Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Darling Downs has an estimated 2,409 residents, up 51.4% since the 2021 Census, with 54 projects tracked in the area around Darling Downs.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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Situated 29 kilometres south-southeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Darling Downs has experienced substantial demographic expansion, positioning it in the top 10% of areas nationally for population growth. As of Aug 2026, the area's population is estimated at around 2,409 based on AreaSearch analysis of annual SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and quarterly national address updates. This represents a notable rise of 818 people (51.4%) from the 1,591 residents recorded at the 2021 Census. Driven by development activity and population drivers that track well above average, the community features a high proportion of middle-aged and mature residents, dominated by family households, couples with children, and married families.
Darling Downs is characterised by an affluent, well-educated local population with an above-average median household income, a strong representation of mortgage holders, and a notable wholesale trade employment base.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 29 kilometres south-southeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Darling Downs has experienced substantial demographic expansion, positioning it in the top 10% of areas nationally for population growth. As of Aug 2026, the area's population is estimated at around 2,409 based on AreaSearch analysis of annual SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and quarterly national address updates. This represents a notable rise of 818 people (51.4%) from the 1,591 residents recorded at the 2021 Census. Driven by development activity and population drivers that track well above average, the community features a high proportion of middle-aged and mature residents, dominated by family households, couples with children, and married families.
Darling Downs is characterised by an affluent, well-educated local population with an above-average median household income, a strong representation of mortgage holders, and a notable wholesale trade employment base.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,046 in 2006 and 2,168 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,409 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 36.1%.
Darling Downs ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 92nd for population growth.
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 Darling Downs is $900 a week, for the 12 months to Sep 2026 and 24% above Greater Perth.
24% above Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $900 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Serpentine - Jarrahdale | $695 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Serpentine - Jarrahdale, over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South East | $716 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Perth - South East, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
AreaSearch tracks 54 projects in and around Darling Downs, 18 of them under construction.
A 1,580 hectare masterplanned urban redevelopment by DevelopmentWA with Stockland's Sienna Wood estate as a key precinct. The project will ultimately deliver more than 16,000 dwellings for around 40,000 residents together with schools, town centres, parklands, living streams, recreation facilities and protected Aboriginal heritage areas.
Construction of the new purpose-built Oakford Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Station commissioned by the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale. The project includes modern appliance bays, dedicated training, operational, and turnout facilities to bolster emergency response capabilities.
A 3,000sqm two-storey integrated health and social care facility providing a single-entry point for primary care, mental health, child health, and specialist outpatient services. The hub includes 28 consultation rooms, a rehabilitation gym, pathology, and community spaces.
Established master planned community in Byford delivered by Satterley. Final precinct (Cardup Brook) is selling with over 900 residential lots, alongside existing village centre, Lake Allambee, parks and schools.
A major residential development (also known as Byford Green Private Estate) within Precinct 4 of the Byford District Structure Plan, featuring 208 residential lots with R20, R25, and R40 density codings across 16.61 hectares.
A major urban transformation centered on the METRONET Armadale Line upgrade, featuring an elevated rail line and newly rebuilt Armadale Station which reopened for passenger services in October 2025.
An approved 8.252 ha large-format retail and commercial development featuring 31,318 sqm of Gross Lettable Area across six lots. The precinct is planned to accommodate 21 showroom tenancies, 5 fast-food outlets, a service station, and a warehouse, supported by 699 parking bays.
Neighbourhood retail hub within the Sienna Wood masterplanned community in Hilbert, Perth's south-east corridor. Spanning approximately 7,500sqm, the centre features a full-line Woolworths supermarket, around 15 specialty stores including dining, a medical centre, and a Nido Early School childcare centre.
Four-lane road-over-rail bridge removing level crossing at Thomas Road. Part of Byford Rail Extension infrastructure improvements, opened November 2022.
