Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Safety Bay has an estimated 8,446 residents, up 10.2% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Safety Bay.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
Situated 41 kilometres south-southwest from Perth CBD, the suburb of Safety Bay offers a coastal setting renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic seaside landscape. Popular with both residents and travelers, the area features a vibrant bird sanctuary, quality public parks, and diverse outdoor recreation ranging from swimming and snorkeling to windsurfing and kiteboarding. The marine environment is noted for frequent dolphin sightings close to the shoreline, while an overarching focus on environmental conservation preserves a tranquil coastal sanctuary away from major urban hubs. Demographically, the suburb of Safety Bay accommodates an older population profile with a median age of 44. Analysis by AreaSearch indicates that as of Aug 2026, the area has an estimated resident population (ERP) of approximately 8,446, reflecting an increase of 784 people (10.2%) above the 7,662 people counted at the 2021 Census, alongside modest long-term growth patterns.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 41 kilometres south-southwest from Perth CBD, the suburb of Safety Bay offers a coastal setting renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic seaside landscape. Popular with both residents and travelers, the area features a vibrant bird sanctuary, quality public parks, and diverse outdoor recreation ranging from swimming and snorkeling to windsurfing and kiteboarding. The marine environment is noted for frequent dolphin sightings close to the shoreline, while an overarching focus on environmental conservation preserves a tranquil coastal sanctuary away from major urban hubs. Demographically, the suburb of Safety Bay accommodates an older population profile with a median age of 44. Analysis by AreaSearch indicates that as of Aug 2026, the area has an estimated resident population (ERP) of approximately 8,446, reflecting an increase of 784 people (10.2%) above the 7,662 people counted at the 2021 Census, alongside modest long-term growth patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,613 in 2006 and 8,441 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,446 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 13.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.6%.
Safety Bay ranks in the 61st percentile nationally for transport & access and the 56th for infrastructure drivers.
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 Safety Bay is $620 a week, up 7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 14% below Greater Perth.
14% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $620 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Rockingham | $651 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Rockingham, over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South West | $717 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 West, over 12 months | +6.4% | 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 3 tracked applications: 1 approved, 2 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Safety Bay, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 5 projects in Safety Bay (3 under construction) and 56 more in the surrounding area.
Replacement and modernisation of aged public lighting infrastructure along the Safety Bay and Waikiki foreshore reserves. The project includes the installation of new energy-efficient LED luminaires, new light poles, and upgraded underground electrical cabling to enhance pedestrian safety, security, and public amenity across key foreshore carparks and…
Boutique project of 28 luxury townhouses and apartments directly opposite Safety Bay Beach, offering ocean views and high-end coastal finishes. Developed by Blueprint Homes in partnership with JBA Constructions, the project targets downsizers and premium coastal buyers in Safety Bay.
The Strand at Safety Bay is a premium coastal land estate delivering 48 beachside lots directly opposite the Safety Bay foreshore. Many homesites offer ocean views and all are within walking distance of the beach, yacht club and local cafes, providing a low-rise coastal neighbourhood focused on lifestyle and beach access.
Planned revitalisation and intensification of the Safety Bay Road and Penguin Road Local Centre into a walkable coastal village. Guided by the City of Rockingham Local Planning Strategy, the project involves rezoning key lots to commercial and residential uses to facilitate a mix of local retail, medical, and commercial tenancies.
Malibu Views Estate is an elevated coastal subdivision in Safety Bay, delivering premium lifestyle lots with views over the Indian Ocean and Garden Island.
Seaside Estate is a beachside masterplanned residential community in Madora Bay developed by Satterley Property Group. It features direct beach access, sustainable coastal design, parks, walking trails, a new display village on Maspalomas Drive, and proximity to schools, Mandurah, and transport links.
Redevelopment of the long-vacant former Waikiki Hotel/Motel site on the Safety Bay foreshore, at the corner of Safety Bay Road and Malibu Road, into a beachfront mixed commercial precinct.
