Sale

Suburb (SAL)

Rest of Vic. / Wellington

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL22226 How we calculate this
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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 Sale

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Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Sale

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Sale has an estimated 14,325 residents, up from 14,296 at the 2021 Census. 257 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. That puts 327 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

Following an examination of ABS population statistics for the surrounding region alongside address registers verified by AreaSearch since the Census, the suburb of Sale has an estimated residency of 14,325 people in May 2026. This indicates a growth of 29 residents (0.2%) since the 2021 Census, when the count stood at 14,296 people. This shift is calculated from a resident base of 14,271, projected by AreaSearch using the ABS June 2025 ERP data release combined with 257 newly verified addresses since the Census. Such a population size represents a density of 327 persons per square kilometer, which offers ample personal space and options for future residential growth.

The post-census expansion of 0.2% in the suburb of Sale is 2.2 percentage points behind the broader SA3 region (2.4%), indicating solid local growth trends. The primary driver of this population growth was overseas migration, which accounted for approximately 96.0% of the net gains in recent times. Projections developed by the ABS and Geoscience Australia for each SA2 region, published in 2024 with a 2022 baseline, are utilised by AreaSearch. For SA2 territories where these figures are unavailable, AreaSearch uses the 2023 Regional/LGA projections from the Victorian State Government, adjusted via a weighted aggregation model that scales population increases from LGA to SA2 divisions. The age group expansion rates derived from these models are also applied across all regions for the period from 2032 to 2041. Based on these demographic projections, a substantial population rise is anticipated within the highest quartile of non-metropolitan regions in Australia, with the suburb of Sale projected to grow by 3,068 residents by 2041 according to collective SA2 projections, representing a 21.0% total increase over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Sale?
Total population for the suburb of Sale was estimated to be approximately 14,325 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 14,271 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Sale changed since 2021?
The suburb of sale has added approximately 29 people and shown a 0.20% increase from the 14,296 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Sale?
The population density in the suburb of Sale is estimated at 327 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 Sale?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Sale has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Sale?
Population growth in the suburb of Sale is driven by: Overseas migration (96.0%), Natural increase (4.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 96.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Sale

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364 new dwellings have been approved in Sale over the past five years, an average of 72 a year. That is 5.1 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 60 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 90% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 40, well below 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

An evaluation of building approvals from the ABS, mapped to local statistical boundaries by AreaSearch, shows that the suburb of Sale averages approximately 72 approved residential properties annually. This includes an estimated 364 dwellings approved over the 5 financial years from FY-21 to FY-25, and 37 approvals in FY-26 so far. Since only 0.3 new residents moved to the location for every home built over the 5 financial years from FY-21 to FY-25, new supply is matching or running ahead of local demand, giving purchasers broader choices and supporting population gains that could outpace current projections.

The average valuation of these new builds is $425,000, indicating a focus by developers on higher-end, premium housing. Additionally, commercial building approvals have reached $43.3 million during the current financial year, signaling robust local business development. In comparison to the Rest of Vic., the level of new development per resident in the suburb of Sale is 14.0% lower, placing it in the 33rd percentile of all locations analyzed nationwide, which limits choices for purchasers and sustains demand for established homes. Recent residential construction is made up of 90.0% detached houses and 10.0% medium to high-density options, maintaining a low-density residential profile that appeals to buyers seeking space. An estimated ratio of 512 residents for every new dwelling approval highlights a quiet, low-scale construction environment. According to population projections, the suburb of Sale is anticipated to add 3,013 residents by 2041, based on the latest quarterly calculations by AreaSearch. If current building rates do not accelerate, residential supply may fail to keep pace with this population increase, which is likely to heighten competition among buyers and support upward pressure on prices.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Sale recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Sale area has seen 56 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Sale's current population of 14,325 has been supported by 72 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Sale's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Sale has seen 0.51 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.82 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 512 people in the suburb of Sale, compared to one for every 156 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Sale keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 3,013 people by 2041, around 1,507 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Sale?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Sale's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 72, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Sale?
The population in the suburb of Sale is expected to grow by 3,013 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 1,507 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 Sale?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Sale has grown by approximately 1,299 people, while 364 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Sale?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 72 approvals per year and a population of 14,325, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 3,013 people by 2041, around 1,507 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Sale

Development applications around Sale

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.
Application search is not available in Victoria. AreaSearch holds 212 applications for Sale, but they are a record of past activity rather than a current register. Victoria has no state-wide planning portal and its council coverage is uneven, so we have switched the search off here rather than return partial answers. We are currently investigating a solution. No credits are charged for Victorian applications, and building approvals from the ABS and the major projects we track are unaffected.

SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Sale

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AreaSearch tracks 7 current infrastructure and development projects inside Sale, worth an estimated $193 million. A further 50 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $10.1 billion. 23 are already under construction and 28 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans communities, precincts & urban renewal, residential development and energy. 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 schemes, and major developments are key drivers of regional performance. AreaSearch has identified a total of 11 projects that are anticipated to influence the local area. Notable initiatives include the Sale College Facilities Improvement, which encompasses toilet upgrades and planning for Years 7-12 facilities, the Aqua Energy Leisure Centre Redevelopment, the Swanlake Business Park, and the Port of Sale East Bank Redevelopment Study, with the key projects of interest detailed below.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Sale?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Sale include: Sale College Facilities Improvement - Toilet Refurbishment & Years 7-12 Facilities Planning (Construction); Aqua Energy Leisure Centre Redevelopment (Construction); Swanlake Business Park (Construction); Port of Sale East Bank Redevelopment Study (Planning); and Sale Integrated Centre for Children and Families (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Sale?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Sale spans multiple sectors including Energy, Residential Development, and Education & Training, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Sale?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates significant investment of approximately $788 million in infrastructure projects affecting the region.
How does the suburb of Sale's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Sale ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
North Sale Growth Area Development Plan
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Comprehensive development plan for the 294ha North Sale Growth Area providing a framework for coordinated urban development. It includes 1,000+ residential lots, a new Sale College campus at Gibsons and Cobains Road, a 122-place early years hub, infrastructure upgrades, and community facilities.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Sale College Facilities Improvement - Toilet Refurbishment & Years 7-12 Facilities Planning
Category: Education & Training
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

Dual-phase project at Sale College consisting of: (1) toilet refurbishment on the second floor, funded by $810,233 from Round 2 of the Australian Government Schools Upgrade Fund (start Q2 2024, forecast finish Q2 2026), and (2) planning and early works for Years 7-12 student facilities improvement, funded by $3 million from the 2021-22 State Budget, with construction subject to future funding. The school serves 820 students across two campuses - Guthridge Campus (Years 7-9) and Macalister Campus (Years 10-12).

Education & Training

Swanlake Business Park
Category: Business Parks & Technology Hubs
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A premium commercial estate in Sale's northern growth area on the Princes Highway, neighbouring Bunnings Warehouse. Construction of civil works is underway after a 15-year development process, with the latest release (marketed as Swanlake Commercial Park) offering 21 allotments from 1,350 to 2,770 sqm zoned Commercial 2 (C2Z), suited to bulky goods retail, showrooms, offices and warehousing. The site has 800m of highway frontage with direct highway access.

Business Parks & Technology Hubs

Aqua Energy Leisure Centre Redevelopment
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

A major transformation of the Aqua Energy Leisure Centre, featuring a new, accessible 25m indoor pool, improved changing rooms, a 24/7 gym, and a water play area.

Sports & Recreation

Port of Sale East Bank Redevelopment Study
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A comprehensive redevelopment study for the East Bank site within the Port of Sale Cultural and Civic Precinct. The study aims to prepare new planning controls for the future use and redevelopment of the site containing former Sale Specialist School and Sale High School buildings, plus heritage-listed George Gray Centre. The project seeks to create high architectural standards that complement the existing Port Precinct character.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Sale Integrated Centre for Children and Families
Category: Education & Training
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

A new centre providing 122 new childcare and kindergarten places, multi-purpose consulting suites, and meeting and activity spaces for early childhood services and community use.

Education & Training

TAFE Gippsland Port of Sale Campus
Category: Education & Training
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2022
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A new TAFE Gippsland campus delivered in the Port of Sale precinct, consolidating older Sale and Fulham facilities into a single, centrally located education and industry hub. The project provides purpose-built learning spaces and workshops supporting sectors such as health and social services, early childhood, carpentry, engineering, automotive, hair and beauty, with improved access for the Wellington Shire community.

Education & Training

Longford Development Plan
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Longford Development Plan facilitates rural residential development across 11 precincts. Precincts 9 and 10 were officially rezoned in June 2023 via Amendment C116well to Rural Living Zone Schedule 5 (RLZ5). This enables the creation of approximately 180 rural lifestyle blocks with minimum 6000m2 lot sizes. The plan guides coordinated infrastructure delivery and development outcomes for the Longford Growth Area.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Sale

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6,750 residents of Sale are employed, from a labour force of 7,134. Unemployment sits at 5.4%, with participation at 60.0%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.4% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. 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 suburb of Sale has a skilled labor force with strong representation in key service industries, registering an unemployment rate of 5.4% and an estimated annual job growth of 4.3%, according to aggregated statistical data from AreaSearch. In March 2026, employed residents numbered 6,750, while the unemployment rate was 1.7% higher than the Regional Vic. average of 3.7%. The workforce participation rate remains close to the Regional Vic. level of 61.1%. According to Census responses, a minor proportion of 10.5% of the workforce worked from home, though this figure was likely influenced by public health restrictions during the pandemic.

