Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Balga has an estimated 15,744 residents, up 13.6% since the 2021 Census, with 42 projects tracked in the area around Balga.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Balga is conveniently located 11.0 kilometres north from Perth CBD. Its population is estimated at around 15,744 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. Since the 2021 Census, which recorded 13,864 people, the population has grown by 1,880 people (13.6%). Balga combines above-average population density and growth drivers with a high share of residents born overseas, an above-average renting population and a strong semi-detached presence. The area also has notable 25 to 34yo and elevated 35 to 44yo populations.
Residents include a high proportion of children and young adults, alongside many lone person households and group households. Balga is highly culturally diverse and has lower-quartile income levels. Its population shows strong expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Balga is conveniently located 11.0 kilometres north from Perth CBD. Its population is estimated at around 15,744 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. Since the 2021 Census, which recorded 13,864 people, the population has grown by 1,880 people (13.6%). Balga combines above-average population density and growth drivers with a high share of residents born overseas, an above-average renting population and a strong semi-detached presence. The area also has notable 25 to 34yo and elevated 35 to 44yo populations.
Residents include a high proportion of children and young adults, alongside many lone person households and group households. Balga is highly culturally diverse and has lower-quartile income levels. Its population shows strong expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 8,857 in 2006 and 15,661 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 15,744 (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, 22%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.8%.
Balga ranks in the 90th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 86th for development activity.
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 Balga is $700 a week, up 7.7% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 3% below Greater Perth.
3% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $700 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.7% | 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 | |
| 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 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 40 tracked applications: 27 approved, 0 under assessment, 13 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 42 projects in and around Balga, 16 of them under construction.
Statewide program delivering new and upgraded shared walking and cycling infrastructure across metropolitan Perth through the WA Bicycle…
Pre-lease industrial development by Charter Hall delivering two high-clearance warehouses with corporate office space across a prime infill…
City of Wanneroo-led redevelopment of the 1.37-hectare Girrawheen Hub Precinct into a modern single-storey multi-purpose community facility…
Redevelopment of Alexander Heights Shopping Centre is underway.
Ongoing renewal of the Mirrabooka Town Centre into a mixed-use activity centre around The Square Mirrabooka, the bus interchange…
Draft Local Planning Scheme No. 4 (LPS4) will replace Local Planning Scheme No. 3 across the City of Stirling.
Joint venture between DevelopmentWA and Satterley Property Group delivering approximately 650 new homes as part of the broader Westminster…
City of Stirling initiative to revitalise the Westminster local centre around Stirling Central Shopping Centre on Wanneroo Road.
Upgrade of the existing lighting at Warwick Open Space Pitch 1 to energy-efficient LED lighting.
Major $47.9 million redevelopment of North Metropolitan TAFE's Balga campus featuring a new three-storey building and Future Trades…
A package of state and federal government transport infrastructure works supporting the transformation of Stirling City Centre into Perth's…
The roundabout at Mirrabooka Avenue and Kingsway is being upgraded to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety.
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 23 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 9, 2027 5, 2028 2, 2029 1, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 2. 4 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 40 substantial development applications lodged in and around Balga over the past 5 years, 7 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 2, 2023 11, 2024 6, 2025 14, 2026 (to Oct) 5.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 40 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 7 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 65th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 80 | ABS building approvals | 74th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Balga include: Balga Plaza Local Centre Revitalisation (Construction); Perth Active Transport Network (Construction); Girrawheen Hub Precinct Redevelopment (Planning); 35 Markham Way Residential Infill Development (Approved); and 680 Wanneroo Road Mixed-Use Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Balga spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Education & Training, among others.
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AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Balga among the top 14% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Balga area has seen 180 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Balga's current population of 15,744 has been supported by 80 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Balga has seen 5.4 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 172 people in the suburb of Balga, 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 Balga's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 80, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Balga has grown by approximately 1,359 people, while 402 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.4 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.
Population growth drivers in Balga are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,744 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,996 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 84th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.9% | 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 | 1,880 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5.25 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Balga was estimated to be approximately 15,744 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 15,661 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Balga has added approximately 1,880 people and shown a 13.56% increase from the 13,864 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Balga is estimated at 2,999 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Balga has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.9% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Balga is driven by: Overseas migration (71.0%), Natural increase (29.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 71.0% of overall population gains.