Established masterplanned residential estate by Cedar Woods in Baldivis with schools, parks, lakes and childcare on-site. Final stages are in progress with land and house-and-land packages still selling.
The Cook Labor Government has committed to a new private marina at the intersection of Wanliss Street and Rockingham Beach Road. The Department of Transport is leading an Expressions of Interest (EOI) process in 2025 to identify a private proponent to develop and operate the facility.
A multi-phase transformation of Rockingham General Hospital, significantly expanding its capacity and service range. The initial major redevelopment (2007-2010) converted the facility into a 229-bed general hospital with a new emergency department, ICU, and maternity services.
Boutique residential community by Cedar Woods delivering approx. 54 green title lots and 32 turnkey townhomes between Lake Richmond and coastal bushland, about 600m from Palm Beach. Land releases are sold out with a limited range of townhomes still selling. Ongoing construction and staged delivery across the estate.
Masterplanned residential estate of approximately 1,200 dwellings with Pine View Primary School on-site, over 20ha of open space including Peckham Reserve (2.4ha oval) and the Baldivis South Sports Pavilion. Ongoing land releases, with a planned local shopping centre within the estate.
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 28 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 13, 2027 2, 2028 4, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 3. 9 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 3 substantial development applications lodged in and around Safety Bay over the period covered (about 0.6 years), 3 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.6 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 17th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 12 | ABS building approvals | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.6 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.6 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Safety Bay include: The Strand at Safety Bay (Construction); Safety Bay and Waikiki Foreshore Lighting Replacement Works (Construction); Safety Bay Road & Penguin Road Mixed-Use Precinct (Planning); Safety Bay Foreshore Community Facility Development (Planning); and Waikiki Beach Hotel and Mixed Commercial Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Safety Bay spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Safety Bay when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Safety Bay area has seen 43 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Safety Bay's current population of 8,446 has been supported by 12 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Safety Bay has seen 1.5 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 391 people in the suburb of Safety Bay, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Safety Bay's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 12, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Safety Bay has grown by approximately 573 people, while 62 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 9.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Safety Bay is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,446 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +10.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,829 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,662 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 784 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 4.62 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Safety Bay was estimated to be approximately 8,446 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,441 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Safety Bay has added approximately 784 people and shown a 10.23% increase from the 7,662 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Safety Bay is estimated at 1,828 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Safety Bay has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.8% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Safety Bay is driven by: Interstate migration (63.0%), Overseas migration (37.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 63.0% of overall population gains.
Safety Bay hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 44 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 76th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 22.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Safety Bay at 44 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Safety Bay is 7 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 6 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Safety Bay compared to the Greater Perth region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 12.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Safety Bay compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Safety Bay show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (12.5% vs 8.5%) and 75-84 year-olds (8.0% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.3% of the population in the suburb of Safety Bay as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 22.6% of the population in the suburb of Safety Bay as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $59,568 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $74,335 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,445 | 2021 Census, weekly | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $704 | 2021 Census, weekly | 29th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,819 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Safety Bay is approximately $63,762. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $59,568.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Safety Bay is approximately $79,568. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $74,335.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Safety Bay is approximately $63,762 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $59,568 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Safety Bay is approximately $79,568 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,335 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Safety Bay's households (~29.5% / 902 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Safety Bay is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.5% 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 Safety Bay is $1,445/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Safety Bay is $1,819/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Safety Bay is $704/wk.
The suburb of Safety Bay shows a median taxpayer income of $59,568 and an average of $74,335 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is above the national average, contrasting with Greater Perth's median income of $64,047 and average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $63,762 (median) and $79,568 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Safety Bay is $5,350 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Safety Bay's disposable income is $5,350 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Safety Bay remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 60.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,026 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,106 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,206 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Safety Bay has approximately 4,026 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Safety Bay stands at 4.3%, 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 Safety Bay is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (13.9% of employment), construction (11.6%), and education & training (10.8%). Other significant employers include retail trade and manufacturing.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Safety Bay has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Safety Bay is 60.2%, 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 Perth average of 69.9%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Safety Bay shows notable specialisation in manufacturing, which employs 9.3% of the local workforce compared to 5.5% across Greater Perth. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The suburb of Safety Bay'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 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Safety Bay: university qualifications 16.2%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 981.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 16.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 32.8% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
16.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Safety Bay have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
39.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Safety Bay have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of Safety Bay ranks in the 36th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Safety Bay are: Certificate (32.8%), Bachelor Degree (11.6%), Advanced Diploma (11.5%).
