Kairi

QLD 4872 • Queensland

490
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Personal Income
39.34 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RuralAgriculturalHinterlandQuietPeaceful
Advertisement

About Kairi

Kairi is a rural town and locality in the Tablelands Region of Far North Queensland, situated approximately 12 kilometres north-west of Atherton and 84 kilometres south-west of Cairns. Perched at an elevation of 697 metres on the Atherton Tablelands, Kairi enjoys a cooler, more temperate climate than the coastal lowlands below. With a 2021 Census population of 490 residents across nearly 40 square kilometres, it is a small but distinct community set among the lush tablelands landscape.

The locality is perhaps best known for its iconic maize silos, a striking landmark that speaks to the area's agricultural history. Lake Tinaroo, a large freshwater dam popular for boating, fishing, and water sports, lies just a few kilometres to the north, making Kairi well-placed for outdoor recreation. The nearby town of Atherton provides essential services, schools, and shopping, while Kairi itself maintains the quiet, friendly character of a close-knit tablelands community.

Kairi falls under postcode 4872 and is governed by the Tablelands Council (Local Government Area). For federal elections, residents vote in the electorate of Leichhardt, while state elections fall under the Hill electorate.

📍 Location

State
Postcode
4872
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Brisbane (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-18.03°, 145.16°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
39.34 km²
Population Density
12 /km²
Elevation
0m

📣 Ad

💰 Income

ATO taxable income Postcode 4872

Median taxable income for individual taxpayers in postcode 4872 for the 2023–24 financial year (2019–20 data not published for this postcode).

Median 2019–20
N/A
Median 2023–24
$43,620
Average taxable income (2023–24)
$56,030

Source: ATO Taxation Statistics 2023–24, Individuals Table 8 (median & average taxable income by postcode). Covers all individuals who lodged a return in postcode 4872; postcodes with fewer than 200 lodgments are suppressed by the ATO.

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Limited regional services — Atherton / Cairns Varies

Commute to Cairns CBD

Distance
84 km
By Train
No direct train service; Cairns is approximately 84 km from Kairi
By Car (Peak)
1.5-2 hrs
By Car (Off-Peak)
1-1.5 hrs

🛣️ Atherton (12 km) is the nearest service centre; Cairns accessible via Gillies or Kuranda Range roads

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Kairi is a small rural locality with minimal commercial services; residents rely on cars for most needs, with Atherton being the nearest shopping centre

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
490
0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021

🚔 Crime Statistics LGA-wide

These are the latest rates for the Tablelands Local Government Area, which contains Kairi. Rates are per 100,000 residents for calendar year 2025; trends compare 2 and 10 year periods.

Break & enter (dwelling)
1,556.7 / 100k
Motor vehicle theft
414.2 / 100k
Non-FV assault
1,156.9 / 100k
Robbery (unarmed)
35.7 / 100k
Steal from vehicle
346.3 / 100k

Source: Queensland Police Service via data.qld.gov.au

📣 Ad

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kairi known for? +

Kairi is known for its iconic maize silos — a landmark visible across the tablelands — and its proximity to Lake Tinaroo, a popular freshwater dam used for boating, fishing, and recreation. The locality sits at 697 metres elevation on the lush Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland.

How far is Kairi from Cairns? +

Kairi is approximately 84 kilometres south-west of Cairns, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive via the Gillies or Kuranda Range roads. The nearest regional centre, Atherton, is just 12 kilometres away.

Does Kairi have public transport? +

Kairi has no rail service and limited public transport. Regional bus connections link the area to Atherton and Cairns, but a car is the most practical means of transport for residents.

What is the population of Kairi? +

According to the 2021 Census, Kairi has a population of 490 residents. The locality covers approximately 39 square kilometres at an elevation of 697 metres on the Atherton Tablelands.

Is Kairi a good place to live? +

Kairi appeals to those who enjoy a cooler, relaxed rural lifestyle away from the tropical coast. Its proximity to Lake Tinaroo and the scenic tablelands make it a pleasant base for outdoor enthusiasts, while Atherton provides schools and everyday services nearby.

What is the postcode for Kairi? +

The postcode for Kairi, Queensland is 4872.

Is Kairi a safe area? +

Crime statistics are recorded at the Local Government Area level. Kairi is part of the Tablelands LGA — see the Crime Statistics section on this page for the latest recorded offence rates per 100,000 residents, along with 2-year and 10-year trends.