Suburb profile · Rest of WA
Busselton has an estimated 1,953 residents, up 6.3% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Busselton.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Busselton lies 194 kilometres south-southwest of the Perth CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 1,953 as of Aug 2026, a figure drawn from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data that is updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 115 people (6.3%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 1,838 people.
The suburb has a low average household size and strong outright home ownership, alongside an above-average renting population, a notable presence of residents aged 75 to 84, an elevated proportion aged 85 and over, and a pronounced hospitality employment base. Its residents include a high share of retirement-aged people, older Australians and elderly residents, living largely in lone person households and couples without children. Income levels sit in the lower quartile, and population growth shows moderate expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Busselton lies 194 kilometres south-southwest of the Perth CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 1,953 as of Aug 2026, a figure drawn from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data that is updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 115 people (6.3%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 1,838 people.
The suburb has a low average household size and strong outright home ownership, alongside an above-average renting population, a notable presence of residents aged 75 to 84, an elevated proportion aged 85 and over, and a pronounced hospitality employment base. Its residents include a high share of retirement-aged people, older Australians and elderly residents, living largely in lone person households and couples without children. Income levels sit in the lower quartile, and population growth shows moderate expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,671 in 2006 and 1,929 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 1,953 (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, 18.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 33.9%.
Busselton ranks in the 74th percentile nationally for amenities and the 73rd for infrastructure drivers.
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 Busselton is $735 a week, up 10.5% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 10% above Regional WA.
10% above Regional WA on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $735 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +10.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Bunbury | $668 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Bunbury, over 12 months | +7.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional WA | $667 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Regional WA, over 12 months | +10.2% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in Busselton (1 under construction) and 37 more in the surrounding area.
A 48,500 square metre Large Format Retail centre on a 23-hectare site at Bovell, on the corner of the Busselton Bypass and Chapman Hill Road. The development comprises eight buildings ranging from 2,510 to 14,692 square metres for showrooms, trade supplies and food outlets, with around 1,230 parking bays.
Local Planning Scheme No. 22 (LPS22) is a comprehensive update to the City of Busselton planning framework, replacing LPS21. The scheme manages sustainable growth, standardises zones by introducing Mixed Use areas, and strengthens controls for Special Character Areas. It is currently under review by the EPA and WAPC prior to public advertising.
A $19 million high-quality 30-dwelling community housing project offering 16 social and 14 affordable homes, including 22 one-bedroom and 8 two-bedroom apartments, built to Silver Liveable standards with a minimum 6-star NatHERS rating.
Enhancement of the iconic 1.8km Busselton Jetty featuring essential accessibility upgrades, including a new lift system for the Underwater Observatory, alongside visitor facilities improvements and marine conservation initiatives to boost tourism.
Significant expansion of Busselton Health Campus to provide enhanced medical services, specialist facilities, and emergency care capabilities for the growing South West region population.
Comprehensive redevelopment of Busselton's foreshore area including new public spaces, recreational facilities, boardwalks, and commercial developments to enhance the coastal tourism experience.
The original whale-shaped Australian Underwater Discovery Centre proposal at Busselton Jetty has been paused due to cost escalation, with Busselton Jetty Inc continuing the on-jetty Marine Discovery Centre, jetty village facilities, exhibition space, public changerooms and cafe/terrace components.
A staged coastal protection program for the West Busselton coastline between King Street and Gale Street, designed to mitigate coastal erosion and protect public infrastructure including carparks, cycle paths, and open space. Works involve construction of low-profile Geotextile Sand Container (GSC) groynes and beach nourishment with imported sand.
Major expansion of Busselton's premier shopping destination including new retail spaces, dining precincts, and community facilities to serve the growing regional population.
Stockland's Halcyon Vasse is a land lease lifestyle community for over-55s comprising approximately 213 homes across a 14 hectare site. Following development approval in March 2025, the project has progressed into construction with delivery planned in multiple stages together with resort style community facilities.
A planned town centre forming part of the major Embark Busselton masterplanned community development by Yolk Property Group. The project scope includes a supermarket, childcare facility, bakery, cafe, restaurant, liquor store, and pharmacy to serve the expanding residential catchment.
