Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Balcatta has an estimated 12,557 residents, up 16.1% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Balcatta.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Conveniently situated 9.0 kilometres north-northwest from Perth CBD, the suburb of Balcatta presents a well-rounded and picturesque setting marked by beautiful parks, reserves, recreational spaces, and active local sporting clubs. A strong community spirit, reputable schooling options, and diverse architecture—spanning charming traditional residences to sleek modern dwellings—foster an appealing family-oriented lifestyle. This residential appeal is complemented by thriving local businesses, dynamic dining venues, boutique shopping, and a pronounced administrative employment base. Demographically, the suburb of Balcatta has demonstrated moderate expansion patterns, with its population estimated at around 12,557 as of Aug 2026 based on AreaSearch analysis of annual SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts and quarterly national address updates. This reflects an increase of 1,744 people (16.1%) from the 10,813 people recorded in the 2021 Census.
The demographic and housing character of the suburb of Balcatta is defined by distinct structural and household traits.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 9,640 in 2006 and 12,369 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 12,557 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 17.3%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32.6%.
Balcatta ranks in the 85th percentile nationally for development activity and the 82nd for cultural diversity.
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 Balcatta is $750 a week, up 10.3% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 4% above Greater Perth.
4% above Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $750 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +10.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Stirling | $758 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Stirling, over 12 months | +8.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - North West | $760 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - North West, over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 246 tracked applications: 189 approved, 2 under assessment, 55 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in Balcatta (2 under construction) and 44 more in the surrounding area.
Draft Local Planning Scheme No. 4 (LPS4) will replace Local Planning Scheme No. 3 across the City of Stirling.
Pre-lease industrial development by Charter Hall delivering two high-clearance warehouses with corporate office space across a prime infill…
Upgrade of the existing lighting at Warwick Open Space Pitch 1 to energy-efficient LED lighting.
A proposed 7km mid-tier public transit system linking Glendalough Train Station to the Scarborough Beach precinct, intended as a catalyst…
A completed neighbourhood shopping centre of about 5,736 m2 GLA anchored by Woolworths and BWS with a mix of specialty retailers and…
Residential land estate in the heart of Balcatta between Grindleford Drive and Karrinyup Road comprising approximately 140 new residential…
Phase 2 of the Stephenson Avenue Extension creates a new east-west connection from Cedric Street to Scarborough Beach Road via a new…
A package of state and federal government transport infrastructure works supporting the transformation of Stirling City Centre into Perth's…
Expansion of Osborne Park Hospital at 26 Osborne Place, Stirling, delivered as part of the $1.8 billion New Women and Babies Hospital…
City of Stirling initiative to revitalise the Westminster local centre around Stirling Central Shopping Centre on Wanneroo Road.
Major upgrade of the Stirling Bus Interchange to expand capacity from 18 to 30 bus stands.
Extension of the principal shared path network providing safe cycling and pedestrian connections throughout the Stirling area, including…
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 28 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 10, 2027 3, 2028 6, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 2. 8 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 246 substantial development applications lodged in and around Balcatta over the past 5 years, 46 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 12, 2022 49, 2023 39, 2024 54, 2025 57, 2026 (to Oct) 35.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 246 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 46 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 66 | ABS building approvals | 68th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 189 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Balcatta include: City of Stirling Local Planning Scheme No. 4 (LPS4) (Under Assessment); Recycling Centre Balcatta Redevelopment (Construction); Trackless Tram System - Scarborough Beach Road Activity Corridor (Proposed); Balcatta Industrial Park (Dev. Approval); and Reid Highway and Erindale Road Grade Separation (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Balcatta spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Balcatta among the top 15% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Balcatta area has seen 143 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Balcatta's current population of 12,557 has been supported by 66 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Balcatta has seen 5.7 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.4 approvals in Greater Perth. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 171 people in the suburb of Balcatta, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Balcatta's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 66, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Balcatta has grown by approximately 1,220 people, while 329 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.7 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.
Balcatta has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,557 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +16.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,780 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 66th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 10,813 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,744 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 7.05 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Balcatta was estimated to be approximately 12,557 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,369 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Balcatta has added approximately 1,744 people and shown a 16.13% increase from the 10,813 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Balcatta is estimated at 1,781 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Balcatta has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.4% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Balcatta is driven by: Overseas migration (70.0%), Natural increase (30.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 70.0% of overall population gains.
