Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Ocean Reef has an estimated 9,008 residents, up 10.9% since the 2021 Census, with 47 projects tracked in the area around Ocean Reef.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Ocean Reef, located 25 kilometres north-northwest of the Perth CBD, is estimated to have around 9,008 residents as of Aug 2026. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, that figure draws on aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts, released yearly, and on national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 8,125 people recorded at the 2021 Census, this reflects an increase of 883 people (10.9%).
The local market shows very low relative development activity, above-average median household income, a high proportion of married families, a well-educated population, strong representation of detached houses, and an exceptionally diverse community with a high overseas-born population. Residents skew toward mature age groups, with family households and couples with children forming the core of the community, and the area records above-average education and high income levels. Population growth follows moderate expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Ocean Reef, located 25 kilometres north-northwest of the Perth CBD, is estimated to have around 9,008 residents as of Aug 2026. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, that figure draws on aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts, released yearly, and on national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 8,125 people recorded at the 2021 Census, this reflects an increase of 883 people (10.9%).
The local market shows very low relative development activity, above-average median household income, a high proportion of married families, a well-educated population, strong representation of detached houses, and an exceptionally diverse community with a high overseas-born population. Residents skew toward mature age groups, with family households and couples with children forming the core of the community, and the area records above-average education and high income levels. Population growth follows moderate expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 8,434 in 2006 and 8,985 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 9,008 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.7%.
Ocean Reef ranks in the 90th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 90th 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.
The median rent in Ocean Reef is $1,015 a week, up 6.8% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 40% above Greater Perth.
40% above Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $1,015 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Joondalup | $830 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Joondalup, over 12 months | +6.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - North West | $760 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 - North West, over 12 months | +7.7% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 47 projects in and around Ocean Reef, 12 of them under construction.
Program of classroom refurbishment and facilities upgrades at Ocean Reef Primary School, a K-6 government primary school on Kaufman Avenue, to support modernised teaching spaces and resurfaced outdoor sports courts for the growing Ocean Reef community.
A major waterfront precinct being delivered by DevelopmentWA at Ocean Reef Boat Harbour on Perth's northern coast. Recent milestones include new boat ramps, and the relocated Marine Rescue Whitfords and Ocean Reef Sea Sports Club headquarters opened in May 2026.
Proposed major refurbishment and expansion of the Currambine Community Centre and Library to deliver enhanced community facilities including upgraded meeting rooms, youth spaces, and library services.
The project involves the proposed expansion of the existing Iluka Plaza neighbourhood centre. Current planning activity in 2026 focuses on a State Administrative Tribunal reconsideration for a 'Small Bar' (Bar Ole) addition, including a new 27m2 alfresco area and retrospective storage facilities.
Final stage of the Beaumaris and Ocean Reef masterplanned coastal community, delivering about 120 premium house and land lots with local parkland, beach access and proximity to the future Ocean Reef Marina.
Premium coastal residential estate in Iluka by LWP Property Group, offering a limited number of elevated ocean view lots directly south of Ocean Reef and close to local parks, schools and the planned Ocean Reef Marina.
A major 307.9 million dollar expansion of Joondalup Health Campus jointly funded by the Western Australian State Government (149.9 million) and the Australian Government (158 million).
A major redevelopment of the Burns Beach foreshore by the City of Joondalup, featuring a family-friendly restaurant/cafe with garden alfresco dining, a larger inclusive playground with nature-based elements, enhanced park facilities, new public toilets, additional parking bays, and improved accessibility.
Proposed mixed-use development combining residential apartments with commercial/retail spaces. Designed to complement local character while providing modern housing options and business opportunities.
First stage residential development within Ocean Reef Marina precinct. Features 68 premium residential lots and 3 apartment sites with waterfront access, coastal lifestyle amenities, and integrated community facilities.
Redevelopment of the ageing Heathridge Park precinct, which includes the Heathridge Community Centre, library, clubrooms and sporting ovals used by more than 40 local sporting and community groups. In December 2024 the City of Joondalup Council endorsed a masterplan following community consultation on two concept design options carried out in mid-2024.
