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Area profile · Australian Capital Territory

Cook

Cook has an estimated 2,968 residents, up 0.1% since the 2021 Census, with 36 projects tracked in the area around Cook.

Updated 14 Oct 2026.

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About Cook

Situated 6.2 kilometres west-northwest from the Canberra CBD, the Cook Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an established, highly affluent residential enclave distinguished by a tranquil setting, scenic reserves of Canberra Nature Park, and community hubs including the Cook Neighbourhood Oval and Cook Friendly Grocer. Demographically, the locality is weighted toward middle-aged and elderly cohorts, with a pronounced representation of residents aged 45 to 54. The latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) outputs from the ABS alongside validated new addresses indicate that demographic movements have remained subdued, with Cook recording an estimated population of 2,968 as of Aug 2026 compared to 2,965 people at the 2021 Census.

The local workforce shows prominent concentration in public administration and safety, alongside elevated numbers in professional and technical services as well as the education sector.

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Map of Cook and nearby areas

01Profile

The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.

About Cook

Situated 6.2 kilometres west-northwest from the Canberra CBD, the Cook Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an established, highly affluent residential enclave distinguished by a tranquil setting, scenic reserves of Canberra Nature Park, and community hubs including the Cook Neighbourhood Oval and Cook Friendly Grocer. Demographically, the locality is weighted toward middle-aged and elderly cohorts, with a pronounced representation of residents aged 45 to 54. The latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) outputs from the ABS alongside validated new addresses indicate that demographic movements have remained subdued, with Cook recording an estimated population of 2,968 as of Aug 2026 compared to 2,965 people at the 2021 Census.

The local workforce shows prominent concentration in public administration and safety, alongside elevated numbers in professional and technical services as well as the education sector.

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Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,976 in 2001 and 2,962 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,968 (ABS June 2025 base).

Who lives in Cook

Show the age and household income barsShow less

Age profile

0-44.6%5-1411.3%15-2411.1%25-3411.5%35-4414.1%45-5415%55-6411.4%65-749.6%75-847.5%85+3.8%

Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 45 to 54, 15%.

Household income (2021 Census, weekly)

$0-3992.6%$400-79910.4%$800-1,49918.2%$1,500-2,99931.7%$3,000-3,99914.3%$4000+22.8%

Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.7%.

How Cook compares

Cook ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for income and the 72nd for transport & access.

  1. Income94th percentileTaxable, household, high incomes
  2. Housing85th percentileHome ownership and affordability
  3. Housing Cost76th percentileMedian mortgage (higher = dearer)
  4. Transport & Access72nd percentileFrequent services, stops close to homes
  5. Amenities69th percentileAccess to everyday services
  6. Age65th percentileAge (higher = older)
  7. Education58th percentileSchools, qualifications, study
  8. Cultural Diversity55th percentileBorn overseas, other languages
  9. Employment Drivers52nd percentileLow unemployment, job growth, participation
  10. Infrastructure Drivers49th percentileImpact of nearby projects
  11. Health48th percentileLow death rates, few long-term conditions
  12. Development Activity22nd percentileBuilding approvals per resident
  13. Population Growth19th percentileRecent and longer-term growth

Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.

AreaSearch's assessment

Income
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 6% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
Population growth
Cook is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Development
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Cook, placing the area among the bottom 22% of areas assessed nationally.
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Transport
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenities
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Infrastructure
Cook has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 19th percentile nationally.

Why Cook stands out

  • Strong semi-detached presence
  • Notable public administration employment base
  • Elevated education employment
  • Pronounced 45 to 54yo representation
  • Substantial Professional and Technical employment presence

02Market and pipeline

Rents, sale prices and what is being built.

Projects and development in and around Cook

AreaSearch tracks 36 projects in and around Cook, 7 of them under construction.

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  • AI impression: Ethos Belconnen, Residential Development
    Construction

    Ethos Belconnen

    Est. value $110M · completion 2026 · Residential Development

    Ethos is the second stage of Per Se Developments' Cirrus lakeside precinct at Belconnen. The project comprises 88 premium apartments with ground floor commercial tenancies overlooking Lake Ginninderra. Construction is well advanced with display apartments open and commercial space being marketed ahead of expected completion in 2026.

