Pennington

Suburb (SAL)

Greater Adelaide / Charles Sturt

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.

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 comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Pennington

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Pennington

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Pennington has an estimated 3,959 residents, up from 3,773 at the 2021 Census — a change of 186 people, or 4.9%. That puts 2,869 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

Based on analysis of ABS population updates for the broader area, and new addresses validated by AreaSearch since the Census the suburb of Pennington has a population estimated at around 3,959 as of May 2026. This represents an expansion of 186 people (4.9%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 3,773 people. The change is calculated from the resident population of 3,941, estimated by AreaSearch following examination of the latest ERP data release by the ABS (June 2025) and an additional 23 validated new addresses since the Census date.

This level of population equates to a density ratio of 2,868 persons per square kilometer, placing it in the upper quartile relative to national locations assessed by AreaSearch. The suburb of Pennington's 4.9% growth since census positions it within 2.6 percentage points of the state (7.5%), demonstrating competitive growth fundamentals. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by overseas migration that contributed approximately 87.0% of overall population gains during recent periods. AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 areas not covered by this data, and for years post-2032, the SA State Government's Regional/LGA projections by age category, released in 2023 and based on 2021 data, are adopted with adjustments made employing a method of weighted aggregation of population growth from LGA to SA2 levels. Anticipating future population dynamics, an above median population growth of statistical areas analysed by AreaSearch is projected, with the suburb of Pennington expected to grow by 758 persons to 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level projections, reflecting with an increase of 18.7% in total over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Pennington?
Total population for the suburb of Pennington was estimated to be approximately 3,959 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,941 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Pennington changed since 2021?
The suburb of pennington has added approximately 186 people and shown a 4.93% increase from the 3,773 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Pennington?
The population density in the suburb of Pennington is estimated at 2,868 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Pennington?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Pennington has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Pennington?
Population growth in the suburb of Pennington is driven by: Overseas migration (87.0%), Natural increase (13.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 87.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Pennington

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129 new dwellings have been approved in Pennington over the past five years, an average of 25 a year. That is 6.7 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 29 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 34% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 25, broadly in line with that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

According to evaluation of ABS construction figures allocated from regional datasets, Pennington has averaged approximately 25 new residential approvals annually, totaling 129 permitted properties over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) and 23 during the current FY-26 period. Since only 0.7 additional residents were recorded per completed dwelling on average over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), supply matches or exceeds local demand, giving purchasers more options and supporting the capacity for growth beyond baseline forecasts, with new dwellings averaging a construction value of $320,000.

Furthermore, commercial approvals valued at $10.4 million have been documented this financial year, indicating steady non-residential development. Pennington generates new residential approvals per capita at roughly three-quarters the frequency of Greater Adelaide, placing it in the 70th percentile of all localities evaluated across the country. Recent construction projects consist of 34.0% detached houses and 66.0% townhouses or multi-unit dwellings. This transition to denser housing provides affordable purchasing entry points and attracts downsizers, property investors, and first-time buyers. This represents a major shift from the existing property profile, which is 70.0% traditional houses, and reflects a decline in vacant development parcels alongside changing lifestyle preferences and budget constraints. With approximately 192 people for every approval, Pennington is characterized as a low-density environment. Projections indicate that Pennington will gain 740 new occupants by 2041, measured from the most recent quarterly estimate compiled by AreaSearch. Construction rates are currently keeping pace with these expansion forecasts, though buyers might face increased competition as the local population increases.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Pennington recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Pennington area has seen 41 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Pennington's current population of 3,959 has been supported by 25 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Pennington's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Pennington has seen 0.67 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.74 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 192 people in the suburb of Pennington, compared to one for every 144 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Pennington keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 740 people by 2041, around 370 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear broadly sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Pennington?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Pennington's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 25, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Pennington?
The population in the suburb of Pennington is expected to grow by 740 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 370 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Pennington?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Pennington has grown by approximately 167 people, while 129 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.3 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Pennington?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 25 approvals per year and a population of 3,959, the market appears to be reasonably balanced between supply and demand, presenting moderate opportunities for well-positioned developments. With the population expected to increase by 740 people by 2041, around 370 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Pennington

