Suburb profile · Greater Adelaide
Melrose Park (SA) has an estimated 2,489 residents, up 7.3% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in the area around Melrose Park (SA).
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Melrose Park (SA) is located 6.4 kilometres south-southwest from Adelaide CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, its population is estimated at around 2,489 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 170 people (7.3%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,319 people. The area combines strong school performance, a well-educated local population, a notable healthcare employment base and elevated administrative employment, alongside a high apartment composition and a pronounced 35 to 44yo presence.
Residents have a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 38, and households are largely lone person households. The area is very well educated and shows moderate population expansion. These characteristics describe a suburb with established education and employment strengths alongside ongoing population growth.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Melrose Park (SA) is located 6.4 kilometres south-southwest from Adelaide CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, its population is estimated at around 2,489 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 170 people (7.3%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,319 people. The area combines strong school performance, a well-educated local population, a notable healthcare employment base and elevated administrative employment, alongside a high apartment composition and a pronounced 35 to 44yo presence.
Residents have a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 38, and households are largely lone person households. The area is very well educated and shows moderate population expansion. These characteristics describe a suburb with established education and employment strengths alongside ongoing population growth.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,143 in 2006 and 2,487 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,489 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 16.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.6%.
Melrose Park (SA) ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 80th for education.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Melrose Park (SA) is $590 a week, up 1.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 4% above Greater Adelaide.
4% above Greater Adelaide on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $475 in 2020, $615 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $200 in 2020, $485 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $590 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +1.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $615 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +2.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $485 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +18.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Mitcham | $579 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Mitcham, over 12 months | +9.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Adelaide - South | $598 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Adelaide - South, over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Adelaide | $570 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Adelaide, over 12 months | +6.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, SA | $546 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, SA, over 12 months | +6.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 41 tracked applications: 16 approved, 24 under assessment, 1 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Melrose Park (SA), then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 10 projects in and around Melrose Park (SA), 3 of them under construction.
Hotel Panorama is a $60 million, five-storey hospitality destination by the Hurley Hotel Group. Strategically located to support visitation for Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre, and the Tonsley Innovation Precinct, the venue features 77 accommodation rooms, including 26 serviced apartments and two premium suites.
A $70 million social and youth housing precinct by Junction Australia within the Tonsley Innovation District. Stage 1 consists of 50 energy-efficient apartments (7.5-star rating) and is nearing completion with Junction's head office scheduled to open to the public on May 25, 2026. Stage 2 will add 63 apartments in an 8-storey building.
Installation of a Pedestrian Actuated Crossing (PAC) on Springbank Road to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety and access. The project is jointly funded by the Australian and South Australian Governments.
A comprehensive program to expand and upgrade health services across Southern Adelaide, adding 228 additional hospital beds at Flinders Medical Centre, Noarlunga Hospital, and the Repat Health Precinct.
A residential development offering 56 new homes, including land for sale and house and land packages, designed for contemporary living.
A residential development in Melrose Park delivering 36 new homes, including 21 homes sold off the plan and 15 social housing apartments. The project is located in a leafy neighbourhood, offering walkability to key amenities such as shops and transport. It contributes to housing supply in the Adelaide South Growth Areas.
A $13.7 million four-level apartment building offering 18 two-bedroom modern apartments and five specialist disability accommodation apartments. This development provides affordable rental accommodation significantly below the market rate.
Refurbishment to the main building for contemporary learning spaces on both the ground and first floor, circulation spaces, new disability unit classes and a new fully assisted toilet amenities.
Resurfacing works on a 3km section of South Road between Glengarry Avenue, Glandore, and Bennet Avenue, Melrose Park, delivering a smoother and safer ride for motorists. Further works were undertaken from Daws Road to Lloyd Street, St Marys.
