Suburb profile · Rest of WA
Northam has an estimated 7,556 residents, up 13.1% since the 2021 Census, with 26 projects tracked in the area around Northam.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 84 kilometres east-northeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Northam offers a relaxed lifestyle celebrated for its rolling hills, fertile valleys, sparkling rivers, and rich historical heritage. Known for its charming historic architecture, bustling local markets, active arts scene, and diverse Avon Valley flora and fauna, the area serves as an appealing destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat. As of Aug 2026, Northam's population is estimated at around 7,556 based on AreaSearch analysis of annual SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly national address updates. This reflects a moderate expansion of 877 people (13.1%) since the 2021 Census, which documented 6,679 residents.
Demographically, the community is characterised by somewhat older residents, with a median age 42, alongside lower average education levels and an above-average number of children per family.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 84 kilometres east-northeast from Perth CBD, the suburb of Northam offers a relaxed lifestyle celebrated for its rolling hills, fertile valleys, sparkling rivers, and rich historical heritage. Known for its charming historic architecture, bustling local markets, active arts scene, and diverse Avon Valley flora and fauna, the area serves as an appealing destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat. As of Aug 2026, Northam's population is estimated at around 7,556 based on AreaSearch analysis of annual SA2-level ERP releases and quarterly national address updates. This reflects a moderate expansion of 877 people (13.1%) since the 2021 Census, which documented 6,679 residents.
Demographically, the community is characterised by somewhat older residents, with a median age 42, alongside lower average education levels and an above-average number of children per family.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,347 in 2006 and 7,425 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,556 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 13.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.2%.
Northam ranks in the 74th percentile nationally for development activity and the 60th for amenities.
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 Northam is $538 a week, up 12.0% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 19% below Regional WA.
19% below Regional WA on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $538 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +12.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Wheat Belt - North | $497 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Wheat Belt - North, 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 3 tracked applications: 2 approved, 1 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 26 projects in and around Northam, 7 of them under construction.
Proposed green hydrogen production plant and solar farm expansion near Northam. The project proposes a 10 MW electrolyser plant using power from the existing Northam Solar Farm and up to 13 MW of additional solar panels, producing about 4 tonnes of gaseous hydrogen per day for light and heavy vehicle transport.
Redevelopment of the Northam Boulevard shopping centre into a regional retail and community hub, incorporating over 2200 solar panels generating 40% of its electricity, merging with Northam Arcade, and featuring anchors Woolworths and Kmart plus over 22 specialty stores.
EastLink WA is a long-term corridor project that will provide a safer and more efficient route between Perth and Northam. Planning and development for the full corridor has been completed, including the Ultimate Design Concept and land protection requirements.
A proposed master-planned townsite with approximately 1,500 lots. The project aims to create a sustainable land development with services including roads, water, sewer, telecommunications, and power. The land is currently for sale and seeking a developer.
Residential land estate in the Bullsbrook foothills with views to the Perth hills and sunset coast, developed across two stages totalling approximately 22 hectares and around 187 lots. Lots ranged from family sized blocks to smaller downsizer options, with house and land packages marketed via local builders.
Upgrades to the Gidgegannup Showgrounds including the hall, Burgo's bar, paving, car park, toilets, and arena. The project also includes a new sports pavilion, an advanced skate park, and remodelled BMX jumps.
The Gidgegannup Showgrounds is a significant community asset. The Showgrounds playspace will be renewed by 2024. This project is for the public art component of the renewal.
Master-planned residential estate delivering 2,500 single residential lots over approximately 14 years in Bullsbrook, north-east of Perth. The estate features retained natural bushland, the Ki-it Monger Brook creek corridor, elevated homesites with Darling Scarp views, and 41ha of public open space.
Multi-stage residential development by DJ MacCormick. Stage 5 recently released with blocks 325-450sqm, prices from $171k. Walking distance to Bullsbrook College, new daycare centre nearby.
