Suburb profile · Rest of SA
Barmera has an estimated 3,034 residents, up 5.2% since the 2021 Census, with 41 projects tracked in the area around Barmera.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
The suburb of Barmera is located 187 kilometres east-northeast from Adelaide CBD. Its population is estimated at around 3,034 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 150 people (5.2%) since the 2021 Census, when 2,884 people were recorded. The area combines affordable housing options and a low average household size with an above-average number of children per family and a notable manufacturing employment base. It also has elevated proportions of residents aged 85 and over and people aged 65 to 74.
Residents include a high share of retirement-aged and older people, with many living in lone person households. Education levels and incomes are generally lower, with income levels in the lower quartile, and population growth has been limited. Barmera's setting in South Australia is known for Lake Bonney and opportunities for sailing, windsurfing and fishing, alongside vineyards, fruit orchards, local markets, festivals, cultural events, parks and reserves.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Barmera is located 187 kilometres east-northeast from Adelaide CBD. Its population is estimated at around 3,034 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 150 people (5.2%) since the 2021 Census, when 2,884 people were recorded. The area combines affordable housing options and a low average household size with an above-average number of children per family and a notable manufacturing employment base. It also has elevated proportions of residents aged 85 and over and people aged 65 to 74.
Residents include a high share of retirement-aged and older people, with many living in lone person households. Education levels and incomes are generally lower, with income levels in the lower quartile, and population growth has been limited. Barmera's setting in South Australia is known for Lake Bonney and opportunities for sailing, windsurfing and fishing, alongside vineyards, fruit orchards, local markets, festivals, cultural events, parks and reserves.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,120 in 2006 and 3,026 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,034 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 17.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 30.3%.
Barmera ranks in the 58th percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 34th 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 Barmera is $340 a week, down 1.1% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 18% below Regional SA.
18% below Regional SA on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $245 in 2020, $411 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $188 in 2020, $255 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $340 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | -1.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $411 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +11.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $255 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | -5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Murray and Mallee | $421 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Murray and Mallee, over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional SA | $415 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional SA, over 12 months | +8.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, SA | $546 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, SA, over 12 months | +6.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 23 tracked applications: 21 approved, 2 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Barmera, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 41 projects in and around Barmera, 5 of them under construction.
Sale of a significant 3.06ha development site (Lot 45 McLean St) in the Riverland town of Berri, which was advertised with two professionally drafted concept plans for a low-density residential estate of up to 34 new homes to address the critical local housing shortage. The site was sold on October 9, 2025.
The reconstruction of Riverview Drive in Berri, following significant damage caused by the earth levee bank constructed during the 2022/23 River Murray flood. The project involved a like-for-like road renewal over an expanded scope, delivered $416,000 under budget, marking a major flood recovery milestone for the Berri Barmera Council.
Australia's first fully operational utility-scale DC-coupled solar and battery energy storage system. The project, built on a former racecourse, features a 5.8 MWp solar farm (9,800 solar panels) coupled with a 6.7 MWh battery.
A pilot initiative to establish small-scale pocket galleries throughout Loxton, creating accessible community exhibition spaces for local artists and cultural activities. The project is being developed in partnership with founder Di Caught and aims to enhance arts and culture engagement across the district.
Repair works on the William Street Staircase following significant structural damage from the 2022/23 Murray River floods. The project includes installation of screw piles to landing supports, replacement of missing handrails, and reinstatement of the retaining wall.
The Loxton Institute is a new library, visitor information and cultural centre developed at the historic former Loxton Council Chamber. The facility features a dedicated local history section, visitor information area with local products and Loxton merchandise, bookable meeting rooms, extensive library services, children's activity room, modern amenities…
The District Council of Loxton Waikerie has undertaken concept planning and design work for the potential redevelopment and upgrade of the Loxton Swimming Pool. The pool's ageing infrastructure requires upgrading to meet current compliance standards and community expectations.
Construction of a new fit-for-purpose childcare centre to expand services for the Loxton District Children's Centre 'Woodleigh'. The modern, environmentally friendly multi-use facility will include learning hubs, offices, bathrooms, sleep hubs, kitchens, laundries, staff rooms, consulting and program training rooms, outdoor play spaces and a carpark.
