Suburb profile · Rest of WA
Mount Barker (WA) has an estimated 3,119 residents, up 9.2% since the 2021 Census, with 26 projects tracked in the area around Mount Barker (WA).
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 340 kilometres south-southeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Mount Barker (WA) serves as a prominent centre within the Plantagenet region, an area widely celebrated for its rolling hills, pristine waterways, and expanding wine sector. As of Aug 2026, the Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of Mount Barker is estimated at around 3,119 people, growing by 264 people (9.2%) since the 2021 Census figure of 2,855 residents. This demographic trajectory, informed by annual SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly address validations, demonstrates steady and moderate expansion supported by an established agricultural workforce and an attractive, space-rich rural lifestyle.
The local residential profile is distinguished by high rates of outright home ownership, lower-quartile household incomes, and accessible, affordable detached housing. Households are primarily composed of mature couples without children alongside an elevated 65 to 74yo demographic, though families also maintain an above-average number of children per family.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 340 kilometres south-southeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Mount Barker (WA) serves as a prominent centre within the Plantagenet region, an area widely celebrated for its rolling hills, pristine waterways, and expanding wine sector. As of Aug 2026, the Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of Mount Barker is estimated at around 3,119 people, growing by 264 people (9.2%) since the 2021 Census figure of 2,855 residents. This demographic trajectory, informed by annual SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly address validations, demonstrates steady and moderate expansion supported by an established agricultural workforce and an attractive, space-rich rural lifestyle.
The local residential profile is distinguished by high rates of outright home ownership, lower-quartile household incomes, and accessible, affordable detached housing. Households are primarily composed of mature couples without children alongside an elevated 65 to 74yo demographic, though families also maintain an above-average number of children per family.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,535 in 2006 and 3,067 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,119 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 30.7%.
Mount Barker (WA) ranks in the 57th percentile nationally for development activity and the 52nd for population growth.
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 Mount Barker (WA) is $500 a week, up 21.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 25% below Regional WA.
25% below Regional WA on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $500 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +21.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Albany | $556 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Albany, 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 26 projects in and around Mount Barker (WA), 5 of them under construction.
The City of Albany is advancing the Albany Airport Master Plan 2043, following Council endorsement of the Code 3 Development Strategy in April 2024. This phase focuses on airside and landside improvements to support existing RPT and FIFO services.
Clydesdale Park is an established residential estate by DevelopmentWA located in McKail, 7km from the Albany town centre. When complete, the estate will feature up to 430 homes, a central bushland park with walkways, and a future primary school. The estate offers easy access to local schools, sporting complexes, and shopping centres.
A $5.2 million project by Advance Housing that has completed construction on twelve new modular social homes in McKail, Albany. The project includes six two-story buildings with a mix of one and two-bedroom units. The homes were designed for energy efficiency with a 7-star energy rating and meet Liveable Design Standards to ensure accessibility.
An urban renewal area with plans to prepare a Structure Plan to investigate zonings, land uses, and provide for a diverse range of residential densities (R40 to RAC), aiming to increase employment opportunities and improve community facilities.
New facilities will deliver training in traditional trades and stimulate local economy. The new workshops will replace the campus' existing 50-year old trade facilities.
Master-planned residential community at Bayonet Head, Albany WA, overlooking Oyster Harbour and the Kalgan River. A joint venture between DevelopmentWA and Heath Development Company, the estate will ultimately provide up to 1,899 residential homesites across 35 hectares of public open space, including man-made lakes, playgrounds, boardwalks and pedestrian…
Advance Housing, in partnership with the Cook and Albanese Labor Governments, is delivering 36 new social and affordable rental homes across four buildings in Bayonet Head, Albany.
The McKail North Local Structure Plan is a proposed replacement for the previous outline development plan covering approximately 68.16 hectares in northern McKail. The structure plan proposes a lower-density residential community ranging from R2.5 to R25, a new primary school site, consolidated public open space, and an updated road network.
A new neighbourhood shopping centre development approved by Denmark Shire Council in September 2025, comprising a supermarket (likely IGA), six specialty shops, liquor store, and associated amenities. The development features a total building footprint of 3058 square metres with 130 car parking bays including accessible and trailer and caravan spaces.
