Suburb profile · Greater Darwin
Nightcliff has an estimated 4,343 residents, up 11.8% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in the area around Nightcliff.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 8.7 kilometres north of the Darwin CBD, the suburb of Nightcliff is a picturesque coastal area in NT, Australia, known for its beaches, vibrant sunsets, lush parklands and rich cultural heritage. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 4,343 as of Aug 2026. That estimate is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP (Estimated Resident Population) counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This reflects an increase of 459 people (11.8%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 3,884 people. Its residents include a high proportion of children and young adults, and its working-age population is made up largely of group households. Educational attainment is above average, incomes are high, and population growth follows a moderate pattern.
Nightcliff is a family-friendly suburb with a strong sense of community. Recreational highlights include the Nightcliff Jetty, an ideal spot for fishing and observing marine life, and the Nightcliff Foreshore, which is popular for picnics and outdoor activities.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 8.7 kilometres north of the Darwin CBD, the suburb of Nightcliff is a picturesque coastal area in NT, Australia, known for its beaches, vibrant sunsets, lush parklands and rich cultural heritage. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 4,343 as of Aug 2026. That estimate is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP (Estimated Resident Population) counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This reflects an increase of 459 people (11.8%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 3,884 people. Its residents include a high proportion of children and young adults, and its working-age population is made up largely of group households. Educational attainment is above average, incomes are high, and population growth follows a moderate pattern.
Nightcliff is a family-friendly suburb with a strong sense of community. Recreational highlights include the Nightcliff Jetty, an ideal spot for fishing and observing marine life, and the Nightcliff Foreshore, which is popular for picnics and outdoor activities.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,680 in 2006 and 4,343 in 2025. The Aug 2026 estimate (ABS June 2025 base) is the same.
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 23%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 36.4%.
Nightcliff ranks in the 83rd percentile nationally for income and the 82nd for health.
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.
AreaSearch tracks 13 projects in and around Nightcliff, 5 of them under construction.
The Australian Government committed $50 million to deliver up to 100 new social and accessible homes across the Northern Territory under the Social Housing Accelerator Payment (SHAP). The NT Government is delivering the program, with homes built to adaptable standards to suit seniors and people with mobility issues.
The John Stokes Square redevelopment in Nightcliff has transformed an aging public housing estate into a mixed use social housing and community precinct.
Road safety upgrade funded through the Australian Government Black Spot Program and delivered by City of Darwin. Works include reconstruction of the pedestrian refuge island, new traffic islands, separation of left and right turn lanes on Fitzer Drive, new road pavement, and relocation of a light pole to improve the right turn from Dick Ward Drive.
Sea Breeze is a six storey residential and commercial development on the corner of Progress Drive and Dick Ward Drive in Coconut Grove, on the fringe of the Nightcliff Commercial Precinct in Darwin.
Construction of a new three-storey mental health inpatient facility providing acute inpatient beds and a Stabilisation Assessment and Referral Area (SARA). The facility connects to the Emergency Department via an elevated enclosed walkway, with internal fitouts currently progressing toward completion.
4800m2 of deck Formwork and concrete placement to 5 storey High rise apartment block.
Established residential enclave in Ludmilla, Darwin, centered around May Street and known locally as the Calma Gardens estate. The place name was registered on 18 September 1985.
A new $26.8 million aquatic and leisure centre in Casuarina, featuring an 8-lane 50m pool, a resort-style lagoon pool, a learn-to-swim pool, wet and dry play areas, a cafe, BBQ facilities, a gymnasium, and a basketball 3-on-3 court. The project was funded by the City of Darwin and the Australian Government.
NT Government revitalised Richardson Park into a community sports and recreation precinct with two multi-purpose playing fields, shared path with lighting, picnic shelters and barbecue areas, new access road to Ludmilla Primary School and amenities including change rooms, toilets, storage, outdoor gym and playground.
Construction of approximately 430 metres of replacement DN150 DICL water main in Edgeview Court, Leanyer, including decommissioning and removal of the existing asbestos water main.
City of Darwin is delivering the Nightcliff Village Masterplan through staged public realm upgrades to revitalise the village centre. Stage 1 streetscape beautification was completed in November 2024, including upgraded pedestrian access, new trees, lighting, stormwater improvements, public art and laneway enhancements.
