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Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
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Sales Detail
Population
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 population was approximately 14,443 as of November 2025, according to AreaSearch's analysis. This figure represents an increase of 579 people, a 4.2% rise from the 2021 Census which reported a population of 13,864. The growth is inferred from ABS's estimated resident population of 14,421 in June 2024 and 52 validated new addresses since the Census date. This results in a population density ratio of 1,420 persons per square kilometer, higher than the average across national locations assessed by AreaSearch. Happy Valley's growth rate of 4.2% since the census is within 0.7 percentage points of the SA3 area's 4.9%, indicating strong growth fundamentals. Natural growth contributed approximately 52.4% of overall population gains during recent periods, with overseas migration and interstate migration also being positive factors.
AreaSearch uses ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with a base year of 2022. For areas not covered by this data and years post-2032, the SA State Government's Regional/LGA projections by age category are adopted, based on 2021 data and adjusted using a weighted aggregation method from LGA to SA2 levels. Based on projected demographic shifts, Happy Valley is expected to increase by just below the median of Australian statistical areas to 2041, with an expected population increase of 1,122 persons over this period, representing a total increase of 7.6%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
AreaSearch analysis of residential development drivers sees Happy Valley recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide
Happy Valley has recorded approximately 27 residential properties granted approval per year over the past five financial years, totalling 135 homes. As of FY-26, three approvals have been recorded. On average, 3.9 people moved to the area annually for each dwelling built between FY-21 and FY-25, indicating high demand outpacing supply, which typically influences prices upwards and intensifies buyer competition. New homes are being constructed at an average value of $253,000.
This financial year, $3.7 million in commercial approvals have been registered, reflecting the area's predominantly residential nature. Compared to Greater Adelaide, Happy Valley has significantly lower building activity, 61.0% below the regional average per person, which usually reinforces demand and pricing for existing dwellings. This is also below national averages, suggesting the area's maturity and possible planning constraints. Recent development has consisted entirely of detached dwellings, maintaining the area's suburban identity with a concentration of family homes suited to buyers seeking space. The location has approximately 633 people per dwelling approval, demonstrating an established market.
Population forecasts indicate Happy Valley will gain 1,100 residents by 2041. Building activity is keeping pace with growth projections, though buyers may experience increased competition as the population grows.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Happy Valley has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 29thth percentile nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified 17 projects likely affecting the region. Notable ones include Balee Park Upgrade (Happy Valley), Flinders Medical Centre Acute Services Building, Urban Creek Resilience and Recovery Project (Sauerbier and Homestead Creeks), Zero Cost Energy Future - Happy Valley Reservoir Solar Project. The following list details those most relevant.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Happy Valley Solar Farm & Water Treatment Plant Complex
Integrated energy and water treatment complex featuring 12.8MW solar installation with 33,750 panels using 5B Maverick technology, powering Adelaide's largest water treatment plant. Solar array completed 2021, UV disinfection system upgrade completed 2021 ($26M). Complex serves 40% of metropolitan Adelaide's water supply with renewable energy integration reducing emissions by 7,600 tonnes annually.
Zero Cost Energy Future - Happy Valley Reservoir Solar Project
World's largest fully moveable solar array featuring 33,750 5B Maverick pre-fabricated solar panels with 12.8MW capacity at Happy Valley Reservoir Reserve. Generates 17 gigawatt hours of renewable energy annually to power the water treatment plant serving over 40% of Adelaide's drinking water. Part of SA Water's $300 million Zero Cost Energy Future initiative. The innovative relocatable system uses ballasted design requiring minimal ground penetration, allowing the array to be moved if needed for maintenance or site works.
Happy Valley Reservoir Reserve Access Project
First-time public opening of the 120-year-old Happy Valley Reservoir Reserve featuring 20 kilometres of walking, cycling and mountain biking trails, 110 hectares of water for kayaking and fishing, two kayak launch areas (one with disability access), picnic facilities with BBQs and shelters, car parking, and visitor amenities. The reserve connects to Glenthorne National Park creating over 1,500 hectares of accessible outdoor recreation space. Opened December 11, 2021 after extensive water treatment upgrades to enable safe public access while maintaining drinking water quality for over 40% of metropolitan Adelaide.
