Suburb profile · Greater Darwin
Howard Springs has an estimated 4,260 residents, up 35.1% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in and around the suburb.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Howard Springs, located 23 kilometres east of the Darwin CBD, is estimated by AreaSearch to have around 4,260 residents as of Aug 2026. This figure draws on aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts, which are released yearly, along with national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 3,153 people recorded at the 2021 Census, the population has grown by 1,107 people (35.1%), so the suburb of Howard Springs shows moderate expansion patterns. Its market profile features above-average median household income, strong representation of mortgage holders, a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24, an elevated base of construction employment, a pronounced utilities workforce, and strong representation of detached houses.
The suburb of Howard Springs stands out for its high proportion of teenagers and a middle-aged population made up largely of family households and couples without children. It is among the most affluent areas in the country. The latest population estimate date for the suburb is Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Howard Springs, located 23 kilometres east of the Darwin CBD, is estimated by AreaSearch to have around 4,260 residents as of Aug 2026. This figure draws on aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts, which are released yearly, along with national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 3,153 people recorded at the 2021 Census, the population has grown by 1,107 people (35.1%), so the suburb of Howard Springs shows moderate expansion patterns. Its market profile features above-average median household income, strong representation of mortgage holders, a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24, an elevated base of construction employment, a pronounced utilities workforce, and strong representation of detached houses.
The suburb of Howard Springs stands out for its high proportion of teenagers and a middle-aged population made up largely of family households and couples without children. It is among the most affluent areas in the country. The latest population estimate date for the suburb is Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,231 in 2006 and 4,260 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: 15 to 24, 16.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.1%.
Howard Springs ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for income and the 91st for employment drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
AreaSearch tracks 5 projects in and around Howard Springs, 1 of them under construction. The largest by estimated value is Adelaide River Off-Stream Water Storage (AROWS) ($1.5B).
Estimated completion year of the 1 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 1. 4 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 1.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 7 | ABS building approvals | 15th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Howard Springs include: Darwin to Palmerston Mass Transit Corridor (Proposed); Darwin Corporate Park (Approved); Darwin Energy Hub (Approved); Adelaide River Off-Stream Water Storage (AROWS) (Planning); and Darwin Region Water Supply Infrastructure Program - Stage 1 (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Howard Springs spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Transport & Logistics, and Business Parks & Technology Hubs, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Howard Springs currently ranks below national averages at the 14th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Howard Springs when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Howard Springs area has seen 30 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Howard Springs's current population of 4,260 has been supported by 7 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Howard Springs has seen 1.9 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 276 people in the suburb of Howard Springs, 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 Howard Springs's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 7, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Howard Springs has grown by approximately 491 people, while 37 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 13.3 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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Howard Springs reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,260 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +35.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 55 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 25th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,153 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,107 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +5.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +5.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 76.84 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Howard Springs was estimated to be approximately 4,260 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,260 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Howard Springs has added approximately 1,107 people and shown a 35.11% increase from the 3,153 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Howard Springs is estimated at 55 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Howard Springs has shown a compound annual growth rate of -2.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Howard Springs is driven by: Overseas migration (59.0%), Natural increase (41.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 59.0% of overall population gains.
Howard Springs hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 51.0% | 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 | 43 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 16.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 8.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.2% | 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 Howard Springs at 42 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 43 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Howard Springs is 8 years older than the Greater Darwin 2021 Census average (34 years) and 4 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 Howard Springs compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 14.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Howard Springs compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Howard Springs show significant variance compared to Greater Darwin. The most over-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (10.1% vs 6.6%) and 55-64 year-olds (14.1% vs 10.1%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (8.5% vs 18.4%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.4% of the population in the suburb of Howard Springs as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 15.1% of the population in the suburb of Howard Springs as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 5% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $72,450 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 88th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,625 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,560 | 2021 Census, weekly | 91st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,118 | 2021 Census, weekly | 86th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 41.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,774 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 12.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Howard Springs is approximately $76,942. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $72,450.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Howard Springs is approximately $85,624. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,625.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Howard Springs is approximately $76,942 compared to $74,514 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $72,450 and $70,164 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Howard Springs is approximately $85,624 compared to $86,622 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,625 and $81,565 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Howard Springs's households (~31.1% / 316 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Howard Springs is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.1% 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 Howard Springs is $2,560/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Howard Springs is $2,774/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Howard Springs is $1,118/wk.
The suburb of Howard Springs shows a median taxpayer income of $72,450 and an average of $80,625 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is well above average nationally, contrasting with Greater Darwin's median income of $70,164 and average income of $81,565. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.2% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $76,942 (median) and $85,624 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Howard Springs is $9,638 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Howard Springs's disposable income is $9,638 compared to $8,044 for Greater Darwin, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Howard Springs rank among the top 9% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 69.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,381 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,088 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,429 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Howard Springs has approximately 2,381 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.0%. 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 Howard Springs stands at 2.0%, which is 1.4 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 Howard Springs is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (17.8% of employment), public administration & safety (16.9%), and education & training (8.6%). Other significant employers include health care & social assistance and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Howard Springs 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 Howard Springs is 69.1%, 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 Darwin average of 72.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Howard Springs shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 17.8% of the local workforce compared to 9.2% across Greater Darwin. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Howard Springs'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.
