Iluka (WA)

Population growth drivers in Iluka are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends

Based on scrutiny of ABS population updates for the wider region, alongside new addresses validated by AreaSearch since the Census, the resident count for the suburb of Iluka (WA) is estimated at around 6,578 as of May 2026. This represents a gain of 909 people (16.0%) since the 2021 Census, which documented a population of 5,669 people. The adjustment is derived from the resident population of 6,350, calculated by AreaSearch following analysis of the latest ERP data release by the ABS (June 2025) and an additional 29 validated new addresses since the Census date. This size of population corresponds to a density ratio of 2,610 persons per square kilometer, placing it in the upper quartile relative to national locations assessed by AreaSearch. The 16.0% growth of the suburb of Iluka (WA) since the 2021 census outpaced the national average (9.3%), as well as the SA3 area, establishing it as a growth leader in the region. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by overseas migration that contributed approximately 72.0% of overall population gains during recent periods, although all drivers including natural growth and interstate migration were positive factors.

AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 areas not covered by this data, and to estimate growth across all areas in the years post-2032, AreaSearch is utilising the growth rates by age cohort provided by the ABS in its latest Greater Capital Region projections (released in 2023, based on 2022 data). Considering the projected demographic shifts, an above median population growth of Australian statistical areas is projected, with the area expected to increase by 1,217 persons to 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level projections, reflecting recording a gain of 15.0% in total over the 16 years.

AreaSearch analysis of residential development drivers sees Iluka recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide

According to AreaSearch analysis of ABS building approvals, distributed from statistical area data, Iluka has registered approximately 5 residential properties approved annually, summing to an estimated 29 homes over the past 5 financial years. So far in FY-26, 36 approvals have been recorded. With an average of 18.8 new residents per year arriving per dwelling constructed over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), demand significantly outstrips new supply, which typically drives price growth and intensifies buyer competition, while new homes are being built at an average value of $795,000, indicating developers are focusing on the premium market with high-end developments. There have also been $773,000 in commercial approvals this financial year, suggesting minimal commercial development activity.

When evaluated against Greater Perth, Iluka displays substantially reduced construction (70.0% below regional average per person). This restricted new construction typically bolsters demand and pricing for existing properties, although construction activity has intensified recently. This is similarly under the national average, indicating the area's established nature and suggesting potential planning limitations. Meanwhile, new construction has been completely comprised of standalone homes, maintaining the area's traditional suburban character with a focus on family homes appealing to those seeking space. With around 449 people per dwelling approval, Iluka shows a developed market.

Looking ahead, Iluka is expected to grow by 989 residents through to 2041 (from the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate). If current development rates continue, housing supply may not keep pace with population growth, potentially increasing competition among buyers and supporting stronger price growth.

Iluka has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 43rdth percentile nationally

Nothing can influence an area's performance as much as changes to local infrastructure, major projects and planning initiatives. In total 5 projects have been identified by AreaSearch that are likely to have an impact on the area. Key projects include Burns Beach Estate, Meridian Park Industrial Estate, Currambine Community Centre & Library Upgrade, and Burns Beach Primary School, with the below list detailing those likely to be of most relevance.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.

AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees Iluka performing better than 90% of local markets assessed across Australia

The local area possesses a highly educated workforce, with professional services showing strong representation, an unemployment rate of just 1.3%, and 3.2% in estimated employment growth over the past year, according to AreaSearch aggregation of statistical area data. As of March 2026, 3,992 residents are in work while the unemployment rate is 2.9% below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%, and workforce participation is fairly standard (74.7% compared to Greater Perth's 70.2%). Based on Census responses, a moderate 13.5% of residents were found to work from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts should be considered.

Leading employment industries among residents comprise health care & social assistance, education & training, and construction. The area shows particularly strong specialization in professional & technical, with an employment share of 1.3 times the regional level. On the other hand, transport, postal & warehousing is under-represented, with only 2.9% of Iluka's workforce compared to 4.7% in Greater Perth. The predominantly residential area appears to offer limited employment opportunities locally, as indicated by the count of Census working population vs resident population.

Based on AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS data, aggregated from broader statistical areas, during the year to March 2026, employment levels increased by 3.2% and labour force increased by 3.2%, keeping the unemployment rate relatively stable. In contrast, Greater Perth experienced employment growth of 2.0% and labour force growth of 2.5%, with a 0.4 percentage point rise. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 can offer further insight into potential future demand within Iluka. These projections, covering five and ten-year periods, have been mapped against the local employment profile to estimate growth patterns. While national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, growth rates differ significantly between industry sectors. Applying these industry-specific projections to Iluka's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years (please note this is a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not take into account localised population projections).