The City of Busselton is rehabilitating and enhancing coastal dunes and refurbishing the coastal path along Geographe Bay Road to increase their resilience to coastal erosion and flooding. Coastal dunes along Geographe Bay provide both natural coastal defense against erosion and an environmental habitat.
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: 2026 6, 2027 6, 2028 5, 2029 2, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 3 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 15.2 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 29 | ABS building approvals | 42nd percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Busselton include: Busselton Jetty Marine Discovery Centre (Planning); City of Busselton Local Planning Scheme No. 22 (Under Assessment); Brown Street Busselton (Approved); Busselton Health Campus Expansion (Completed); and Home HQ Busselton (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Busselton spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
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AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Busselton recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Busselton area has seen 35 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Busselton's current population of 1,953 has been supported by 29 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Busselton has seen 15.2 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.3 approvals in Regional WA. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 109 people in the suburb of Busselton, compared to one for every 164 in Regional WA.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Busselton's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 29, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Busselton has grown by approximately 55 people, while 143 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Busselton reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,953 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 438 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 41st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | 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 | 1,838 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 115 | 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 | 4.46 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Busselton was estimated to be approximately 1,953 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 1,929 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Busselton has added approximately 115 people and shown a 6.26% increase from the 1,838 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Busselton is estimated at 438 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Busselton has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Busselton is driven by: Overseas migration (35.0%), Interstate migration (35.0%), Natural increase (30.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 35.0% of overall population gains.
Busselton ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 56 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 97th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 38.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 19.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 44.5% | 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 | 56 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 5.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 18.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Busselton at 56 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 56 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 56 years as at August 2026, Busselton is 16 years older than the Regional WA 2021 Census average (40 years) and 18 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 Busselton compared to the Regional WA region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 18.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Busselton compared to the Regional WA region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 5.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Busselton show significant variance compared to Regional WA. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (5.9% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (13.9% vs 6.3%). The most under-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (5.1% vs 12.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 8.9% of the population in the suburb of Busselton as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 38.3% of the population in the suburb of Busselton as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,862 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $63,316 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $949 | 2021 Census, weekly | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $624 | 2021 Census, weekly | 14th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 8.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,362 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 44.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Busselton is approximately $51,231. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,862.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Busselton is approximately $67,773. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $63,316.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Busselton is approximately $51,231 compared to $67,299 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,862 and $62,873 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Busselton is approximately $67,773 compared to $83,842 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $63,316 and $78,328 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Busselton's households (~33.8% / 291 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Busselton is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 33.8% of households. In comparison, Regional WA's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.1% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Busselton is $949/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Busselton is $1,362/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Busselton is $624/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Busselton is below the national average, with the median assessed at $47,862 while the average income stands at $63,316. This contrasts to Regional WA's figures of a median income of $62,873 and an average income of $78,328. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $51,231 (median) and $67,773 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Busselton is $3,284 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Busselton's disposable income is $3,284 compared to $6,025 for Regional WA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Busselton recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 934 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 1,993 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 975 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Busselton has approximately 934 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.2%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Busselton stands at 4.2%, which is 0.7 percentage points above Regional WA's rate of 3.5%. 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 Busselton is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.0% of employment), accommodation & food (14.1%), and construction (10.9%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Busselton has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional WA saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Busselton is 55.0%, 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 WA average of 65.4%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Busselton shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 14.1% of the local workforce compared to 7.1% across Regional WA. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this 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 Busselton'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 saw a 3.7% decline, ranking 31st out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Busselton 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 | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.3% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.0% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 44.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 19.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.2% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
18.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Busselton have university qualifications, compared to 17.6% in Regional WA.
44.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Busselton have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.5% in Regional WA.
The suburb of Busselton ranks in the 66th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Busselton are: Certificate (28.3%), Bachelor Degree (12.4%), Advanced Diploma (9.0%).
19.9% of the population in the suburb of Busselton is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.2% in primary school, 7.2% in secondary school, 1.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Busselton, with a combined enrollment of approximately 0 students.