71 million dollar infrastructure project creating 4.3km connection between Great Northern Highway and Tonkin Highway. Features bridge over Ellen Brook, rail crossing with boom gates, T-intersections and roundabout.
Masterplan for new district-level community infrastructure including open space, community centre facilities, sports fields, and recreational amenities to accommodate the growing Bullsbrook community. Construction is anticipated to commence between 2027 and 2030.
Private residential estate in Perth's foothills, 25 minutes to Perth Airport. Limited land available with easy access to NorthLink Highway connecting to Perth CBD. Close to schools, library, and local amenities.
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 12 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 1, 2027 4, 2028 2, 2029 1, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1, 2036 1. 5 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 3 substantial development applications lodged in and around Northam over the period covered (about 1.4 years), 1 in the last 12 months; 1 is recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Key application Lots 189 - 195 (No. 135 - No. 155) Wellington Street East, Northam $60m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.4 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 70th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 43 | ABS building approvals | 54th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.4 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.4 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Northam include: Northam Hydrogen Plant - MEG HP1 (Under Assessment) and Avon Industrial Park (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Key infrastructure sectors impacting the suburb of Northam include Energy and Business Parks & Technology Hubs.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Northam currently ranks below national averages at the 23rd percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Northam among the top 26% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Northam area has seen 91 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Northam's current population of 7,556 has been supported by 43 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Northam has seen 6.1 approval 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 161 people in the suburb of Northam, 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 Northam's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 43, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Northam has grown by approximately 610 people, while 215 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.8 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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Northam reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,556 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 282 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,679 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 877 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 26.78 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Northam was estimated to be approximately 7,556 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,425 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Northam has added approximately 877 people and shown a 13.13% increase from the 6,679 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Northam is estimated at 282 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Northam has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.9% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Northam is driven by: Interstate migration (75.0%), Overseas migration (23.0%), Natural increase (2.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 75.0% of overall population gains.
Northam's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 41 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 21.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 19.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.3% | 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 | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Northam at 41 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 41 years as at August 2026, Northam is comparable to the Regional WA 2021 Census average (40 years) and 3 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 Northam compared to the Regional WA region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 12.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Northam compared to the Regional WA region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 12.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Northam show significant variance compared to Regional WA. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (2.9% vs 2.0%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 19.6% of the population in the suburb of Northam as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.1% of the population in the suburb of Northam as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $58,459 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 47th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $71,045 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,246 | 2021 Census, weekly | 16th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $653 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 12.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,574 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 33.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Northam is approximately $62,575. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $58,459.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Northam is approximately $76,047. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $71,045.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Northam is approximately $62,575 compared to $67,299 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,459 and $62,873 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Northam is approximately $76,047 compared to $83,842 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $71,045 and $78,328 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Northam's households (~29.2% / 725 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Northam is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.2% 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 Northam is $1,246/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Northam is $1,574/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Northam is $653/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Northam's median income among taxpayers is $58,459, with an average of $71,045. This is in line with the national averages, and compares to Regional WA's median of $62,873 and average of $78,328. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $62,575 (median) and $76,047 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Northam is $4,639 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Northam's disposable income is $4,639 compared to $6,025 for Regional WA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market performance in Northam lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 57.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,259 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 5,940 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,443 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Northam has approximately 3,259 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.3%. 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 Northam stands at 5.3%, which is 1.8 percentage points above Regional WA's rate of 3.5%. 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 Northam is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.4% of employment), retail trade (12.7%), and education & training (9.7%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Northam 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 Northam is 57.4%, 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 Northam shows notable specialisation in retail trade, which employs 12.7% of the local workforce compared to 8.6% across Regional WA. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the 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 Northam'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.
Northam 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 | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.2% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 47.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.2% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
13.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Northam have university qualifications, compared to 17.6% in Regional WA.
47.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Northam have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.5% in Regional WA.
The suburb of Northam ranks in the 11th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Northam are: Certificate (30.5%), Bachelor Degree (9.4%), Advanced Diploma (8.2%).