Proposed state-of-the-art performing arts venue planned for Lot 1001 Teakle Court in the Joondalup City Centre. The proposed facility is designed to feature primary theatre auditoriums, rehearsal spaces, and cultural exhibition galleries serving as a premier arts and entertainment hub for northern metropolitan Perth.
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 22 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 6, 2027 6, 2028 4, 2029 1, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 5 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 1 substantial development application lodged in and around Ocean Reef over the period covered (about 0.7 years). Coverage varies by council.
Status of the 1 tracked applications: 1 approved, 0 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.7 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 13th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 11 | ABS building approvals | 21st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.7 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Ocean Reef include: Northern Suburbs Wastewater Network Extension (Construction); Ocean Reef Primary School Expansion (Construction); Ocean Reef Marina Development (Construction); Ocean Reef Marina Redevelopment (Construction); and 82 Marina Boulevard Commercial Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Ocean Reef spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Sports & Recreation, and Residential Development, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Ocean Reef compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Ocean Reef area has seen 19 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Ocean Reef's current population of 9,008 has been supported by 11 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Ocean Reef has seen 1.2 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 937 people in the suburb of Ocean Reef, 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 Ocean Reef's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 11, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Ocean Reef has grown by approximately 698 people, while 53 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 13.2 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 Ocean Reef reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 9,008 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +10.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,711 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 65th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 8,125 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 883 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5.26 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Ocean Reef was estimated to be approximately 9,008 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,985 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Ocean Reef has added approximately 883 people and shown a 10.87% increase from the 8,125 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Ocean Reef is estimated at 1,713 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Ocean Reef has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.7% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Ocean Reef is driven by: Overseas migration (85.0%), Natural increase (15.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 85.0% of overall population gains.
Ocean Reef hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 44 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 76th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.8% | 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 | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Ocean Reef at 44 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Ocean Reef is 7 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 6 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 Ocean Reef compared to the Greater Perth region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 15.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Ocean Reef compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Ocean Reef show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 55-64 year-olds (15.2% vs 10.6%) and 65-74 year-olds (12.0% vs 8.5%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (7.3% vs 15.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.2% of the population in the suburb of Ocean Reef as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.2% of the population in the suburb of Ocean Reef 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) | $64,396 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 70th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $82,621 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,480 | 2021 Census, weekly | 90th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $906 | 2021 Census, weekly | 68th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 40.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,759 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 15.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Ocean Reef is approximately $68,929. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,396.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Ocean Reef is approximately $88,438. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $82,621.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Ocean Reef is approximately $68,929 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,396 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Ocean Reef is approximately $88,438 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $82,621 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Ocean Reef's households (~28.7% / 775 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Ocean Reef is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.7% 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 Ocean Reef is $2,480/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Ocean Reef is $2,759/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Ocean Reef is $906/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Ocean Reef's median income among taxpayers is $64,396, with an average of $82,621. This is very high nationally, and compares to Greater Perth's median of $64,047 and average of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $68,929 (median) and $88,438 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Ocean Reef is $9,439 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Ocean Reef's disposable income is $9,439 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Ocean Reef rank among the top 10% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 71.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 5,220 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,207 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 5,335 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Ocean Reef has approximately 5,220 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.2%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Ocean Reef stands at 2.2%, which is 2.0 percentage points below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. 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 Ocean Reef is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (13.6% of employment), construction (12.7%), and education & training (11.1%). Other significant employers include retail trade and professional & technical.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Ocean Reef has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. 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 Ocean Reef is 71.8%, 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 Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The suburb of Ocean Reef shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 12.7% of the local workforce compared to 9.3% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of Ocean Reef's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Ocean Reef 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 | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 28.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 24.9% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 33.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.2% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
28.9% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Ocean Reef have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
33.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Ocean Reef have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of Ocean Reef ranks in the 76th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Ocean Reef are: Certificate (24.9%), Bachelor Degree (20.5%), Advanced Diploma (13.1%).