A multi-stage redevelopment project including a new administration building, library and student services upgrade, FLO creative teaching refurbishment, and Home Economics area upgrade. Also included major services and air conditioning and lighting upgrades to all buildings.
Transformation of Renmark's riverfront open space to create a high-quality regional destination. Includes a new visitor information centre, 'eat street' on Murray Avenue, feature lighting, water play, BBQs, and family recreation areas.
The project involved a major upgrade of the Renmark Riverfront Wharf, including a new 3-metre wide walkway, improved access for houseboats, revitalised wharf area with improved lighting and accessible ramps. The new wharf is designed to withstand high river flow and flooding.
A continuation of the Urban Design Framework, which includes upgrades to Murray Avenue and the Murray Avenue, Renmark Avenue and Ral Ral intersection. Aims to bring life and activity to the town centre and revive its economy.
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 11 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 3, 2027 0, 2028 2, 2029 3, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 1. 8 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 23 substantial development applications lodged in and around Barmera over the past 5 years, 1 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 11, 2023 4, 2024 3, 2025 4, 2026 (to Nov) 0.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 23 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 12th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 3 | ABS building approvals | 9th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 21 | 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 |
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Barmera area has seen 9 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Barmera's current population of 3,034 has been supported by 3 approvals on average over recent years.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Barmera's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 3, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Barmera has grown by approximately 70 people, while 17 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Barmera include: Billiatt Road Reconstruction - Final Stage (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure projects impacting the suburb of Barmera are primarily focused on Transport & Logistics.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the suburb of Barmera, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Barmera currently ranks below national averages at the 32nd percentile.
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.
Barmera is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,034 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 39 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,884 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 150 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 77.52 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Barmera was estimated to be approximately 3,034 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,026 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Barmera has added approximately 150 people and shown a 5.20% increase from the 2,884 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Barmera is estimated at 39 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Barmera has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Barmera is driven by: Overseas migration (85.0%), Interstate migration (15.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 85.0% of overall population gains.
Barmera hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 49 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 90th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 33.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 21.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 42.2% | 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 | 49 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 17.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 11.6% | 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 Barmera at 49 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 49 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 49 years as at August 2026, Barmera is 2 years older than the Regional SA 2021 Census average (47 years) and 11 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Barmera compared to the Regional SA region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 17.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Barmera compared to the Regional SA region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 11.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Barmera show significant variance compared to Regional SA. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (4.5% vs 3.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.3% of the population in the suburb of Barmera as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 33.3% of the population in the suburb of Barmera as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $43,157 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $48,057 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,037 | 2021 Census, weekly | 4th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $578 | 2021 Census, weekly | 9th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 7.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,388 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 38.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Barmera is approximately $46,238. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $43,157.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Barmera is approximately $51,488. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $48,057.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Barmera is approximately $46,238 compared to $55,532 in Regional SA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $43,157 and $51,831 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Barmera is approximately $51,488 compared to $66,859 in Regional SA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $48,057 and $62,403 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Barmera's households (~30.3% / 376 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Barmera is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 30.3% of households. In comparison, Regional SA's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 27.5% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Barmera is $1,037/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Barmera is $1,388/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Barmera is $578/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Barmera had a median income among taxpayers of $43,157 with the average level standing at $48,057. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $51,831 and $62,403 across Regional SA respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.14% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $46,238 (median) and $51,488 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Barmera is $3,921 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Barmera's disposable income is $3,921 compared to $4,535 for Regional SA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Barmera shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 53.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,328 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,467 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,399 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Barmera has approximately 1,328 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.0%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Barmera stands at 5.0%, which is broadly in line with Regional SA's rate of 5.5%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Barmera is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.0% of employment), manufacturing (14.3%), and agriculture, forestry & fishing (12.0%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Barmera has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional SA saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Barmera is 53.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional SA average of 58.3%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional SA.
The suburb of Barmera shows notable specialisation in manufacturing, which employs 14.3% of the local workforce compared to 9.3% across Regional SA. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The suburb of Barmera's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 13.6% growth, ranking 3rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Barmera faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 12.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 51.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 23.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
12.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Barmera have university qualifications, compared to 13.9% in Regional SA.
51.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Barmera have no formal qualifications, compared to 47.1% in Regional SA.
The suburb of Barmera ranks in the 6th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Barmera are: Certificate (28.6%), Bachelor Degree (9.6%), Advanced Diploma (7.8%).