The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 10% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis

The suburb of Iluka shows a median taxpayer income of $62,997 and an average of $85,150 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for financial year 2023. This is extremely high nationally, contrasting with Greater Perth's median income of $60,748 and average income of $80,248. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.93% since financial year 2023, current estimates would be approximately $69,883 (median) and $94,457 (average) as of March 2026. Census data reveals household incomes rank exceptionally at the 97th percentile ($3,144 weekly). Income brackets indicate the predominant cohort spans 36.1% of locals (2,374 people) in the $4000+ category, contrasting with the region where the $1,500 - 2,999 bracket leads at 32.0%. Economic strength emerges through 52.3% of households achieving high weekly earnings exceeding $3,000, supporting elevated consumer spending. After housing costs, residents retain 88.3% of income, reflecting strong purchasing power and the area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 9th decile.

Iluka is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership

Residential structures in Iluka at the time of the latest Census consisted of 97.6% houses and 2.4% alternative dwellings like semi-detached properties, apartments, or other structures, while the broader Perth metropolitan area recorded 77.8% houses and 22.1% other dwellings. Home ownership in the area stood at 39.0%, significantly exceeding the Perth metropolitan level, with the remaining properties being mortgaged (53.6%) or rented (7.4%). Typical monthly mortgage payments were $2,600, which is well above the metropolitan median of $1,907, and the median weekly rent was $635 compared to the metropolitan figure of $350. Nationally, mortgage payments in Iluka are considerably higher than the Australian average of $1,863, and rent prices are similarly well above the national median of $375.

Iluka features high concentrations of family households, with a higher-than-average median household size

Family households dominate at 90.7% of all households, comprising 50.6% couples with children, 33.2% couples without children, and 6.5% single parent families. Non-family households make up the remaining 9.3%, with lone person households at 8.8% and group households comprising 0.5% of the total. The median household size of 3.0 people is larger than the Greater Perth average of 2.6.

Iluka demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 5% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics

University qualifications in Iluka (31.3% of residents aged 15+) edge above the WA average (27.9%), suggesting competitive educational foundations within the broader context. Bachelor degrees lead at 21.9%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (6.5%) and graduate diplomas (2.9%). Trade and technical skills feature prominently, with 35.3% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials – advanced diplomas (13.4%) and certificates (21.9%).

Educational participation is notably high, with 30.3% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 10.9% in secondary education, 8.7% in primary education, and 6.7% pursuing tertiary education.

Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility

Analysis of the local network shows 17 active transit stops operating within the neighborhood, consisting of various bus options. These access points are served by 3 distinct routes, which combine to support 395 passenger journeys per week. The transit rating is favorable, with residents generally situated 243 meters from their closest stop. Due to the area's residential nature, the majority of workers travel outward, with private vehicles serving as the primary choice for 80% of workers and trains utilized by 14%. Car ownership stands at 2.1 vehicles per household, which is above the metropolitan average. Approximately 13.5% of the local population worked from home, based on 2021 Census figures which may reflect pandemic-related conditions.

Service frequency averages 56 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 23 weekly trips per individual stop.

Iluka's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups

Health outcomes data demonstrates outstanding results across Iluka, based on AreaSearch's assessment of mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups , and the rate of private health cover found to be exceptionally high at approximately 61% of the total population (4,012 people). This compares to 59.0% across Greater Perth. The national average is 55.7%.

The most common medical conditions in the area were found to be arthritis and asthma, impacting 7.0 and 5.8% of residents, respectively, while 75.5% declared themselves as completely clear of medical ailments compared to 71.9% across Greater Perth. Working-age residents are notably healthy with low chronic condition prevalence. The area has 18.3% of residents aged 65 and over (1,203 people), which is higher than the 16.1% in Greater Perth. Health outcomes among seniors are particularly strong, with national rankings broadly in line with the general population.

Iluka 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

Iluka was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 12.8% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 53.3% born overseas. The main religion in Iluka was found to be Christianity, which makes up 59.0% of people in Iluka. This compares to 45.0% across Greater Perth.

In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Iluka are English, comprising 37.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 28.0%, Australian, comprising 16.4% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 1.5% of Iluka (vs 0.7% regionally), South Australian at 3.8% (vs 1.0%) and Dutch at 2.2% (vs 1.5%).

Iluka hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide

The 46-year median age in the suburb of Iluka (WA) is notably exceeding Greater Perth's average of 37 similarly well above the Australian median of 38. Compared to the Greater Perth average, the 55 - 64 cohort is notably over-represented (19.7% locally), while 25 - 34 year-olds are under-represented (4.8%). This 55 - 64 concentration is well above the national 11.2%. Since the 2021 Census, the 65 to 74 age group has grown from 9.2% to 12.2% of the population, while the 75 to 84 cohort increased from 2.9% to 4.9%. Conversely, the 45 to 54 cohort has declined from 19.7% to 16.7%. Population forecasts for 2041 indicate substantial demographic changes for the suburb of Iluka (WA). The 65 to 74 age cohort is projected to see notable expansion, expanding by 400 people (50%) from 802 to 1,203. The aging population dynamic is clear, with those 65+ comprising 80% of projected growth. Conversely, the 0 to 4 and 35 to 44 cohorts are expected to experience population declines.