Suburb profile · Greater Adelaide
Morphett Vale has an estimated 24,973 residents, up 4.0% since the 2021 Census, with 19 projects tracked in the area around Morphett Vale.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Morphett Vale is located 22 kilometres south-southwest from Adelaide CBD. Based on AreaSearch analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, the suburb of Morphett Vale had an estimated population of around 24,973 as of Aug 2026. This is an increase of 971 people (4.0%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 24,002 people. The area has a median age of 40 and a fairly standard age composition, alongside moderate population growth.
Morphett Vale’s market profile includes a notable retail trade employment base, elevated administrative employment, a pronounced healthcare employment presence and substantial manufacturing employment focus. Affordable housing options are also a feature. The area has a marked presence of residents aged 75 to 84yo and lower-quartile income levels.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Morphett Vale is located 22 kilometres south-southwest from Adelaide CBD. Based on AreaSearch analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, the suburb of Morphett Vale had an estimated population of around 24,973 as of Aug 2026. This is an increase of 971 people (4.0%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 24,002 people. The area has a median age of 40 and a fairly standard age composition, alongside moderate population growth.
Morphett Vale’s market profile includes a notable retail trade employment base, elevated administrative employment, a pronounced healthcare employment presence and substantial manufacturing employment focus. Affordable housing options are also a feature. The area has a marked presence of residents aged 75 to 84yo and lower-quartile income levels.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 23,545 in 2006 and 24,820 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 24,973 (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, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 30.7%.
Morphett Vale ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for development activity and the 50th 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 Morphett Vale is $580 a week, up 6.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 2% above Greater Adelaide.
2% above Greater Adelaide on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $330 in 2020, $590 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $300 in 2020, $490 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, houses | $590 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $490 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Onkaparinga | $597 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Onkaparinga, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Adelaide - South | $598 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Adelaide - South, over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Adelaide | $570 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Adelaide, over 12 months | +6.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, SA | $546 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, SA, over 12 months | +6.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 205 tracked applications: 78 approved, 117 under assessment, 10 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 19 projects in and around Morphett Vale, 6 of them under construction.
Independent Anglican co-educational school serving ELC to Year 12. Major educational facility with modern learning environments, sports facilities and technology centres. Ongoing campus improvements to support growing student population.
Proposed residential development in Morphett Vale featuring modern family homes with sustainable design principles. YAS Property & Development was founded in 2015 by Adelaide-based businessman and entrepreneur Tim Shahin.
Premium residential development adjacent to Thaxted Park Golf Course by Metro Property Development. Master-planned community offering house and land packages in established area with golf course frontage and parkland access.
Reconstruction of Bains Road between Investigator Drive and Panalatinga Road, Woodcroft. The project includes reconstruction of selected sections of kerbing and guttering, road pavement reconstruction, installation of a new 1.5m wide footpath on the northern side, and installation of new pedestrian refuges to improve road safety and accessibility.
A 22-hectare master-planned residential development delivering more than 626 new homes across two land parcels on either side of Lovelock Drive in Port Noarlunga and Noarlunga Downs.
The $74 million Noarlunga Hospital expansion, part of the Southern Redevelopment Stage 1, was officially completed in November 2025. This project increased the hospital's capacity by over 65 per cent, growing from 92 to 152 beds. Key additions include a new 24-bed General Medicine Ward and a purpose-built 24-bed Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit.
Brand new land development at Old Reynella offering opportunity to build new homes. Located in established suburb with heritage character, close to schools, shopping and transport links. Prime location for growing families.
Intimate boutique residential development in Woodcroft near Morphett Vale, featuring 70 family homes with easy access to parklands, walking trails and national parks. Located near historic Old Reynella with proximity to schools, shops and sporting facilities.
Open space development at Pine Reserve funded through Federal Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program. Includes playground upgrades, walking paths, landscaping and community gathering spaces.
Completed 98-place early learning centre located at the corner of Pimpala Road and Panalatinga Road. This purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility features custom-designed learning hubs for children aged six weeks to six years, outdoor play areas including bike track and edible gardens, Chef's kitchen for culinary lessons, and family lounge with barista…
A $6 million facility upgrade at Woodcroft Primary School featuring a new permanent modular building with eight general learning areas, serviced learning area, breakout spaces, teacher preparation rooms, withdrawal spaces and toilets.
Integrated energy and water treatment complex featuring a 12.8MW solar installation with 33,750 panels using 5B Maverick technology. The site includes the southern hemisphere's largest Xylem-manufactured UV disinfection system, a $26 million upgrade commissioned in late 2021.
