Suburb profile · Greater Darwin
Darwin City has an estimated 8,630 residents, up 20.7% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Darwin City.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Situated in the heart of Darwin CBD, the suburb of Darwin City represents a dynamic urban enclave defined by strong demographic momentum and a unique lifestyle appeal. As of Aug 2026, the local population is estimated at around 8,630 residents, based on AreaSearch's evaluation of aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) data and quarterly updates from the national address file. This marks a substantial increase of 1,481 people (20.7%) above the 7,149 individuals recorded during the 2021 Census. The community is characterised by above-average population density, a strong apartment footprint, a low average household size, and an elevated proportion of renters, with expansion primarily supported by a large overseas-born demographic and highly educated residents.
Reflecting its youthful, professional composition, the area is heavily populated by young adults and working-age individuals living predominantly in lone-person and group households.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated in the heart of Darwin CBD, the suburb of Darwin City represents a dynamic urban enclave defined by strong demographic momentum and a unique lifestyle appeal. As of Aug 2026, the local population is estimated at around 8,630 residents, based on AreaSearch's evaluation of aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) data and quarterly updates from the national address file. This marks a substantial increase of 1,481 people (20.7%) above the 7,149 individuals recorded during the 2021 Census. The community is characterised by above-average population density, a strong apartment footprint, a low average household size, and an elevated proportion of renters, with expansion primarily supported by a large overseas-born demographic and highly educated residents.
Reflecting its youthful, professional composition, the area is heavily populated by young adults and working-age individuals living predominantly in lone-person and group households.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,795 in 2006 and 8,597 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,630 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 33.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 42.7%.
Darwin City ranks in the 88th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 87th for education.
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.
AreaSearch tracks 15 projects in Darwin City (6 under construction) and 21 more in the surrounding area.
A major revitalisation of the former Coles site into a premium mixed-use precinct in the Darwin CBD. The project includes a multi-level retail podium with a flagship supermarket, specialty retail tenancies, and alfresco dining spaces.
Major Indigenous cultural centre on the Darwin Waterfront celebrating Larrakia Country, language, culture and knowledge. The project includes exhibition galleries, performance and education spaces, retail, cultural experiences and landscaped public areas.
A transformative maritime project featuring a 103m-long ship lift capable of lifting 5,500-tonne vessels. It serves as the centerpiece of the Northern Marine Complex, integrating a Marine Industry Park and hardstand areas to service Defence, Australian Border Force, and commercial sectors.
Revitalisation of the Civic and State Square Precinct in Darwin CBD to deliver shady parklands, public art, and connections across Parliament House, Supreme Court, and Government House. Completed milestones include the 450-bay underground car park, native gardens, Chan Lawns, and the Liberty Square redevelopment.
The Northern Territory Art Gallery, formally the State Square Building, is a 145 million dollar cultural facility under construction in Darwin's State Square precinct in the CBD, adjacent to Parliament House and the Supreme Court, as part of the Darwin City Deal jointly funded by the Northern Territory and Australian Governments.
A major refurbishment and adaptive reuse project at the 88 The Esplanade site, involving the conversion of hotel rooms into private residential apartments and the refurbishment of remaining guest suites. The project includes upgrades to the penthouse suites and common areas, with active renovation works scheduled between November 2025 and April 2026.
Major $250 million masterplanned redevelopment of the Darwin Waterfront Central Precinct. The project includes Australia's first saltwater surf park, a tropical snorkelling lagoon, new waterfront pools, an Entry Plaza, Celebration Lawns, a Convention Centre Hotel, and 2.8 hectares of public parklands.
A proposed 25,000-seat stadium in Darwin City, intended to host AFL, cricket, rugby and soccer and to anchor a bid for a 20th AFL licence. The Darwin City Stadium Plan was released for public consultation in March 2025 by AFL Northern Territory, Stadiums North Australia and the Larrakia Development Corporation.
Darwin Innovation Hub is a technology and startup innovation hub operating in the Darwin CBD. It provides startup incubation, accelerator programs, co-working space, business support, digital skills development, investment readiness programs and landing pad services for companies expanding into Northern Australia.
Comprehensive revitalisation of Cavenagh Street anchored by the newly completed 250 million AUD Charles Darwin University 'Danala' City Campus and extensive streetscape upgrades. The project delivered a cooling, pedestrian-friendly civic spine with heat mitigation infrastructure, greening, and improved public realm connectivity across Darwin CBD.
$250 million Education and Community Precinct (Danala) delivered as the centrepiece of the Darwin City Deal. The nine-level building at 54 Cavenagh Street houses CDU teaching and research facilities, an integrated Northern Territory Library, a public art gallery, green community spaces, and 230 underground car parks.