A conceptual master plan by Rossi Architects for the redevelopment of the Nightcliff Sports Club precinct in Darwin's northern suburbs. The club is home to lawn bowls greens, a bistro, bars and gaming facilities, and supports affiliated Darwin sporting clubs including Nightcliff Bowls, Nightcliff Football (Tigers), Nightcliff Cricket, Nightcliff Netball and…
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 4 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 3, 2027 0, 2028 1. 3 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 0.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 10th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 4 | ABS building approvals | 10th percentile nationally |
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Nightcliff area has seen 6 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Nightcliff's current population of 4,343 has been supported by 4 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Nightcliff has seen 0.9 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 2.6 approvals in Greater Darwin. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 1436 people in the suburb of Nightcliff, compared to one for every 339 in Greater Darwin.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Nightcliff's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 4, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Nightcliff has grown by approximately 236 people, while 18 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 13.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Nightcliff include: Nightcliff Village Masterplan (Construction); Social Housing Accelerator Payment (SHAP) - Greater Darwin / Nightcliff (Construction); Nightcliff Sports Club Master Plan (Planning); John Stokes Square Redevelopment (Completed); and Sea Breeze Apartments (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Nightcliff spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Communities, and Health & Medical, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Nightcliff currently ranks below national averages at the 14th percentile.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Nightcliff reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,343 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +11.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,993 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 84th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,884 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 459 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.45 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Nightcliff was estimated to be approximately 4,343 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,343 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Nightcliff has added approximately 459 people and shown a 11.82% increase from the 3,884 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Nightcliff is estimated at 2,995 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Nightcliff has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.5% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Nightcliff is driven by: Overseas migration (59.0%), Natural increase (41.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 59.0% of overall population gains.
Nightcliff hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 34 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 18th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 32.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 61.0% | 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 | 34 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 23.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 18.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Nightcliff at 34 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 34 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Nightcliff is equal to the Greater Darwin 2021 Census average and 4 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Nightcliff compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 23.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Nightcliff compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 9.0% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Nightcliff is broadly in line with Greater Darwin.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.3% of the population in the suburb of Nightcliff as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 12.3% of the population in the suburb of Nightcliff as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 83% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $76,101 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $90,498 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,051 | 2021 Census, weekly | 68th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,203 | 2021 Census, weekly | 91st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 30.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,430 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 13.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Nightcliff is approximately $80,819. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $76,101.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Nightcliff is approximately $96,109. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $90,498.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Nightcliff is approximately $80,819 compared to $74,514 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $76,101 and $70,164 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Nightcliff is approximately $96,109 compared to $86,622 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $90,498 and $81,565 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Nightcliff's households (~36.4% / 554 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Nightcliff is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.4% of households. In comparison, Greater Darwin's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 36.7% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Nightcliff is $2,051/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Nightcliff is $2,430/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Nightcliff is $1,203/wk.
The suburb of Nightcliff's income level is among the highest in Australia according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Nightcliff's median income among taxpayers is $76,101 and the average income stands at $90,498, which compares to figures for Greater Darwin's of $70,164 and $81,565 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.2% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $80,819 (median) and $96,109 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Nightcliff is $7,559 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Nightcliff's disposable income is $7,559 compared to $8,044 for Greater Darwin, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market in Nightcliff shows considerable strength compared to most other Australian regions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 75.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,624 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,367 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,702 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Nightcliff has approximately 2,624 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.9%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Nightcliff stands at 2.9%, which is 0.6 percentage points below Greater Darwin's rate of 3.5%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Nightcliff is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (23.1% of employment), public administration & safety (17.6%), and education & training (9.7%). These three sectors alone account for 50.4% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include professional & technical and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Nightcliff has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Darwin saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Nightcliff is 75.6%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Darwin average of 72.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Nightcliff shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 23.1% of the local workforce compared to 14.2% across Greater Darwin. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The suburb of Nightcliff's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 12.8% decline, ranking 37th out of 37 regions nationally.
Nightcliff 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 | 28.7% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 17.5% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 51.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 16.1% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 24.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
51.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Nightcliff have university qualifications, compared to 31.3% in Greater Darwin.
24.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Nightcliff have no formal qualifications, compared to 32.6% in Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Nightcliff ranks in the 78th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Nightcliff are: Bachelor Degree (28.7%), Postgraduate (17.5%), Certificate (16.1%).
32.6% of the population in the suburb of Nightcliff is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.6% in primary school, 6.4% in secondary school, 10.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Nightcliff is 1070, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Nightcliff, with a combined enrollment of approximately 505 students.
The suburb of Nightcliff includes 1 primary school.