The Gwynne Park Pavilion redevelopment replaces the original 1971 structure with a modern, accessible district-level community and sporting facility. Scope of works includes a spacious main hall, clubroom, meeting rooms, modern changerooms, kiosk and commercial kitchen amenities to support local sporting clubs and community hire.
Boutique residential estate by Cedar Woods Properties, now 90% sold with over 350 lots from 377m2. Launched in 2018 featuring natural water features, The Pavilion Park playground, and walkability to Byford Town Centre.
A family-friendly residential estate offering affordable large blocks with Stages 1 and 2 sold out and Stage 3 coming soon. Located near Beenyup Grove Primary School and Lakeside Plaza Shopping Centre, with exciting public open space planned for future development.
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 18 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 3, 2027 5, 2028 3, 2029 2, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 2. 8 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 14.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 90th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 27 | ABS building approvals | 40th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Darling Downs include: Wungong Urban (Construction); The Glades Estate (Construction); Byford Health Hub (Construction); Byford Town Centre Civic Master Plan (Construction); and Expansion of SJ Recreation Centre and Briggs Park Master Plan (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Darling Downs spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Health & Medical, among others.
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AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Darling Downs among the top 15% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Darling Downs area has seen 64 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Darling Downs's current population of 2,409 has been supported by 27 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Darling Downs has seen 14.8 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 65 people in the suburb of Darling Downs, 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 Darling Downs's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 27, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Darling Downs has grown by approximately 579 people, while 136 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.3 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.
Darling Downs lies within the top 8% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,409 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +51.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 245 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +6.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +6.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 1,591 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 818 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +7.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +6.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 9.82 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Darling Downs was estimated to be approximately 2,409 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,168 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Darling Downs has added approximately 818 people and shown a 51.41% increase from the 1,591 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Darling Downs is estimated at 245 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Darling Downs has shown a compound annual growth rate of 6.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Darling Downs is driven by: Interstate migration (64.0%), Natural increase (23.0%), Overseas migration (13.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 64.0% of overall population gains.
Darling Downs's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 49th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 14.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 14.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 3.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Darling Downs at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Darling Downs is 2 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Darling Downs compared to the Greater Perth region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 15.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Darling Downs compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Darling Downs show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age group is 55-64 year-olds (15.2% vs 10.6%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.8% vs 2.0%) and 25-34 year-olds (9.7% vs 15.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.8% of the population in the suburb of Darling Downs as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 14.3% of the population in the suburb of Darling Downs as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 9% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $70,392 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 84th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $84,910 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,480 | 2021 Census, weekly | 90th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $969 | 2021 Census, weekly | 75th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 37.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,640 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 14.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Darling Downs is approximately $75,348. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $70,392.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Darling Downs is approximately $90,888. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $84,910.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Darling Downs is approximately $75,348 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,392 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Darling Downs is approximately $90,888 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $84,910 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Darling Downs's households (~36.1% / 185 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Darling Downs is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.1% 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 Darling Downs is $2,480/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Darling Downs is $2,640/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Darling Downs is $969/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Darling Downs's median income among taxpayers is $70,392, with an average of $84,910. This is extremely high nationally, and compares to Greater Perth's median of $64,047 and average of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $75,348 (median) and $90,888 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Darling Downs is $9,281 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Darling Downs's disposable income is $9,281 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Darling Downs places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 72.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,254 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 1,812 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,276 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Darling Downs has approximately 1,254 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.7%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Darling Downs stands at 1.7%, which is 2.5 percentage points below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Darling Downs is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (13.8% of employment), health care & social assistance (11.2%), and education & training (9.7%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 34.7% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include mining and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Darling Downs 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 Darling Downs is 72.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The suburb of Darling Downs shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 13.8% of the local workforce compared to 9.3% 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 Darling Downs's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Darling Downs shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 37.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
18.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Darling Downs have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
37.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Darling Downs have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of Darling Downs ranks in the 80th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Darling Downs are: Certificate (33.1%), Bachelor Degree (13.5%), Advanced Diploma (11.2%).
