Area profile · Australian Capital Territory
Spence has an estimated 2,537 residents, down 1.9% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in the area around Spence.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Spence Statistical Area (Lv2), located 10.9 kilometres north-northwest from Canberra CBD, had an estimated population of approximately 2,537 in Aug 2026. The 2021 Census recorded 2,587 people, with the later estimate reflecting AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ABS ERP (Estimated Resident Population) and validated new addresses added since the Census. The area has a median age of 38 and limited population expansion.
Spence combines a well-educated, affluent population with above-average median household income, strong mortgage holder representation and a notable public administration employment base. Its dwelling supply is severely limited, while the local age profile includes an elevated proportion of residents aged 15 to 24. The area is known for its quiet setting, parklands and reserves, local schools, shops and recreational facilities, and a strong community atmosphere.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Spence Statistical Area (Lv2), located 10.9 kilometres north-northwest from Canberra CBD, had an estimated population of approximately 2,537 in Aug 2026. The 2021 Census recorded 2,587 people, with the later estimate reflecting AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ABS ERP (Estimated Resident Population) and validated new addresses added since the Census. The area has a median age of 38 and limited population expansion.
Spence combines a well-educated, affluent population with above-average median household income, strong mortgage holder representation and a notable public administration employment base. Its dwelling supply is severely limited, while the local age profile includes an elevated proportion of residents aged 15 to 24. The area is known for its quiet setting, parklands and reserves, local schools, shops and recreational facilities, and a strong community atmosphere.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,812 in 2001 and 2,535 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,537 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 15.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32.6%.
Spence ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 92nd for income.
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.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in and around Spence, 2 of them under construction.
Proposal for a two-storey, 550-seat place of assembly (events facility) with an ancillary three-storey, 57-room hotel, basement/undercroft and surface parking, and retention/adaptation of the heritage-listed former Roman Catholic Church at Gold Creek Village.
A new public senior secondary college for Years 11 and 12 in Nicholls, built to meet growing enrolment demand in the Gungahlin district. The campus will open with capacity for 800 students, with room to expand to 1,100 in future.
Proposal by Gungahlin Golf Investments and Konstantinou Group for a staged approximately 694 dwelling build-to-rent and commercial accommodation redevelopment over about 10 years while retaining the 18-hole golf course. The enabling subdivision and Crown lease variation were refused in September 2024 due to inconsistency with the National Capital Plan.
Boutique 42-lot residential release within the new Macnamara suburb, directly adjacent to Dunlop.
Macnamara is the second residential suburb in the Ginninderry Joint Venture, a 6 Star Green Star community on the western edge of Belconnen. Delivered by Suburban Land Agency and Riverview Developments, the suburb will deliver approximately 1,800 homes on land bordering the Ginninderry Conservation Corridor, with views to the Brindabella Mountains.
ACT Government project to expand the Gold Creek School Senior Campus (Years 7-10) with additional contemporary learning spaces, staff areas and amenity upgrades. Delivered to accommodate approximately 200 extra students and lift total capacity to a little over 1,000 from the start of the 2022 school year.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 3 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 1, 2027 0, 2028 0, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 2 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 0.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 8th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 2 | ABS building approvals | 7th percentile nationally |
Dwelling approval activity in the Spence SA2 area has seen 3 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Spence SA2's current population of 2,537 has been supported by 2 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Spence SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 2, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the Spence SA2 has seen 9 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Spence SA2 include: Gold Creek Country Club Build-to-Rent (Gold Creek Golf Club Redevelopment) (Under Assessment); Canberra Light Rail Stage 3: Belconnen to City (Planning); New Northside Hospital (North Canberra Hospital Redevelopment) (Construction); Ginninderry Masterplanned Community - Strathnairn & Macnamara (Construction); and ACT Stormwater Network Improvements Program (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Spence SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Social Infrastructure, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Spence SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 17th percentile.
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.
Spence has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,537 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | -1.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,667 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 64th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,587 | 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.52 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Spence SA2 was estimated to be approximately 2,537 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,535 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The spence sa2 has lost approximately 50 people and shown a 1.93% decrease from the 2,587 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Spence SA2 is estimated at 1,669 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Spence SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Spence SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (51.9%), Natural increase (48.1%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 51.9% of overall population gains.
Spence's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 38 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 40th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 17.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 38 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Spence SA2 at 38 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 38 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 38 years as at August 2026, Spence is 3 years older than the Australian Capital Territory 2021 Census average (35 years) and equal to the national Census average.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Spence SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 7.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Spence SA2 compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 10.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Spence SA2 show significant variance compared to Australian Capital Territory. The most over-represented age group is 75-84 year-olds (7.7% vs 5.1%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (10.7% vs 17.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.4% of the population in the Spence SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 17.7% of the population in the Spence SA2 as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 8% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $73,730 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 90th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,304 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,358 | 2021 Census, weekly | 86th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,125 | 2021 Census, weekly | 87th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 36.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,747 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 15.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Spence SA2 is approximately $78,906. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $73,730.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Spence SA2 is approximately $85,941. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,304.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Spence SA2 is approximately $78,906 compared to $81,672 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $73,730 and $76,315 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Spence SA2 is approximately $85,941 compared to $96,344 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,304 and $90,024 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Spence SA2's households (~32.6% / 302 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Spence SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.6% 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.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Spence SA2 is $2,358/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Spence SA2 is $2,747/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Spence SA2 is $1,125/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Spence SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $73,730 with the average level standing at $80,304. This is very high 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 $78,906 (median) and $85,941 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Spence SA2 is $8,905 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The spence sa2's disposable income is $8,905 compared to $8,812 for Australian Capital Territory, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Spence shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 67.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,295 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 1,961 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,383 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Spence SA2 has approximately 1,295 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.4%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Spence SA2 stands at 6.4%, which is 2.2 percentage points above Australian Capital Territory's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Spence SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (25.6% of employment), health care & social assistance (12.7%), and education & training (11.3%). Other significant employers include construction and professional & technical.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Spence SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing 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.