Development applications around Pennington

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Pennington

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AreaSearch tracks 17 current infrastructure and development projects close to Pennington, worth an estimated $1.84 billion. 8 are already under construction and 5 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and tourism. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local infrastructure projects, planning choices, and development initiatives are primary drivers of neighborhood change. AreaSearch has highlighted 3 major projects that are expected to influence this locality. Primary developments include St. James, Kidman Park, St Clair, the Rosewater Loop Project, and the Findon Road Upgrade, with further details on the most relevant schemes provided below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Pennington?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Pennington include: St. James, Kidman Park (Construction); St Clair (Completed); Rosewater Loop Project (Construction); Findon Road Upgrade (Approved); and Our Port (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Pennington?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Pennington spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Pennington?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $5.9 billion in projects that will impact the extended area.
How does the suburb of Pennington's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Pennington currently ranks below national averages at the 23rdth percentile.
St. James, Kidman Park
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

An 11 hectare masterplanned residential community by Fairland on the former Metcash distribution centre site. The project will deliver more than 430 homes including detached houses, terraces and apartments, together with 1.6 hectares of open space connected to the River Torrens Linear Park. Construction of homes is well underway, new housing releases continue through 2026, and a separate 8000 sqm mixed-use lifestyle precinct with retail, childcare, apartments and commercial space is also under construction.

Residential Development

Quest Hotel Port Adelaide (Second Quest) and Large Retail Precinct
Category: Tourism
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

This significant redevelopment by One SMG (Neville Smith Group) features a second $35 million Quest Hotel apartment complex at 10-12 North Parade, providing 88-90 serviced guest suites with river views, gym, and conference facilities. Complementing the hotel is a large-format retail and commercial hub at 271 Commercial Road, spanning approximately 5,860 sqm. The precinct focuses on urban renewal, adaptive reuse of heritage elements like Customs House, and improved pedestrian connectivity to the Port River waterfront.Construction on the retail component is scheduled to commence around late 2025/early 2026 following development approval in August 2025.

Tourism

Dock One
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Major waterfront masterplanned community at Port Adelaide by Kite Projects, incorporating Dock One stages and Dock One North. The precinct includes about 750 townhouses and apartments, landscaped waterfront promenades, park links, 23,500 sqm of green open space, a completed pedestrian bridge, a community plaza and the adaptive reuse of the former Marine and Harbours Building as a boutique hotel. Current official updates indicate Dock One North is now selling, construction is underway on the residential stages, the bridge and plaza are complete, and demolition works have commenced for the hotel component.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Rosewater Loop Project
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

A community project developing a shared path for walking and riding, incorporating landscaping, community facilities, and public art. Key elements include the installation of water points, construction of gravel and sealed paths, and the addition of signage and artwork to enhance community pride and deter vandalism.

Sports & Recreation

St Clair Village Stage 6 & 7
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Mixed-use redevelopment and final expansion stages of the St Clair masterplanned community. ISPT is progressing a Planning and Design Code Amendment to rezone the vacant land north of St Clair Village Shopping Centre into the Suburban Activity Centre Zone and increase the maximum building height from four to seven storeys. The proposal is intended to enable future residential apartments, expanded retail, commercial uses, hospitality, childcare and associated public realm improvements adjacent to St Clair Railway Station.No development application for specific buildings has yet been lodged.

Residential Development

Our Port
Category: Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Port Adelaide will be a place of discovery, energy, culture and diversity - an eclectic, vibrant reflection of the South Australian character more broadly. The project is a renewal effort to rejuvenate Port Adelaide, aiming to create a vibrant, diverse area with 2,000-4,000 homes and 4,000-8,000 people.

Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture

Babcock Facility Expansion
Category: National Security
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

An expansion of Babcock Australasia's facility in Woodville North, involving the construction of a new warehouse assembly hall to support the upgrade of Australia's Defence High Frequency Communications System (JP9101) and future defence projects.