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 10 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 5, 2027 0, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 0, 2031 1, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1.
AreaSearch has tracked 205 substantial development applications lodged in and around Morphett Vale over the past 5 years, 112 in the last 12 months; 117 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 5, 2022 26, 2023 28, 2024 17, 2025 20, 2026 (to Oct) 109.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 205 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 112 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 97 | ABS building approvals | 79th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 78 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 117 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Morphett Vale include: YAS Property Development - Morphett Vale Project (Proposed); Woodcroft College Campus Expansions (Planning); Woodcroft Heights - Metro Property Development (Completed); The Green at Woodcroft (Construction); and Noarlunga Hospital Expansion (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Morphett Vale spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Morphett Vale currently ranks below national averages at the 37th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Morphett Vale among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Morphett Vale area has seen 271 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Morphett Vale's current population of 24,973 has been supported by 97 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Morphett Vale's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 97, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Morphett Vale has grown by approximately 935 people, while 487 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Morphett Vale reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 24,973 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,957 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 69th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 24,002 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 971 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 12.76 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Morphett Vale was estimated to be approximately 24,973 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 24,820 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Morphett Vale has added approximately 971 people and shown a 4.05% increase from the 24,002 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Morphett Vale is estimated at 1,957 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Morphett Vale has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Morphett Vale is driven by: Overseas migration (50.0%), Natural increase (36.0%), Interstate migration (14.000000000000002%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 50.0% of overall population gains.
Morphett Vale'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 | 21.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 51.7% | 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 | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.8% | 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 | 2.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Morphett Vale 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, Morphett Vale is comparable to the Greater Adelaide 2021 Census average (39 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 Morphett Vale compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 8.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Morphett Vale compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 10.7% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Morphett Vale is broadly in line with Greater Adelaide.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.1% of the population in the suburb of Morphett Vale as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.3% of the population in the suburb of Morphett Vale as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 79% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $55,535 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 34th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $60,129 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,199 | 2021 Census, weekly | 13th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $639 | 2021 Census, weekly | 17th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 7.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,480 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 31.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is approximately $59,500. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,535.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is approximately $64,422. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $60,129.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is approximately $59,500 compared to $62,352 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,535 and $58,197 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is approximately $64,422 compared to $76,380 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,129 and $71,290 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Morphett Vale's households (~30.7% / 3,044 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Morphett Vale is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 30.7% of households. In comparison, Greater Adelaide's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.8% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is $1,199/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is $1,480/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is $639/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Morphett Vale had a median income among taxpayers of $55,535 with the average level standing at $60,129. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $58,197 and $71,290 across Greater Adelaide respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.14% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $59,500 (median) and $64,422 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Morphett Vale is $4,274 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Morphett Vale's disposable income is $4,274 compared to $5,698 for Greater Adelaide, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Morphett Vale recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 62.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 12,080 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 20,963 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 12,969 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Morphett Vale has approximately 12,080 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.9%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Morphett Vale stands at 6.9%, which is 3.0 percentage points above Greater Adelaide's rate of 3.8%. 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 Morphett Vale is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.5% of employment), retail trade (13.4%), and construction (11.2%). Other significant employers include manufacturing and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Morphett Vale has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Adelaide saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Morphett Vale is 62.4%, 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 trailing the Greater Adelaide average of 66.4%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Adelaide.
The suburb of Morphett Vale shows notable specialisation in retail trade, which employs 13.4% of the local workforce compared to 10.0% across Greater Adelaide. 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 Morphett Vale'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 saw a 0.5% decline, ranking 22nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Morphett Vale: university qualifications 12.5%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 991.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 12.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 45.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
12.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Morphett Vale have university qualifications, compared to 28.9% in Greater Adelaide.
45.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Morphett Vale have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.0% in Greater Adelaide.
The suburb of Morphett Vale ranks in the 27th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Morphett Vale are: Certificate (33.1%), Bachelor Degree (9.3%), Advanced Diploma (8.9%).
25.4% of the population in the suburb of Morphett Vale is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.7% in primary school, 6.5% in secondary school, 3.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Morphett Vale is 991, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 13 schools within the suburb of Morphett Vale, with a combined enrollment of approximately 5,499 students.
The suburb of Morphett Vale includes 8 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 4 combined schools.
Morphett Vale features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Adelaide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 15.3% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 9,905 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 10,306 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 66.0% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Morphett Vale had 9,905 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.0% to an estimated 10,306 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Morphett Vale is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.5 in Greater Adelaide and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 66.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.8%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 6,537 family households, couples with children account for 23.7% of all households, couples without children at home 25.7%, and single parent families 15.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Adelaide, the suburb of Morphett Vale 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 Morphett Vale have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Greater Adelaide average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 39.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.4% have never married. This compares to 45.7% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Adelaide.
