Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Rivervale has an estimated 13,028 residents, up 19.6% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Rivervale.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Rivervale sits 5.1 kilometres east of the Perth CBD in Western Australia. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 13,028 as of Aug 2026. That figure is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 10,897 people recorded at the 2021 Census, the population has risen by 2,131 people (19.6%). Density and growth drivers are well above average, and development activity and population drivers are also well above average, making this a dense and highly active development area. The renting population is above average, the local population is well educated, and semi-detached housing has a strong presence.
Residents include a high proportion of young adults, while the working age population is made up largely of lone person and group households. Educational attainment is above average, and population growth shows strong expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Rivervale sits 5.1 kilometres east of the Perth CBD in Western Australia. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 13,028 as of Aug 2026. That figure is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 10,897 people recorded at the 2021 Census, the population has risen by 2,131 people (19.6%). Density and growth drivers are well above average, and development activity and population drivers are also well above average, making this a dense and highly active development area. The renting population is above average, the local population is well educated, and semi-detached housing has a strong presence.
Residents include a high proportion of young adults, while the working age population is made up largely of lone person and group households. Educational attainment is above average, and population growth shows strong expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,357 in 2006 and 12,842 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 13,028 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 25.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 34.9%.
Rivervale ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for development activity and the 83rd for cultural diversity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Rivervale is $718 a week, up 8.3% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $718 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Belmont - Victoria Park | $705 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Belmont - Victoria Park, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South East | $716 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - South East, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 45 tracked applications: 20 approved, 8 under assessment, 17 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in Rivervale and 70 more in the surrounding area.
Approved for a 12-level building comprising 171 one- and two-bedroom apartments with amenities including a gymnasium, residents lounge, and…
World's first hotel with Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). 10-level, 120-room luxury hotel featuring NXT Building System technology.
A $9.5 million streetscape revitalisation of the Belvidere Street Shopping Precinct and Activity Centre in Belmont WA, jointly funded by…
Perth Park is a $217.5 million entertainment and sporting precinct at Burswood Park, beside Optus Stadium in Burswood.
City of Belmont project for further refurbishment of Belmont Oasis Leisure Centre.
$39 million, 19-storey residential tower with 143 apartments (34 one-bedroom, 106 two-bedroom, 3 three-bedroom) designed by SS Chang.
New residential apartment development at 239 Great Eastern Highway offering luxury apartment living with promotional packages available.
Sports lighting upgrade at Centenary Park identified in the Sporting Facility Needs Analysis as a facility that would benefit from enhanced…
Burswood Point is a multi-billion dollar urban renewal project transforming 38 hectares of Swan River foreshore into a masterplanned…
Renewal of lake infrastructure and enhancement of surrounding recreational areas at the Faulkner Park ornamental lakes.
Zone 2 of the Wilson Park Precinct Master Plan has been completed, delivering a major community recreation space including a pump track…
Proposed 15-storey Wyndham branded hotel comprising 226 hotel keys, 22 serviced apartments, rooftop restaurant and bar, conference…
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 38 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 10, 2027 9, 2028 8, 2029 3, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 3. 13 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 45 substantial development applications lodged in and around Rivervale over the past 5 years, 24 in the last 12 months; 8 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 7, 2023 3, 2024 5, 2025 7, 2026 (to Oct) 22.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 45 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 24 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 12.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 89th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 149 | ABS building approvals | 88th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 20 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 8 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Rivervale include: 6 Homelea Court Build-to-Rent Development (Approved); Wyndham LUX Perth Hotel (61-65 Great Eastern Highway) (Planning); Burswood Station East Planning Framework (Planning); Wilson Park Precinct - Zone 2 Heart + Playground (Completed); and Perth Park (Perth Entertainment and Sporting Precinct) (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Rivervale spans multiple sectors including Sports & Recreation, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Residential Development, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the suburb of Rivervale demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Rivervale higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Rivervale area has seen 437 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Rivervale's current population of 13,028 has been supported by 149 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Rivervale has seen 12.5 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.4 approvals in Greater Perth. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 58 people in the suburb of Rivervale, 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 Rivervale's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 149, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Rivervale has grown by approximately 1,566 people, while 747 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Rivervale lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 13,028 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +19.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 3,900 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 91st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 10,897 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,131 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.34 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Rivervale was estimated to be approximately 13,028 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,842 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Rivervale has added approximately 2,131 people and shown a 19.56% increase from the 10,897 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Rivervale is estimated at 3,901 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Rivervale has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Rivervale is driven by: Overseas migration (75.0%), Natural increase (25.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 75.0% of overall population gains.