National Security

Woodville Place
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 5.2-hectare master-planned urban renewal project in Woodville Gardens. The development will create 154 new homes in total, including 37 affordable house and land packages and 30 homes for public housing. The staged redevelopment began in 2023 with an estimated completion in 2026. The community is located close to the city, schools, shops, and public transport.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Pennington

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1,926 residents of Pennington are employed, from a labour force of 2,041. Unemployment sits at 5.6%, with participation at 61.3%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.2% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 3,358, about 85% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The locality possesses a qualified workforce with a strong presence in essential service industries, reporting a 5.6% unemployment rate and 7.6% job growth over the preceding year based on consolidated regional statistics. As of March 2026, working residents numbered 1,926, which leaves the unemployment rate 1.8% higher than the Greater Adelaide figure of 3.8%, while participation in the labor force remains low at 61.3% compared to 66.6% regionally. Census returns indicated that a small proportion of 7.3% of the workforce operated from home, though this may have been influenced by pandemic lockdowns.

Local employment is heavily weighted toward health care & social assistance, retail trade, and manufacturing. The manufacturing sector shows a high concentration, employing workers at 1.4 times the regional average. Conversely, professional & technical roles are underrepresented, accounting for only 4.4% of the local workforce relative to 7.3% across Greater Adelaide. The residential character of the neighborhood offers few local jobs, as highlighted by comparing the census count of local workers against the resident labor force. Analysis of SALM and ABS statistics aggregated across broader geographic areas reveals that over the 12-month period, the volume of employed residents rose by 7.6% while the overall labor force expanded by 4.9%, leading to a decrease in unemployment of 2.3 percentage points. During the same period, Greater Adelaide recorded job growth of 4.2% and labor force expansion of 4.0%, corresponding to a 0.2 percentage point decline. Employment forecasts published by Jobs and Skills Australia in May-25 provide additional context regarding future demand trends. These five and ten-year predictions have been aligned with the local workforce composition to project growth. While national employment is expected to rise by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, the rate of expansion varies widely by sector. Applying these industry projections to the local workforce mix indicates that employment should grow by 6.2% over five years and 13.2% over ten years, representing a basic weighted calculation for modeling purposes that does not incorporate local population forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Pennington?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Pennington has approximately 1,926 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.6%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
How does the suburb of Pennington's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Pennington stands at 5.6%, which is 1.8 percentage points above Greater Adelaide's rate of 3.8%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Pennington?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Pennington is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.2% of employment), retail trade (9.7%), and manufacturing (9.6%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and construction.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Pennington?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Pennington has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Greater Adelaide saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Pennington?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Pennington is 61.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Adelaide average of 66.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Pennington's employment market?
The suburb of pennington shows notable specialization in manufacturing, which employs 9.6% of the local workforce compared to 7.0% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Pennington?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Pennington's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.2% over the next five years and 13.2% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Pennington compare nationally?
The suburb of pennington's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 0.7% growth, ranking 11.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Pennington?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the suburb of Pennington, with skilled sectors accounting for 33.0% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (17.2%), education & training (8.0%), and professional & technical (4.4%). With projected employment growth of 6.2% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Pennington

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Median household income in Pennington is $1,276 a week (about $66,000 a year), with median personal income at $568 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $40,262 a year against an average of $44,806. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

Based on postal-level ATO figures compiled for the 2023 financial year, taxpayers in Pennington recorded a median annual income of $40,262 and an average of $44,806. These figures are below the national benchmarks and compare to median and average values of $54,808 and $66,852 across Greater Adelaide. Adjusting for Wage Price Index growth of 10.17% since the 2023 financial year, current values are estimated at approximately $44,357 for the median and $49,363 for the average as of March 2026. The 2021 Census reveals that household, family, and individual incomes in the locality fall between the 8th and 18th percentiles nationally.