Luxury residential apartment development comprising 54 premium one, two and three bedroom apartments with rooftop resident amenities in Larrakeyah, close to the Darwin CBD. Publicly available information indicates the project remains under construction, with apartment sales continuing.
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 14 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 8, 2027 1, 2028 2, 2029 1, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1. 8 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 1.2 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 13th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 10 | ABS building approvals | 20th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Darwin City include: Darwin Galleria (Former Coles Site Redevelopment) (Construction); Larrakia Cultural Centre (Construction); Civic and State Square Precinct Revitalisation (Construction); Northern Territory Art Gallery (Construction); and Mantra on the Esplanade Hotel Refurbishment & Apartment Addition (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Darwin City spans multiple sectors including Tourism, Retail, and Arts & Culture, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Darwin City currently ranks below national averages at the 29th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Darwin City recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Darwin City area has seen 24 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Darwin City's current population of 8,630 has been supported by 10 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Darwin City has seen 1.2 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 2.6 approvals in Greater Darwin. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 702 people in the suburb of Darwin City, compared to one for every 339 in Greater Darwin.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Darwin City's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 10, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Darwin City has grown by approximately 988 people, while 48 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 20.6 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.
Darwin City lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,630 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +20.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,720 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 81st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,149 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,481 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +3.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.17 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Darwin City was estimated to be approximately 8,630 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,597 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Darwin City has added approximately 1,481 people and shown a 20.72% increase from the 7,149 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Darwin City is estimated at 2,722 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Darwin City has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Darwin City is driven by: Overseas migration (86.0%), Natural increase (14.000000000000002%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 86.0% of overall population gains.
Darwin City's young demographic places it in the bottom 14% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 33 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 14th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 44.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 70.8% | 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 | 33 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 | 5.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 33.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 18.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 2.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Darwin City at 33 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 33 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 33 years as at August 2026, Darwin City is comparable to the Greater Darwin 2021 Census average (34 years) and 5 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Darwin City compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 33.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Darwin City compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 5.2% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Darwin City show significant variance compared to Greater Darwin. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (33.1% vs 18.4%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.3% vs 0.8%) and 5-14 year-olds (5.2% vs 13.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 9.0% of the population in the suburb of Darwin City as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 8.9% of the population in the suburb of Darwin City as at August 2026.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 73% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $63,390 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $74,573 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,151 | 2021 Census, weekly | 75th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,236 | 2021 Census, weekly | 92nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 29.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,403 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 9.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Darwin City is approximately $67,320. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $63,390.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Darwin City is approximately $79,197. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $74,573.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Darwin City is approximately $67,320 compared to $74,514 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $63,390 and $70,164 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Darwin City is approximately $79,197 compared to $86,622 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,573 and $81,565 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Darwin City's households (~42.7% / 1,274 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Darwin City is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 42.7% of households. In comparison, Greater Darwin's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 36.7% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Darwin City is $2,151/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Darwin City is $2,403/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Darwin City is $1,236/wk.
The suburb of Darwin City's income level is higher than average nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Darwin City's median income among taxpayers is $63,390 and the average income stands at $74,573, which compares to figures for Greater Darwin's of $70,164 and $81,565 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.2% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $67,320 (median) and $79,197 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Darwin City is $7,551 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Darwin City's disposable income is $7,551 compared to $8,044 for Greater Darwin, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Darwin City ranks among the top 25% of areas assessed nationally for overall employment performance.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 78.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 5,977 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 13,645 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,146 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Darwin City has approximately 5,977 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.7%. 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 Darwin City stands at 2.7%, which is 0.7 percentage points below Greater Darwin's rate of 3.5%. 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 Darwin City is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (21.6% of employment), accommodation & food (16.4%), and health care & social assistance (11.2%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Darwin City has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Darwin saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Darwin City is 78.5%, 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 Darwin average of 72.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The suburb of Darwin City shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 16.4% of the local workforce compared to 8.0% across Greater Darwin. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.0, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Darwin City'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 saw a 12.8% decline, ranking 37th out of 37 regions nationally.
Darwin City 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 | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 16.6% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 51.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 15.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.5% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 20.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
51.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Darwin City have university qualifications, compared to 31.3% in Greater Darwin.
20.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Darwin City have no formal qualifications, compared to 32.6% in Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Darwin City ranks in the 87th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Darwin City are: Bachelor Degree (31.0%), Postgraduate (16.6%), Certificate (15.7%).
31.5% of the population in the suburb of Darwin City is currently engaged in formal education, including 5.0% in primary school, 3.4% in secondary school, 13.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Darwin City is 1071, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Darwin City, with a combined enrollment of approximately 180 students.