Residential estate consisting of 125 new homes, developed by Peet Limited in an exclusive development in Bayonet Head, overlooking Oyster Harbour. The project is fully sold out.
State-backed mixed-use renewal project within the Spencer Park Improvement Special Control Area in Albany, delivering 51 new social, affordable and key worker homes along Hardie Road alongside a new Albany Dental Clinic and office space.
Redevelopment and upgrade of the Spencer Park Education Support Centre facilities, which caters to students with Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, and other special learning needs.
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 11 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 2, 2027 2, 2028 4, 2029 1, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 2. 5 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 5.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 69th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 17 | ABS building approvals | 30th percentile nationally |
Currently, there are limited major infrastructure and planning changes identified for Mount Barker in the available data.
Infrastructure projects impacting the suburb of Mount Barker encompass various sectors supporting community growth and economic development.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the suburb of Mount Barker, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Mount Barker currently ranks below national averages at the 8th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Mount Barker when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Mount Barker area has seen 41 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Mount Barker's current population of 3,119 has been supported by 17 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Mount Barker has seen 5.8 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 149 people in the suburb of Mount Barker, compared to one for every 164 in Regional WA.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Mount Barker's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 17, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Mount Barker has grown by approximately 190 people, while 87 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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.
Mount Barker has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,119 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 6 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,855 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 264 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 489.76 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Mount Barker was estimated to be approximately 3,119 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,067 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of mount barker has added approximately 264 people and shown a 9.25% increase from the 2,855 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Mount Barker is estimated at 6 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Mount Barker has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Mount Barker is driven by: Interstate migration (76.0%), Overseas migration (21.0%), Natural increase (2.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 76.0% of overall population gains.
Mount Barker hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 48 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 88th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 26.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 19.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 46.0% | 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 | 48 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Mount Barker at 48 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 48 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 48 years as at August 2026, Mount Barker is 8 years older than the Regional WA 2021 Census average (40 years) and 10 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 Mount Barker compared to the Regional WA region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 15.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Mount Barker compared to the Regional WA region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 9.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Mount Barker show significant variance compared to Regional WA. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.4% vs 2.0%) and 65-74 year-olds (15.2% vs 10.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.6% of the population in the suburb of Mount Barker as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 26.6% of the population in the suburb of Mount Barker as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 7% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,072 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 4th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $56,209 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,104 | 2021 Census, weekly | 7th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $602 | 2021 Census, weekly | 12th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,446 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 38.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mount Barker is approximately $48,245. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,072.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mount Barker is approximately $60,166. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $56,209.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Mount Barker is approximately $48,245 compared to $67,299 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,072 and $62,873 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Mount Barker is approximately $60,166 compared to $83,842 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,209 and $78,328 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Mount Barker's households (~30.7% / 319 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Mount Barker is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 30.7% 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 Mount Barker is $1,104/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Mount Barker is $1,446/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Mount Barker is $602/wk.
The suburb of Mount Barker's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Mount Barker's median income among taxpayers is $45,072 and the average income stands at $56,209, which compares to figures for Regional WA's of $62,873 and $78,328 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $48,245 (median) and $60,166 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Mount Barker is $4,149 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of mount barker's disposable income is $4,149 compared to $6,025 for Regional WA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.8%, Mount Barker has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 58.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,442 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,537 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,499 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Mount Barker has approximately 1,442 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.8%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally, though the very low unemployment rate of 3.8% 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 Mount Barker stands at 3.8%, 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 Mount Barker is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (15.6% of employment), health care & social assistance (11.9%), and retail trade (9.9%). Other significant employers include education & training and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Mount Barker 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 Mount Barker is 58.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional WA average of 65.4%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of mount barker shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 15.6% of the local workforce compared to 9.3% across Regional WA. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of mount barker'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 3.7% decline, ranking 31st out of 37 regions nationally.
Mount Barker faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 14.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.6% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 42.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
14.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mount Barker have university qualifications, compared to 17.6% in Regional WA.
42.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Mount Barker have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.5% in Regional WA.
The suburb of mount barker ranks in the 24th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Mount Barker are: Certificate (31.6%), Bachelor Degree (11.6%), Advanced Diploma (11.5%).
30.3% of the population in the suburb of Mount Barker is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.8% in primary school, 9.4% 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 Mount Barker is 937, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Mount Barker, with a combined enrollment of approximately 656 students.
