Area profile · Greater Adelaide
Happy Valley has an estimated 14,538 residents, up 4.9% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Happy Valley.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 17 kilometres south from Adelaide CBD in South Australia, the Happy Valley Statistical Area (Lv2) is characterised by a tranquil, family-friendly environment enriched by scenic reserves, picturesque walking trails, and well-maintained conservation grounds. Complementing its relaxed natural setting, the suburb offers extensive everyday convenience with accessible shopping hubs, quality educational institutions, and abundant recreational facilities. As of August 2026, AreaSearch estimates Happy Valley's population to be approximately 14,538 (ERP), reflecting an increase of 674 people (4.9%) from the 2021 Census baseline of 13,864 people. This demographic trajectory builds upon the June 2025 ABS estimated resident population of 14,526, supported by 69 validated new addresses registered since the Census.
The local demographic profile points to an established and maturing community with a median age of 42, reflecting an older age structure than typically observed nationally, alongside limited overall population expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 13,796 in 2001 and 14,526 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 14,538 (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, 13.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 35.6%.
Happy Valley ranks in the 85th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 63rd for health.
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.
The median rent in Happy Valley is $628 a week, up 4.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 10% above Greater Adelaide.
10% above Greater Adelaide on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $395 in 2020, $633 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $628 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $633 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +3.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $548 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Onkaparinga | $597 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Onkaparinga, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Adelaide - South | $598 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Adelaide - South, over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Adelaide | $570 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Adelaide, over 12 months | +6.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, SA | $546 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, SA, over 12 months | +6.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 64 tracked applications: 18 approved, 38 under assessment, 8 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Happy Valley, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 5 projects in Happy Valley (1 under construction) and 40 more in the surrounding area.
Comprehensive redevelopment of the former Happy Valley Shopping Centre into Valley Central, a modern community hub featuring Fountain…
Neighbourhood Family Park upgrade including new playground equipment, basketball/netball rings and court, irrigated turf area and…
World's largest fully moveable solar array featuring 33,750 5B Maverick pre-fabricated solar panels with 12.8MW capacity at Happy Valley…
First-time public opening of the 120-year-old Happy Valley Reservoir Reserve featuring 20 kilometres of walking, cycling and mountain…
Reconstruction of Bains Road between Investigator Drive and Panalatinga Road, Woodcroft.
Premium residential development adjacent to Thaxted Park Golf Course by Metro Property Development.
Watercourse rehabilitation works for Sauerbier Creek and Homestead Creek in Aberfoyle Park, funded by an additional AUD 1.83 million from…
A completed residential land subdivision offering 16 residential allotments in an exclusive hillside community.
Major upgrade and modernisation of Sheidow Park Primary School including new modern classrooms and learning areas, a new administration…
Integrated energy and water treatment complex featuring a 12.8MW solar installation with 33,750 panels using 5B Maverick technology.
A $1.61 million expansion of the Aberfoyle Community Centre completed in April 2025.
Independent Anglican co-educational school serving ELC to Year 12.
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 15 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 8, 2027 0, 2028 4, 2029 1. 7 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 64 substantial development applications lodged in and around Happy Valley over the past 5 years, 40 in the last 12 months; 38 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 8, 2023 10, 2024 4, 2025 6, 2026 (to Oct) 36.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 64 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 40 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 26 | ABS building approvals | 38th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 18 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 38 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Happy Valley SA2 include: Urban Creek Resilience and Recovery Project - Sauerbier Creek and Homestead Creek (Construction); Thalassa Park Master Plan (Planning); Bains Road Reconstruction (Construction); The Green at Woodcroft (Construction); and Chandlers View Estate (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Happy Valley SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, and Residential Development, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Happy Valley SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 15th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Happy Valley recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Happy Valley SA2 area has seen 51 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Happy Valley SA2's current population of 14,538 has been supported by 26 approvals on average over recent years.