25.9% of the population in the suburb of Safety Bay is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.7% in primary school, 7.9% in secondary school, 3.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Safety Bay is 981, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 3 schools within the suburb of Safety Bay, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,850 students.
The suburb of Safety Bay includes 1 primary school, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Safety Bay features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 27.0% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.4% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.5% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,055 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,368 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 71.0% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Safety Bay had 3,055 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 10.2% to an estimated 3,368 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Safety Bay is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 71.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (27.0%), group households (1.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,169 family households, couples with children account for 28.4% of all households, couples without children at home 31.5%, and single parent families 10.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Safety Bay shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Safety Bay have an average of 1.8 children, slightly above the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 50.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 30.4% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 27.0% of all households in the suburb of Safety Bay, similar to the average for Greater Perth of 24.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.8% of households, below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
In terms of cultural diversity, Safety Bay records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.7% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 87.2% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 69.5% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
Safety Bay was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 5.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 30.5% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Safety Bay, at 44.9% of people, although more residents (52.6%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Safety Bay are English, comprising 37.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 25.5% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 8.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Safety Bay (vs 0.7% across Greater Perth), New Zealand at 1.1% (vs 0.8%) and Maori at 1.1% (vs 0.9%).
30.5% of the suburb of Safety Bay population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
5.3% of the population in the suburb of Safety Bay speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.3% of the suburb of Safety Bay population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
87.2% of the suburb of Safety Bay population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Safety Bay is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 20.1% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 41.7% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 93.7% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,679 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 38th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 38.2% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $310 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 21.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 58th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 73rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Safety Bay, 41.7% of homes are owned outright, 38.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 20.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 93.7% of dwellings in the suburb of Safety Bay are houses.
In the suburb of Safety Bay, 6.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Safety Bay stands at 41.7%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Safety Bay is $1,679, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Safety Bay is $911, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Safety Bay, households with mortgages typically spend 26.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Safety Bay is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Safety Bay shows mortgage holders spending 26.8% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 21.5% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Safety Bay consists of 93.7% detached houses, 0.0% semi-detached dwellings, 6.3% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Safety Bay consumes approximately 14.6% of median household income ($6,257 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Safety Bay show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 6% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 94% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Safety Bay's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 54.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 58th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 73.7% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
Around 54.8% of people in the suburb of Safety Bay are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Safety Bay, 5.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
7.7% of people in the suburb of Safety Bay are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.8% of the suburb of Safety Bay population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.6% of people in the suburb of Safety Bay have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Safety Bay, 54.8% 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 | 75 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 60th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,593 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 45th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 113 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 6 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 75 public transport stops within the suburb of Safety Bay.
The suburb of Safety Bay has 1,593 weekly trips across 6 routes, averaging 227 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 180 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 690 m away and the nearest school 723 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 75 stops nearby, 1,593 weekly trips, access rating 61 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 19 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 19th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 690 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 723 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 754 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 849 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 888 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 974 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 3 long day care centres with 220 places in Safety Bay, about 1.8 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Safety Bay is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Safety Bay.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Safety Bay when compared nationally.
Safety Bay has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 44th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Safety Bay is $620 a week, +7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Safety Bay is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Safety Bay hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Safety Bay remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
Education in Safety Bay: university qualifications 16.2%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 981.
Safety Bay features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
In terms of cultural diversity, Safety Bay records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Safety Bay is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Safety Bay's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Safety Bay has an estimated 8,446 residents, up 10.2% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Safety Bay.
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 Safety Bay.
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 (SAL51319). 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 Safety Bay 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 Safety Bay 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.
