Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Murdoch has an estimated 3,925 residents, up 17.1% since the 2021 Census, with 24 projects tracked in the area around Murdoch.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Positioned 13 kilometres south from Perth CBD, the suburb of Murdoch is an established Western Australian locality celebrated for its appealing mix of residential neighbourhoods, commercial amenities, green open spaces, and reputable local schools. As of Aug 2026, the Estimated Resident Population (ERP) for the area is estimated at approximately 3,925 people, reflecting an expansion of 573 people (17.1%) from the 3,352 residents recorded at the 2021 Census. This growth trajectory is underpinned by above-average population drivers and development momentum, with ongoing updates informed by annual SA2-level ERP releases alongside quarterly address updates that capture 76 validated new addresses post-Census.
Demographically, the community is distinguished by its high share of residents born overseas and a distinct generational profile that includes a notable proportion 15 to 24yo, alongside a significant base of older australiansandelderly residents living primarily as couples without children and group households.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Positioned 13 kilometres south from Perth CBD, the suburb of Murdoch is an established Western Australian locality celebrated for its appealing mix of residential neighbourhoods, commercial amenities, green open spaces, and reputable local schools. As of Aug 2026, the Estimated Resident Population (ERP) for the area is estimated at approximately 3,925 people, reflecting an expansion of 573 people (17.1%) from the 3,352 residents recorded at the 2021 Census. This growth trajectory is underpinned by above-average population drivers and development momentum, with ongoing updates informed by annual SA2-level ERP releases alongside quarterly address updates that capture 76 validated new addresses post-Census.
Demographically, the community is distinguished by its high share of residents born overseas and a distinct generational profile that includes a notable proportion 15 to 24yo, alongside a significant base of older australiansandelderly residents living primarily as couples without children and group households.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,110 in 2006 and 3,924 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,925 (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, 24.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 26%.
Murdoch ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 83rd for cultural diversity.
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 Murdoch is $740 a week, up 28.7% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 2% above Greater Perth.
2% above Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $740 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +28.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Melville | $818 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Melville, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South West | $717 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 - South West, over 12 months | +6.4% | 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 11 tracked applications: 10 approved, 0 under assessment, 1 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 24 projects in and around Murdoch, 7 of them under construction.
A $1.8 billion WA Government project delivering a new 274-bed Women and Babies Hospital at 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, within the Fiona Stanley Hospital precinct. It will replace King Edward Memorial Hospital and provide maternity, gynaecology and neonatal services.
A 9.6-hectare health, education, research, housing and mixed-use precinct beside Fiona Stanley Hospital, St John of God Murdoch Hospital, Murdoch University and Murdoch Station, delivered by DevelopmentWA in two stages. Murdoch Square opened in 2024 with healthcare, aged care, a medi-hotel, offices, retail and public space.
Rise@Murdoch is a 213-apartment build-to-rent development on Lot 121 within the Murdoch Health and Knowledge Precinct, delivering 65 social housing homes and 148 affordable rental homes plus ground-floor retail and office space.
Installation of new traffic signals, on-road bicycle lanes, pedestrian path and crossing facilities to improve safety at the boundary intersection jointly managed by the Cities of Melville and Cockburn.
Boola Katitjin is Murdoch University's completed academic building and the largest mass-engineered timber project in Western Australia. It accommodates 60 percent of the university's teaching requirements and achieved a 6-star Green Star rating, featuring 21 large teaching spaces and immersive technology-enabled labs.
Boutique house and land estate by Yolk Property Group overlooking Alan Edwards Park and near Frank Cann parkland. Civil works and home builds are underway with most lots sold and a small number of park front survey strata lots and turnkey homes still available. Close to Murdoch University, Fiona Stanley Hospital and the Kardinya Park shopping precinct.
Murdoch Private will be an integrated hospital with world-class theatres supported by comfortable short stay in-patient beds.
Modular transportable homes designed for social and affordable housing with minimal environmental impact, complemented by skills training programs for unemployed and vulnerable individuals. The project is coordinated from the headquarters in Booragoon, WA.
A major infrastructure planning initiative to upgrade Perth's busiest suburban train station outside the CBD to accommodate rapid growth within the Murdoch Specialised Activity Centre.