26.9% of the population in the suburb of Darling Downs is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.3% in primary school, 7.7% in secondary school, 4.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
Darling Downs features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few group households, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.0 people | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 13.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 44.5% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.2% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 513 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 777 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 84.7% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Darling Downs had 513 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 51.5% to an estimated 777 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Darling Downs is 3.0 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 84.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (13.8%), group households (1.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 435 family households, couples with children account for 44.5% of all households, couples without children at home 32.2%, and single parent families 6.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Darling Downs shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 84.7% (versus 71.5% in Greater Perth). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 13.8% compared to 24.9% in Greater Perth. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Darling Downs have an average of 1.8 children, slightly above the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 56.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.4% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 13.8% of all households in the suburb of Darling Downs, notably lower 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 1.3% of households, below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
In terms of cultural diversity, Darling Downs 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 | 25.3% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.5% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.9% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 74.7% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
Darling Downs was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 74.7% of its population born in Australia, 88.9% being citizens, and 92.5% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Darling Downs was found to be Christianity, which makes up 50.0% of people in Darling Downs. This compares to 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Darling Downs are English, comprising 33.5% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 27.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 21.2%, and Scottish, comprising 6.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 5.7% of Darling Downs (vs 1.5% across Greater Perth), South African at 1.7% (vs 1.0%) and Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.7%).
25.3% of the suburb of Darling Downs population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
7.5% of the population in the suburb of Darling Downs speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.1% of the suburb of Darling Downs population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
88.9% of the suburb of Darling Downs population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Darling Downs 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 | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 96.5% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,172 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 79th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 62.2% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 16.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 12th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 16th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Darling Downs, 31.3% of homes are owned outright, 62.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 6.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 96.5% of dwellings in the suburb of Darling Downs are houses.
In the suburb of Darling Downs, 3.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Darling Downs stands at 31.3%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Darling Downs is $2,172, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Darling Downs is $1,465, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Darling Downs, households with mortgages typically spend 20.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 16.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Darling Downs is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Darling Downs shows mortgage holders spending 20.2% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 16.1% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Darling Downs consists of 96.5% detached houses, 0.0% semi-detached dwellings, 3.5% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Darling Downs consumes approximately 13.6% of median household income ($10,738 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Darling Downs show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 4% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 96% 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.
Darling Downs's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with younger cohorts in particular seeing very low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 59.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 75th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.3% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
Around 59.1% of people in the suburb of Darling Downs are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Darling Downs, 3.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
7.3% of people in the suburb of Darling Downs are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.5% of the suburb of Darling Downs population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.8% of people in the suburb of Darling Downs have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Darling Downs, 59.1% 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 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 | 38 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 38th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 15 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 15th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 205 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 15th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 136 | 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 | 2.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 11.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 15 public transport stops within the suburb of Darling Downs.
The suburb of Darling Downs has 205 weekly trips across 3 routes, averaging 29 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 562 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 1.5 km away and the nearest school 1.9 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 15 stops nearby, 205 weekly trips, access rating 38 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 11 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 11th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 7.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
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 Darling Downs 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 Darling Downs.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Darling Downs among the top 15% of areas assessed nationwide.
Darling Downs has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 44th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Darling Downs is $900 a week for the 12 months to Sep 2026.
Darling Downs lies within the top 8% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Darling Downs's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 9% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Darling Downs places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
Darling Downs shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Darling Downs features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few group households, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
In terms of cultural diversity, Darling Downs records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Darling Downs is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Darling Downs's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with younger cohorts in particular seeing very low prevalence of common health conditions.
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.
Darling Downs has an estimated 2,409 residents, up 51.4% since the 2021 Census, with 54 projects tracked in the area around Darling Downs.
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 Darling Downs.
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 (SAL50389). 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 Darling Downs 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 Darling Downs 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.