The income bracket of $1,500 - 2,999 is the most common, containing 31.7% of residents (1,255 people), which is consistent with the metropolitan rate of 31.8%. Financial stress from housing costs is significant, with only 82.7% of income remaining after housing expenses, placing the area in the 18th percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Pennington?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Pennington is approximately $44,357. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $40,262.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Pennington?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Pennington is approximately $49,363. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $44,806.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Pennington compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Pennington is approximately $44,357 compared to $60,382 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $40,262 and $54,808 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Pennington compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Pennington is approximately $49,363 compared to $73,651 in Greater Adelaide. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $44,806 and $66,852 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Pennington according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~31.7% / 1,255 persons) of the suburb of Pennington's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Pennington compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Pennington is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.7% of the population. In comparison, Greater Adelaide's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.8% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Pennington according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Pennington is $1,276/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Pennington according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Pennington is $1,715/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Pennington according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Pennington is $568/wk.
How does the suburb of Pennington's income rank nationally?
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-23 reveals that income in the suburb of Pennington is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $40,262 while the average income stands at $44,806. This contrasts to Greater Adelaide's figures of a median income of $54,808 and an average income of $66,852. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.17% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $44,357 (median) and $49,363 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Pennington?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Pennington is $4,574 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Pennington's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of pennington's disposable income is $4,574 compared to $5,698 for Greater Adelaide, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Pennington

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Pennington had 1,402 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 70% detached houses and 1% apartments. 35% are owned with a mortgage, 40% rented and 26% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $250 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,517 a month. Rent absorbs 19.6% of household income here and mortgage repayments 27.4%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

The local housing stock at the time of the last Census consisted of 70.4% separate houses and 29.5% other options such as semi-detached homes, apartments, and alternative dwellings, compared to the Adelaide metropolitan breakdown of 75.2% houses and 24.9% other dwellings. Homeownership rates were lower than the metropolitan average at 25.7%, with the remaining properties occupied by residents with a mortgage (34.7%) or tenants (39.6%). The median monthly mortgage payment of $1,517 sat below the Adelaide metropolitan benchmark of $1,562, while the median weekly rent was $250, compared to $320 across the wider metropolitan area.

On a national level, mortgage costs are much lower than the Australian median of $1,863, and rents are also significantly below the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Pennington?
In the suburb of Pennington, 25.7% of homes are owned outright, 34.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 39.6% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Pennington are houses?
According to the latest data, 70.4% of dwellings in the suburb of Pennington are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Pennington are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Pennington, 0.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 28.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Pennington?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Pennington stands at 25.7%, compared to 32.1% in Greater Adelaide.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Pennington?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Pennington is $1,517, compared to $1,562 in Greater Adelaide.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Pennington?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Pennington is $250, compared to $320 in Greater Adelaide.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Pennington?
In the suburb of Pennington, 21.4% of rentals are $0-149/week, 58.5% are $150-349/week, 20.1% are $350-649/week, 0.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Pennington?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Pennington is $955, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Pennington?
In the suburb of Pennington, households with mortgages typically spend 27.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 19.6% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Pennington?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Pennington is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Pennington compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Pennington shows mortgage holders spending 27.4% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% regionally), while renters spend 19.6% of income on rent (vs 20.7% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Pennington?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Pennington consists of 70.4% detached houses, 28.0% semi-detached dwellings, 0.9% apartments, and 0.6% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Pennington?
Given the tenure profile of the area, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $955. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,517/month, and renters paying $1,082/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Pennington relative to local incomes?
Housing in Pennington consumes approximately 17.3% of median household income ($5,525 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the suburb of Pennington?
Recent development applications in Pennington show attached dwellings contributing 76% of approvals compared to 30% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 24% of applications versus 70% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Pennington