The primary sectors employing local residents are health care & social assistance, public administration & safety, and retail trade. The workforce shows a notable concentration in public administration & safety, which is 2.1 times the regional benchmark. Conversely, manufacturing is less prevalent, employing 4.0% of the workforce compared to 7.7% in Regional Vic.. A comparison between the number of employed residents in the Census and the locally based jobs indicates that a significant portion of the workforce travels to other areas for employment. According to AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS data, aggregated from broader statistical areas, employment levels rose by 4.3% and the labour force grew by 3.4% during the year to March 2026, which caused unemployment to fall by 0.8 percentage points. In contrast, Regional Vic. experienced a 0.1% decline in employment, a 0.3% contraction in the labour force, and a 0.2 percentage point drop in unemployment. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 provide additional context for potential future demand within Sale. These projections, spanning five and ten-year periods, have been overlaid with the local employment profile to estimate growth patterns. Although national employment is projected to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, growth rates vary considerably across industry sectors. When these sector-specific forecasts are applied to Sale's employment mix, local employment is estimated to increase by 6.4% over five years and 13.5% over ten years, with the caveat that this represents a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not incorporate localised population projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Sale?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Sale has approximately 6,750 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.4%. 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 Sale's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Sale stands at 5.4%, which is 1.7 percentage points above Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.7%. 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 Sale?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Sale is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.9% of employment), public administration & safety (13.6%), and retail trade (11.1%). Other significant employers include education & training and construction.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Sale?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Sale has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Sale?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Sale is 60.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Sale's employment market?
The suburb of sale shows notable specialization in public administration & safety, which employs 13.6% of the local workforce compared to 6.5% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.1, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Sale?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Sale's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.4% over the next five years and 13.5% 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 Sale compare nationally?
The suburb of sale'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 saw a 1.9% decline, ranking 22.0nd out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Sale?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the suburb of Sale, with skilled sectors accounting for 35.0% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (18.9%), education & training (9.9%), and professional & technical (4.4%). With projected employment growth of 6.4% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Sale

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Median household income in Sale is $1,327 a week (about $69,000 a year), with median personal income at $701 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $49,056 a year against an average of $63,836. 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

According to the latest ATO postcode statistics compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023, taxpayers in the suburb of Sale recorded a median income of $49,056 and an average income of $63,836. These figures sit below national benchmarks and compare to a median of $50,954 and an average of $62,728 across Regional Vic.. Factoring in Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since financial year 2023, projected figures for March 2026 stand at roughly $53,775 for the median and $69,977 for the average. Census records show that personal, household, and family incomes in the suburb of Sale are modest, placing between the 22nd and 28th percentiles.

The largest income bracket contains 28.5% of residents (4,082 people) who earn between $1,500 and $2,999, mirroring the wider region where 30.3% of the population falls into this range. Discretionary income remaining after housing costs stands at 86.1%, which ranks in the 25th percentile nationally, while the local SEIFA income index places in the 4th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Sale?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Sale is approximately $53,775. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $49,056.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Sale?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Sale is approximately $69,977. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $63,836.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Sale compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Sale is approximately $53,775 compared to $55,856 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $49,056 and $50,954 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Sale compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Sale is approximately $69,977 compared to $68,762 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $63,836 and $62,728 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Sale according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~28.5% / 4,082 persons) of the suburb of Sale's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Sale compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Sale is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.5% of the population. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Sale according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Sale is $1,327/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Sale according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Sale is $1,778/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Sale according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Sale is $701/wk.
How does the suburb of Sale's income rank nationally?
The suburb of Sale shows a median taxpayer income of $49,056 and an average of $63,836 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. This is below the national average, contrasting with Regional Vic.'s median income of $50,954 and average income of $62,728. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $53,775 (median) and $69,977 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Sale?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Sale is $4,953 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Sale's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of sale's disposable income is $4,953 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Sale

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Sale had 5,786 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 85% detached houses and 7% apartments. 30% are owned with a mortgage, 34% rented and 36% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $280 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,300 a month. Rent absorbs 21.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 22.6%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the time of the last Census, the housing mix in the suburb of Sale consisted of 84.8% standalone houses and 15.2% alternative housing types, such as townhouses, apartments, or other dwellings, compared to 90.1% houses and 9.9% other dwellings in Regional Vic.. The rate of home ownership was 36.4%, trailing the Regional Vic. average, with the remaining properties divided between those with a mortgage (29.9%) and rented homes (33.7%). Median monthly mortgage costs in the area were $1,300, which is below the Regional Vic. average of $1,430, while weekly rent was $280 compared to $285 regionally.