The workforce participation rate in the Spence SA2 is 67.4%, 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%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Australian Capital Territory.
The spence sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 10.7% of the local workforce compared to 6.8% across Australian Capital Territory. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The spence sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 7.3% decline, ranking 35th out of 37 regions nationally.
Spence shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 20.7% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 34.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 20.2% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 33.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
34.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Spence SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 46.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
33.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Spence SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 28.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
The spence sa2 ranks in the 77th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Spence SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (20.7%), Certificate (20.2%), Advanced Diploma (11.6%).
31.2% of the population in the Spence SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.1% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 5.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
Spence has a typical household mix, with a larger average household size than Australian Capital Territory.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.7 people | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 21.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.2% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 926 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 908 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 75.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Spence SA2 had 926 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has decreased by approximately 1.9% to an estimated 908 households today.
The average household size in the Spence SA2 is 2.7 people. This compares to 2.5 in Australian Capital Territory and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 75.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (21.1%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.8%).
Of the 697 family households, couples with children account for 35.6% of all households, couples without children at home 27.2%, and single parent families 11.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Australian Capital Territory, the Spence SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 75.3% (versus 69.6% in Australian Capital Territory). This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Spence SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Australian Capital Territory average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 49.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.7% have never married. This compares to 46.8% married and 39.2% never married across Australian Capital Territory.
Single-person households represent 21.1% of all households in the Spence SA2, similar to the average for Australian Capital Territory of 25.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.8% of households, below the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Spence ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 16.7% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 88.5% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 93.5% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
Spence was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 83.3% of its population born in Australia, 93.5% being citizens, and 88.5% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Spence, at 47.5% of people, although more residents (49.4%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 40.7% across Australian Capital Territory.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Spence are Australian, comprising 28.5% of the population, which is substantially higher than Australian Capital Territory's 23.0%, English, comprising 26.7% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 8.9% of Spence (vs 7.3% across Australian Capital Territory), Polish at 0.9% (vs 0.8%) and Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.6%).
16.7% of the Spence SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 29.9% across Australian Capital Territory.
11.5% of the population in the Spence SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 25.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
1.7% of the Spence SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Australian Capital Territory.
93.5% of the Spence SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 85.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Spence is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 20.7% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 33.2% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 92.5% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,120 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 46.1% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $375 | 2021 Census, weekly | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 15.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 20th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Spence SA2, 33.2% of homes are owned outright, 46.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 20.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 92.5% of dwellings in the Spence SA2 are houses.
In the Spence SA2, 0.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Spence SA2 stands at 33.2%, compared to 27.3% in Australian Capital Territory.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Spence SA2 is $2,120, compared to $2,080 in Australian Capital Territory.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Spence SA2 is $1,313, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Spence SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 20.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 15.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Spence SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Spence SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 20.7% of income on repayments (vs 20.2% in Australian Capital Territory), while renters spend 15.9% of income on rent (vs 19.0% in Australian Capital Territory).
The dwelling mix in the Spence SA2 consists of 92.5% detached houses, 7.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.0% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Spence consumes approximately 12.9% of median household income ($10,210 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Health performance in Spence is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 57.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 68th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 63.0% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.1% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Around 57.1% of people in the Spence SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 62.2% in Australian Capital Territory.
In the Spence SA2, 5.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Australian Capital Territory require similar assistance.
9.4% of people in the Spence SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.1% of the population across Australian Capital Territory is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.8% of the Spence SA2 population, while in Australian Capital Territory, 3.5% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.1% of people in the Spence SA2 have heart disease. Across Australian Capital Territory,2.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Spence SA2, 57.1% 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 servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 95 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 95th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 23 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 5,543 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 81st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 110 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 82 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 12.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 23 public transport stops within the Spence SA2.
The Spence SA2 has 5,543 weekly trips across 82 routes, averaging 791 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 167 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 430 m away and the nearest pharmacy 596 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 23 stops nearby, 5,543 weekly trips, access rating 95 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 24 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 24th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 430 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 596 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 4.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 145 places in Spence, about 1.2 children aged 0-4 per place.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Spence is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Spence has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 17th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Spence has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Spence's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 8% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
Spence shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
Spence shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Spence has a typical household mix, with a larger average household size than Australian Capital Territory.
Spence ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Spence is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Spence is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Spence has an estimated 2,537 residents, down 1.9% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in the area around Spence.
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 Spence.
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.
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.
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 (801011025). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
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.
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.
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.
Key demographics and figures for Spence 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 Spence 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.