23.6% of the population in the suburb of Barmera is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.1% in primary school, 6.3% in secondary school, 1.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Barmera is 948, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Barmera, with a combined enrollment of approximately 221 students.
The suburb of Barmera includes 2 primary schools.
Barmera features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional SA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 36.5% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 18.6% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 29.9% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,241 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,306 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.6% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Barmera had 1,241 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.2% to an estimated 1,306 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Barmera is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.3 in Regional SA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (36.5%), group households (2.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 764 family households, couples with children account for 18.6% of all households, couples without children at home 29.9%, and single parent families 12.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional SA, the suburb of Barmera shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 36.5% (versus 31.3% in Regional SA). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Barmera have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional SA average of 1.9. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 42.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.6% have never married. This compares to 47.9% married and 31.7% never married across Regional SA.
Single-person households represent 36.5% of all households in the suburb of Barmera, higher than the average for Regional SA of 31.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.0% of households, slightly below the Regional SA average of 2.4%.
Barmera ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 90.2% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.2% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.0% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Barmera was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 86.0% of its population born in Australia, 91.2% being citizens, and 90.2% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Barmera, at 44.8% of people, although more residents (52.2%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 1.7% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional SA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Barmera are English, comprising 31.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 29.5% of the population, and German, comprising 8.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Greek is notably overrepresented at 4.7% of Barmera (vs 0.6% across Regional SA), Hungarian at 0.4% (vs 0.1%) and Australian Aboriginal at 4.2% (vs 3.3%).
14.0% of the suburb of Barmera population was born overseas, compared to 12.4% across Regional SA.
9.8% of the population in the suburb of Barmera speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 5.7% in Regional SA.
4.2% of the suburb of Barmera population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.3% in Regional SA.
91.2% of the suburb of Barmera population holds citizenship, compared to 89.3% in Regional SA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Barmera is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional SA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 30.4% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 39.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 84.3% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,028 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 8th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 30.1% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $200 | 2021 Census, weekly | 7th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 19.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 36th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 39th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Barmera, 39.5% of homes are owned outright, 30.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 84.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Barmera are houses.
In the suburb of Barmera, 1.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Barmera stands at 39.5%, compared to 41.6% in Regional SA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Barmera is $1,028, compared to $1,153 in Regional SA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Barmera is $572, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Barmera, households with mortgages typically spend 22.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 19.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Barmera is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Barmera shows mortgage holders spending 22.9% of income on repayments (vs 22.4% in Regional SA), while renters spend 19.3% of income on rent (vs 18.5% in Regional SA).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Barmera consists of 84.3% detached houses, 13.1% semi-detached dwellings, 1.4% apartments, and 1.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Barmera consumes approximately 12.8% of median household income ($4,490 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Health performance in Barmera is well below the national average with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 44.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | |
| No long-term health condition | 55.4% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 67.6% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
Around 44.1% of people in the suburb of Barmera are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 49.2% in Regional SA.
In the suburb of Barmera, 10.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 7.0% of people in Regional SA require similar assistance.
9.4% of people in the suburb of Barmera are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional SA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.6% of the suburb of Barmera population, while in Regional SA, 5.8% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.5% of people in the suburb of Barmera have heart disease. Across Regional SA,4.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Barmera, 44.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional SA sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 49.2%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 27 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 27th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 3 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 28 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 5th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 1,026 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 3 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 7.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 3 public transport stops within the suburb of Barmera.
The suburb of Barmera has 28 weekly trips across 3 routes, averaging 4 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 609 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 1.2 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.3 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 3 stops nearby, 28 weekly trips, access rating 27 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 30 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 30th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 12.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 12.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 13.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 13.4 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).
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Barmera is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Barmera.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Barmera compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Barmera has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 32nd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Barmera is $340 a week, -1.1% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Barmera is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Barmera hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Barmera shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
Barmera faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Barmera features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional SA.
Barmera ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Barmera is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional SA.
Health performance in Barmera is well below the national average with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Barmera has an estimated 3,034 residents, up 5.2% since the 2021 Census, with 41 projects tracked in the area around Barmera.
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 Barmera.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing 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 (SAL40073). 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) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Barmera 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 Barmera 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.