Glen Iris Estate is a new master-planned residential neighbourhood in Jandakot, developed on the former Glen Iris golf course by Eastcourt Property Group. The estate features around 500 planned residential dwellings, leafy streetscapes, and abundant green spaces covering 25% of the total site.
Needs analysis and feasibility review for the nearly 40-year-old Leeming Recreation Centre, which is nearing the end of its operational lifespan with parts no longer meeting current industry standards. PAATSCH Group was appointed to assess community infrastructure needs, explore commercial opportunities, and evaluate options for the facility's future.
Refurbishment and expansion of the sports building at Karoonda Reserve to enhance local sports infrastructure and support growing female participation. The $1.37 million project delivered universal and gender-neutral access to toilets, showers, and changerooms, alongside a new umpires' room and additional storerooms.
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 2, 2029 1, 2030 1, 2031 2, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 2 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 11 substantial development applications lodged in and around Murdoch over the past 5 years, 5 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 0, 2023 0, 2024 3, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 4.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 56th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 17 | ABS building approvals | 30th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Murdoch include: Orthonova Orthopaedic Hospital (Construction); New Women and Babies Hospital (Fiona Stanley Hospital Precinct) (Construction); North Lake Road - Winterfold Road Intersection Upgrade (Construction); Kardinya District Centre Precinct Structure Plan (Approved); and Murdoch University Boola Katitjin (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Murdoch spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Health & Medical, and Education & Training, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Murdoch currently ranks below national averages at the 38th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Murdoch among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Murdoch area has seen 85 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Murdoch's current population of 3,925 has been supported by 17 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Murdoch has seen 4.5 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 91 people in the suburb of Murdoch, 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 Murdoch's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 17, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Murdoch has grown by approximately 382 people, while 85 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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 Murdoch reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,925 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +17.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 921 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 50th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.1% | 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 | 3,352 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 573 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +4.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 4.26 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Murdoch was estimated to be approximately 3,925 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,924 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Murdoch has added approximately 573 people and shown a 17.09% increase from the 3,352 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Murdoch is estimated at 921 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Murdoch has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Murdoch is driven by: Overseas migration (95.0%), Natural increase (5.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 95.0% of overall population gains.
Murdoch hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 32.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 38.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 34.7% | 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 | 43 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 24.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 6.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Murdoch at 42 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 43 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Murdoch is 5 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 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 Murdoch compared to the Greater Perth region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 24.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Murdoch compared to the Greater Perth region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 5.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Murdoch show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (8.9% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (12.7% vs 5.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 0-4 year-olds (2.4% vs 5.5%) and 5-14 year-olds (5.9% vs 12.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 8.3% of the population in the suburb of Murdoch as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 32.7% of the population in the suburb of Murdoch as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,678 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $62,489 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,459 | 2021 Census, weekly | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $584 | 2021 Census, weekly | 10th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 22.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,979 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 27.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Murdoch is approximately $51,035. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,678.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Murdoch is approximately $66,888. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $62,489.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Murdoch is approximately $51,035 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,678 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Murdoch is approximately $66,888 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $62,489 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Murdoch's households (~26.1% / 275 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Murdoch is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 26.1% 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 Murdoch is $1,459/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Murdoch is $1,979/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Murdoch is $584/wk.
The suburb of Murdoch shows a median taxpayer income of $47,678 and an average of $62,489 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is lower than average on a national basis, contrasting with Greater Perth's median income of $64,047 and average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $51,035 (median) and $66,888 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Murdoch is $5,391 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Murdoch's disposable income is $5,391 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment drivers in Murdoch are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 14% of areas assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 50.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,730 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 10,957 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,835 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Murdoch has approximately 1,730 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.7%. 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 Murdoch stands at 5.7%, which is 1.5 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 Murdoch is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.6% of employment), retail trade (12.9%), and accommodation & food (11.8%). Other significant employers include education & training and professional & technical.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Murdoch 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, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Murdoch is 50.9%, 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 Murdoch shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 11.8% of the local workforce compared to 6.8% across Greater Perth. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this 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 Murdoch'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.