The Happy Valley SA2 has seen 1.9 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.5 approvals in Greater Adelaide. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 573 people in the Happy Valley SA2, compared to one for every 122 in Greater Adelaide.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Happy Valley SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 26, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Happy Valley SA2 has grown by approximately 588 people, while 132 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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.
Happy Valley is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 14,538 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +4.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,430 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 59th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 13,864 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 674 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 10.17 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Happy Valley SA2 was estimated to be approximately 14,538 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 14,526 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The happy valley sa2 has added approximately 674 people and shown a 4.86% increase from the 13,864 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Happy Valley SA2 is estimated at 1,430 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Happy Valley SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Happy Valley SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (52.1%), Natural increase (44.1%), Interstate migration (3.8%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 52.1% of overall population gains.
Happy Valley's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 65th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.1% | 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 | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Happy Valley 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.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Happy Valley is 3 years older than the Greater Adelaide 2021 Census average (39 years) and 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Happy Valley SA2 compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 9.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Happy Valley SA2 compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 11.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Happy Valley SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Adelaide. The most over-represented age group is 75-84 year-olds (9.1% vs 6.7%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.1% of the population in the Happy Valley SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.2% of the population in the Happy Valley SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $59,622 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $68,945 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,568 | 2021 Census, weekly | 39th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $778 | 2021 Census, weekly | 44th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 16.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,957 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 22.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Happy Valley SA2 is approximately $63,879. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $59,622.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Happy Valley SA2 is approximately $73,868. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $68,945.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Happy Valley SA2 is approximately $63,879 compared to $62,352 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $59,622 and $58,197 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Happy Valley SA2 is approximately $73,868 compared to $76,380 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,945 and $71,290 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Happy Valley SA2's households (~35.6% / 1,940 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Happy Valley SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 35.6% of households. In comparison, Greater Adelaide's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.8% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Happy Valley SA2 is $1,568/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Happy Valley SA2 is $1,957/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Happy Valley SA2 is $778/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Happy Valley SA2 is below the national average, with the median assessed at $59,622 while the average income stands at $68,945. This contrasts to Greater Adelaide's figures of a median income of $58,197 and an average income of $71,290. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.14% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $63,879 (median) and $73,868 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Happy Valley SA2 is $5,827 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The happy valley sa2's disposable income is $5,827 compared to $5,698 for Greater Adelaide, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Happy Valley ranks among the strongest 15% of areas evaluated nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 68.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,139 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,221 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,366 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Happy Valley SA2 has approximately 8,139 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.7%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Happy Valley SA2 stands at 2.7%, which is 1.2 percentage points below Greater Adelaide's rate of 3.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Happy Valley SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.7% of employment), construction (10.7%), and retail trade (10.2%). Other significant employers include education & training and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Happy Valley SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Adelaide saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Happy Valley SA2 is 68.5%, 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 leading the Greater Adelaide average of 66.4%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Adelaide.
The happy valley sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 10.7% of the local workforce compared to 8.7% across Greater Adelaide. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The happy valley sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 0.5% decline, ranking 22nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Happy Valley sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.0% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 21.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
21.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Happy Valley SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 28.9% in Greater Adelaide.
38.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Happy Valley SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.0% in Greater Adelaide.
The happy valley sa2 ranks in the 51th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Happy Valley SA2 are: Certificate (28.6%), Bachelor Degree (15.0%), Advanced Diploma (11.8%).
25.0% of the population in the Happy Valley SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.6% in primary school, 6.3% in secondary school, 4.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Happy Valley SA2 is 1028, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 2 schools within the Happy Valley SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 693 students.
The happy valley sa2 includes 2 primary schools.
Happy Valley features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Greater Adelaide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.2% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,450 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,715 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 74.8% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Happy Valley SA2 had 5,450 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.9% to an estimated 5,715 households today.
The average household size in the Happy Valley SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Greater Adelaide and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 74.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (23.7%), group households (1.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,077 family households, couples with children account for 31.3% of all households, couples without children at home 31.2%, and single parent families 11.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Adelaide, the Happy Valley SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 74.8% (versus 68.6% in Greater Adelaide). This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Happy Valley SA2 have an average of 1.6 children, slightly above the Greater Adelaide average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 51.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.1% have never married. This compares to 45.7% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Adelaide.