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Pennington counted 1,402 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.5 people each. 28% are couples with children, against 18% couples without children. 33% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.6 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families comprise the majority of households at 63.4%, consisting of couples with children at 27.7%, couples without children at 18.3%, and single parent households at 15.1%. Non-family living arrangements account for the remaining 36.6%, with single-person households representing 32.6% and group households making up 4.0%. The median household size is 2.5 people, which is identical to the average across Greater Adelaide.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Pennington?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Pennington had 1,402 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.9% to an estimated 1,471 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Pennington is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Greater Adelaide and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 63.4% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (32.6%), group households (4.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 888 family households, 27.7% are couples with children, 18.3% are couples without children at home, and 15.1% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Pennington compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Adelaide, the suburb of Pennington shows distinct household patterns. Conversely, family households are under-represented at 63.4% compared to the regional 68.6%. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Pennington have an average of 1.6 children, slightly above the Greater Adelaide average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Pennington?
Marriage patterns reveal 37.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 39.4% have never married. This compares to 45.7% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Adelaide.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 32.6% of all households in the suburb of Pennington, similar to the regional average of 27.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.0% of households, well below the Greater Adelaide average of 3.7%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Pennington

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18.2% of adults in Pennington hold a university qualification, including 13.5% with a bachelor degree and 3.1% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 80% of areas nationally. A further 23.1% hold a vocational qualification. 2 schools serve the area, with 288 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 960 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

The neighborhood records low rates of higher education, with university qualification levels at 18.2% compared to the national average of 30.4%. This gap highlights a clear opportunity for targeted educational support. Bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 13.5%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 3.1% and graduate diplomas at 1.6%. Vocational and technical training is common, with 31.5% of residents aged 15+ holding practical qualifications, including advanced diplomas at 8.4% and certificates at 23.1%. Enrolment rates are high, with 28.4% of the population participating in some form of structured learning.

This group includes 8.9% attending primary schools, 6.9% in high schools, and 6.4% enrolled in higher education courses.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Pennington have university qualifications?
18.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Pennington have university qualifications, compared to 28.9% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Pennington have no formal qualifications?
50.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Pennington have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.0% regionally.
How does the suburb of Pennington's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of pennington ranks in the 20th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Pennington?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Pennington are: Certificate (23.1%), Bachelor Degree (13.5%), Advanced Diploma (8.4%).
What proportion of the suburb of Pennington's population is currently attending educational institutions?
28.4% of the population in the suburb of Pennington is currently engaged in formal education, with 8.9% in primary school, 6.9% in secondary school, 6.4% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Pennington?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Pennington is 960, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the suburb of Pennington?
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Pennington, with a combined enrollment of approximately 288 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Pennington?
The suburb of pennington includes 2 primary schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Pennington

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Pennington

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Public transport in Pennington reaches 15 stops on 9 routes, timetabled for about 900 services a week. The typical home sits about 220 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.3 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport connectivity is provided by 15 active stops within the area, which consist of bus services. These stops are served by 9 separate routes, which support a combined total of 896 passenger journeys each week. Local access is good, with residents living an average of 215 meters from the nearest stop. The neighborhood is mostly residential, meaning most workers travel outside the suburb, with private vehicles remaining the primary choice for 86% of commuters. Household car ownership averages 1.3 vehicles per home. A small proportion of 7.3% of workers operated from home, according to the 2021 Census, which may have been influenced by pandemic measures.

Services run at an average frequency of 128 daily trips across the transit network, which translates to roughly 59 weekly services at each individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Pennington?
There are 15 public transport stops within the suburb of Pennington.
How frequent are the transport services in Pennington?
the suburb of Pennington has 896 weekly trips across 9 routes, averaging 128 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Pennington?
On average, residential properties are 215 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Pennington

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65.4% of residents in Pennington report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 82% of areas nationally. 11.5% need daily assistance with core activities, and 44.8% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 6.9 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators point to significant difficulties in the area, based on mortality data and the frequency of chronic illnesses, which show higher than average rates of common conditions, particularly among older residents. Private health insurance coverage is low, with only about 45% of the population (~1,772 people) holding policies, compared to 52.7% across Greater Adelaide and a national average of 55.7%. Mental health conditions and arthritis are the most prevalent diagnoses, affecting 9.2 and 9.1% of the population, respectively. Meanwhile, 65.4% of residents reported having no long-term health conditions, compared to 67.9% across Greater Adelaide.

