Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Merriwa (WA) has an estimated 6,117 residents, up 9.5% since the 2021 Census, with 88 projects tracked in the area around Merriwa (WA).
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 35 kilometres north-northwest from Perth CBD, the suburb of Merriwa (WA) is situated within the broader Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood locality. The area is renowned for its scenic coastal setting, delivering a relaxed and family-oriented environment highlighted by attractive beaches, quality parks, and abundant open spaces for outdoor recreation. The community is sustained by a well-established infrastructure network encompassing local schools, retail centres, and public transit connections, complemented by an active community life centered around regular local festivals and events. According to AreaSearch evaluations combining yearly aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) data and quarterly national address registers, Merriwa's population is estimated at around 6,117 as of Aug 2026. This reflects a moderate expansion pattern, adding 530 people (9.5%) since the 2021 Census, which previously recorded 5,587 residents.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 35 kilometres north-northwest from Perth CBD, the suburb of Merriwa (WA) is situated within the broader Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood locality. The area is renowned for its scenic coastal setting, delivering a relaxed and family-oriented environment highlighted by attractive beaches, quality parks, and abundant open spaces for outdoor recreation. The community is sustained by a well-established infrastructure network encompassing local schools, retail centres, and public transit connections, complemented by an active community life centered around regular local festivals and events. According to AreaSearch evaluations combining yearly aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) data and quarterly national address registers, Merriwa's population is estimated at around 6,117 as of Aug 2026. This reflects a moderate expansion pattern, adding 530 people (9.5%) since the 2021 Census, which previously recorded 5,587 residents.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,518 in 2006 and 6,116 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 6,117 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 12.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.8%.
Merriwa (WA) ranks in the 65th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 62nd for infrastructure 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 Merriwa (WA) is $694 a week, up 7.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 4% below Greater Perth.
4% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $694 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Wanneroo | $724 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Wanneroo, over 12 months | +8.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - North West | $760 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - North West, over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | 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 |
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Status of the 28 tracked applications: 27 approved, 1 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 88 projects in and around Merriwa (WA), 31 of them under construction.
Multi-stage upgrade of the Gumblossom Community Centre precinct in Quinns Rocks, including refurbishments to the community centre, sports pavilion and activity (playgroup) building.
Oldham Rise is a small coastal infill estate in Quinns Rocks delivered by LWP Property Group on elevated land off Oldham Way, within walking distance of Quinns Beach. The project will create around 68 new house and land lots with ocean views, new local streets and public realm upgrades close to Quinns Rocks Primary School and nearby parks.
Brighton Estate, developed by Satterley Property Group, is a master-planned community in Butler, WA. Recognized as Australia's first 6-star Green Star BeachSAFE community, it won the Urban Development Institute of Australia's Award for Master Planned Development in 2013.
Program of Main Roads WA and WA Government upgrades along Wanneroo Road in Perth's northern corridor. Earlier interchange projects at Ocean Reef Road and Joondalup Drive are complete, while current funded works include the Wanneroo Road duplication from Dunstan Road to Romeo Road and a 2025-26 northern roads package for intersection improvements at Warwick…
Irene McCormack Catholic College is a co-educational Catholic secondary school in Butler, Western Australia, serving students in Years 7-12. It offers a comprehensive curriculum with modern facilities, including advanced science labs, a performing arts centre, and sports facilities, fostering academic excellence and holistic student development.
Banksia Grove Village is a neighbourhood shopping centre at the corner of Joondalup Drive and Joseph Banks Boulevard, Banksia Grove, owned by IFM Investors.
A 33.5km underground trunk main connecting the Alkimos Seawater Desalination Plant to the Wanneroo Reservoir. As of May 2026, construction is active with significant road closures and pipe installation moving through Mariginiup along Caporn Street.
Staged redevelopment of The Marina Mindarie including upgraded marina infrastructure, new hospitality venues, commercial space, residential apartments, public realm improvements and additional boat pens. Construction has commenced on multiple components while further stages continue to be delivered over several years.