29.7% of the population in the suburb of Ocean Reef is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.4% in primary school, 10.2% in secondary school, 5.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Ocean Reef is 1066, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the suburb of Ocean Reef, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,712 students.
The suburb of Ocean Reef includes 3 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Ocean Reef features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.9 people | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 45.1% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.8% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,703 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,997 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 85.9% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Ocean Reef had 2,703 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 10.9% to an estimated 2,997 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Ocean Reef is 2.9 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 85.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (12.4%), group households (1.8%), and other household types (0.1%).
Of the 2,322 family households, couples with children account for 45.1% of all households, couples without children at home 31.8%, and single parent families 8.5%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Ocean Reef shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 85.9% (versus 71.5% in Greater Perth). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 12.4% compared to 24.9% in Greater Perth. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Ocean Reef have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 58.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 28.8% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 12.4% of all households in the suburb of Ocean Reef, notably lower than 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 1.8% of households, below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Ocean Reef was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 44.9% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 89.2% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 55.1% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
Ocean Reef was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 10.8% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 44.9% born overseas.
The main religion in Ocean Reef was found to be Christianity, which makes up 52.9% of people in Ocean Reef. This compares to 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Ocean Reef are English, comprising 34.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 19.1% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South African is notably overrepresented at 2.3% of Ocean Reef (vs 1.0% across Greater Perth), Welsh at 1.1% (vs 0.7%) and French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%).
44.9% of the suburb of Ocean Reef population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
10.8% of the population in the suburb of Ocean Reef speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
0.6% of the suburb of Ocean Reef population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
88.7% of the suburb of Ocean Reef population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Ocean Reef 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 | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 42.1% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.9% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,253 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 45.7% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 4.0% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $525 | 2021 Census, weekly | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 21.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 55th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 21.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 23rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Ocean Reef, 42.1% of homes are owned outright, 45.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 12.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Ocean Reef are houses.
In the suburb of Ocean Reef, 0.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Ocean Reef stands at 42.1%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Ocean Reef is $2,253, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Ocean Reef is $1,307, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Ocean Reef, households with mortgages typically spend 21.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Ocean Reef is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Ocean Reef shows mortgage holders spending 21.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 21.2% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Ocean Reef consists of 95.9% detached houses, 4.0% semi-detached dwellings, 0.2% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Ocean Reef consumes approximately 12.2% of median household income ($10,738 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Ocean Reef show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 4% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 96% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Ocean Reef'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 | 58.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 72nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 79.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
Around 58.2% of people in the suburb of Ocean Reef are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Ocean Reef, 3.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.2% of people in the suburb of Ocean Reef are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.3% of the suburb of Ocean Reef population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.3% of people in the suburb of Ocean Reef have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Ocean Reef, 58.2% 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 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 | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 49th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 47 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 40th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 736 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 30th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 192 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 4 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 2.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 11.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 47 public transport stops within the suburb of Ocean Reef.
The suburb of Ocean Reef has 736 weekly trips across 4 routes, averaging 105 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 227 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 465 m away and the nearest school 476 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 47 stops nearby, 736 weekly trips, access rating 49 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 35 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 35th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 465 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 476 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 548 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 613 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 860 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 980 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 983 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.0 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 Ocean Reef, about 1.4 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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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 Ocean Reef compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Ocean Reef has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 39% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Ocean Reef is $1,015 a week, +6.8% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Ocean Reef reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Ocean Reef hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 83% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Ocean Reef rank among the top 10% of areas assessed nationally.
Ocean Reef shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Ocean Reef features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Ocean Reef was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Ocean Reef is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Ocean Reef'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.
Ocean Reef has an estimated 9,008 residents, up 10.9% since the 2021 Census, with 47 projects tracked in the area around Ocean Reef.
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 Ocean Reef.
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 (SAL51176). 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 Ocean Reef 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 Ocean Reef 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.
