Cairns delivers some of Queensland’s lowest rates

The data’s in - Cairns residents continue to receive some of the best rates value in Queensland, confirmed by the latest rates benchmarking report.

Each year, Cairns Regional Council compares its rates and utility charges with other councils in Queensland to see how we stack up.

The 2025/26 Rates Benchmarking Report compares total annual charges for both residential and strata properties (both houses and apartments) in the Cairns region with those in other local government areas. This includes Queensland councils with over 100,000 people.

The results show Cairns consistently ranks as one of the most affordable places in Queensland when it comes to residential rates and utility charges.

The annual budget highlights that Cairns is placing significant investment in water security and essential infrastructure, while still improving liveability via parks, paths, and community spaces.

In the past 12 months, Council rates have gone towards lifestyle assets including an upgrade of the BMX track at Clifton Beach, improvement of fitness stations along the Esplanade, renewal of Botanic Garden Raintree Boardwalks, and new cricket nets, pathways and court renewal at Henley’s Hill playground at Earlville.

Council maintains over 595 kilometres of footpaths, provided 75,000 seedlings over three years for planting throughout the region, and dedicated over 8,000 hours of footpath cleaning, solidifying Cairns’ reputation as one of the most liveable places in Queensland.

Mayor Amy Eden said the findings reflect Council’s ongoing commitment to keeping rates fair and services high.

“We’re always looking for ways to deliver for our community through the services and spaces they value the most,” Mayor Eden said.

“We’re continuing to lay the foundations of a strong financial future and investing in the basics. Essential service charges – for water, sewerage, and waste – have been kept as low as possible while ensuring continued service quality and the rebuilding of financial flexibility.

“Cairns is one of the most liveable cities in the country. We know that cost of living matters, and we’re focused on delivering affordability and liveability without cutting corners.”

Benchmarking has been conducted annually since 2016/17 for councils with over 100,000 residents, with Cairns consistently holding the lowest position in key residential categories.

The benchmarking considers the total cost of rates and utility charges, including typical water usage, to ensure a fair ‘like-for-like’ comparison.