Planning scheme amendment to District Planning Scheme No. 2 initiated by the City of Wanneroo, facilitating urban zoning and structure planning for residential and commercial development across Butler and Ridgewood in Perth's northern corridor.
Proposed second stage expansion of the Mindarie Regional Centre comprising additional retail and commercial floorspace together with office and residential development to extend the established local activity centre. Public information available indicates the project remains in the planning phase with no confirmed construction commencement announced.
Dunes Beach Resort is a premium ecotourism destination located at the former Quinns Rocks Caravan Park site in Mindarie. Opened in May 2026, it features 38 luxury glamping tents, a restaurant, kiosk, and lounge bar named Sandara.
Catalina Plaza is a planned 14 million AUD neighbourhood retail centre in Catalina Green, Clarkson WA, described as an IGA-anchored precinct of about 7,177 sqm. Planned uses include a 1,400 sqm supermarket, specialty shops, cafes, health and wellness uses, a childcare centre, a medical centre, a veterinary centre and two drive-through food outlets.
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 36 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 9, 2027 11, 2028 7, 2029 2, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3. 6 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 28 substantial development applications lodged in and around Merriwa (WA) over the past 5 years, 2 in the last 12 months; 1 is recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 0, 2022 5, 2023 4, 2024 7, 2025 10, 2026 (to Oct) 2.
Key application Lots 1484 (36) And 11 (34) Baltimore Parade, Merriwa $5.0m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 28 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 0.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 2 | ABS building approvals | 8th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Merriwa area has seen 11 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Merriwa's current population of 6,117 has been supported by 2 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Merriwa has seen 0.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.4 approvals in Greater Perth. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 1106 people in the suburb of Merriwa, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Merriwa's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 2, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Merriwa has grown by approximately 322 people, while 12 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 26.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Merriwa include: Brighton Estate Master Planned Community (Construction); Gumblossom Community Centre Upgrade, Quinns Rocks (Construction); Oldham Rise Quinns Rocks (Construction); Wanneroo Road Corridor Improvements (Construction); and Butler District Planning Scheme Amendment No. 212 (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Merriwa spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
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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 Merriwa reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,117 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,669 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 80th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 5,587 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 530 | 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 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.29 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Merriwa was estimated to be approximately 6,117 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,116 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of merriwa has added approximately 530 people and shown a 9.49% increase from the 5,587 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Merriwa is estimated at 2,671 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Merriwa has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Merriwa is driven by: Overseas migration (67.0%), Natural increase (33.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 67.0% of overall population gains.
Merriwa's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 40 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 56th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 26.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.1% | 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 | 4.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Merriwa at 40 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Merriwa is 3 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 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 Merriwa compared to the Greater Perth region is the 85+ group, making up 7.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Merriwa compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Merriwa show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (7.7% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (9.9% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.2% of the population in the suburb of Merriwa as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 26.2% of the population in the suburb of Merriwa as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 77% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $54,526 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 31st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $68,858 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,255 | 2021 Census, weekly | 17th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $636 | 2021 Census, weekly | 16th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,489 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 31.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Merriwa is approximately $58,365. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $54,526.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Merriwa is approximately $73,706. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $68,858.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Merriwa is approximately $58,365 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,526 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Merriwa is approximately $73,706 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,858 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Merriwa's households (~29.8% / 612 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Merriwa is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.8% of households. In comparison, Greater Perth's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.0% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Merriwa is $1,255/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Merriwa is $1,489/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Merriwa is $636/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Merriwa is below the national average, with the median assessed at $54,526 while the average income stands at $68,858. This contrasts to Greater Perth's figures of a median income of $64,047 and an average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $58,365 (median) and $73,706 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Merriwa is $4,246 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of merriwa's disposable income is $4,246 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Merriwa faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 9.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 57.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,647 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 5,047 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,929 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Merriwa has approximately 2,647 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 9.6%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Merriwa stands at 9.6%, which is 5.4 percentage points above Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Merriwa is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (13.7% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.6%), and retail trade (11.5%). Other significant employers include education & training and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Merriwa has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Merriwa is 57.1%, 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 Greater Perth average of 69.9%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of merriwa shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 13.7% of the local workforce compared to 9.3% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of merriwa's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Merriwa (WA): university qualifications 10.8%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 993.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 10.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 45.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
10.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Merriwa have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
45.4% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Merriwa have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of merriwa ranks in the 35th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Merriwa are: Certificate (32.9%), Advanced Diploma (10.9%), Bachelor Degree (7.9%).