  • AI impression: Belconnen Mixed-Use Towers (40 Cameron Avenue), Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
    Dev. Application

    Belconnen Mixed-Use Towers (40 Cameron Avenue)

    Est. value $107M · completion 2028 · Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

    RF Corval has proposed a major mixed-use redevelopment at 40 Cameron Avenue comprising two towers of 24 and 27 storeys. The proposal includes 407 residential apartments, ground-floor commercial and office tenancies, and structured basement and podium parking.

  • AI impression: Bruce Precinct (Section 15), Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
    Planning

    Bruce Precinct (Section 15)

    Est. value $180M · completion 2028 · Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

    A masterplanned mixed-use urban precinct and residential land release located centrally in Bruce, adjacent to the AIS and Bruce Ridge Nature Reserve.

  • AI impression: Belconnen Central by JW Land, Communities
    Dev. Approval

    Belconnen Central by JW Land

    Est. value $520M · completion 2028 · Communities

    A $520 million mixed-use town centre precinct comprising 550 for-sale apartments and 325 build-to-rent units across two towers (20 and 24 storeys) over a central podium with ground-floor commercial activation and basement parking.

  • AI impression: New Northside Hospital, Health & Medical
    Planning

    New Northside Hospital

    Est. value $1.0B · completion 2031 · Health & Medical

    The ACT Government is developing the New Northside Hospital on the existing North Canberra Hospital campus in Bruce to replace the ageing Calvary Public Hospital infrastructure.

  • AI impression: Belconnen Basketball Stadium Expansion, Sports & Recreation
    Planning

    Belconnen Basketball Stadium Expansion

    Est. value $45M · completion 2027 · Sports & Recreation

    The ACT Government is progressing planning for the expansion and modernisation of the Belconnen Basketball Stadium. The project encompasses additional indoor multi-sport courts, upgraded spectator seating, enhanced accessibility features, and improved administrative and changeroom amenities to meet rising regional community demand.

  • AI impression: JWLand Belconnen Lathlain Street Development, Communities
    Dev. Application

    JWLand Belconnen Lathlain Street Development

    Est. value $350M · completion 2028 · Communities

    Mixed-use precinct at Belconnen Town Centre comprising 435 apartments across buildings of 12 to 18 storeys, a 144-room hotel, ground-floor retail, cafes, restaurants, and commercial office suites. The project sits within the Lathlain Eat Street precinct opposite Westfield Belconnen and adjoins an ACT Government urban park.

  • AI impression: New Northside Hospital (North Canberra Hospital Redevelopment), Social Infrastructure
    Construction

    New Northside Hospital (North Canberra Hospital Redevelopment)

    Est. value $1.0B · completion 2032 · Social Infrastructure

    The New Northside Hospital is a landmark $1+ billion health infrastructure project delivering a modern acute hospital campus to replace aging facilities at North Canberra Hospital in Bruce.

  • AI impression: Belconnen Community Hub Upgrade, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
    Planning

    Belconnen Community Hub Upgrade

    Est. value $25M · completion 2026 · Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

    Comprehensive upgrade of existing community facilities including expanded library services, community meeting spaces, youth programs area, seniors centre, and childcare facilities. Improved accessibility and technology integration throughout.

  • AI impression: University of Canberra Sports Precinct, Sports & Recreation
    Approved

    University of Canberra Sports Precinct

    Est. value $125M · completion 2027 · Sports & Recreation

    Major expansion of University of Canberra sports facilities, including the development of Sports Hub 2, new aquatic centre, indoor sports courts, outdoor playing fields, gymnasium upgrades, and athlete training facilities. It focuses on community access programs and elite athlete development.

  • AI impression: Bruce Sporting Complex Upgrade, Sports & Recreation
    Construction

    Bruce Sporting Complex Upgrade

    Est. value $45M · completion 2026 · Sports & Recreation

    Progressive upgrade of sporting facilities in Bruce including playing fields, lighting, pavilions, changerooms and supporting infrastructure. The works form part of the ACT Government's ongoing sportsground improvement program to improve community and competition sporting facilities.

  • AI impression: West Belconnen Health Centre, Health & Medical
    Planning

    West Belconnen Health Centre

    Est. value $95M · completion 2028 · Health & Medical

    Planned ACT Government community health centre for the growing West Belconnen and Ginninderry region. The facility is intended to provide integrated primary care, specialist outpatient services, allied health, mental health and community health services.

Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.