Balcatta's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| 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 | 49th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 27.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 55.6% | 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 | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 17.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 17.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Balcatta at 38 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 38 years as at August 2026, Balcatta is comparable to the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and similarly aligned with equal to the national Census average.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Balcatta compared to the Greater Perth region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 8.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Balcatta compared to the Greater Perth region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 10.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Balcatta show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (4.5% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (8.0% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.9% of the population in the suburb of Balcatta as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.8% of the population in the suburb of Balcatta 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) | $62,663 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 65th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $79,009 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,537 | 2021 Census, weekly | 37th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $804 | 2021 Census, weekly | 50th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,043 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Balcatta is approximately $67,074. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $62,663.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Balcatta is approximately $84,571. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $79,009.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Balcatta is approximately $67,074 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $62,663 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Balcatta is approximately $84,571 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $79,009 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Balcatta's households (~32.6% / 1,496 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Balcatta is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.6% of households. In comparison, Greater Perth's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.0% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Balcatta is $1,537/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Balcatta is $2,043/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Balcatta is $804/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Balcatta is very high nationally, with the median assessed at $62,663 while the average income stands at $79,009. This contrasts to Greater Perth's figures of a median income of $64,047 and an average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $67,074 (median) and $84,571 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Balcatta is $5,574 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Balcatta's disposable income is $5,574 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment environment in Balcatta shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 68.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,943 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 14,788 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,179 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Balcatta has approximately 6,943 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Balcatta stands at 3.3%, which is 0.9 percentage points below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Balcatta is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.0% of employment), construction (11.8%), and retail trade (11.3%). Other significant employers include education & training and professional & technical.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Balcatta has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Balcatta is 68.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The suburb of Balcatta shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 11.8% of the local workforce compared to 9.3% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of Balcatta's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Balcatta ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 20.3% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 28.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 22.6% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
28.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Balcatta have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
38.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Balcatta have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of Balcatta ranks in the 64th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Balcatta are: Certificate (22.6%), Bachelor Degree (20.3%), Advanced Diploma (11.3%).
26.5% of the population in the suburb of Balcatta is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.5% in primary school, 6.3% in secondary school, 5.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Balcatta is 1057, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the suburb of Balcatta, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,204 students.
The suburb of Balcatta includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Balcatta features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 35.2% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.6% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.5% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,594 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,335 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.3% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Balcatta had 4,594 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 16.1% to an estimated 5,335 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Balcatta is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (35.2%), group households (3.6%), and other household types (0.1%).
Of the 2,816 family households, couples with children account for 24.6% of all households, couples without children at home 24.5%, and single parent families 10.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Balcatta shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 35.2% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.3% compared to 71.5% in Greater Perth. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Balcatta have an average of 1.5 children, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.7% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 35.2% of all households in the suburb of Balcatta, higher than the average for Greater Perth of 24.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.6% of households, in line with the Greater Perth average of 3.5%.
Balcatta is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 39.6% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 36.1% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 63.9% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 82.6% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 60.4% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
Balcatta scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 39.6% of its population born overseas and 36.1% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Balcatta was found to be Christianity, which makes up 57.0% of people in Balcatta. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 4.3% of the population, compared to 2.5% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Balcatta are English, comprising 18.8% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 16.4% of the population, and Italian, comprising 16.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 4.2%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Macedonian is notably overrepresented at 4.5% of Balcatta (vs 0.4% across Greater Perth), Croatian at 2.3% (vs 0.8%) and Serbian at 1.0% (vs 0.3%).
39.6% of the suburb of Balcatta population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
36.1% of the population in the suburb of Balcatta speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
0.9% of the suburb of Balcatta population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
82.6% of the suburb of Balcatta population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Balcatta displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 53.0% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,756 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 47th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 34.7% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 46.5% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $340 | 2021 Census, weekly | 38th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 64th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 70th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Balcatta, 32.9% of homes are owned outright, 34.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 32.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 53.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Balcatta are houses.
In the suburb of Balcatta, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 46.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Balcatta stands at 32.9%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Balcatta is $1,756, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Balcatta is $1,086, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Balcatta, households with mortgages typically spend 26.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Balcatta is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Balcatta shows mortgage holders spending 26.4% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 22.1% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Balcatta consists of 53.0% detached houses, 46.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Balcatta consumes approximately 16.3% of median household income ($6,655 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Balcatta show attached dwellings contributing 33% of approvals compared to 47% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 67% of applications versus 53% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Balcatta's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 67th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.9% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.3% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
Around 56.7% of people in the suburb of Balcatta are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Balcatta, 6.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
5.8% of people in the suburb of Balcatta are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.8% of the suburb of Balcatta population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.5% of people in the suburb of Balcatta have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Balcatta, 56.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 75 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 75th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 86 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 67th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,853 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 60th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 144 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 18 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 7.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 86 public transport stops within the suburb of Balcatta.
The suburb of Balcatta has 2,853 weekly trips across 18 routes, averaging 407 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 173 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 403 m away and the nearest school 499 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 86 stops nearby, 2,853 weekly trips, access rating 75 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 67 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 67th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 403 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 499 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 550 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 689 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 805 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 818 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 818 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.1 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 4 long day care centres with 224 places in Balcatta, 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 positions Balcatta among the top 15% of areas assessed nationwide.
Balcatta has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 47% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Balcatta is $750 a week, +10.3% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Balcatta has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Balcatta's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
The employment environment in Balcatta shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
The educational profile of Balcatta ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Balcatta features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
Balcatta is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Balcatta displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Balcatta's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Balcatta has an estimated 12,557 residents, up 16.1% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Balcatta.
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 Balcatta.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Sep 2026. 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 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or 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 (SAL50053). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
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 (Sep 2026) 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 Balcatta 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 Balcatta 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.
