Suburb profile · Rest of WA
Merredin has an estimated 2,827 residents, up 8.6% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in the area around Merredin.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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Situated 235 kilometres east-northeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Merredin is widely celebrated for its rich agricultural landscape, vibrant wildflowers, and picturesque wheat fields. Alongside its rural scenery, the community is defined by historic landmarks including the Merredin Railway Water Tower and the Cenotaph War Memorial, supported by cultural gatherings, recreational facilities, and a warm community spirit. Merredin's demographic profile reflects an estimated population of around 2,827 as of Aug 2026, synthesised by AreaSearch from yearly SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and quarterly national address updates. This represents a net addition of 223 people (8.6%) above the 2,604 people recorded during the 2021 Census, despite overall expansion patterns remaining somewhat constrained.
The local residential environment exhibits a strong detached house representation and highly affordable housing options, though it operates alongside severely limited dwelling supply.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 235 kilometres east-northeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Merredin is widely celebrated for its rich agricultural landscape, vibrant wildflowers, and picturesque wheat fields. Alongside its rural scenery, the community is defined by historic landmarks including the Merredin Railway Water Tower and the Cenotaph War Memorial, supported by cultural gatherings, recreational facilities, and a warm community spirit. Merredin's demographic profile reflects an estimated population of around 2,827 as of Aug 2026, synthesised by AreaSearch from yearly SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and quarterly national address updates. This represents a net addition of 223 people (8.6%) above the 2,604 people recorded during the 2021 Census, despite overall expansion patterns remaining somewhat constrained.
The local residential environment exhibits a strong detached house representation and highly affordable housing options, though it operates alongside severely limited dwelling supply.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,758 in 2006 and 2,823 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,827 (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, 14.3%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.9%.
Merredin ranks in the 34th percentile nationally for income and the 32nd for transport & access.
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 Merredin is $406 a week, up 7.3% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 39% below Regional WA.
39% below Regional WA on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $406 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Wheat Belt - North | $497 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Wheat Belt - North, over 12 months | +14.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional WA | $667 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Regional WA, over 12 months | +10.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
AreaSearch tracks 22 projects in and around Merredin, 5 of them under construction.
Proposed green hydrogen production plant and solar farm expansion near Northam. The project proposes a 10 MW electrolyser plant using power from the existing Northam Solar Farm and up to 13 MW of additional solar panels, producing about 4 tonnes of gaseous hydrogen per day for light and heavy vehicle transport.
Redevelopment of the Northam Boulevard shopping centre into a regional retail and community hub, incorporating over 2200 solar panels generating 40% of its electricity, merging with Northam Arcade, and featuring anchors Woolworths and Kmart plus over 22 specialty stores.
A $50 million major redevelopment of the Narrogin Health Service, officially opened in October 2019. The project delivered a new outpatient building, two new birthing rooms, an inpatient ward, theatre, and sterilising department. It also introduced new dental and chemotherapy services.
A proposed commercial-scale renewable diesel biorefinery in the Narrogin Renewable Energy Zone. The earlier EPA assessment for the initial site was terminated in March 2025 after the original site was no longer pursued, but FutureEnergy Australia has stated the WA Future Energy Park remains active, with a new site selection process and a potential 50…
Approved 200 MW DC solar farm with a co-located 200 MW / 800 MWh four-hour battery energy storage system on private land south of Narrogin. The project will connect to the Narrogin South Substation and export electricity into Western Australia's Wholesale Electricity Market.
A proposed master-planned townsite with approximately 1,500 lots. The project aims to create a sustainable land development with services including roads, water, sewer, telecommunications, and power. The land is currently for sale and seeking a developer.
EastLink WA is a long-term corridor project that will provide a safer and more efficient route between Perth and Northam. Planning and development for the full corridor has been completed, including the Ultimate Design Concept and land protection requirements.
Upgrades to the Gidgegannup Showgrounds including the hall, Burgo's bar, paving, car park, toilets, and arena. The project also includes a new sports pavilion, an advanced skate park, and remodelled BMX jumps.
The Gidgegannup Showgrounds is a significant community asset. The Showgrounds playspace will be renewed by 2024. This project is for the public art component of the renewal.
Residential land estate in the Bullsbrook foothills with views to the Perth hills and sunset coast, developed across two stages totalling approximately 22 hectares and around 187 lots. Lots ranged from family sized blocks to smaller downsizer options, with house and land packages marketed via local builders.