See every project in Full

Estimated completion years of projects

Estimated completion year of the 23 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 5, 2027 2, 2028 7, 2029 0, 2030 0, 2031 1, 2032 2, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 4. 3 have no completion year.

Development in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
ABS building approvals2.1 per 1,000 peopleABS building approvals26th percentile nationally
Average approvals a year6ABS building approvals13th percentile nationally

Questions about infrastructure in Cook

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Cook SA2?

Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Cook SA2 include: Bruce Precinct (Section 15) (Planning); New Northside Hospital (North Canberra Hospital Redevelopment) (Construction); Bandler and Sulman New Suburbs (Planning); West Belconnen Health Centre (Planning); and Belconnen Town Centre East Precinct (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.

What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Cook SA2?

Infrastructure development impacting the Cook SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Transport & Logistics, and Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.

How does the Cook SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?

Infrastructure development activity impacting the Cook SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 19th percentile.

Development in Cook

AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Cook, placing the area among the bottom 22% of areas assessed nationally.

Questions about development in Cook

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Cook SA2 recently?

Dwelling approval activity in the Cook SA2 area has seen 16 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Cook SA2's current population of 2,968 has been supported by 6 approvals on average over recent years.

How does the Cook SA2's development activity compare to Australian Capital Territory?

The Cook SA2 has seen 2.1 approval per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 9.2 approvals in Australian Capital Territory. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 830 people in the Cook SA2, compared to one for every 147 in Australian Capital Territory.

What is the outlook for development in Cook?

The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.

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What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Cook SA2?

Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Cook SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 6, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.

How does recent development compare to population growth in the Cook SA2?

Over the past five years, the population in the Cook SA2 has grown by approximately 49 people, while 31 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.

03People

Population, age, income, work, education and more.

99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.

Population in Cook

Data: Aug 2026 estimate, from the ABS June 2025 base

Cook is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.

Population in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Population2,968AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base
Growth since 2021 Census+0.1%AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census8th percentile nationally
Population density1,875 per km²AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base68th percentile nationally
Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025+0.3%ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025
Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025+0.1%ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025
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Population in Cook: key figures, continued
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Population at the 2021 Census2,9652021 Census
Residents added since the 2021 Census3AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census
Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025+0.8%ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025
Population growth, 2024 to 2025+2.3%ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025
Land area1.58 km²AreaSearch boundary analysis

Questions about population in Cook

What is the latest population estimate for the Cook SA2?

Total population for the Cook SA2 was estimated to be approximately 2,968 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,962 from the ABS up to June 2025.

How has the population in the Cook SA2 changed since 2021?

The cook sa2 has added approximately 3 people and shown a 0.10% increase from the 2,965 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.

What is the population density in the Cook SA2?

The population density in the Cook SA2 is estimated at 1,879 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.

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How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Cook SA2?

Over the past 10 years, the population in the Cook SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.1% per annum.

What are the main drivers of population growth in the Cook SA2?

Population growth in the Cook SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (69.6%), Natural increase (30.4%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 69.6% of overall population gains.

Age in Cook

Data: Aug 2026 estimate, from the ABS June 2025 base

Cook's median age exceeds the national pattern.

Age in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Median age42 yearsABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate65th percentile nationally
Aged 65 and over20.9%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Children under 1515.9%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 15 to 3422.6%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 25 to 6452.1%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
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Age in Cook: key figures, continued
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Median age at the 2021 Census42 years2021 Census
Aged 0 to 44.6%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 5 to 1411.3%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 15 to 2411.1%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 25 to 3411.5%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 35 to 4414.1%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 45 to 5415.0%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 55 to 6411.4%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 65 to 749.6%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 75 to 847.5%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate
Aged 85 and over3.8%ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate

Questions about age in Cook

What is the median age in the Cook SA2?

AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Cook SA2 at 42 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.

How does the Cook SA2's median age compare to Australian Capital Territory and Australia?

At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Cook is 7 years older than the Australian Capital Territory 2021 Census average (35 years) and 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).

What age groups are over-represented in the Cook SA2?

On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Cook SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 15.0% of the population.

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What age groups are under-represented in the Cook SA2?

On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Cook SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 11.5% of the population.

Are there age groups with notable population variances?

Yes, certain age groups in the Cook SA2 show significant variance compared to Australian Capital Territory. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.8% vs 1.8%) and 75-84 year-olds (7.5% vs 5.1%).

What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Cook SA2?

AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.9% of the population in the Cook SA2 as at August 2026.

What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Cook SA2?

AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.9% of the population in the Cook SA2 as at August 2026.

Income in Cook

Data: ATO FY 2024 and 2021 Census

The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 6% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.

Income in Cook: key figures from ATO taxation data (annual)
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Median taxable income (ATO)$81,785 a yearATO FY-24, annual96th percentile nationally
Average taxable income$99,635 a yearATO FY-24, annual
Income in Cook: key figures from the 2021 Census (weekly income)
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Census household income / week$2,2692021 Census, weekly81st percentile nationally
Census personal income / week$1,2882021 Census, weekly94th percentile nationally
High-income households37.1%2021 Census
Census family income / week$3,0542021 Census, weekly
Low-income households13.0%2021 Census

Questions about income in Cook

What is the median taxable income in the Cook SA2?

Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cook SA2 is approximately $87,526. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $81,785.

What is the average taxable income in the Cook SA2?

Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cook SA2 is approximately $106,629. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $99,635.

How does the median taxable income in the Cook SA2 compare to Australian Capital Territory?

Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cook SA2 is approximately $87,526 compared to $81,672 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $81,785 and $76,315 respectively.

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How does the average taxable income in the Cook SA2 compare to Australian Capital Territory?

Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cook SA2 is approximately $106,629 compared to $96,344 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $99,635 and $90,024 respectively.

What are the main income cohorts in the Cook SA2 according to the 2021 Census?

As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Cook SA2's households (~31.7% / 392 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.

How do the main income cohorts in the Cook SA2 compare to Australian Capital Territory?

The largest weekly household income cohort in the Cook SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.7% of households. In comparison, Australian Capital Territory's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 34.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.

What is the median household income in the Cook SA2 according to the 2021 Census?

The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Cook SA2 is $2,269/wk.

What is the median family income in the Cook SA2 according to the 2021 Census?

According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Cook SA2 is $3,054/wk.

What is the median personal income in the Cook SA2 according to the 2021 Census?

The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Cook SA2 is $1,288/wk.

How does the Cook SA2's income rank nationally?

According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Cook SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $81,785 with the average level standing at $99,635. This is among the top percentile nationally and compares to levels of $76,315 and $90,024 across Australian Capital Territory respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.02% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $87,526 (median) and $106,629 (average) as of June 2026.

What is the disposable income in the Cook SA2?

The estimated disposable income in the Cook SA2 is $8,615 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.

How does the Cook SA2's disposable income compare to Australian Capital Territory?

The cook sa2's disposable income is $8,615 compared to $8,812 for Australian Capital Territory, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Employment in Cook

AreaSearch analysis indicates Cook maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.

Employment in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Unemployment rate3.4%ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch
Workforce participation66.0%ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch
Employed residents1,596ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch
Daytime population2,264AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday
Labour force1,652ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch

Questions about employment in Cook

What is the employment situation in the Cook SA2?

As of June 2026, the Cook SA2 has approximately 1,596 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.4%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.

How does the Cook SA2's unemployment rate compare to Australian Capital Territory?

As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Cook SA2 stands at 3.4%, which is 0.8 percentage points below Australian Capital Territory's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.

What are the major employment sectors in the Cook SA2?

The employment landscape in the Cook SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (31.5% of employment), education & training (15.1%), and professional & technical (13.3%). These three sectors alone account for 59.9% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include health care & social assistance and construction.

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How has employment changed recently in the Cook SA2?

Over the past year to June 2026, the Cook SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Australian Capital Territory saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.

What is the workforce participation rate in the Cook SA2?

The workforce participation rate in the Cook SA2 is 66.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Australian Capital Territory average of 71.1%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.

Which industries are over-represented in the Cook SA2's employment market?

The cook sa2 shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 15.1% of the local workforce compared to 9.6% across Australian Capital Territory. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.

What is the outlook for employment in Cook?

The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.

How does the job market in the Cook SA2 compare nationally?

The cook sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 7.3% decline, ranking 35th out of 37 regions nationally.

Education in Cook

Data: 2021 Census

Cook ranks slightly above average for education relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.