The suburb of Darwin City includes 1 primary school.
Darwin City features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Darwin.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.0 people | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 38.4% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 13.2% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.3% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 10.2% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,984 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,602 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 51.4% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 0.7 per family | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Darwin City had 2,984 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 20.7% to an estimated 3,602 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Darwin City is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Darwin and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 51.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (38.4%), group households (10.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,534 family households, couples with children account for 13.2% of all households, couples without children at home 32.3%, and single parent families 4.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Darwin, the suburb of Darwin City shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 38.4% (versus 23.4% in Greater Darwin). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 51.4% compared to 71.0% in Greater Darwin. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Marriage patterns reveal 36.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 50.7% have never married. This compares to 42.3% married and 43.1% never married across Greater Darwin.
Single-person households represent 38.4% of all households in the suburb of Darwin City, higher than the average for Greater Darwin of 23.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 10.2% of households, above the Greater Darwin average of 5.6%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Darwin City is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 51.7% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 40.4% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 59.6% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 54.9% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 48.3% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
Darwin City scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 40.4% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 51.7% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Darwin City, at 31.7% of people, although more residents (46.9%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 11.7% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Darwin average of 4.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Darwin City are English, comprising 20.9% of the population, Other, comprising 20.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Darwin's 13.1%, and Australian, comprising 14.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Darwin's 22.6%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Sri Lankan is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Darwin City (vs 0.3% across Greater Darwin), Korean at 0.9% (vs 0.2%) and Filipino at 2.6% (vs 3.8%).
51.7% of the suburb of Darwin City population was born overseas, compared to 30.3% across Greater Darwin.
40.4% of the population in the suburb of Darwin City speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 26.1% in Greater Darwin.
2.7% of the suburb of Darwin City population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 7.0% in Greater Darwin.
54.9% of the suburb of Darwin City population holds citizenship, compared to 77.8% in Greater Darwin.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Darwin City features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Darwin.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 77.0% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 99.2% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,781 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 47th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 15.1% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.1% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $450 | 2021 Census, weekly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 19.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 10th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Darwin City, 7.9% of homes are owned outright, 15.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 77.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 0.5% of dwellings in the suburb of Darwin City are houses.
In the suburb of Darwin City, 99.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Darwin City stands at 7.9%, compared to 17.9% in Greater Darwin.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Darwin City is $1,781, compared to $2,100 in Greater Darwin.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Darwin City is $1,770, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Darwin City, households with mortgages typically spend 19.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Darwin City is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Darwin City shows mortgage holders spending 19.1% of income on repayments (vs 21.9% in Greater Darwin), while renters spend 20.9% of income on rent (vs 17.4% in Greater Darwin).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Darwin City consists of 0.5% detached houses, 0.1% semi-detached dwellings, 99.2% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Darwin City consumes approximately 19.0% of median household income ($9,314 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Darwin City show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 100% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 0% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Darwin City is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Darwin City's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 54.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 56th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 82.6% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 85.0% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
Around 54.5% of people in the suburb of Darwin City are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 58.1% in Greater Darwin.
In the suburb of Darwin City, 1.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 3.7% of people in Greater Darwin require similar assistance.
5.0% of people in the suburb of Darwin City are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.1% of the population across Greater Darwin is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.4% of the suburb of Darwin City population, while in Greater Darwin, 3.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
1.7% of people in the suburb of Darwin City have heart disease. Across Greater Darwin,2.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Darwin City, 54.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Darwin sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 58.1%.
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 | 54 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 54th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 11 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,074 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 51st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 782 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 33 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 4.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 11 public transport stops within the suburb of Darwin City.
The suburb of Darwin City has 2,074 weekly trips across 33 routes, averaging 296 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 221 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 313 m away and the nearest supermarket 375 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 11 stops nearby, 2,074 weekly trips, access rating 54 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 3 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest dentist | 274 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 313 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 375 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 375 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 423 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 429 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 502 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 547 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 552 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 677 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 12.4 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). There are 2 long day care centres with 118 places in Darwin City, about 2.8 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 Darwin City 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 Darwin City.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Darwin City recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Darwin City has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 29th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Darwin City lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Darwin City's young demographic places it in the bottom 14% of areas nationwide.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 73% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
Darwin City ranks among the top 25% of areas assessed nationally for overall employment performance.
Darwin City shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Darwin City features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Darwin.
Darwin City is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Darwin City features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Darwin.
Darwin City's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Darwin City has an estimated 8,630 residents, up 20.7% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Darwin City.
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 Darwin City.
Data currency
Refreshed . Population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. 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 (SAL70073). 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 (Oct 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, 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 Darwin City 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 Darwin City 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.