Rivervale hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 34 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 18th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 37.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 62.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 34 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 25.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Rivervale at 34 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 34 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Rivervale is 3 years younger than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Rivervale compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 25.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Rivervale compared to the Greater Perth region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 7.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Rivervale show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (25.6% vs 15.8%). The most under-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (7.7% vs 12.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 12.5% of the population in the suburb of Rivervale as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.3% of the population in the suburb of Rivervale as at August 2026.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 63% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $64,983 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $77,195 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,723 | 2021 Census, weekly | 48th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,015 | 2021 Census, weekly | 80th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 21.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,246 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 21.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Rivervale is approximately $69,558. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,983.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Rivervale is approximately $82,630. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $77,195.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Rivervale is approximately $69,558 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,983 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Rivervale is approximately $82,630 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $77,195 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Rivervale's households (~34.9% / 1,703 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Rivervale is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 34.9% 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 Rivervale is $1,723/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Rivervale is $2,246/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Rivervale is $1,015/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Rivervale had a median income among taxpayers of $64,983 with the average level standing at $77,195. This is above the national average and compares to levels of $64,047 and $84,609 across Greater Perth respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $69,558 (median) and $82,630 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Rivervale is $6,125 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Rivervale's disposable income is $6,125 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market in Rivervale demonstrates typical performance when compared to similar areas across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 76.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,236 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,181 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,588 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Rivervale has approximately 8,236 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.1%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Rivervale stands at 4.1%, which is broadly in line with Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Rivervale is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (13.5% of employment), professional & technical (10.1%), and mining (8.9%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 32.5% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Rivervale 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 Rivervale is 76.3%, 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%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The suburb of Rivervale shows notable specialisation in mining, which employs 8.9% of the local workforce compared to 7.0% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of Rivervale's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Rivervale 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 | 25.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 36.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 20.3% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.7% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 30.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
36.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Rivervale have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
30.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Rivervale have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of Rivervale ranks in the 78th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Rivervale are: Bachelor Degree (25.4%), Certificate (20.3%), Advanced Diploma (12.7%).
27.0% of the population in the suburb of Rivervale is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.8% in primary school, 4.2% in secondary school, 8.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Rivervale is 1060, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Rivervale, with a combined enrollment of approximately 508 students.
The suburb of Rivervale includes 2 primary schools.
Rivervale features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 38.4% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 18.1% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.4% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,873 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,826 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 54.3% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.1 per family | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Rivervale had 4,873 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 19.6% to an estimated 5,826 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Rivervale is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 54.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (38.4%), group households (7.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,646 family households, couples with children account for 18.1% of all households, couples without children at home 26.4%, and single parent families 7.5%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Rivervale shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 38.4% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 54.3% compared to 71.5% in Greater Perth. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Rivervale have an average of 1.1 children, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 36.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 45.9% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 38.4% of all households in the suburb of Rivervale, higher 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 7.4% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Rivervale is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 43.8% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 66.5% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 73.4% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 56.2% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
Rivervale scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 33.5% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 43.8% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Rivervale, at 39.0% of people, although more residents (44.4%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 4.9% of the population, compared to 2.7% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Rivervale are English, comprising 22.7% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 18.4% of the population, and Other, comprising 17.7% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 11.2%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Korean is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Rivervale (vs 0.3% across Greater Perth), Spanish at 0.6% (vs 0.4%) and Sri Lankan at 0.5% (vs 0.2%).
43.8% of the suburb of Rivervale population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
33.5% of the population in the suburb of Rivervale speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.7% of the suburb of Rivervale population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
73.4% of the suburb of Rivervale population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Rivervale displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 54.2% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 16.3% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 42.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,760 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 47th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.5% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 21.2% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 44th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 47th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 23.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 46th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Rivervale, 16.3% of homes are owned outright, 29.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 54.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 42.6% of dwellings in the suburb of Rivervale are houses.
In the suburb of Rivervale, 36.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 21.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Rivervale stands at 16.3%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Rivervale is $1,760, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Rivervale is $1,341, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Rivervale, households with mortgages typically spend 23.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Rivervale is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Rivervale shows mortgage holders spending 23.6% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 20.3% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Rivervale consists of 42.6% detached houses, 21.2% semi-detached dwellings, 36.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Rivervale consumes approximately 18.0% of median household income ($7,461 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Rivervale show attached dwellings contributing 86% of approvals compared to 57% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 14% of applications versus 43% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health in Rivervale: private health cover 56.0%, no long-term health condition 74.8%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 64th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 74.8% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 79.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
Around 56.0% of people in the suburb of Rivervale are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Rivervale, 4.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.4% of people in the suburb of Rivervale are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.1% of the suburb of Rivervale population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.7% of people in the suburb of Rivervale have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Rivervale, 56.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 61 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 61st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 35 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,189 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 371 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 7 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 6.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 35 public transport stops within the suburb of Rivervale.
The suburb of Rivervale has 2,189 weekly trips across 7 routes, averaging 312 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 191 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 438 m away and the nearest supermarket 497 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 35 stops nearby, 2,189 weekly trips, access rating 61 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 73 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 438 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 497 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 539 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 581 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 603 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 625 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 630 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 805 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 111 places in Rivervale, about 5.5 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
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An area report on Rivervale is built to order and emailed to you.
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Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Rivervale.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Rivervale higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Rivervale has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 39% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Rivervale is $718 a week, +8.3% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Rivervale lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Rivervale hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 63% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
The labour market in Rivervale demonstrates typical performance when compared to similar areas across Australia.
Rivervale shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Rivervale features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
Rivervale is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Rivervale displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
Health in Rivervale: private health cover 56.0%, no long-term health condition 74.8%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Rivervale has an estimated 13,028 residents, up 19.6% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Rivervale.
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 Rivervale.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 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 (SAL51299). 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 (Aug 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 Rivervale 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 Rivervale 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.