Education in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Bachelor qualifications31.5%2021 Census89th percentile nationally
Postgraduate qualifications22.4%2021 Census98th percentile nationally
University qualifications60.8%2021 Census
Vocational qualifications10.1%2021 Census8th percentile nationally
Graduate diploma or certificate6.9%2021 Census99th percentile nationally
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Education in Cook: key figures, continued
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Advanced diploma or diploma8.4%2021 Census11th percentile nationally
No post-school qualification20.8%2021 Census
Residents attending an educational institution28.7%2021 Census
Residents attending university or other higher education7.7%2021 Census84th percentile nationally
Residents attending primary school8.4%2021 Census19th percentile nationally
Residents attending secondary school7.5%2021 Census37th percentile nationally

Questions about education in Cook

What percentage of people in the Cook SA2 have university qualifications?

60.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Cook SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 46.8% in Australian Capital Territory.

What percentage of people in the Cook SA2 have no formal qualifications?

20.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Cook SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 28.6% in Australian Capital Territory.

How does the Cook SA2's education level compare to national averages?

The cook sa2 ranks in the 58th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.

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What types of qualifications are most common in the Cook SA2?

The most common qualifications in the Cook SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (31.5%), Postgraduate (22.4%), Certificate (10.1%).

What proportion of the Cook SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?

28.7% of the population in the Cook SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.4% in primary school, 7.5% in secondary school, 7.7% at university (all shares of total residents).

Households in Cook

Data: 2021 Census

Cook features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Australian Capital Territory.

Households in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Median household size2.3 people2021 Census25th percentile nationally
Lone-person households31.0%2021 Census75th percentile nationally
Couples with children27.0%2021 Census38th percentile nationally
Couples without children27.0%2021 Census50th percentile nationally
One-parent families9.8%2021 Census40th percentile nationally
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Households in Cook: key figures, continued
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Group households3.6%2021 Census67th percentile nationally
Households at the 2021 Census1,2372021 Census
Estimated households1,238AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026
Family households64.9%2021 Census26th percentile nationally
Average children per family1.3 per family2021 Census15th percentile nationally

Questions about households in Cook

How many households are in the Cook SA2?

As of the 2021 Census, the Cook SA2 had 1,237 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 1,238 households today.

What is the typical household size?

The average household size in the Cook SA2 is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.5 in Australian Capital Territory and reflects the area's household composition mix.

What types of households are most common?

Family households dominate at 64.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (31.0%), group households (3.6%), and other household types (0.6%).

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How are families structured in the area?

Of the 803 family households, couples with children account for 27.0% of all households, couples without children at home 27.0%, and single parent families 9.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.

How does the Cook SA2 compare to household patterns in Australian Capital Territory?

Compared to Australian Capital Territory, the Cook SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 31.0% (versus 25.7% in Australian Capital Territory). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.

What is the average family size?

Families in the Cook SA2 have an average of 1.3 children, slightly below the Australian Capital Territory average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.

What are the marriage patterns in the Cook SA2?

Marriage patterns reveal 42.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 39.3% have never married. This compares to 46.8% married and 39.2% never married across Australian Capital Territory.

How significant are single-person households?

Single-person households represent 31.0% of all households in the Cook SA2, higher than the average for Australian Capital Territory of 25.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.

Are shared living arrangements common?

Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.6% of households, below the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.

Cultural diversity in Cook

Data: 2021 Census

The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Cook was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.

Cultural diversity in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Born overseas24.9%2021 Census53rd percentile nationally
Speak another language at home15.7%2021 Census55th percentile nationally
English only at home84.3%2021 Census44th percentile nationally
Australian citizens89.1%2021 Census68th percentile nationally
Born in Australia75.1%2021 Census46th percentile nationally
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents0.6%2021 Census23rd percentile nationally

Questions about cultural diversity in Cook

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Cook SA2?

Cook was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 24.9% of its population born overseas and 15.7% speaking a language other than English at home.

What is the most common religion in the Cook SA2?

Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Cook, at 32.9% of people, although more residents (61.1%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 40.7% across Australian Capital Territory.

What are the top countries of origin in the Cook SA2?

In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Cook are English, comprising 27.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 23.4% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.9% of Cook (vs 0.6% across Australian Capital Territory), Hungarian at 0.5% (vs 0.3%) and French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%).

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How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to Australian Capital Territory?

24.9% of the Cook SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 29.9% across Australian Capital Territory.

What percentage of the Cook SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?

15.7% of the population in the Cook SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 25.6% in Australian Capital Territory.

How many people in the Cook SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?

0.6% of the Cook SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Australian Capital Territory.