Development of a five-storey hospital and allied centre on the former repatriation hospital site. The facility includes 8 surgical theatres, 30 ward beds, a 20-chair renal dialysis unit, a GP clinic, radiology, pathology, a pharmacy, and a cafe.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 1 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2027 1. 3 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 41 substantial development applications lodged in and around Melrose Park (SA) over the past 5 years, 15 in the last 12 months; 24 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 6, 2023 6, 2024 6, 2025 7, 2026 (to Oct) 14.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 41 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 7.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 78th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 18 | ABS building approvals | 31st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 16 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 24 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Melrose Park include: Tram Grade Separation Projects (Construction); River Torrens to Darlington (T2D) Project (Construction); North South Corridor (Construction); SA Water Capital Work Delivery Contracts 2024-28 (Construction); and SA Housing Trust Maintenance Contracts Review and Service Program (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Melrose Park spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Health & Medical, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Melrose Park currently ranks below national averages at the 27th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Melrose Park recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Melrose Park area has seen 33 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Melrose Park's current population of 2,489 has been supported by 18 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Melrose Park has seen 7.6 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.5 approvals in Greater Adelaide. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 149 people in the suburb of Melrose Park, compared to one for every 122 in Greater Adelaide.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Melrose Park's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 18, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Melrose Park has grown by approximately 156 people, while 90 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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 Melrose Park reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,489 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +7.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,889 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 68th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,319 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 170 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.32 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Melrose Park was estimated to be approximately 2,489 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,487 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of melrose park has added approximately 170 people and shown a 7.33% increase from the 2,319 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Melrose Park is estimated at 1,886 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Melrose Park has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Melrose Park is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Melrose Park's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 38 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 18.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 53.2% | 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 | 38 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 15.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Melrose Park at 38 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 38 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 38 years as at August 2026, Melrose Park is comparable to the Greater Adelaide 2021 Census average (39 years) and similarly aligned with equal to the national Census average.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Melrose Park compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 15.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Melrose Park compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 10.7% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Melrose Park is broadly in line with Greater Adelaide.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.2% of the population in the suburb of Melrose Park as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 18.9% of the population in the suburb of Melrose Park as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $57,185 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 41st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $72,553 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,583 | 2021 Census, weekly | 40th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $832 | 2021 Census, weekly | 55th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 23.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,276 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Melrose Park is approximately $61,268. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $57,185.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Melrose Park is approximately $77,733. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $72,553.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Melrose Park is approximately $61,268 compared to $62,352 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $57,185 and $58,197 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Melrose Park is approximately $77,733 compared to $76,380 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $72,553 and $71,290 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Melrose Park's households (~28.6% / 271 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Melrose Park is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.6% of households. In comparison, Greater Adelaide's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.8% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Melrose Park is $1,583/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Melrose Park is $2,276/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Melrose Park is $832/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Melrose Park's median income among taxpayers is $57,185, with an average of $72,553. This is slightly above average nationally, and compares to Greater Adelaide's median of $58,197 and average of $71,290. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.14% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $61,268 (median) and $77,733 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Melrose Park is $5,671 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of melrose park's disposable income is $5,671 compared to $5,698 for Greater Adelaide, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Melrose Park places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 72.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,461 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,544 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,486 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Melrose Park has approximately 1,461 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.7%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Melrose Park stands at 1.7%, which is 2.1 percentage points below Greater Adelaide's rate of 3.8%. 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 Melrose Park is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.0% of employment), education & training (10.9%), and retail trade (8.8%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Melrose Park has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Adelaide saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Melrose Park is 72.3%, 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 Adelaide average of 66.4%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The suburb of melrose park shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 20.0% of the local workforce compared to 17.7% across Greater Adelaide. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of melrose park'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 0.5% decline, ranking 22nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Melrose Park shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 23.0% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 33.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
33.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Melrose Park have university qualifications, compared to 28.9% in Greater Adelaide.
34.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Melrose Park have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.0% in Greater Adelaide.
The suburb of melrose park ranks in the 80th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Melrose Park are: Bachelor Degree (23.0%), Certificate (20.5%), Advanced Diploma (11.2%).
27.6% of the population in the suburb of Melrose Park is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.5% in primary school, 5.2% in secondary school, 6.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Melrose Park is 1093, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Melrose Park, with a combined enrollment of approximately 509 students.
The suburb of melrose park includes 1 primary school.
Melrose Park features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Adelaide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 34.1% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.8% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 949 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,019 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 62.4% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Melrose Park had 949 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 7.4% to an estimated 1,019 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Melrose Park is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.5 in Greater Adelaide and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 62.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (34.1%), group households (3.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 592 family households, couples with children account for 28.8% of all households, couples without children at home 21.9%, and single parent families 10.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Adelaide, the suburb of Melrose Park shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.1% (versus 27.7% in Greater Adelaide). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 62.4% compared to 68.6% in Greater Adelaide. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Melrose Park have an average of 1.5 children, matching the Greater Adelaide average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.4% have never married. This compares to 45.7% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Adelaide.
