Suburb profile · Rest of Vic.
Merbein has an estimated 2,762 residents, down 0.3% since the 2021 Census, with 68 projects tracked in the area around Merbein.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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Positioned 328 kilometres east-northeast from Adelaide CBD in VIC, Australia, the suburb of Merbein is a picturesque locality defined by fertile agricultural lands, thriving citrus farms, scenic vineyards, and a welcoming community that celebrates its cultural heritage through local events. The nearby Murray River, along with surrounding parks and wildlife reserves, offers scenic surroundings for fishing, kayaking, and outdoor recreation. As of Aug 2026, the suburb of Merbein has an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) estimated at around 2,762, derived by AreaSearch from aggregated yearly SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly national address updates. This reflects minimal change from the 2,770 persons counted in the 2021 Census, representing moderate overall expansion patterns alongside an above-average number of children per family.
From an economic and demographic perspective, the suburb of Merbein features accessible, affordable housing options alongside a distinctive population profile characterised by a high proportion of elderly residents and a pronounced proportion 85 and over.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Positioned 328 kilometres east-northeast from Adelaide CBD in VIC, Australia, the suburb of Merbein is a picturesque locality defined by fertile agricultural lands, thriving citrus farms, scenic vineyards, and a welcoming community that celebrates its cultural heritage through local events. The nearby Murray River, along with surrounding parks and wildlife reserves, offers scenic surroundings for fishing, kayaking, and outdoor recreation. As of Aug 2026, the suburb of Merbein has an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) estimated at around 2,762, derived by AreaSearch from aggregated yearly SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly national address updates. This reflects minimal change from the 2,770 persons counted in the 2021 Census, representing moderate overall expansion patterns alongside an above-average number of children per family.
From an economic and demographic perspective, the suburb of Merbein features accessible, affordable housing options alongside a distinctive population profile characterised by a high proportion of elderly residents and a pronounced proportion 85 and over.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,819 in 2006 and 2,762 in 2025. The Aug 2026 estimate (ABS June 2025 base) is the same.
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 13.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.4%.
Merbein ranks in the 77th percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 72nd for employment drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Merbein is $390 a week, for the 12 months to Sep 2025 and 15% below Regional Vic..
15% below Regional Vic. on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $257 in 2017, $420 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $176 in 2017, $298 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
The change over 12 months, by dwelling type, is charted in Full.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $390 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $420 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $298 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Mildura | $454 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, North West | $416 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Regional Vic. | $458 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 4 tracked applications: 2 approved, 0 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 68 projects in and around Merbein, 16 of them under construction.
Whistlers Ridge Estate is a boutique rural residential subdivision at the corner of Dalmura Avenue and Second Street in Merbein. The project delivers 21 titled one acre allotments (around 4,000 to 5,459 square metres) with elevated views, NBN, 3 phase power and town water, only minutes from Merbein township and a short drive to Mildura.
Masterplanned residential land subdivision in Merbein with around 98 lots over about 10 hectares. Stage 1 is sold out and Stage 2 is now selling, offering lots from roughly 548 to 944 sqm within walking distance of Merbein P-10 College, close to township shops, the Murray River and local sporting facilities.
Residential subdivision delivering modern housing lots with river-adjacent amenity, landscaped open space and local park access. Civil design and supervision by MH2 Engineering and Architecture, with development by Fisher Developments.
Proposed expansion and refresh of the passenger terminal at Mildura Airport, Victoria's busiest regional airport. The upgrade is one of roughly ten key projects identified in the airport's Master Plan (released in draft in 2024 and adopted as the Master Plan 2025), which sets out three land use precincts across the airport estate and plans for growth toward…
A $2.48 million expansion of the intensive care unit at Mildura Base Public Hospital, which increased the number of intensive care beds from five to eight and added two short-stay beds.
Architect-designed large format retail complex featuring four premium retail outlets totaling 3,115 sqm. Located adjacent to Aldi and diagonally opposite Mildura Central Shopping Centre in the busy Fifteenth Street precinct.