What is the citizenship status of the population in the Cook SA2?

89.1% of the Cook SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 85.8% in Australian Capital Territory.

04Place

Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.

Housing in Cook

Data: 2021 Census

Cook displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.

Housing in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Rented homes24.1%2021 Census39th percentile nationally
Owned outright40.9%2021 Census72nd percentile nationally
Detached houses60.7%2021 Census19th percentile nationally
Median mortgage repayment$2,167 a month2021 Census, monthly76th percentile nationally
Owned with a mortgage35.0%2021 Census51st percentile nationally
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Housing in Cook: key figures, continued
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses36.5%2021 Census97th percentile nationally
Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census$4402021 Census, weekly77th percentile nationally
Median rent as a share of median household income19.4%2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch37th percentile nationally
Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income22.0%2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch31st percentile nationally
People per bedroom0.7 per bedroom2021 Census12th percentile nationally

Questions about housing in Cook

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Cook SA2?

In the Cook SA2, 40.9% of homes are owned outright, 35.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 24.1% are rented.

What percentage of dwellings in the Cook SA2 are houses?

According to the latest data, 60.7% of dwellings in the Cook SA2 are houses.

What percentage of dwellings in the Cook SA2 are apartments or units?

In the Cook SA2, 2.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 36.5% being semi-detached dwellings.

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What is the level of outright home ownership in the Cook SA2?

Outright home ownership in the Cook SA2 stands at 40.9%, compared to 27.3% in Australian Capital Territory.

What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Cook SA2?

The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Cook SA2 is $2,167, compared to $2,080 in Australian Capital Territory.

What is the average monthly housing cost in the Cook SA2?

The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Cook SA2 is $1,217, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.

What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Cook SA2?

In the Cook SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 22.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 19.4% of their income on rent.

How crowded are homes in the Cook SA2?

The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Cook SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.

How does housing affordability in the Cook SA2 compare to Australian Capital Territory?

Housing affordability in the Cook SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 22.0% of income on repayments (vs 20.2% in Australian Capital Territory), while renters spend 19.4% of income on rent (vs 19.0% in Australian Capital Territory).

What types of dwellings are most common in the Cook SA2?

The dwelling mix in the Cook SA2 consists of 60.7% detached houses, 36.5% semi-detached dwellings, 2.8% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.

How affordable is housing in the Cook SA2 relative to local incomes?

Housing in Cook consumes approximately 12.4% of median household income ($9,825 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.

How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Cook SA2?

Recent development applications in Cook show attached dwellings contributing 50% of approvals compared to 39% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 50% of applications versus 61% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.

Health in Cook

Data: ATO FY 2024 and 2021 Census

Cook's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.

Health in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Private health cover68.2%ATO FY 2024, private health cover90th percentile nationally
No long-term health condition64.0%2021 Census22nd percentile nationally
Need help with daily activities4.5%2021 Census33rd percentile nationally
No long-term health condition, under 6571.0%2021 Census16th percentile nationally
Three or more long-term health conditions, under 651.8%2021 Census69th percentile nationally

Questions about health in Cook

How many people in the Cook SA2 have private health insurance?

Around 68.2% of people in the Cook SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 62.2% in Australian Capital Territory.

What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Cook SA2?

In the Cook SA2, 4.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Australian Capital Territory require similar assistance.

How prevalent is asthma in the Cook SA2?

9.3% of people in the Cook SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.1% of the population across Australian Capital Territory is affected by asthma.

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What percentage of people have diabetes in the Cook SA2?

Diabetes affects 2.8% of the Cook SA2 population, while in Australian Capital Territory, 3.5% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.

What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Cook SA2?

3.2% of people in the Cook SA2 have heart disease. Across Australian Capital Territory,2.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.

How does the Cook SA2 compare to Australian Capital Territory in terms of overall private health coverage?

In the Cook SA2, 68.2% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Australian Capital Territory sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 62.2%.

Transport in Cook

Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.

Transport in Cook: key figures
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Transport access72 out of 100AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data72nd percentile nationally
Public transport stops9Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch9th percentile nationally
Weekly public transport trips1,733Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch46th percentile nationally
People per public transport stop330Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch
Public transport routes29Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch
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Transport in Cook: key figures, continued
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Vehicles per dwelling1.1 per dwelling2021 Census
Working residents who worked from home15.3%2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions

Questions about transport in Cook

How many public transport stops are in Cook?