Balga hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 32 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 10th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 19.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 33.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 56.6% | 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 | 32 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 22.0% | 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 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 7.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Balga at 32 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 32 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 32 years as at August 2026, Balga is 5 years younger than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 6 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Balga compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 22.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Balga compared to the Greater Perth region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 7.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Balga show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (22.0% vs 15.8%) and 0-4 year-olds (7.6% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 19.2% of the population in the suburb of Balga as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 12.9% of the population in the suburb of Balga as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $52,927 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 24th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $60,157 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,299 | 2021 Census, weekly | 20th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $713 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 9.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,490 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Balga is approximately $56,653. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $52,927.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Balga is approximately $64,392. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $60,157.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Balga is approximately $56,653 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $52,927 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Balga is approximately $64,392 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,157 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Balga's households (~31.8% / 1,690 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Balga is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.8% 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 Balga is $1,299/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Balga is $1,490/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Balga is $713/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Balga had a median income among taxpayers of $52,927 with the average level standing at $60,157. This is lower than average on a national basis and compares to levels of $64,047 and $84,609 across Greater Perth respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $56,653 (median) and $64,392 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Balga is $4,449 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Balga's disposable income is $4,449 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market performance in Balga lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 11.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 69.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,854 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 12,037 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,827 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Balga has approximately 7,854 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 11.0%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Balga stands at 11.0%, which is 6.8 percentage points above Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Balga is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.8% of employment), retail trade (10.2%), and accommodation & food (8.5%). Other significant employers include construction and transport, postal & warehousing.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Balga 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 Balga is 69.7%, 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 Balga shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 18.8% of the local workforce compared to 14.8% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Balga's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Balga: university qualifications 23.0%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 948.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 16.0% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 23.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 24.6% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 40.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 34.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
23.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Balga have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
40.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Balga have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of Balga ranks in the 35th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Balga are: Certificate (24.6%), Bachelor Degree (16.0%), Advanced Diploma (12.3%).
34.2% of the population in the suburb of Balga is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.1% in primary school, 6.5% in secondary school, 5.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Balga is 948, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 7 schools within the suburb of Balga, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,717 students.
The suburb of Balga includes 5 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Balga features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.3% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 19.5% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 15.7% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 6.1% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,313 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 6,033 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.5% | 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 Balga had 5,313 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.6% to an estimated 6,033 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Balga is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.4%), group households (6.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,267 family households, couples with children account for 24.3% of all households, couples without children at home 19.5%, and single parent families 15.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Balga shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 32.4% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.5% 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 Balga 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 39.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 40.8% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 32.4% of all households in the suburb of Balga, 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 6.1% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Balga 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 | 51.0% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 49.4% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 50.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 68.5% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 49.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
Balga scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 49.4% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 51.0% born overseas.
The main religion in Balga was found to be Christianity, which makes up 44.8% of people in Balga. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 11.5% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Perth average of 3.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Balga are Other, comprising 29.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 11.2%, English, comprising 17.9% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Perth's 28.0%, and Australian, comprising 15.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Perth's 21.2%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Macedonian is notably overrepresented at 1.8% of Balga (vs 0.4% across Greater Perth), Vietnamese at 3.2% (vs 0.8%) and Serbian at 0.7% (vs 0.3%).
51.0% of the suburb of Balga population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
49.4% of the population in the suburb of Balga speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
2.3% of the suburb of Balga population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
68.5% of the suburb of Balga population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Balga displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 49.6% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 15.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 67.6% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,482 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 26th 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 | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $310 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 23.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 76th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 69th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Balga, 15.7% of homes are owned outright, 34.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 49.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 67.6% of dwellings in the suburb of Balga are houses.
In the suburb of Balga, 3.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 29.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Balga stands at 15.7%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Balga is $1,482, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Balga is $1,180, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Balga, households with mortgages typically spend 26.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 23.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Balga is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Balga shows mortgage holders spending 26.3% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 23.9% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Balga consists of 67.6% detached houses, 29.2% semi-detached dwellings, 3.3% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Balga consumes approximately 21.0% of median household income ($5,625 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Balga show attached dwellings contributing 44% of approvals compared to 32% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 56% of applications versus 68% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Balga is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 49.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 22nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 75.3% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 81.3% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
Around 49.1% of people in the suburb of Balga are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Balga, 4.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.4% of people in the suburb of Balga are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.6% of the suburb of Balga population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.1% of people in the suburb of Balga have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Balga, 49.1% 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 | 64 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 64th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 74 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,445 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 56th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 207 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 13 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 4.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 74 public transport stops within the suburb of Balga.
The suburb of Balga has 2,445 weekly trips across 13 routes, averaging 349 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 161 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 389 m away and the nearest school 468 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 74 stops nearby, 2,445 weekly trips, access rating 64 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 50th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 389 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 468 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 724 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 841 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 921 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.9 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 5 long day care centres with 349 places in Balga, about 3.0 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 Balga among the top 14% of areas assessed nationwide.
Balga has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 50% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Balga is $700 a week, +7.7% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Population growth drivers in Balga are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Balga hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 10% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
The labour market performance in Balga lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
Education in Balga: university qualifications 23.0%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 948.
Balga features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
Balga is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Balga displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
Health performance in Balga is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older 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 in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Balga has an estimated 15,744 residents, up 13.6% since the 2021 Census, with 42 projects tracked in the area around Balga.
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 Balga.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 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 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 (SAL50055). 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 (Jul 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 Balga 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 Balga 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.