30.5% of the population in the suburb of Northam is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.3% in primary school, 10.2% in secondary school, 1.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Northam is 895, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 8 schools within the suburb of Northam, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,998 students.
The suburb of Northam includes 4 primary schools, 2 secondary schools, 2 combined schools.
Northam features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.0% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,484 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,810 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 65.1% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.1 per family | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Northam had 2,484 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.1% to an estimated 2,810 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Northam is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional WA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 65.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.0%), group households (2.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,617 family households, couples with children account for 21.9% of all households, couples without children at home 28.1%, and single parent families 14.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional WA, the suburb of Northam 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 Northam have an average of 2.1 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 40.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.0% have never married. This compares to 46.4% married and 35.8% never married across Regional WA.
Single-person households represent 32.0% of all households in the suburb of Northam, 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 2.9% of households, in line with the Regional WA average of 2.8%.
Northam ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 16.5% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.2% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.3% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.5% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 6.1% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
Northam was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.3% of its population being citizens, 83.5% born in Australia, and 92.2% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Northam was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.7% of people in Northam. This compares to 44.6% across Regional WA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Northam are English, comprising 30.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.5% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 6.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Polish is notably overrepresented at 1.6% of Northam (vs 0.5% across Regional WA), Australian Aboriginal at 6.1% (vs 6.1%) and Dutch at 1.5% (vs 1.5%).
16.5% of the suburb of Northam population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional WA.
7.8% of the population in the suburb of Northam speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.7% in Regional WA.
6.1% of the suburb of Northam population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 6.1% in Regional WA.
84.3% of the suburb of Northam population holds citizenship, compared to 82.8% in Regional WA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Northam 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 | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 36.3% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 92.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 20th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 32.8% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $250 | 2021 Census, weekly | 14th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 24.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 51st percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Northam, 36.3% of homes are owned outright, 32.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 92.8% of dwellings in the suburb of Northam are houses.
In the suburb of Northam, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 5.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Northam stands at 36.3%, compared to 34.1% in Regional WA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Northam is $1,300, compared to $1,560 in Regional WA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Northam is $760, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Northam, households with mortgages typically spend 24.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Northam is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Northam shows mortgage holders spending 24.1% of income on repayments (vs 22.5% in Regional WA), while renters spend 20.1% of income on rent (vs 16.6% in Regional WA).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Northam consists of 92.8% detached houses, 5.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 1.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Northam consumes approximately 14.1% of median household income ($5,395 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Northam show attached dwellings contributing 2% of approvals compared to 7% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 98% of applications versus 93% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Northam 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 | 53.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 50th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.3% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.4% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Around 53.5% of people in the suburb of Northam are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.4% in Regional WA.
In the suburb of Northam, 7.2% 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 Northam are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.2% of the population across Regional WA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 7.0% of the suburb of Northam population, while in Regional WA, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.7% of people in the suburb of Northam have heart disease. Across Regional WA,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Northam, 53.5% 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 | 32 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 3 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 29 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 5th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 2,545 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 5 | 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 | 4.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 3 public transport stops within the suburb of Northam.
The suburb of Northam has 29 weekly trips across 5 routes, averaging 4 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 1454 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 631 m away and the nearest GP 994 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 3 stops nearby, 29 weekly trips, access rating 32 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 60 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 60th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 631 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 994 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.8 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 2 long day care centres with 120 places in Northam, about 3.6 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Northam 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 Northam.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Northam among the top 26% of areas assessed nationwide.
Northam has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 23rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Northam is $538 a week, +12.0% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Northam reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Northam's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
The labour market performance in Northam lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
Northam faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Northam features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
Northam ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Northam is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Northam 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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Northam has an estimated 7,556 residents, up 13.1% since the 2021 Census, with 26 projects tracked in the area around Northam.
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 Northam.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to May 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 (SAL51157). 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 (May 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 Northam 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 Northam 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.
