Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Ferndale (WA) has an estimated 5,075 residents, up 13.9% since the 2021 Census, with 34 projects tracked in the area around Ferndale (WA).
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Ferndale (WA) sits a convenient 10.6 kilometres southeast of the Perth CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 5,075 as of Aug 2026. That figure draws on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. It reflects an increase of 618 people (13.9%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 4,457 people.
Several market features stand out in the suburb of Ferndale (WA). Semi-detached housing has a strong presence, and a high population share was born overseas. There is a notable mining employment base, an elevated proportion aged 85 and over, a pronounced arts and recreation employment presence, and a substantial education employment presence. Residents include a high proportion of elderly people, and population growth shows moderate expansion patterns. The latest population estimate date is Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Ferndale (WA) sits a convenient 10.6 kilometres southeast of the Perth CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 5,075 as of Aug 2026. That figure draws on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. It reflects an increase of 618 people (13.9%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 4,457 people.
Several market features stand out in the suburb of Ferndale (WA). Semi-detached housing has a strong presence, and a high population share was born overseas. There is a notable mining employment base, an elevated proportion aged 85 and over, a pronounced arts and recreation employment presence, and a substantial education employment presence. Residents include a high proportion of elderly people, and population growth shows moderate expansion patterns. The latest population estimate date is Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 4,215 in 2006 and 5,075 in 2025. The Aug 2026 estimate (ABS June 2025 base) is the same.
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 14.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.2%.
Ferndale (WA) ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 74th for cultural diversity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Ferndale (WA) is $718 a week, up 7.5% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $718 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Canning | $720 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Canning, over 12 months | +9.1% | 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 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - South East, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| 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 34 projects in and around Ferndale (WA), 7 of them under construction.
Staged redevelopment of the Kent Street Weir Precinct on the Canning River, delivered by the City of Canning as a major community recreation and environmental upgrade.
A staged long-term redevelopment of the Kent Street Weir Precinct on the banks of the Canning River (Djarlgarro Beeliar) in Wilson. Works include a new district-level inclusive play space with cultural interpretation elements, an off-leash dog exercise area, wetland buffer expansion with over 21,000 native plants, a pump track, upgraded shelters and BBQ…
14 storey residential tower in the Canning City Centre activity corridor delivering 189 apartments above ground floor commercial space at 1250 Albany Highway, within walking distance of Cannington Station and Westfield Carousel. Developed by Match as part of the broader regeneration of Canning City Centre.
Two-stage safety and traffic-flow upgrade along Albany Highway near Westfield Carousel. Stage 1 (Station Street median closure and lighting relocation) was delivered Sep-Oct 2024. Stage 2 (after METRONET Armadale Level Crossing Removal completes) will lengthen turn pockets into Nicholson Road and Liege Street to increase capacity and reduce crash risk.
Research-led digital twin project at Curtin University's Bentley campus supporting the Pathways to Net Zero Precincts program. The project is piloting an integrated digital twin platform using real-time building sensor data to improve space utilisation, operational energy efficiency, Consumer Energy Resource integration, and precinct-scale decarbonisation.
A six-storey residential building comprising 100 apartments (80 affordable and 20 social homes) on a 1.217-hectare site approximately 200m from the new elevated Cannington Train Station. Developed by DevelopmentWA and to be constructed by EMCO Building under a $443 million State-Federal affordable housing partnership.
Design and feasibility planning for new shared walking and cycling paths along Bickley Road in Beckenham. The project aims to improve active transport connectivity to the Beckenham Train Station precinct as part of the City of Gosnells Capital Works Program and WA Bicycle Network grants.
High-density mixed-use development by Cedar Woods at 1357-1369 Albany Highway, Cannington, comprising approximately 398 apartments above ground-floor food and beverage and commercial tenancies.
A proposed mixed-use heritage precinct redevelopment on the historic Mason & Bird timber mill site in East Cannington. Plans envisage residential apartments, commercial tenancies, and adaptive reuse of heritage elements at this Albany Highway address, within the broader Canning City Centre regeneration corridor.
Large-scale transit-oriented mixed-use urban renewal precinct centred on the new elevated Cannington Station and surrounding land in the Canning City Centre.
Concept residential project for around 42 apartments on a 1009 sqm R60 development site at 28 Gibbs Street, close to Queens Park Station and Gibbs Street Primary School.
A $163 million redevelopment of the Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University's Bentley campus into Hockey Australia's national hockey centre. The project includes four outdoor pitches, with at least two to International Hockey Federation Category 1 standard, an indoor hockey centre with FIH-standard courts, a 1,000-seat stadium expandable to 10,000 in…
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 12 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 4, 2027 2, 2028 1, 2029 1, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 2. 8 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 4.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 61st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 23 | ABS building approvals | 35th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Ferndale include: Riverton Rise Estate (Construction); Kent Street Weir Precinct (Canning River, Wilson) (Construction); Ferndale Park Pavilion Redevelopment (Construction); Nicholson Road and Metcalfe Road Intersection Improvements (Construction); and Kent Street Weir Precinct Redevelopment (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Ferndale spans multiple sectors including Sports & Recreation, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
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AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Ferndale among the top 28% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Ferndale area has seen 60 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Ferndale's current population of 5,075 has been supported by 23 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Ferndale has seen 4.8 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 167 people in the suburb of Ferndale, 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 Ferndale's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 23, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Ferndale has grown by approximately 475 people, while 115 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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 Ferndale reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,075 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,590 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,457 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 618 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.19 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Ferndale was estimated to be approximately 5,075 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 5,075 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of ferndale has added approximately 618 people and shown a 13.87% increase from the 4,457 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Ferndale is estimated at 1,591 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Ferndale has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Ferndale is driven by: Overseas migration (87.0%), Natural increase (13.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 87.0% of overall population gains.