Single-person households represent 30.8% of all households in the suburb of Morphett Vale, similar to the average for Greater Adelaide of 27.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.1% of households, slightly below the Greater Adelaide average of 3.7%.
In terms of cultural diversity, Morphett Vale records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 21.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 90.6% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.7% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 78.5% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
Morphett Vale was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 78.5% of its population born in Australia, 89.7% being citizens, and 90.6% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Morphett Vale, at 37.5% of people, although more residents (58.4%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 42.4% across Greater Adelaide.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Morphett Vale are English, comprising 34.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Adelaide's 27.8%, Australian, comprising 28.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Adelaide's 22.8%, and Scottish, comprising 6.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: German is notably overrepresented at 5.0% of Morphett Vale (vs 5.1% across Greater Adelaide), Polish at 0.9% (vs 1.0%) and Hungarian at 0.3% (vs 0.3%).
21.5% of the suburb of Morphett Vale population was born overseas, compared to 28.7% across Greater Adelaide.
9.4% of the population in the suburb of Morphett Vale speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.2% in Greater Adelaide.
1.7% of the suburb of Morphett Vale population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.2% in Greater Adelaide.
89.7% of the suburb of Morphett Vale population holds citizenship, compared to 86.3% in Greater Adelaide.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Morphett Vale is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Adelaide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 28.9% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 28.5% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 84.9% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 20th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 42.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 14.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $295 | 2021 Census, weekly | 24th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 24.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 80th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Morphett Vale, 28.5% of homes are owned outright, 42.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 28.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 84.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Morphett Vale are houses.
In the suburb of Morphett Vale, 0.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 14.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Morphett Vale stands at 28.5%, compared to 32.1% in Greater Adelaide.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Morphett Vale is $1,300, compared to $1,562 in Greater Adelaide.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Morphett Vale is $921, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Morphett Vale, households with mortgages typically spend 25.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 24.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Morphett Vale is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Morphett Vale shows mortgage holders spending 25.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% in Greater Adelaide), while renters spend 24.6% of income on rent (vs 20.7% in Greater Adelaide).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Morphett Vale consists of 84.9% detached houses, 14.7% semi-detached dwellings, 0.3% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Morphett Vale consumes approximately 17.8% of median household income ($5,192 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Morphett Vale show attached dwellings contributing 47% of approvals compared to 15% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 53% of applications versus 85% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Morphett Vale is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 49.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 22nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 58.5% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 66.8% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
Around 49.0% of people in the suburb of Morphett Vale are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 53.3% in Greater Adelaide.
In the suburb of Morphett Vale, 8.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.6% of people in Greater Adelaide require similar assistance.
9.7% of people in the suburb of Morphett Vale are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.7% of the population across Greater Adelaide is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.3% of the suburb of Morphett Vale population, while in Greater Adelaide, 4.8% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.6% of people in the suburb of Morphett Vale have heart disease. Across Greater Adelaide,3.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Morphett Vale, 49.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Adelaide sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 53.3%.
Transport servicing is 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 | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 50th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 132 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,424 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 41st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 189 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 25 | 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 | 7.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 132 public transport stops within the suburb of Morphett Vale.
The suburb of Morphett Vale has 1,424 weekly trips across 25 routes, averaging 203 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 208 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 409 m away and the nearest school 467 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 132 stops nearby, 1,424 weekly trips, access rating 50 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 50th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 409 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 467 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 692 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 728 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 775 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 867 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 972 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.3 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 12 long day care centres with 893 places in Morphett Vale, about 1.6 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 Morphett Vale is built to order and emailed to you.
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Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Morphett Vale.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Morphett Vale among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Morphett Vale has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 37th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Morphett Vale is $580 a week, +6.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Morphett Vale reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Morphett Vale's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 79% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Morphett Vale recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
Education in Morphett Vale: university qualifications 12.5%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 991.
Morphett Vale features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Adelaide.
In terms of cultural diversity, Morphett Vale records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Morphett Vale is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Adelaide.
Health performance in Morphett Vale is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across 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 in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Morphett Vale has an estimated 24,973 residents, up 4.0% since the 2021 Census, with 19 projects tracked in the area around Morphett Vale.
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 Morphett Vale.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 2025. 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 (SAL40925). 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 (Jul 2025) 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 Morphett Vale 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 Morphett Vale 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.