Nightcliff features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Darwin.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 26.1% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.3% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.1% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,522 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,702 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 60.9% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.1 per family | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Nightcliff had 1,522 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 11.8% to an estimated 1,702 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Nightcliff is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Darwin and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 60.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.8%), group households (7.9%), and other household types (0.3%).
Of the 927 family households, couples with children account for 26.1% of all households, couples without children at home 25.3%, and single parent families 8.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Darwin, the suburb of Nightcliff shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 30.8% (versus 23.4% in Greater Darwin). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 60.9% compared to 71.0% in Greater Darwin. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Nightcliff have an average of 1.1 children, slightly below the Greater Darwin average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 42.8% have never married. This compares to 42.3% married and 43.1% never married across Greater Darwin.
Single-person households represent 30.8% of all households in the suburb of Nightcliff, higher than the average for Greater Darwin of 23.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 7.9% of households, above the Greater Darwin average of 5.6%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Nightcliff was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 37.2% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 32.7% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 67.3% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 72.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 62.8% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
Nightcliff scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 37.2% of its population born overseas and 32.7% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Nightcliff, at 35.9% of people, although more residents (43.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 9.5% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Darwin average of 4.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Nightcliff are English, comprising 21.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 18.8% of the population, and Other, comprising 16.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Filipino is notably overrepresented at 3.1% of Nightcliff (vs 3.8% across Greater Darwin), Greek at 3.6% (vs 2.3%) and Indian at 4.0% (vs 2.2%).
37.2% of the suburb of Nightcliff population was born overseas, compared to 30.3% across Greater Darwin.
32.7% of the population in the suburb of Nightcliff speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 26.1% in Greater Darwin.
3.6% of the suburb of Nightcliff population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 7.0% in Greater Darwin.
72.9% of the suburb of Nightcliff population holds citizenship, compared to 77.8% in Greater Darwin.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Nightcliff features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 55.1% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 55.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,972 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 59th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 25.0% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 9.0% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 44th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 17.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 16th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 33rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Nightcliff, 19.9% of homes are owned outright, 25.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 55.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 35.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Nightcliff are houses.
In the suburb of Nightcliff, 55.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 9.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Nightcliff stands at 19.9%, compared to 17.9% in Greater Darwin.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Nightcliff is $1,972, compared to $2,100 in Greater Darwin.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Nightcliff is $1,328, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Nightcliff, households with mortgages typically spend 22.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Nightcliff is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Nightcliff shows mortgage holders spending 22.2% of income on repayments (vs 21.9% in Greater Darwin), while renters spend 17.1% of income on rent (vs 17.4% in Greater Darwin).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Nightcliff consists of 35.9% detached houses, 9.0% semi-detached dwellings, 55.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Nightcliff consumes approximately 15.0% of median household income ($8,881 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Nightcliff's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 60.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 81st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 78.3% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 82.7% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
Around 60.9% of people in the suburb of Nightcliff are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 58.1% in Greater Darwin.
In the suburb of Nightcliff, 2.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 3.7% of people in Greater Darwin require similar assistance.
6.0% of people in the suburb of Nightcliff are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.1% of the population across Greater Darwin is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.2% of the suburb of Nightcliff population, while in Greater Darwin, 3.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.0% of people in the suburb of Nightcliff have heart disease. Across Greater Darwin,2.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Nightcliff, 60.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Darwin sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 58.1%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 57 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 57th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 11 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 11th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,063 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 36th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 395 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 19 | 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 | 4.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 11 public transport stops within the suburb of Nightcliff.
The suburb of Nightcliff has 1,063 weekly trips across 19 routes, averaging 151 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 210 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 287 m away and the nearest school 585 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 11 stops nearby, 1,063 weekly trips, access rating 57 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 3 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 287 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 578 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 581 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 585 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 751 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 792 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.8 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 239 places in Nightcliff, about 1.3 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 Nightcliff 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 Nightcliff.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Nightcliff compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Nightcliff has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 14th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Nightcliff reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Nightcliff hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 83% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The labour market in Nightcliff shows considerable strength compared to most other Australian regions.
Nightcliff shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Nightcliff features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Darwin.
Nightcliff was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Nightcliff features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Nightcliff's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Nightcliff has an estimated 4,343 residents, up 11.8% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in the area around Nightcliff.
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 Nightcliff.
Data currency
Refreshed . Population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 2026. Housing 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 (SAL70210). 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 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, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Nightcliff 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 Nightcliff 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.