Ferndale's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 40 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 22.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.0% | 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 | 41 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Ferndale at 40 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 41 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Ferndale is 3 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 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 Ferndale compared to the Greater Perth region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 11.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Ferndale compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 13.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Ferndale show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.6% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (7.8% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.9% of the population in the suburb of Ferndale as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 22.8% of the population in the suburb of Ferndale as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $55,086 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $69,971 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,533 | 2021 Census, weekly | 37th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $745 | 2021 Census, weekly | 37th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 19.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,003 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 26.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Ferndale is approximately $58,964. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,086.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Ferndale is approximately $74,897. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $69,971.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Ferndale is approximately $58,964 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,086 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Ferndale is approximately $74,897 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $69,971 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Ferndale's households (~31.2% / 540 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Ferndale is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.2% 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 Ferndale is $1,533/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Ferndale is $2,003/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Ferndale is $745/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Ferndale is just below the national average, with the median assessed at $55,086 while the average income stands at $69,971. This contrasts to Greater Perth's figures of a median income of $64,047 and an average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $58,964 (median) and $74,897 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Ferndale is $5,637 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of ferndale's disposable income is $5,637 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis indicates Ferndale maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 66.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,708 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,921 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,820 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Ferndale has approximately 2,708 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.0%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Ferndale stands at 4.0%, which is broadly in line with Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Ferndale is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.0% of employment), education & training (10.7%), and retail trade (9.6%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Ferndale 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 Ferndale is 66.1%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The suburb of ferndale shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 10.7% of the local workforce compared to 9.2% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of ferndale's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Ferndale ranks slightly above average for education relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 20.2% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 28.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 25.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 35.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.2% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
28.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Ferndale have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
35.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Ferndale have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of ferndale ranks in the 56th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Ferndale are: Certificate (25.6%), Bachelor Degree (20.2%), Advanced Diploma (11.2%).
27.6% of the population in the suburb of Ferndale is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.6% in primary school, 6.5% in secondary school, 6.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Ferndale is 1018, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Ferndale, with a combined enrollment of approximately 579 students.
The suburb of ferndale includes 1 combined school.
Ferndale has a typical household mix, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.7% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.9% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,729 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,969 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.9% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Ferndale had 1,729 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.9% to an estimated 1,969 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Ferndale is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 68.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (28.1%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,191 family households, couples with children account for 28.7% of all households, couples without children at home 27.9%, and single parent families 10.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Ferndale shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Ferndale have an average of 1.5 children, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 47.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.7% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 28.1% of all households in the suburb of Ferndale, similar to 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 3.1% of households, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%.
Ferndale was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 38.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 22.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 77.7% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.6% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 62.0% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
Ferndale was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 22.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 38.0% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Ferndale, at 42.2% of people, although more residents (47.5%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 3.5% of the population, compared to 2.7% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Ferndale are English, comprising 28.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 21.6% of the population, and Other, comprising 12.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.5% of Ferndale (vs 1.5% across Greater Perth), Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.7%) and South African at 0.6% (vs 1.0%).
38.0% of the suburb of Ferndale population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
22.3% of the population in the suburb of Ferndale speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.6% of the suburb of Ferndale population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
83.6% of the suburb of Ferndale population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Ferndale 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 | 22.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 36.4% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 82.3% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,700 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 40th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 41.5% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 17.4% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $314 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 64th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Ferndale, 36.4% of homes are owned outright, 41.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 82.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Ferndale are houses.
In the suburb of Ferndale, 0.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 17.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Ferndale stands at 36.4%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Ferndale is $1,700, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Ferndale is $1,006, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Ferndale, households with mortgages typically spend 25.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Ferndale is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Ferndale shows mortgage holders spending 25.6% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 20.5% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Ferndale consists of 82.3% detached houses, 17.4% semi-detached dwellings, 0.3% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Ferndale consumes approximately 15.2% of median household income ($6,638 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Ferndale show attached dwellings contributing 7% of approvals compared to 18% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 93% of applications versus 82% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Ferndale's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 53.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 46th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 67.5% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.2% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 76.8% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
Around 53.1% of people in the suburb of Ferndale are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Ferndale, 6.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.9% of people in the suburb of Ferndale are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.1% of the suburb of Ferndale population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.8% of people in the suburb of Ferndale have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Ferndale, 53.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 75 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 75th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 38 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 34th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,470 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 42nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 139 | 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 | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 7.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 38 public transport stops within the suburb of Ferndale.
The suburb of Ferndale has 1,470 weekly trips across 5 routes, averaging 210 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 156 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 605 m away and the nearest GP 640 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 38 stops nearby, 1,470 weekly trips, access rating 75 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 71 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 71st percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 605 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 640 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 658 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 718 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 791 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 828 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Ferndale among the top 28% of areas assessed nationwide.
Ferndale has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 29% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Ferndale (WA) is $718 a week, +7.5% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Ferndale reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Ferndale's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
AreaSearch analysis indicates Ferndale maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.
Ferndale ranks slightly above average for education relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Ferndale has a typical household mix, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
Ferndale was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Ferndale is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Ferndale's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Ferndale (WA) has an estimated 5,075 residents, up 13.9% since the 2021 Census, with 34 projects tracked in the area around Ferndale (WA).
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 Ferndale (WA).
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 (SAL50502). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, 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 Ferndale (WA) 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 Ferndale (WA) 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.