The suburb of Busselton includes 1 secondary school.
Busselton features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 1.9 people | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 43.0% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 860 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 914 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 53.8% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Busselton had 860 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.3% to an estimated 914 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Busselton is 1.9 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional WA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 53.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (43.0%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.4%).
Of the 463 family households, couples with children account for 12.0% of all households, couples without children at home 33.4%, and single parent families 7.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional WA, the suburb of Busselton shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 43.0% (versus 27.4% in Regional WA). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 53.8% compared to 69.8% in Regional WA. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Busselton have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional WA average of 1.9. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 42.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 29.9% have never married. This compares to 46.4% married and 35.8% never married across Regional WA.
Single-person households represent 43.0% of all households in the suburb of Busselton, higher than the average for Regional WA of 27.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.8% of households, in line with the Regional WA average of 2.8%.
In terms of cultural diversity, Busselton records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 25.1% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.3% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 85.0% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 74.9% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
Busselton was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 85.0% of its population being citizens, 74.9% born in Australia, and 93.3% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Busselton was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.7% of people in Busselton. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 1.8% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional WA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Busselton are English, comprising 37.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional WA's 31.3%, Australian, comprising 27.3% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 8.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 1.8% of Busselton (vs 1.5% across Regional WA), South African at 0.6% (vs 0.6%) and Maori at 0.7% (vs 1.0%).
25.1% of the suburb of Busselton population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional WA.
6.7% of the population in the suburb of Busselton speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.7% in Regional WA.
1.7% of the suburb of Busselton population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 6.1% in Regional WA.
85.0% of the suburb of Busselton population holds citizenship, compared to 82.8% in Regional WA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Busselton is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 39.8% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 43.2% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 70.9% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,635 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 36th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 16.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 17.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $320 | 2021 Census, weekly | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 33.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 39.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Busselton, 43.2% of homes are owned outright, 16.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 39.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 70.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Busselton are houses.
In the suburb of Busselton, 1.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 17.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Busselton stands at 43.2%, compared to 34.1% in Regional WA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Busselton is $1,635, compared to $1,560 in Regional WA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Busselton is $828, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Busselton, households with mortgages typically spend 39.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 33.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Busselton is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Busselton shows mortgage holders spending 39.8% of income on repayments (vs 22.5% in Regional WA), while renters spend 33.7% of income on rent (vs 16.6% in Regional WA).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Busselton consists of 70.9% detached houses, 17.0% semi-detached dwellings, 1.3% apartments, and 10.7% other dwelling types.
Housing in Busselton consumes approximately 20.1% of median household income ($4,109 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Busselton show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 29% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 71% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Health performance in Busselton is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 30th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 57.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.0% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.1% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the suburb of Busselton are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.4% in Regional WA.
In the suburb of Busselton, 8.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Regional WA require similar assistance.
6.7% of people in the suburb of Busselton are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.2% of the population across Regional WA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.3% of the suburb of Busselton population, while in Regional WA, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.4% of people in the suburb of Busselton have heart disease. Across Regional WA,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Busselton, 50.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional WA sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.4%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 51 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 51st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 34 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 31st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 345 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 20th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 57 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 5 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 6.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 34 public transport stops within the suburb of Busselton.
The suburb of Busselton has 345 weekly trips across 5 routes, averaging 49 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 238 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 339 m away and the nearest shopping centre 712 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 34 stops nearby, 345 weekly trips, access rating 51 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 74 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 74th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 339 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 712 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 739 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 783 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 807 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 831 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 842 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 843 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 937 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 966 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 5 long day care centres with 335 places in Busselton, about 0.3 children aged 0-4 per place.
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 Busselton 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 Busselton.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Busselton recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Busselton has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 27% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Busselton is $735 a week, +10.5% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Busselton reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Busselton ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Busselton recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
The educational profile of Busselton ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Busselton features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
In terms of cultural diversity, Busselton records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Busselton is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Busselton is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Busselton has an estimated 1,953 residents, up 6.3% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Busselton.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 15 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 Busselton.
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 (SAL50228). 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 Busselton 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 Busselton 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.