Urban Creek Resilience and Recovery Project - Sauerbier and Homestead Creeks
A $1.83 million watercourse rehabilitation project funded by the Australian Government's Natural Heritage Trust under the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program. The project aims to improve the health of Sauerbier Creek and Homestead Creek within the upper Field River catchment in Aberfoyle Park. Key activities include upgrading stormwater flows and creek banks with improved drainage structures, installing natural erosion control solutions using logs, rocks and permeable fabric, adding wildlife-friendly litter traps, creating safe spaces and habitat refuges for threatened species including Southern Brown Bandicoots and Cunningham's Skinks, controlling weeds and planting local native species, and enhancing community connections with nature through workshops, signage and conservation activities. The project will restore creek areas, banks and aquatic habitats while improving water quality, waterway connectivity and biodiversity.
Aberfoyle Community Centre Expansion
A $1.61 million expansion of the Aberfoyle Community Centre completed in April 2025. The project added a new flexible open-plan building at the rear of the existing facility, featuring a versatile space for dance and messy activities, a youth pod with lowered ceiling and retractable curtains, and an art studio equipped with pottery kilns, wheels, moveable tables and lockers. The expansion includes acoustic features such as acoustic glass for music activities, vinyl flooring and wall mirrors for dance and fitness, high-level windows for natural light, verandas creating indoor-outdoor connections, and a central outdoor area for informal gatherings. The new spaces enable simultaneous programming with existing multifunctional rooms, supporting arts, crafts, dance, exhibitions, youth programs, family activities, and social gatherings. Funded through a Community Infrastructure Grant from the Department of Infrastructure and Transport with $1.5 million from the State Government of South Australia (secured by Erin Thompson MP, Member for Davenport) and $110,000 from the City of Onkaparinga. Construction began in early 2024 and was completed in February 2025 after 12 months, with the existing centre remaining operational throughout to minimize disruption to users.
Aberfoyle Park High School Redevelopment
A $14 million facility upgrade completed in May 2022 including redevelopment of the performing arts centre with a 250-seat theatre, refurbishing existing buildings to create contemporary learning spaces and collaborative areas, creation of a new entrance and administration building, and enhanced indoor-outdoor learning environments. The project was delivered in three stages to minimize disruption to the school's 1,150 students and features contemporary architecture with natural materials and an earthen green palette inspired by the Australian bush.
Thalassa Park Master Plan
Development of a comprehensive master plan to guide future improvements and development of Thalassa Park. The plan will address playgrounds, walking and cycling trails, event spaces, gardens, accessibility features, and the Storybook Walk sculpture park. The Council design team is working with the Thalassa Park and Gardens Trust to ensure the revised master plan aligns with timeframe and budget planning. Community and stakeholder feedback will be sought once the draft master plan is available.
Green Leaves Early Learning Woodcroft
Completed 98-place early learning centre located at the corner of Pimpala Road and Panalatinga Road. This purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility features custom-designed learning hubs for children aged six weeks to six years, outdoor play areas including bike track and edible gardens, Chef's kitchen for culinary lessons, and family lounge with barista coffee service. The centre received service approval on April 4, 2024 and is now operational. Operated by Green Leaves Early Learning, a privately owned company specializing in boutique early learning centre development throughout Australia.
Employment
AreaSearch analysis places Happy Valley well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators
Happy Valley has a skilled workforce with an unemployment rate of 2.7% as of June 2025. The area experienced employment growth of 2.3% over the past year.
It has a population of 7,798 residents in work, with an unemployment rate of 1.3% lower than Greater Adelaide's rate of 4.0%. Workforce participation is similar to Greater Adelaide's at 61.7%. Key industries for employment among residents are health care & social assistance, construction, and retail trade. Construction has notable concentration with levels at 1.2 times the regional average.
