Fairfield - Dutton Park

Population growth drivers in Fairfield - Dutton Park are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends

Based on AreaSearch's analysis, Fairfield - Dutton Park's population is around 5,456 as of Feb 2026. This reflects an increase of 448 people (8.9%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 5,008 people. The change is inferred from the estimated resident population of 5,449 from the ABS as of June 2024 and an additional 92 validated new addresses since the Census date. This population level equates to a density ratio of 2,623 persons per square kilometer, placing it in the upper quartile relative to national locations assessed by AreaSearch. Fairfield - Dutton Park's 8.9% growth since the census positions it within 0.4 percentage points of the SA3 area (9.3%), demonstrating competitive growth fundamentals. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by overseas migration, which contributed approximately 80.7% of overall population gains during recent periods.

AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 areas not covered by this data, and for years post-2032, Queensland State Government's SA2 area projections, released in 2023 and based on 2021 data, are adopted. It should be noted that these state projections do not provide age category splits; hence, where utilised, AreaSearch is applying proportional growth weightings in line with the ABS Greater Capital Region projections (released in 2023, based on 2022 data) for each age cohort. Considering the projected demographic shifts, a population increase just below the median of national statistical areas is expected, with the area expected to increase by 783 persons to 2041 based on the latest annual ERP population numbers, recording a gain of 14.1% in total over the 17 years.

Residential development activity is lower than average in Fairfield - Dutton Park according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets

Fairfield - Dutton Park has recorded around 84 residential properties granted approval annually, with 420 homes approved over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) and 4 so far in FY-26. At an average of just 0.6 new residents per year arriving per new home over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), supply is meeting or surpassing demand, providing greater buyer choice and supporting potential for population growth above projections, while new dwellings are developed at an average value of $121,000‚—below the regional average‚—suggesting more affordable housing options for buyers. Additionally, $115.5 million in commercial development approvals have been recorded this financial year, suggesting robust local business investment.

Relative to Greater Brisbane, Fairfield - Dutton Park shows 127.0% higher construction activity (per person), offering buyers greater choice, though construction activity has eased recently. This is significantly above the national average, indicating robust developer interest in the area. Recent construction comprises 17.0% standalone homes and 83.0% townhouses or apartments. This trend toward denser development provides accessible entry options and appeals to downsizers, investors, and entry-level buyers. This represents a notable shift from the area's existing housing (currently 53.0% houses), indicating decreasing availability of developable sites and reflecting changing lifestyles and the need for more diverse, affordable housing options. With around 1349 people per dwelling approval, Fairfield - Dutton Park reflects a highly mature market.

Looking ahead, Fairfield - Dutton Park is expected to grow by 767 residents through to 2041 (from the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate). At current development rates, new housing supply should comfortably meet demand, providing good conditions for buyers and potentially supporting growth beyond current population projections.

Fairfield - Dutton Park has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally

Nothing can influence an area's performance as much as changes to local infrastructure, major projects, and planning initiatives. In total, 36 projects have been identified by AreaSearch that are likely to have an impact on the area. Key projects include the Princess Alexandra Hospital Expansion, Cross River Rail, Cross River Rail - Dutton Park Station, and Coles Annerley Supermarket, with the list below detailing those likely to be of most relevance.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.

Employment performance in Fairfield - Dutton Park has been broadly consistent with national averages

Fairfield - Dutton Park features a highly educated workforce, with professional services showing strong representation, an unemployment rate of 4.6%, and 2.6% in estimated employment growth over the past year. As of December 2025, 3,553 residents are in work, while the unemployment rate is 0.5% above Greater Brisbane's rate of 4.1%, and workforce participation is well beyond standard (78.5% compared to Greater Brisbane's 71.2%). Based on Census responses, a high 25.9% of residents were found to work from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts should be considered.

Leading employment industries among residents comprise health care & social assistance, education & training, and professional & technical. The area shows particularly strong specialization in education & training, with an employment share of 1.5 times the regional level. On the other hand, construction is under-represented, with only 4.6% of Fairfield - Dutton Park's workforce compared to 9.0% in Greater Brisbane. While local employment opportunities exist in the area, it appears many residents commute elsewhere for work, based on the count of Census working population to local population.

Based on AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS data, during the year to December 2025, employment levels increased by 2.6% and the labour force increased by 2.6%, keeping the unemployment rate relatively stable. In contrast, Greater Brisbane experienced employment growth of 3.2% and labour force growth of 3.0%, with a 0.1 percentage point drop. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 can offer further insight into potential future demand within Fairfield - Dutton Park. These projections, covering five and ten-year periods, have been mapped against the local employment profile to estimate growth patterns. While national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, growth rates differ significantly between industry sectors. Applying these industry-specific projections to Fairfield - Dutton Park's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 7.2% over five years and 14.6% over ten years (please note this is a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not take into account localised population projections).

Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 60% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch

The Fairfield - Dutton Park SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $56,549 and an average of $71,191 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. This is higher than average nationally, contrasting with Greater Brisbane's median income of $58,236 and average income of $72,799. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.91% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $62,153 (median) and $78,246 (average) as of September 2025. Census data reveals household, family and personal incomes in Fairfield - Dutton Park cluster around the 69th percentile nationally. Income brackets indicate the predominant cohort spans 32.6% of locals (1,778 people) in the $1,500 - 2,999 category, mirroring the region where 33.3% occupy this bracket. Economic strength emerges through 30.7% of households achieving high weekly earnings exceeding $3,000, supporting elevated consumer spending. High housing costs consume 17.0% of income, though strong earnings still place disposable income at the 67th percentile and the area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 8th decile.

Fairfield - Dutton Park features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region

Dwelling structure within Fairfield - Dutton Park, as evaluated at the latest Census, comprised 53.2% houses and 46.8% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings), in comparison to Brisbane metro's 73.5% houses and 26.5% other dwellings. Meanwhile, the level of home ownership within Fairfield - Dutton Park lagged that of Brisbane metro at 19.6%, with the remainder of dwellings either mortgaged (28.2%) or rented (52.2%). The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was well above the Brisbane metro average at $2,167, while the median weekly rent figure was recorded at $400, compared to Brisbane metro's $1,863 and $380. Nationally, Fairfield - Dutton Park's mortgage repayments are significantly higher than the Australian average of $1,863, while rents exceed the national figure of $375.

Fairfield - Dutton Park features high concentrations of group households, with a lower-than-average median household size

Family households dominate at 57.8% of all households, comprising 23.4% couples with children, 24.2% couples without children, and 7.8% single parent families. Non-family households make up the remaining 42.2%, with lone person households at 29.0% and group households comprising 13.4% of the total. The median household size of 2.4 people is smaller than the Greater Brisbane average of 2.6.

Fairfield - Dutton Park shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators

Educational attainment in Fairfield - Dutton Park significantly surpasses broader benchmarks, with 52.3% of residents aged 15+ holding university qualifications compared to 25.7% in QLD and 30.4% in Australia. This substantial educational advantage positions the area strongly for knowledge-based opportunities. Bachelor degrees lead at 31.7%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (16.0%) and graduate diplomas (4.6%). Vocational pathways account for 21.1% of qualifications among those aged 15+ – advanced diplomas (8.2%) and certificates (12.9%).

Educational participation is notably high, with 34.7% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 15.7% in tertiary education, 6.7% in secondary education, and 6.0% pursuing primary education.

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

Public transport analysis reveals 51 active transport stops operating within Fairfield - Dutton Park, comprising a mix of trains and buses. These stops are serviced by 94 individual routes, collectively providing 9,648 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated as excellent, with residents typically located 133 meters from the nearest transport stop. As a primarily residential area, most residents commute outward; the car remains the dominant mode at 60%, with 11% by bus and 10% by train. Vehicle ownership averages 1.0 per dwelling, which is below the regional average. A high 25.9% of residents work from home (2021 Census; may reflect COVID-19 conditions).

Service frequency averages 1,378 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 189 weekly trips per individual stop.

The level of general health in Fairfield - Dutton Park is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions

Fairfield - Dutton Park demonstrates above-average health outcomes, based on AreaSearch's assessment of mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence. Both young and old age cohorts see a low prevalence of common health conditions, and the rate of private health cover is fairly high at approximately 54% of the total population (~2,951 people).

The most common medical conditions in the area are mental health issues and asthma, impacting 10.9% and 8.6% of residents, respectively, while 72.0% declared themselves as completely clear of medical ailments compared to 69.2% across Greater Brisbane. Health outcomes among the working-age population are broadly typical. The area has 10.0% of residents aged 65 and over (545 people), which is lower than the 15.2% in Greater Brisbane. Health outcomes among seniors are particularly strong, with national rankings broadly in line with the general population.

The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Fairfield - Dutton Park was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics

Fairfield - Dutton Park is more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 30.7% of its population born overseas and 22.0% speaking a language other than English at home. The main religion in Fairfield - Dutton Park is Christianity, which makes up 35.5% of the population. However, the most apparent overrepresentation is in Buddhism, which comprises 3.5% of the population, compared to 2.0% across Greater Brisbane.

In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Fairfield - Dutton Park are English, comprising 24.5% of the population, Australian, comprising 19.8% of the population, and Other, comprising 11.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 0.9% of Fairfield - Dutton Park (vs 0.5% regionally), Welsh at 0.8% (vs 0.5%) and Russian at 0.6% (vs 0.3%).

Fairfield - Dutton Park hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 10% of areas nationwide

At 32 years, Fairfield - Dutton Park's median age is notably under the Greater Brisbane average of 36 and is significantly lower than the Australian median of 38. Relative to Greater Brisbane, Fairfield - Dutton Park has a higher concentration of 25 - 34 residents (21.4%) but fewer 5 - 14 year-olds (9.1%). This 25 - 34 concentration is well above the national 14.4%. In the period since 2021, the 35 to 44 age group has grown from 14.5% to 15.8% of the population. Conversely, the 25 to 34 cohort has declined from 23.3% to 21.4%. Demographic modeling suggests Fairfield - Dutton Park's age profile will evolve significantly by 2041. The 45 to 54 age cohort is projected to grow steadily, expanding by 217 people (34%) from 645 to 863. Meanwhile, the 0 to 4 cohort grows by a modest 1% (1 person).