The Mildura Riverfront Redevelopment Stage 2 focuses on the revitalisation of the Powerhouse Precinct. This major project involves the transformation of the historic Powerhouse building into a multi-use cultural and commercial hub, the creation of a new bespoke playground, a bitumen pump track, and extensive landscaping.
Part of Victoria's Big Housing Build program, delivering new social housing units in Mildura to provide secure, affordable accommodation for vulnerable community members and reduce housing waiting lists. Includes partnerships with MASP and CatholicCare Victoria to build modern, climate-appropriate homes.
A multi-stage project delivering a regional home for sport and events in Mildura. Stage 1 opened in July 2021 with a six-court indoor stadium, AFL-standard oval, change rooms and event spaces.
Building on the success of the $120 million Sunraysia Modernisation Project, SMP2 utilised existing infrastructure and capacity to create opportunities for the Merbein and Red Cliffs irrigation districts.
Comprehensive multi-stage project to revitalise and transform Mildura's Central Business District. Key components include the Feast Street Upgrade with shared street design and dining arbour structures, Langtree Mall placemaking initiatives with grassed areas, lighting and misters, economic feasibility studies, connectivity improvements, and public realm…
Approved $150 million mixed-use neighbourhood activity centre comprising four distinct precincts: commercial (supermarket, specialty shops, health services, hospitality), residential (medium density housing), community (hub, childcare, recreation facilities) and village green (public open space, community garden).
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 30 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 4, 2026 10, 2027 6, 2028 3, 2029 3, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 9 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 4 substantial development applications lodged in and around Merbein over the period covered (about 3.1 years), 2 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.1 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 8.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 81st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 23 | ABS building approvals | 35th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.1 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Merbein include: Hawthorn Ridge Development Plan (Planning); Mildura Airport Terminal Expansion (Proposed); Big Housing Build - Social Housing Projects (Construction); Mildura Passenger Rail Return (Proposed); and Sunraysia Water Efficiency Project (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Merbein spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Agriculture & Rural Development.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the suburb of Merbein demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Merbein compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Merbein area has seen 46 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Merbein's current population of 2,762 has been supported by 23 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Merbein has seen 8.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.6 approvals in Regional Vic.. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 119 people in the suburb of Merbein, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Merbein's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 23, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the suburb of Merbein has seen 115 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
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 Merbein reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,762 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | -0.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 80 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 27th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,770 | 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 34.41 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Merbein was estimated to be approximately 2,762 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,762 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Merbein has lost approximately 8 people and shown a 0.29% decrease from the 2,770 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Merbein is estimated at 80 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Merbein has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Merbein is driven by: Overseas migration (63.0%), Natural increase (37.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 63.0% of overall population gains.
Merbein hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 43 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 76th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 19.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.4% | 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 | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Merbein at 43 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 43 years as at August 2026, Merbein is equal to the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average and 5 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Merbein compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 12.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Merbein compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 9.8% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Merbein is broadly in line with Regional Vic..
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 19.6% of the population in the suburb of Merbein as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.0% of the population in the suburb of Merbein as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 5% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,433 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $53,545 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,147 | 2021 Census, weekly | 9th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $608 | 2021 Census, weekly | 12th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 7.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,477 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 34.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Merbein is approximately $48,432. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,433.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Merbein is approximately $57,079. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $53,545.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Merbein is approximately $48,432 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,433 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Merbein is approximately $57,079 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,545 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Merbein's households (~29.4% / 309 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Merbein is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.4% of households. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Merbein is $1,147/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Merbein is $1,477/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Merbein is $608/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Merbein is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $45,433 while the average income stands at $53,545. This contrasts to Regional Vic.'s figures of a median income of $53,720 and an average income of $66,176. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $48,432 (median) and $57,079 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Merbein is $4,328 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Merbein's disposable income is $4,328 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Merbein demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 28% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 58.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,275 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,311 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,304 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Merbein has approximately 1,275 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.2%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Merbein stands at 2.2%, which is 1.5 percentage points below Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.7%. 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 Merbein is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.2% of employment), retail trade (12.4%), and agriculture, forestry & fishing (9.7%). Other significant employers include education & training and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Merbein has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Merbein is 58.4%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Vic..