Educational attainment in Howard Springs sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 36.8% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 33.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
18.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Howard Springs have university qualifications, compared to 31.3% in Greater Darwin.
33.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Howard Springs have no formal qualifications, compared to 32.6% in Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Howard Springs ranks in the 47th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Howard Springs are: Certificate (36.8%), Bachelor Degree (12.4%), Advanced Diploma (11.6%).
29.1% of the population in the suburb of Howard Springs is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.8% in primary school, 10.6% in secondary school, 3.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Howard Springs is 991, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Howard Springs, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,329 students.
The suburb of Howard Springs includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.
Howard Springs features high concentrations of family households and couples without children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Darwin.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.9 people | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 15.9% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 38.9% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,016 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,373 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 80.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Howard Springs had 1,016 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 35.1% to an estimated 1,373 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Howard Springs is 2.9 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Darwin and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 80.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (15.9%), group households (3.5%), and other household types (0.3%).
Of the 816 family households, couples with children account for 38.9% of all households, couples without children at home 32.4%, and single parent families 8.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Darwin, the suburb of Howard Springs shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 80.3% (versus 71.0% in Greater Darwin). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 15.9% compared to 23.4% in Greater Darwin. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Howard Springs have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Greater Darwin average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 46.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.8% have never married. This compares to 42.3% married and 43.1% never married across Greater Darwin.
Single-person households represent 15.9% of all households in the suburb of Howard Springs, notably lower 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 3.5% of households, below the Greater Darwin average of 5.6%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Howard Springs ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 15.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 84.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
Howard Springs was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.7% of its population being citizens, 84.6% born in Australia, and 94.3% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Howard Springs, at 43.3% of people, although more residents (53.4%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 41.7% across Greater Darwin.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Howard Springs are Australian, comprising 32.9% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Darwin's 22.6%, English, comprising 29.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Darwin's 21.7%, and Irish, comprising 7.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 5.5% of Howard Springs (vs 7.0% across Greater Darwin), Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.4%) and New Zealand at 0.8% (vs 0.6%).
15.4% of the suburb of Howard Springs population was born overseas, compared to 30.3% across Greater Darwin.
5.7% of the population in the suburb of Howard Springs speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 26.1% in Greater Darwin.
5.5% of the suburb of Howard Springs population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 7.0% in Greater Darwin.
88.7% of the suburb of Howard Springs population holds citizenship, compared to 77.8% in Greater Darwin.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Howard Springs 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 | 16.2% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 34.6% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.2% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,388 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 85th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 49.2% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 15.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 10th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 21.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 27th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Howard Springs, 34.6% of homes are owned outright, 49.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 16.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.2% of dwellings in the suburb of Howard Springs are houses.
In the suburb of Howard Springs, 0.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Howard Springs stands at 34.6%, compared to 17.9% in Greater Darwin.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Howard Springs is $2,388, compared to $2,100 in Greater Darwin.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Howard Springs is $1,455, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Howard Springs, households with mortgages typically spend 21.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 15.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Howard Springs is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Howard Springs shows mortgage holders spending 21.5% of income on repayments (vs 21.9% in Greater Darwin), while renters spend 15.6% of income on rent (vs 17.4% in Greater Darwin).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Howard Springs consists of 95.2% detached houses, 1.4% semi-detached dwellings, 0.3% apartments, and 3.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Howard Springs consumes approximately 13.1% of median household income ($11,085 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Howard Springs show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 5% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 95% 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.
The level of general health in Howard Springs is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 67th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.7% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.5% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
Around 56.9% of people in the suburb of Howard Springs are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 58.1% in Greater Darwin.
In the suburb of Howard Springs, 4.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 3.7% of people in Greater Darwin require similar assistance.
6.6% of people in the suburb of Howard Springs are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.1% of the population across Greater Darwin is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.6% of the suburb of Howard Springs population, while in Greater Darwin, 3.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.9% of people in the suburb of Howard Springs have heart disease. Across Greater Darwin,2.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Howard Springs, 56.9% 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 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 | 71 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 71st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 20 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 21st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,679 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 212 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 59 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 2.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 7.4% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 20 public transport stops within the suburb of Howard Springs.
The suburb of Howard Springs has 4,679 weekly trips across 59 routes, averaging 668 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 1017 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 2.1 km away and the nearest pharmacy 2.1 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 20 stops nearby, 4,679 weekly trips, access rating 71 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 2 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 3.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 7.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 7.8 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 165 places in Howard Springs, about 1.0 children aged 0-4 per place.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Howard Springs when compared nationally.
Howard Springs has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 14th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Howard Springs reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Howard Springs hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 5% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
Employment conditions in Howard Springs rank among the top 9% of areas assessed nationally.
Educational attainment in Howard Springs sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Howard Springs features high concentrations of family households and couples without children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Darwin.
Howard Springs ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Howard Springs is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
The level of general health in Howard Springs is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Howard Springs has an estimated 4,260 residents, up 35.1% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in and around the suburb.
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 Howard Springs.
Data currency
Refreshed . Population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL70129). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Howard Springs 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 Howard Springs 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.