Murdoch shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 37.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 15.8% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 38.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 23.8% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
37.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Murdoch have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
34.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Murdoch have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of Murdoch ranks in the 80th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Murdoch are: Bachelor Degree (26.0%), Certificate (15.8%), Advanced Diploma (11.6%).
38.2% of the population in the suburb of Murdoch is currently engaged in formal education, including 5.0% in primary school, 5.3% in secondary school, 23.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Murdoch is 1108, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Murdoch, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,232 students.
The suburb of Murdoch includes 2 secondary schools, 2 combined schools.
Murdoch features high concentrations of couples without children and group households but relatively few single parent families, 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 | 26.3% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 34.2% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,055 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,235 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.8% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.4 per family | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Murdoch had 1,055 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 17.1% to an estimated 1,235 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Murdoch is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 68.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.3%), group households (5.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 726 family households, couples with children account for 26.8% of all households, couples without children at home 34.2%, and single parent families 5.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Murdoch shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the suburb of Murdoch have an average of 1.4 children, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.6% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 26.3% of all households in the suburb of Murdoch, 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 5.0% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Murdoch is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 45.0% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 69.0% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 75.9% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 55.0% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
Murdoch scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 31.0% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 45.0% born overseas.
The main religion in Murdoch was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.3% of people in Murdoch. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 5.4% of the population, compared to 2.7% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Murdoch are English, comprising 22.9% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 18.6% of the population, and Chinese, comprising 15.9% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 4.0%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South African is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Murdoch (vs 1.0% across Greater Perth), Sri Lankan at 0.8% (vs 0.2%) and Korean at 0.7% (vs 0.3%).
45.0% of the suburb of Murdoch population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
31.0% of the population in the suburb of Murdoch speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
0.8% of the suburb of Murdoch population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
75.9% of the suburb of Murdoch population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Murdoch 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 | 24.0% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 53.0% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 78.0% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,037 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 68th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 23.0% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $445 | 2021 Census, weekly | 78th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 30.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 32.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 94th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Murdoch, 53.0% of homes are owned outright, 23.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 24.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 78.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Murdoch are houses.
In the suburb of Murdoch, 8.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 14.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Murdoch stands at 53.0%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Murdoch is $2,037, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Murdoch is $931, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Murdoch, households with mortgages typically spend 32.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 30.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Murdoch is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Murdoch shows mortgage holders spending 32.2% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 30.5% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Murdoch consists of 78.0% detached houses, 14.0% semi-detached dwellings, 8.0% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Murdoch consumes approximately 14.7% of median household income ($6,317 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Murdoch show attached dwellings contributing 85% of approvals compared to 22% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 15% of applications versus 78% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
The level of general health in Murdoch is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 30th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.7% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 81.5% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
Around 50.0% of people in the suburb of Murdoch are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Murdoch, 5.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
5.4% of people in the suburb of Murdoch are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.4% of the suburb of Murdoch population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.1% of people in the suburb of Murdoch have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Murdoch, 50.0% 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 high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 97 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 97th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 51 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 7,029 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 88th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 72 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 27 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 51 public transport stops within the suburb of Murdoch.
The suburb of Murdoch has 7,029 weekly trips across 27 routes, averaging 1,004 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 156 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 376 m away and the nearest school 486 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 51 stops nearby, 7,029 weekly trips, access rating 97 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 60 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 60th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 376 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 486 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 533 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 637 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 639 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 913 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 7.2 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 3 long day care centres with 262 places in Murdoch, about 0.6 children aged 0-4 per place.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Murdoch among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
Murdoch has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 38th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Murdoch is $740 a week, +28.7% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Murdoch reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Murdoch hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment drivers in Murdoch are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 14% of areas assessed across Australia.
Murdoch shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Murdoch features high concentrations of couples without children and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
Murdoch is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Murdoch is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
The level of general health in Murdoch is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Murdoch has an estimated 3,925 residents, up 17.1% since the 2021 Census, with 24 projects tracked in the area around Murdoch.
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 Murdoch.
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 (SAL51064). 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 Murdoch 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 Murdoch 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.