The suburb of Merbein shows notable specialisation in retail trade, which employs 12.4% of the local workforce compared to 9.9% across Regional Vic.. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Merbein's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 1.5% decline, ranking 24th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational outcomes in Merbein fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 10.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 32.1% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 48.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
10.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Merbein have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
48.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Merbein have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The suburb of Merbein ranks in the 25th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Merbein are: Certificate (32.1%), Advanced Diploma (9.1%), Bachelor Degree (7.5%).
28.7% of the population in the suburb of Merbein is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.3% in primary school, 8.8% in secondary school, 1.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Merbein is 972, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Merbein, with a combined enrollment of approximately 797 students.
The suburb of Merbein includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.
Merbein features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 31.2% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 25.0% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.5% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.0% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,050 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,047 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 66.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Merbein had 1,050 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 1,047 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Merbein is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 66.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (31.2%), group households (2.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 697 family households, couples with children account for 25.0% of all households, couples without children at home 27.5%, and single parent families 13.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the suburb of Merbein shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Merbein have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 42.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.1% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 31.2% of all households in the suburb of Merbein, similar to the average for Regional Vic. of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.4% of households, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%.
The latest Census data sees Merbein placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.7% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.4% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 93.1% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Merbein was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.4% of its population being citizens, 93.1% born in Australia, and 96.7% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Merbein, at 43.2% of people, although more residents (55.4%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 47.3% across Regional Vic..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Merbein are English, comprising 33.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 31.9% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 7.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Croatian is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Merbein (vs 0.4% across Regional Vic.), Hungarian at 0.3% (vs 0.2%) and German at 4.3% (vs 3.5%).
6.9% of the suburb of Merbein population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
3.3% of the population in the suburb of Merbein speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
4.2% of the suburb of Merbein population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
88.4% of the suburb of Merbein population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Merbein is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 22.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 34.8% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 89.8% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,025 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 8th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 43.1% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $210 | 2021 Census, weekly | 7th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 27th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 19th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Merbein, 34.8% of homes are owned outright, 43.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 89.8% of dwellings in the suburb of Merbein are houses.
In the suburb of Merbein, 2.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 5.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Merbein stands at 34.8%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Merbein is $1,025, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Merbein is $642, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Merbein, households with mortgages typically spend 20.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Merbein is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Merbein shows mortgage holders spending 20.6% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 18.3% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Merbein consists of 89.8% detached houses, 5.9% semi-detached dwellings, 2.5% apartments, and 1.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Merbein consumes approximately 12.9% of median household income ($4,967 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Merbein show attached dwellings contributing 8% of approvals compared to 10% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 92% of applications versus 90% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Health performance in Merbein is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 3rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 58.0% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 67.5% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
Around 46.3% of people in the suburb of Merbein are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the suburb of Merbein, 10.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
10.1% of people in the suburb of Merbein are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.6% of the suburb of Merbein population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.2% of people in the suburb of Merbein have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Merbein, 46.3% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.8%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 36 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 36th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 28 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 28th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 171 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 14th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 100 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 4 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 7.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 28 public transport stops within the suburb of Merbein.
The suburb of Merbein has 171 weekly trips across 4 routes, averaging 24 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 248 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 922 m away and the nearest child care centre 922 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 28 stops nearby, 171 weekly trips, access rating 36 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 44 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 44th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 922 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 922 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest bank | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 8.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 8.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 8.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 8.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 9.7 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 72 places in Merbein, about 2.5 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 Merbein 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 Merbein.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Merbein compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Merbein has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 23% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Merbein is $390 a week for the 12 months to Sep 2025.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Merbein reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Merbein hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 5% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Merbein demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 28% of areas assessed nationally.
Educational outcomes in Merbein fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
Merbein features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
The latest Census data sees Merbein placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Merbein is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Regional Vic.
Health performance in Merbein is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low 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.
Merbein has an estimated 2,762 residents, down 0.3% since the 2021 Census, with 68 projects tracked in the area around Merbein.
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 Merbein.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, 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 (SAL21653). 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 Merbein 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 Merbein 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.