Master-planned residential estate delivering 2,500 single residential lots over approximately 14 years in Bullsbrook, north-east of Perth. The estate features retained natural bushland, the Ki-it Monger Brook creek corridor, elevated homesites with Darling Scarp views, and 41ha of public open space.
Multi-stage residential development by DJ MacCormick. Stage 5 recently released with blocks 325-450sqm, prices from $171k. Walking distance to Bullsbrook College, new daycare centre nearby.
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 8 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 1, 2027 2, 2028 2, 2029 1, 2030 1. 6 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 2 substantial development applications lodged in and around Merredin over the period covered (about 2.5 years), 1 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Status of the 2 tracked applications: 2 approved, 0 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 2.5 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 0.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 1 | ABS building approvals | 7th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 2.5 years) |
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Merredin area has seen 3 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Merredin's current population of 2,827 has been supported by 1 approval on average over recent years.
The suburb of Merredin has seen 0.5 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.3 approvals in Regional WA. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 1875 people in the suburb of Merredin, compared to one for every 164 in Regional WA.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Merredin's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 1, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Merredin has grown by approximately 91 people, while 7 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 13.0 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Currently, there are limited major infrastructure and planning changes identified for Merredin in the available data.
Infrastructure projects impacting the suburb of Merredin encompass various sectors supporting community growth and economic development.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the suburb of Merredin, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Merredin currently ranks below national averages at the 10th percentile.
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.
Merredin is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,827 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 11 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 18th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,604 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 223 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 249.85 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Merredin was estimated to be approximately 2,827 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,823 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Merredin has added approximately 223 people and shown a 8.56% increase from the 2,604 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Merredin is estimated at 11 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Merredin has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Merredin is driven by: Overseas migration (81.0%), Natural increase (19.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 81.0% of overall population gains.
Merredin's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 56th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 28.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.8% | 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 | 40 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Merredin at 39 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Merredin is comparable to the Regional WA 2021 Census average (40 years) and similarly aligned with comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Merredin compared to the Regional WA region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 14.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Merredin compared to the Regional WA region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 9.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Merredin show significant variance compared to Regional WA. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (2.8% vs 2.0%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.9% of the population in the suburb of Merredin as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.0% of the population in the suburb of Merredin as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $57,267 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $75,993 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,396 | 2021 Census, weekly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $756 | 2021 Census, weekly | 39th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,899 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Merredin is approximately $61,299. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $57,267.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Merredin is approximately $81,343. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $75,993.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Merredin is approximately $61,299 compared to $67,299 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $57,267 and $62,873 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Merredin is approximately $81,343 compared to $83,842 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $75,993 and $78,328 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Merredin's households (~31.9% / 312 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Merredin is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.9% of households. In comparison, Regional WA's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.1% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Merredin is $1,396/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Merredin is $1,899/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Merredin is $756/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Merredin is above the national average, with the median assessed at $57,267 while the average income stands at $75,993. This contrasts to Regional WA's figures of a median income of $62,873 and an average income of $78,328. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $61,299 (median) and $81,343 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Merredin is $5,366 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Merredin's disposable income is $5,366 compared to $6,025 for Regional WA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Merredin presents a mixed picture: unemployment remains low at 3.9%, yet recent job losses have affected its comparative national standing.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,443 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,132 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,501 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Merredin has approximately 1,443 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.9%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement, though the very low unemployment rate of 3.9% indicates the ranking primarily reflects recent job losses rather than underlying labor market weakness.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Merredin stands at 3.9%, which is broadly in line with Regional WA's rate of 3.5%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Merredin is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (12.0% of employment), retail trade (10.9%), and education & training (10.5%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 33.4% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include agriculture, forestry & fishing and transport, postal & warehousing.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Merredin 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, Regional WA saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Merredin is 65.6%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional WA average of 65.4%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional WA.
The suburb of Merredin shows notable specialisation in wholesale trade, which employs 7.6% of the local workforce compared to 2.2% across Regional WA. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.5, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 3 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The suburb of Merredin's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. However, the low unemployment rate of 3.9% suggests the ranking is driven by recent job losses rather than structural weakness. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.7% decline, ranking 31st out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational outcomes in Merredin fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.2% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 46.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
13.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Merredin have university qualifications, compared to 17.6% in Regional WA.
46.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Merredin have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.5% in Regional WA.
The suburb of Merredin 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 Merredin are: Certificate (33.2%), Bachelor Degree (9.3%), Advanced Diploma (7.4%).
30.6% of the population in the suburb of Merredin is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.3% in primary school, 10.6% in secondary school, 2.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Merredin is 972, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Merredin, with a combined enrollment of approximately 640 students.
The suburb of Merredin includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.
Merredin features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 25.0% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.5% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 978 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,062 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 64.1% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Merredin had 978 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.6% to an estimated 1,062 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Merredin is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional WA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 64.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.9%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 627 family households, couples with children account for 25.0% of all households, couples without children at home 28.5%, and single parent families 10.5%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional WA, the suburb of Merredin shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 32.9% (versus 27.4% in Regional WA). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 64.1% compared to 69.8% in Regional WA. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Merredin have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional WA average of 1.9. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 44.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.3% have never married. This compares to 46.4% married and 35.8% never married across Regional WA.
Single-person households represent 32.9% of all households in the suburb of Merredin, higher than the average for Regional WA of 27.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.8% of households, in line with the Regional WA average of 2.8%.
Merredin ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 13.6% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.0% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.0% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.4% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Merredin was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.9% of its population being citizens, 86.4% born in Australia, and 94.0% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Merredin, at 46.8% of people, although more residents (51.4%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 44.6% across Regional WA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Merredin are Australian, comprising 33.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional WA's 28.4%, English, comprising 32.1% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 7.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.1% of Merredin (vs 6.1% across Regional WA), New Zealand at 0.8% (vs 0.9%) and Italian at 4.0% (vs 3.0%).
13.6% of the suburb of Merredin population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional WA.
6.0% of the population in the suburb of Merredin speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.7% in Regional WA.
4.1% of the suburb of Merredin population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 6.1% in Regional WA.
84.9% of the suburb of Merredin population holds citizenship, compared to 82.8% in Regional WA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Merredin is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 32.5% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 94.5% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,074 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 8th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.2% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $220 | 2021 Census, weekly | 9th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 15.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 17.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 6th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Merredin, 32.5% of homes are owned outright, 33.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 34.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 94.5% of dwellings in the suburb of Merredin are houses.
In the suburb of Merredin, 0.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Merredin stands at 32.5%, compared to 34.1% in Regional WA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Merredin is $1,074, compared to $1,560 in Regional WA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Merredin is $683, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Merredin, households with mortgages typically spend 17.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 15.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Merredin is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Merredin shows mortgage holders spending 17.8% of income on repayments (vs 22.5% in Regional WA), while renters spend 15.8% of income on rent (vs 16.6% in Regional WA).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Merredin consists of 94.5% detached houses, 4.4% semi-detached dwellings, 0.3% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Merredin consumes approximately 11.3% of median household income ($6,045 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Health performance in Merredin is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 55.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 61st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 66.1% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.2% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
Around 55.5% of people in the suburb of Merredin are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.4% in Regional WA.
In the suburb of Merredin, 5.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Regional WA require similar assistance.
8.7% of people in the suburb of Merredin are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.2% of the population across Regional WA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.3% of the suburb of Merredin population, while in Regional WA, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.9% of people in the suburb of Merredin have heart disease. Across Regional WA,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Merredin, 55.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional WA sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.4%.
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 | 32 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 2 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 12 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 1st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 1,422 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 2 | 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 | 4.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 2 public transport stops within the suburb of Merredin.
The suburb of Merredin has 12 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 1 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 959 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 943 m away and the nearest child care centre 1.0 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 2 stops nearby, 12 weekly trips, access rating 32 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 10 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 10th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 943 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.1 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 36 places in Merredin, about 4.7 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 Merredin 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 Merredin.
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 Merredin compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Merredin has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 10th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Merredin is $406 a week, +7.3% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Merredin is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Merredin's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
The employment landscape in Merredin presents a mixed picture: unemployment remains low at 3.9%, yet recent job losses have affected its comparative national standing.
Educational outcomes in Merredin fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
Merredin features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
Merredin ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Merredin is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional WA.
Health performance in Merredin is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across 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.
Merredin has an estimated 2,827 residents, up 8.6% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in the area around Merredin.
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 Merredin.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 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 (SAL50938). 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 Merredin 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 Merredin 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.