Professional & technical services have lower representation at 5.9% compared to the regional average of 7.3%. The area offers limited local employment opportunities as indicated by Census data. From June 2024 to June 2025, employment levels increased by 2.3%, labour force by 2.7%, and unemployment rose by 0.3 percentage points. Greater Adelaide recorded employment growth of 2.1% with marginal unemployment increase. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May 2025 project a 6.6% expansion over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Happy Valley's employment mix suggests local growth of approximately 6.6%% over five years and 13.8% over ten years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis
AreaSearch's aggregation of ATO data released for financial year 2022 shows Happy Valley had a median taxpayer income of $53,569 and an average income of $62,049. These figures are below the national averages of $52,592 and $64,886 respectively in Greater Adelaide. Based on Wage Price Index growth from financial year 2022 to September 2025, estimated median income is approximately $60,442 and average income is $70,010. According to the 2021 Census, incomes in Happy Valley rank modestly between the 40th and 44th percentiles for households, families, and individuals. Income distribution shows 35.6% of residents (5,141 individuals) earn within the $1,500 - $2,999 range, similar to regional levels at 31.8%. After housing expenses, 85.8% of income remains for other costs. Happy Valley's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 5th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Happy Valley is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
Happy Valley's dwelling structure, as per the latest Census, consisted of 90.3% houses and 9.7% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings). In comparison, Adelaide metro had 89.2% houses and 10.7% other dwellings. Home ownership in Happy Valley stood at 36.5%, with mortgaged dwellings at 50.9% and rented ones at 12.7%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,517, higher than Adelaide metro's $1,452. The median weekly rent figure in Happy Valley was $355, compared to Adelaide metro's $314. Nationally, Happy Valley's mortgage repayments were lower at $1,517 versus the Australian average of $1,863. Similarly, rents in Happy Valley were less than the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Happy Valley has a typical household mix, with a fairly typical median household size
Family households constitute 74.8% of all households, including 31.3% couples with children, 31.2% couples without children, and 11.4% single parent families. Non-family households comprise the remaining 25.2%, with lone person households at 23.7% and group households making up 1.4%. The median household size is 2.5 people, which aligns with the Greater Adelaide average.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational attainment in Happy Valley aligns closely with national averages, showing typical qualification patterns and performance metrics
Educational qualifications in Happy Valley trail regional benchmarks with 21.2% of residents aged 15+ holding university degrees compared to 30.4% nationally as of 2021 data. This gap indicates potential for educational development and skills enhancement. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 15.0%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (3.4%) and graduate diplomas (2.8%). Trade and technical skills are prominent, with 40.4% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials – advanced diplomas (11.8%) and certificates (28.6%).
Educational participation is high at 25.0%, including 9.6% in primary education, 6.3% in secondary education, and 4.2% pursuing tertiary education as of the latest statistics. Educational provision includes Happy Valley Primary School and Braeview School, serving a total of 693 students with typical Australian school conditions (ICSEA: 1028) and balanced educational opportunities. Both schools focus exclusively on primary education, with secondary options available in nearby areas due to limited local capacity (4.8 places per 100 residents compared to the regional average of 13.6).
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Transport analysis indicates 107 active stops operating within Happy Valley, offering a mix of bus services. These stops are served by 23 individual routes, collectively facilitating 1,155 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated excellent, with residents typically located 182 meters from the nearest stop.
Service frequency averages 165 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 10 weekly trips per stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Happy Valley is lower than average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts
Happy Valley faces significant health challenges, with common health conditions prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts. Approximately 51% of its total population (~7,308 people) has private health cover, compared to 48.6% across Greater Adelaide.
The most common medical conditions in the area are arthritis and mental health issues, affecting 9.3 and 8.9% of residents respectively. Meanwhile, 64.0% of residents declare themselves completely clear of medical ailments, compared to 62.9% across Greater Adelaide. As of a recent report (dated 15th March 20XX), 24.0% of residents are aged 65 and over (3,463 people), which is higher than the 21.0% in Greater Adelaide. Health outcomes among seniors present some challenges, broadly in line with the general population's health profile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
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's cultural diversity was found to be below average, with 80.8% of its population born in Australia, 93.1% being citizens, and 93.1% speaking English only at home. Christianity was the predominant religion, comprising 39.9% of Happy Valley's population. However, Judaism was overrepresented, making up 0.1% compared to the regional average of 0.1%.
The top three ancestry groups were English (35.1%), Australian (27.4%), and Scottish (7.7%). Notably, German (6.2%) and Dutch (1.9%) were overrepresented compared to Greater Adelaide's figures of 5.4% and 1.7%, respectively. Welsh representation was equal at 0.8%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Happy Valley hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide
Happy Valley has a median age of 42, which is slightly higher than Greater Adelaide's figure of 39 and significantly higher than the national norm of 38. The age group of 65-74 is strongly represented in Happy Valley at 12.4%, compared to Greater Adelaide, while the 25-34 cohort is less prevalent at 12.1%. According to the 2021 Census, the 75 to 84 age group has increased from 6.5% to 8.7% of the population. Conversely, the 55 to 64 cohort has decreased from 12.3% to 10.9%. Demographic modeling indicates that Happy Valley's age profile will change significantly by 2041. Leading this shift, the 85+ group is projected to grow by 136%, reaching 995 people from 421. The aging population trend is evident, with those aged 65 and above comprising 79% of projected growth. Meanwhile, the 35 to 44 and 5 to 14 age groups are expected to experience population declines.