Single-person households represent 23.7% of all households in the Happy Valley SA2, similar to the average for Greater Adelaide of 27.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.4% of households, below the Greater Adelaide average of 3.7%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Happy Valley 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 | 19.2% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 93.1% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 80.8% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
Happy Valley was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.8% of its population born in Australia, 93.1% being citizens, and 93.1% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Happy Valley, at 39.9% of people, although more residents (57.7%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 42.4% across Greater Adelaide.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Happy Valley are English, comprising 35.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Adelaide's 27.8%, Australian, comprising 27.4% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 7.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 6.2% of Happy Valley (vs 5.1% across Greater Adelaide), Welsh at 0.8% (vs 0.6%) and Dutch at 1.9% (vs 1.2%).
19.2% of the Happy Valley SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 28.7% across Greater Adelaide.
6.9% of the population in the Happy Valley SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.2% in Greater Adelaide.
0.7% of the Happy Valley SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.2% in Greater Adelaide.
93.1% of the Happy Valley SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 86.3% in Greater Adelaide.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Happy Valley 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 | 12.7% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 36.5% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 90.3% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 50.9% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $355 | 2021 Census, weekly | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 33rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Happy Valley SA2, 36.5% of homes are owned outright, 50.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 12.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 90.3% of dwellings in the Happy Valley SA2 are houses.
In the Happy Valley SA2, 0.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 9.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Happy Valley SA2 stands at 36.5%, compared to 32.1% in Greater Adelaide.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Happy Valley SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,562 in Greater Adelaide.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Happy Valley SA2 is $967, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Happy Valley SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 22.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Happy Valley SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Happy Valley SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 22.3% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% in Greater Adelaide), while renters spend 22.6% of income on rent (vs 20.7% in Greater Adelaide).
The dwelling mix in the Happy Valley SA2 consists of 90.3% detached houses, 9.7% semi-detached dwellings, 0.0% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Happy Valley consumes approximately 14.2% of median household income ($6,789 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Happy Valley show attached dwellings contributing 23% of approvals compared to 10% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 77% of applications versus 90% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health in Happy Valley: private health cover 51.7%, no long-term health condition 64.0%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 51.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 38th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.0% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.8% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
Around 51.7% of people in the Happy Valley SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Greater Adelaide.
In the Happy Valley SA2, 5.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.6% of people in Greater Adelaide require similar assistance.
8.7% of people in the Happy Valley SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.7% of the population across Greater Adelaide is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.0% of the Happy Valley SA2 population, while in Greater Adelaide, 4.8% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.5% of people in the Happy Valley SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Adelaide,3.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Happy Valley SA2, 51.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Adelaide sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 51 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 51st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 107 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,165 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 37th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 136 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 24 | 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 | 10.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 107 public transport stops within the Happy Valley SA2.
The Happy Valley SA2 has 1,165 weekly trips across 24 routes, averaging 166 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 182 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 541 m away and the nearest GP 679 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 107 stops nearby, 1,165 weekly trips, access rating 51 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 22 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 541 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 679 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 842 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 918 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 5.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 8.2 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 3 long day care centres with 269 places in Happy Valley, about 3.1 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Happy Valley recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Happy Valley has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 15th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Happy Valley is $628 a week, +4.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Happy Valley is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Happy Valley's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Happy Valley ranks among the strongest 15% of areas evaluated nationally.
Educational attainment in Happy Valley sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Happy Valley features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Greater Adelaide.
Happy Valley ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Happy Valley is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health in Happy Valley: private health cover 51.7%, no long-term health condition 64.0%.
Transport servicing is moderate 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.
Happy Valley has an estimated 14,538 residents, up 4.9% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Happy Valley.
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 Happy Valley.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2025. Housing, households 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 14 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 (403041080). 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), infrastructure projects (Oct 2025) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Happy Valley 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 Happy Valley 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.