There are 9 public transport stops within the Cook SA2.

How frequent are the transport services in Cook?

The Cook SA2 has 1,733 weekly trips across 29 routes, averaging 247 trips per day.

How far are residents from public transport in Cook?

On average, residential properties are 249 metres from the nearest transport stop.

Everyday services near Cook

From the typical resident, the nearest supermarket is 487 m away and the nearest GP 498 m.

Supermarket
487 m
GP
498 m
Child care
914 m
School
978 m
Shopping centre
989 m

Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.

Public transport 9 stops nearby, 1,733 weekly trips, access rating 72 out of 100.

Amenities in Cook: key figures (distances from the typical resident)
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Amenity score69 out of 100AreaSearch proximity analysis69th percentile nationally
Nearest supermarket487 mAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest GP498 mAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest child care914 mAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest dentist915 mAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
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Amenities in Cook: key figures (distances from the typical resident), continued
MeasureValueSource and dateNational percentile
Nearest fitness centre972 mAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest school978 mAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest shopping centre989 mAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest pharmacy1.0 kmAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest hospital2.3 kmAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest bank2.3 kmAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident
Nearest government service2.5 kmAreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident

Sector reports for operators and developers in Cook

Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).

Sector analysis for Cook

Watch a sample report

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05Reports and tools

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An area report on Cook is built to order and emailed to you.

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Built to order, sent by email

  • Base report: a location analysis and demographic profile of Cook, always included.
  • Child Care demand and supply, if you add it.
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More in AreaSearch

06About this profile

Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.

Development

AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Cook, placing the area among the bottom 22% of areas assessed nationally.

ABS building approvals2.1per 1,000 people26th
ABS approvals a year6ABS building approvals13th

Infrastructure

Cook has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 19th percentile nationally.

No headline figures are reported for this area.

Population

Cook is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.

Population2,968+0.1% since 2021 Census8th
Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025+0.3%ABS resident estimates
Population density1,875per km²AreaSearch estimate, Aug 202668th

Age

Cook's median age exceeds the national pattern.

Median age42yearsAreaSearch estimate, Aug 202665th
Children under 1515.9%AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026
Aged 65 and over20.9%AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026

Income

The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 6% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.

Median taxable income$81,785a yearATO FY-24, annual96th
Census household income / week$2,2692021 Census, weekly81st
High-income households37.1%2021 Census

Employment

AreaSearch analysis indicates Cook maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.

Unemployment rate3.4%Labour force, Jun 2026
Workforce participation66.0%
Employed residents1,596Labour force, Jun 2026

Education

Cook ranks slightly above average for education relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.

University qualifications60.8%2021 Census

Households

Cook features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Australian Capital Territory.

Median household size2.3people2021 Census25th
Lone-person households31.0%2021 Census75th
Couples with children27.0%2021 Census38th

Cultural diversity

The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Cook was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.

Born overseas24.9%2021 Census53rd
Speak another language at home15.7%2021 Census55th

Housing

Cook displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.

Rented homes24.1%2021 Census39th
Owned outright40.9%2021 Census72nd
Detached houses60.7%2021 Census19th

Health

Cook's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.

Private health cover68.2%ATO FY 202490th
No long-term health condition64.0%2021 Census22nd
Need help with daily activities4.5%2021 Census33rd

Transport

Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.

Transport access72out of 10072nd
Public transport stops99th
Weekly public transport trips1,73346th

Amenities

Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.

Amenity score69out of 10069th
Sources and notes

Cook has an estimated 2,968 residents, up 0.1% since the 2021 Census, with 36 projects tracked in the area around Cook.

Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.

Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Cook.

Data and method for Cook

Data currency

Refreshed . Population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).

Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.

  • 2 dated for this area, within 12 months
  • 1 dated for this area, older
  • 2 2021 Census measures
  • 9 compiled with this profile
Statistical area boundaryFigures are for the statistical area shown (ABS Statistical Areas Level 2, SA2). It can differ from a suburb of a similar name.Learn more

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.

See the evidencesources, cycles and method for all 14 sections

Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (801011005). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Cook SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?

This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.

Where does the data on this Cook page come from?

AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.

Is the Cook data on this page just from the 2021 Census?

No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Cook statistics: population, income, housing and more

Key demographics and figures for Cook from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Cook with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.

Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.