29.3% of the population in the suburb of Merriwa is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.5% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 3.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Merriwa is 993, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Merriwa, with a combined enrollment of approximately 784 students.
The suburb of merriwa includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Merriwa features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 28.6% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.8% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.8% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 16.9% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,053 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,248 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.7% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Merriwa had 2,053 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.5% to an estimated 2,248 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Merriwa is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 68.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (28.6%), group households (2.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,410 family households, couples with children account for 24.8% of all households, couples without children at home 25.8%, and single parent families 16.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Merriwa 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 Merriwa have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 41.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.7% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 28.6% of all households in the suburb of Merriwa, similar to the average for Greater Perth of 24.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.4% of households, below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Merriwa was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 36.5% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 86.7% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 82.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 63.5% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
Merriwa was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 13.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 36.5% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Merriwa, at 45.4% of people, although more residents (49.7%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Merriwa are English, comprising 33.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 23.9% of the population, and Other, comprising 8.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maori is notably overrepresented at 2.0% of Merriwa (vs 0.9% across Greater Perth), South African at 1.4% (vs 1.0%) and New Zealand at 1.3% (vs 0.8%).
36.5% of the suburb of Merriwa population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
13.3% of the population in the suburb of Merriwa speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
2.3% of the suburb of Merriwa population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
82.9% of the suburb of Merriwa population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Merriwa is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 29.7% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 19.1% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 76.0% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,500 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 51.2% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $330 | 2021 Census, weekly | 36th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 26.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 78th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Merriwa, 19.1% of homes are owned outright, 51.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 29.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 76.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Merriwa are houses.
In the suburb of Merriwa, 0.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 23.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Merriwa stands at 19.1%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Merriwa is $1,500, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Merriwa is $1,192, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Merriwa, households with mortgages typically spend 27.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Merriwa is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Merriwa shows mortgage holders spending 27.6% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 26.3% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Merriwa consists of 76.0% detached houses, 23.7% semi-detached dwellings, 0.3% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Merriwa consumes approximately 21.9% of median household income ($5,434 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Merriwa show attached dwellings contributing 33% of approvals compared to 24% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 67% of applications versus 76% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Merriwa 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 | 52.6% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 43rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 60.3% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 10.2% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.6% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
Around 52.6% of people in the suburb of Merriwa are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Merriwa, 10.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
7.9% of people in the suburb of Merriwa are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.6% of the suburb of Merriwa population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.5% of people in the suburb of Merriwa have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Merriwa, 52.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 53 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 23 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 823 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 31st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 267 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 3 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 5.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 23 public transport stops within the suburb of Merriwa.
The suburb of Merriwa has 823 weekly trips across 3 routes, averaging 117 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 182 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 343 m away and the nearest school 350 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 23 stops nearby, 823 weekly trips, access rating 53 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 16 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 16th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 343 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 350 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 450 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 601 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 610 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 682 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 10.0 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 are 4 long day care centres with 330 places in Merriwa (WA), about 1.0 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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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 Merriwa compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Merriwa has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 43rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Merriwa (WA) is $694 a week, +7.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Merriwa reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Merriwa's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 77% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Merriwa faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
Education in Merriwa (WA): university qualifications 10.8%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 993.
Merriwa features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Merriwa was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Merriwa is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
Health performance in Merriwa 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 moderate 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.
Merriwa (WA) has an estimated 6,117 residents, up 9.5% since the 2021 Census, with 88 projects tracked in the area around Merriwa (WA).
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 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 Merriwa (WA).
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. 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 (SAL50939). 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), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, 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 Merriwa (WA) 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 Merriwa (WA) 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.