The suburb of mount barker includes 1 combined school.
Mount Barker features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 27.6% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 34.2% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,040 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,136 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Mount Barker had 1,040 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.2% to an estimated 1,136 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Mount Barker is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional WA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (27.6%), group households (1.8%), and other household types (1.1%).
Of the 723 family households, couples with children account for 25.2% of all households, couples without children at home 34.2%, and single parent families 9.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional WA, the suburb of Mount Barker 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 Mount Barker 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 50.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 29.4% have never married. This compares to 46.4% married and 35.8% never married across Regional WA.
Single-person households represent 27.6% of all households in the suburb of Mount Barker, similar to 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 1.8% of households, below the Regional WA average of 2.8%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
In terms of cultural diversity, Mount Barker 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 | 21.8% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 90.9% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 82.7% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 78.2% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
Mount Barker was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 82.7% of its population being citizens, 78.2% born in Australia, and 90.9% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Mount Barker, at 42.8% of people, although more residents (51.2%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 4.2% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional WA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Mount Barker are English, comprising 35.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 29.7% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 8.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Mount Barker (vs 0.6% across Regional WA), Dutch at 1.6% (vs 1.5%) and Australian Aboriginal at 3.1% (vs 6.1%).
21.8% of the suburb of Mount Barker population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional WA.
9.1% of the population in the suburb of Mount Barker speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.7% in Regional WA.
3.1% of the suburb of Mount Barker population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 6.1% in Regional WA.
82.7% of the suburb of Mount Barker population holds citizenship, compared to 82.8% in Regional WA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Mount Barker is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 25.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 42.9% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.7% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,226 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 14th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.5% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $225 | 2021 Census, weekly | 9th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 48th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 64th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Mount Barker, 42.9% of homes are owned outright, 31.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 25.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.7% of dwellings in the suburb of Mount Barker are houses.
In the suburb of Mount Barker, 0.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Mount Barker stands at 42.9%, compared to 34.1% in Regional WA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Mount Barker is $1,226, compared to $1,560 in Regional WA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Mount Barker is $635, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Mount Barker, households with mortgages typically spend 25.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Mount Barker is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Mount Barker shows mortgage holders spending 25.6% of income on repayments (vs 22.5% in Regional WA), while renters spend 20.4% of income on rent (vs 16.6% in Regional WA).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Mount Barker consists of 95.7% detached houses, 2.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.3% apartments, and 1.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Mount Barker consumes approximately 13.3% of median household income ($4,780 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Mount Barker show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 4% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 96% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Health performance in Mount Barker 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 | 47.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 12th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.1% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.5% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
Around 47.5% of people in the suburb of Mount Barker are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.4% in Regional WA.
In the suburb of Mount Barker, 6.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Regional WA require similar assistance.
7.9% of people in the suburb of Mount Barker are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.2% of the population across Regional WA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the suburb of Mount Barker population, while in Regional WA, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.1% of people in the suburb of Mount Barker have heart disease. Across Regional WA,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Mount Barker, 47.5% 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 | 25 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 25th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 1 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 1st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 24 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 4th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 3,090 | 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 | 1.7 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 1 public transport stops within the suburb of Mount Barker.
The suburb of Mount Barker has 24 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 3 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 839 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 3.1 km away and the nearest supermarket 3.2 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 1 stop nearby, 24 weekly trips, access rating 25 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 21 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 21st percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 3.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 3.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 45.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 46.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 49.5 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 2 long day care centres with 48 places in Mount Barker (WA), about 2.9 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 Mount Barker (WA) 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 Mount Barker (WA).
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Mount Barker when compared nationally.
Mount Barker has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 8th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Mount Barker (WA) is $500 a week, +21.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Mount Barker has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Mount Barker hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 7% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.8%, Mount Barker has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally.
Mount Barker faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Mount Barker features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
In terms of cultural diversity, Mount Barker records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Mount Barker is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Mount Barker is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable 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.
Mount Barker (WA) has an estimated 3,119 residents, up 9.2% since the 2021 Census, with 26 projects tracked in the area around Mount Barker (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 Mount Barker (WA).
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 (SAL51004). 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 Mount Barker (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 Mount Barker (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.