Chronic health conditions are more common among working-age individuals than average. Residents aged 65 and older make up 20.2% of the community (799 people), and while health challenges exist for this cohort, their national ranking is better than that of the younger local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Pennington have private health insurance?
Around 44.8% of people in the suburb of Pennington are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.7% in the broader region of Greater Adelaide.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Pennington?
In the suburb of Pennington, 11.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.6% of people in Greater Adelaide require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Pennington?
7.2% of people in the suburb of Pennington are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.7% of the population across Greater Adelaide is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Pennington?
Diabetes affects 6.4% of the the suburb of Pennington population, while in the surrounding region, 4.8% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Pennington?
4.4% of people in the suburb of Pennington have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Adelaide, 3.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Pennington compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Pennington, 44.8% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Adelaide sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.7%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Pennington

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37.5% of Pennington residents were born overseas and 41.3% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 82% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (19.7%) and Australian (19.1%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The neighborhood displays high levels of multiculturalism, with 37.5% of residents born outside Australia and 41.3% communicating in languages other than English at home. Christianity is the largest religious group, representing 43.8% of the population. The most prominent religious variance is Buddhism, which is practiced by 10.5% of residents, a rate far exceeding the Greater Adelaide average of 2.4%. Looking at ancestral backgrounds, the most common heritages are English at 19.7% of the population, which is below the metropolitan average of 27.8%, Australian at 19.1%, and Vietnamese at 10.8%, which is much higher than the regional average of 1.2%.

Other notable cultural groups include Polish heritage at 1.8% of the community (compared to 1.0% regionally), Serbian heritage at 1.7% (compared to 0.4% regionally), and Russian heritage at 0.9% (compared to 0.3% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Pennington?
Pennington scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 37.5% of its population born overseas and 41.3% speaking a language other than English at home.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Pennington?
The main religion in Pennington was found to be Christianity, which makes up 43.8% of people in Pennington. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 10.5% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Adelaide average of 2.4%.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Pennington?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Pennington are English, comprising 19.7% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 27.8%, Australian, comprising 19.1% of the population, and Vietnamese, comprising 10.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 1.2%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Polish is notably overrepresented at 1.8% of Pennington (vs 1.0% regionally), Serbian at 1.7% (vs 0.4%) and Russian at 0.9% (vs 0.3%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
37.5% of the the suburb of Pennington population was born overseas, compared to 28.7% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Pennington population speaks a language other than English at home?
41.3% of the population in the suburb of Pennington speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.2% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Pennington identify as Australian Aboriginal?
2.8% of the the suburb of Pennington population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.2% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Pennington?
86.9% of the the suburb of Pennington population holds citizenship, compared to 86.3% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Pennington

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The median resident of Pennington is 41. 26.0% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The median age of residents is 41 years, which is higher than the Greater Adelaide average of 39 and slightly above the national average of 38. The age distribution shows a high proportion of people aged 55 - 64 (14.2%), while the 35 - 44 demographic is smaller (12.5%) than the metropolitan average. Since 2021, the cohort aged 65 to 74 grew from 9.2% to 10.3%, while the 45 to 54 cohort shrank from 12.9% to 11.6%. By 2041, demographic projections suggest the age profile will change significantly, with the 75 to 84 cohort expected to grow by 171 people (69%), rising from 249 to 421.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Pennington?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Pennington is 41 years.
How does the suburb of Pennington's median age compare to broader areas?
At 41 years, Pennington is 2 years older than the Greater Adelaide average (39 years) and 3 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Pennington?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Pennington compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 14.2% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Pennington?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Pennington compared to the Greater Adelaide region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 12.5% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Pennington show significant variance compared to the Greater Adelaide region. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (3.6% vs 2.6%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Pennington?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Pennington is 16.2%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Pennington?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Pennington is 20.2%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Pennington

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the Suburb (SAL) boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, Local governments Daily May 2026 3 months ago all 2 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated May 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 23 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (3,773 at the 2021 Census → 3,959 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL41136). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

How do Pennington suburb boundaries differ from Statistical Areas?
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/statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
Where does the data on this Pennington page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Pennington data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (May 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas