Suburb profile · Greater Darwin
Johnston has an estimated 2,702 residents, up 13.2% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in and around the suburb.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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Located 18 kilometres east of the Darwin CBD, the suburb of Johnston had an estimated population of around 2,702 as of Aug 2026, according to AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts, released yearly, and national address data updated each quarter. That figure represents an increase of 316 people (13.2%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,386 people. Market features include an above-average renting population and a below-average unemployment rate, along with a notable presence of residents aged 35 to 44, a strong apartment presence, an elevated share of residents aged 15 to 24, and a pronounced representation of those aged 5 to 14.
The area stands out for its high proportion of children and teenagers, while its working-age population is made up largely of group households. Residents are considered very affluent, and in terms of population growth the suburb ranks within the top 10% of areas nationally. Taken together, these traits describe a suburb with a young, growing community, with its latest population estimate dated Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 18 kilometres east of the Darwin CBD, the suburb of Johnston had an estimated population of around 2,702 as of Aug 2026, according to AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts, released yearly, and national address data updated each quarter. That figure represents an increase of 316 people (13.2%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,386 people. Market features include an above-average renting population and a below-average unemployment rate, along with a notable presence of residents aged 35 to 44, a strong apartment presence, an elevated share of residents aged 15 to 24, and a pronounced representation of those aged 5 to 14.
The area stands out for its high proportion of children and teenagers, while its working-age population is made up largely of group households. Residents are considered very affluent, and in terms of population growth the suburb ranks within the top 10% of areas nationally. Taken together, these traits describe a suburb with a young, growing community, with its latest population estimate dated Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 83 in 2006 and 2,685 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,702 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 20.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 40%.
Johnston ranks in the 91st percentile nationally for population growth and the 86th for income.
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 6 projects in and around Johnston, 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 2 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 2. 4 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 4.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 57th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 12 | ABS building approvals | 23rd percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Johnston include: Darwin to Palmerston Mass Transit Corridor (Proposed); Marine Industry Park (Approved); Darwin Corporate Park (Approved); Darwin Energy Hub (Approved); and Adelaide River Off-Stream Water Storage (AROWS) (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Johnston spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Transport & Logistics, and Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Johnston currently ranks below national averages at the 14th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Johnston when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Johnston area has seen 33 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Johnston's current population of 2,702 has been supported by 12 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Johnston has seen 4.6 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 163 people in the suburb of Johnston, 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 Johnston's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 12, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Johnston has grown by approximately 217 people, while 60 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Johnston lies within the top 9% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,702 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,038 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +4.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,386 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 316 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.60 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Johnston was estimated to be approximately 2,702 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,685 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Johnston has added approximately 316 people and shown a 13.24% increase from the 2,386 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Johnston is estimated at 1,039 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Johnston has shown a compound annual growth rate of 4.4% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Johnston is driven by: Interstate migration (67.0%), Natural increase (24.0%), Overseas migration (9.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 67.0% of overall population gains.
Johnston hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 29 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 1st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 4.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 25.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 34.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.3% | 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 | 28 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 17.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 16.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 18.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 1.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Johnston at 29 years as at August 2026. That is up from the 2021 Census figure of 28 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 29 years as at August 2026, Johnston is 5 years younger than the Greater Darwin 2021 Census average (34 years) and 9 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Johnston compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 17.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Johnston compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 4.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Johnston show significant variance compared to Greater Darwin. The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.1% vs 0.8%) and 65-74 year-olds (2.8% vs 6.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 25.3% of the population in the suburb of Johnston as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 4.5% of the population in the suburb of Johnston as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 86% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $70,163 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 84th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $76,592 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,254 | 2021 Census, weekly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,179 | 2021 Census, weekly | 90th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 30.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,455 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 10.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Johnston is approximately $74,513. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $70,163.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Johnston is approximately $81,341. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $76,592.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Johnston is approximately $74,513 compared to $74,514 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,163 and $70,164 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Johnston is approximately $81,341 compared to $86,622 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $76,592 and $81,565 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Johnston's households (~40.0% / 312 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Johnston is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 40.0% 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 Johnston is $2,254/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Johnston is $2,455/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Johnston is $1,179/wk.
The suburb of Johnston's income level is higher than average nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Johnston's median income among taxpayers is $70,163 and the average income stands at $76,592, which compares to figures for Greater Darwin's of $70,164 and $81,565 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.2% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $74,513 (median) and $81,341 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Johnston is $7,945 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Johnston's disposable income is $7,945 compared to $8,044 for Greater Darwin, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Johnston significantly outperforming the majority of regions assessed nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 75.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,486 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 1,979 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,521 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Johnston has approximately 1,486 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.3%. 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 Johnston stands at 2.3%, which is 1.2 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 Johnston is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (24.0% of employment), health care & social assistance (14.2%), and construction (9.0%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Johnston has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. 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 Johnston is 75.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Darwin average of 72.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Johnston shows notable specialisation in public administration & safety, which employs 24.0% of the local workforce compared to 19.5% across Greater Darwin. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of Johnston'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 Johnston 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 | 16.2% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 24.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.2% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 36.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 14.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
24.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Johnston have university qualifications, compared to 31.3% in Greater Darwin.
34.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Johnston have no formal qualifications, compared to 32.6% in Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Johnston ranks in the 54th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Johnston are: Certificate (30.2%), Bachelor Degree (16.2%), Advanced Diploma (11.6%).
36.6% of the population in the suburb of Johnston is currently engaged in formal education, including 14.3% in primary school, 8.7% in secondary school, 5.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Johnston is 991, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Johnston, with a combined enrollment of approximately 748 students.
The suburb of Johnston includes 1 secondary school.
Johnston features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, 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 | 17.3% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 39.9% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 21.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 15.6% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 780 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 883 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 77.7% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.4 per family | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Johnston had 780 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.2% to an estimated 883 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Johnston is 2.9 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Darwin and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 77.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (17.3%), group households (5.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 606 family households, couples with children account for 39.9% of all households, couples without children at home 21.4%, and single parent families 15.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Darwin, the suburb of Johnston shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 77.7% (versus 71.0% in Greater Darwin). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 17.3% 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 Johnston have an average of 1.4 children, matching the Greater Darwin average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 45.6% have never married. This compares to 42.3% married and 43.1% never married across Greater Darwin.
Single-person households represent 17.3% of all households in the suburb of Johnston, 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 5.0% of households, slightly below the Greater Darwin average of 5.6%.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Johnston was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 25.9% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 25.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 74.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 79.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 74.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
Johnston was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 25.9% of its population born overseas and 25.7% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Johnston, at 40.1% of people, although more residents (49.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 1.5% of the population, compared to 1.3% across Greater Darwin.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Johnston are Australian, comprising 24.8% of the population, English, comprising 19.8% of the population, and Other, comprising 14.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Filipino is notably overrepresented at 4.8% of Johnston (vs 3.8% across Greater Darwin), Australian Aboriginal at 8.8% (vs 7.0%) and Hungarian at 0.4% (vs 0.1%).
25.9% of the suburb of Johnston population was born overseas, compared to 30.3% across Greater Darwin.
25.7% of the population in the suburb of Johnston speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 26.1% in Greater Darwin.
8.8% of the suburb of Johnston population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 7.0% in Greater Darwin.
79.6% of the suburb of Johnston population holds citizenship, compared to 77.8% in Greater Darwin.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Johnston displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Darwin.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 63.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 58.1% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,400 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 86th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 18.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $370 | 2021 Census, weekly | 50th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 16.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 24.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 56th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Johnston, 3.0% of homes are owned outright, 33.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 63.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 58.1% of dwellings in the suburb of Johnston are houses.
In the suburb of Johnston, 23.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 18.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Johnston stands at 3.0%, compared to 17.9% in Greater Darwin.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Johnston is $2,400, compared to $2,100 in Greater Darwin.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Johnston is $1,822, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Johnston, households with mortgages typically spend 24.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 16.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Johnston is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Johnston shows mortgage holders spending 24.6% of income on repayments (vs 21.9% in Greater Darwin), while renters spend 16.4% of income on rent (vs 17.4% in Greater Darwin).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Johnston consists of 58.1% detached houses, 18.4% semi-detached dwellings, 23.5% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Johnston consumes approximately 18.7% of median household income ($9,760 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Johnston show attached dwellings contributing 20% of approvals compared to 42% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 80% of applications versus 58% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Johnston is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 55.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 58th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 79.0% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
Around 55.3% of people in the suburb of Johnston are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 58.1% in Greater Darwin.
In the suburb of Johnston, 3.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 3.7% of people in Greater Darwin require similar assistance.
7.8% of people in the suburb of Johnston are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.1% of the population across Greater Darwin is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.3% of the suburb of Johnston population, while in Greater Darwin, 3.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
1.1% of people in the suburb of Johnston have heart disease. Across Greater Darwin,2.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Johnston, 55.3% 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 | 66 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 66th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 7 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 7th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,691 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 46th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 403 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 26 | 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 | 4.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 7 public transport stops within the suburb of Johnston.
The suburb of Johnston has 1,691 weekly trips across 26 routes, averaging 241 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 233 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 701 m away and the nearest child care centre 1.3 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 7 stops nearby, 1,691 weekly trips, access rating 66 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 3 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 701 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 5.2 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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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 Johnston when compared nationally.
Johnston has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 14th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Johnston lies within the top 9% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Johnston hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 86% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Johnston significantly outperforming the majority of regions assessed nationwide.
Educational attainment in Johnston sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Johnston features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Darwin.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Johnston was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Johnston displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Darwin.
Health performance in Johnston is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older 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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Johnston has an estimated 2,702 residents, up 13.2% since the 2021 Census, with 6 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 15 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Johnston.
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 (SAL70139). 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 Johnston 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 Johnston 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.
