playground (all free to use). 

The Mackay Marina also offers a scenic area perfect for dining, walking, and boating activities and the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens showcases a diverse collection of plants and walking trails.

There are plenty of day trips outside of Mackay too include Eungella National Park, the Whitsundays and more.  The nearby rainforest and national parks are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and camping opportunities.

Relocating to Mackay

If you are already in Queensland, then you’ll find Mackay is pretty central. It’s a 10-hour drive or 1.5 hour flight from Brisbane or, if coming from up north, it’s around an 8 hour drive or 1.5 hour flight from Cairns. 

Townsville is about a 4-hour drive away and Rockhampton is also about a four/five hour drive south. 

If relocating to Mackay from interstate from: 

• Sydney: Approximately 1,500 km (932 miles) south; about a 16-hour drive or a 2.5-hour flight.

• Melbourne: Approximately 1,800 km (1,118 miles) southwest; about an 18-hour drive or a 3-hour flight to Brisbane and then a connecting flight.

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