Single-person households represent 34.1% of all households in the suburb of Melrose Park, higher than the average for Greater Adelaide of 27.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.8% of households, in line with the Greater Adelaide average of 3.7%.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Melrose Park was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 22.2% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 21.3% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 78.7% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 87.3% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 77.8% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
Melrose Park was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 22.2% of its population born overseas and 21.3% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Melrose Park, at 39.1% of people, although more residents (52.1%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 4.4% of the population, compared to 2.8% across Greater Adelaide.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Melrose Park are English, comprising 26.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.0% of the population, and Other, comprising 8.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Hungarian is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Melrose Park (vs 0.3% across Greater Adelaide), German at 5.6% (vs 5.1%) and Greek at 4.0% (vs 2.0%).
22.2% of the suburb of Melrose Park population was born overseas, compared to 28.7% across Greater Adelaide.
21.3% of the population in the suburb of Melrose Park speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.2% in Greater Adelaide.
0.8% of the suburb of Melrose Park population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.2% in Greater Adelaide.
87.3% of the suburb of Melrose Park population holds citizenship, compared to 86.3% in Greater Adelaide.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Melrose Park is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Adelaide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 26.9% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 32.1% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 74.4% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,900 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 54th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 41.1% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 44th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 64th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 79th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Melrose Park, 32.1% of homes are owned outright, 41.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 26.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 74.4% of dwellings in the suburb of Melrose Park are houses.
In the suburb of Melrose Park, 14.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 11.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Melrose Park stands at 32.1%, compared to 32.1% in Greater Adelaide.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Melrose Park is $1,900, compared to $1,562 in Greater Adelaide.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Melrose Park is $1,188, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Melrose Park, households with mortgages typically spend 27.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Melrose Park is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Melrose Park shows mortgage holders spending 27.7% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% in Greater Adelaide), while renters spend 22.1% of income on rent (vs 20.7% in Greater Adelaide).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Melrose Park consists of 74.4% detached houses, 11.6% semi-detached dwellings, 14.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Melrose Park consumes approximately 17.3% of median household income ($6,854 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Melrose Park show attached dwellings contributing 24% of approvals compared to 26% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 76% of applications versus 74% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Melrose Park is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a slightly higher degree among older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 54.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 53rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.3% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 77.0% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
Around 54.0% of people in the suburb of Melrose Park are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Greater Adelaide.
In the suburb of Melrose Park, 6.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.6% of people in Greater Adelaide require similar assistance.
7.3% of people in the suburb of Melrose Park are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.7% of the population across Greater Adelaide is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.8% of the suburb of Melrose Park population, while in Greater Adelaide, 4.8% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.7% of people in the suburb of Melrose Park have heart disease. Across Greater Adelaide,3.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Melrose Park, 54.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Adelaide sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
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 | 76 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 76th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 15 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 15th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,246 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 38th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 180 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 21 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 12.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 15 public transport stops within the suburb of Melrose Park.
The suburb of Melrose Park has 1,246 weekly trips across 21 routes, averaging 178 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 211 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 489 m away and the nearest school 501 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 15 stops nearby, 1,246 weekly trips, access rating 76 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 64 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 64th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 489 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 501 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 546 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 598 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 634 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 649 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 674 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 689 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 706 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.7 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 is 1 long day care centre with 70 places in Melrose Park (SA), about 1.7 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Melrose Park (SA) is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Melrose Park (SA).
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Melrose Park recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Melrose Park has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 27th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Melrose Park (SA) is $590 a week, +1.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Melrose Park reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Melrose Park's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Melrose Park places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
Melrose Park shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Melrose Park features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Adelaide.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Melrose Park was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Melrose Park is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Adelaide.
Health performance in Melrose Park is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a slightly 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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Melrose Park (SA) has an estimated 2,489 residents, up 7.3% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in the area around Melrose Park (SA).
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 Melrose Park (SA).
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL40857). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Melrose Park (SA) 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 Melrose Park (SA) 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.