By comparison, mortgage payments in the suburb of Sale are notably lower than the Australian average of $1,863, and median rents are well below the national figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Sale?
In the suburb of Sale, 36.4% of homes are owned outright, 29.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 33.7% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Sale are houses?
According to the latest data, 84.8% of dwellings in the suburb of Sale are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Sale are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Sale, 6.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Sale?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Sale stands at 36.4%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Sale?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Sale is $1,300, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Sale?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Sale is $280, compared to $285 in Regional Vic..
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Sale?
In the suburb of Sale, 8.0% of rentals are $0-149/week, 65.7% are $150-349/week, 26.0% are $350-649/week, 0.2% are $650-949/week, and 0.2% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Sale?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Sale is $797, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Sale?
In the suburb of Sale, households with mortgages typically spend 22.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Sale?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Sale is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Sale compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Sale shows mortgage holders spending 22.6% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% regionally), while renters spend 21.1% of income on rent (vs 20.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Sale?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Sale consists of 84.8% detached houses, 7.7% semi-detached dwellings, 6.9% apartments, and 0.6% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Sale?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $797. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,300/month, and renters paying $1,212/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Sale relative to local incomes?
Housing in Sale consumes approximately 13.9% of median household income ($5,746 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 Sale?
Recent development applications in Sale show attached dwellings contributing 18% of approvals compared to 15% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 82% of applications versus 85% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Sale

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Sale counted 5,786 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.3 people each. 23% are couples with children, fewer than in 75% of areas nationally, against 27% couples without children. 33% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.9 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families represent the majority of households at 63.8%, consisting of couples with children at 23.4%, couples without children at 27.2%, and single-parent households at 12.2%. Non-family households make up the remaining 36.2%, with single-person households representing 33.4% and group households accounting for 2.8% of the total. The median household occupancy is 2.3 individuals, which is slightly smaller than the Regional Vic. average of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Sale?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Sale had 5,786 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 5,798 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Sale is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 63.8% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (33.4%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 3,691 family households, 23.4% are couples with children, 27.2% are couples without children at home, and 12.2% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Sale compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional Vic., the suburb of Sale shows distinct household patterns. 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 Sale have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Sale?
Marriage patterns reveal 44.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.8% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 33.4% of all households in the suburb of Sale, similar to the regional average of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.8% of households, well below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Sale

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20.9% of adults in Sale hold a university qualification, including 14.3% with a bachelor degree and 3.8% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 26.8% hold a vocational qualification. 12 schools serve the area, with 4,116 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 994 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

Educational attainment levels present challenges, as the proportion of residents holding a university qualification (20.9%) is below the state average of 33.4%. Among these qualifications, bachelor degrees are the most common at 14.3%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 3.8% and graduate diplomas at 2.8%. Vocational and technical qualifications are common, with 38.3% of residents aged 15 and over holding a trade credential, consisting of advanced diplomas at 11.5% and certificate-level qualifications at 26.8%. A high level of participation in study is observed, with 27.8% of the population enrolled in an educational institution.

Within this group, 10.3% are in primary school, 7.7% are in high school, and 3.3% are undertaking tertiary studies.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Sale have university qualifications?
20.9% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Sale have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Sale have no formal qualifications?
40.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Sale have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% regionally.
How does the suburb of Sale's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of sale ranks in the 47th 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 Sale?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Sale are: Certificate (26.8%), Bachelor Degree (14.3%), Advanced Diploma (11.5%).
What proportion of the suburb of Sale's population is currently attending educational institutions?
27.8% of the population in the suburb of Sale is currently engaged in formal education, with 10.3% in primary school, 7.7% in secondary school, 3.3% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Sale?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Sale is 994, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the suburb of Sale?
There are 12 schools within the suburb of Sale, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,116 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Sale?
The suburb of sale includes 5 primary schools, 4 secondary schools, 3 combined schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Sale

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Sale

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Public transport in Sale reaches 69 stops on 13 routes, timetabled for about 460 services a week. The typical home sits about 220 m from its nearest stop. Households keep an average of 1.2 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 networks in the suburb of Sale include 69 active stops, which feature train services. These facilities are served by 13 distinct routes, which combine to support 460 passenger trips weekly. Accessibility is rated as favorable, with residents generally living within 217 meters of a transit point. As a residential community, the majority of working residents travel outside the suburb, with private vehicles remaining the primary commute method at 90%, and 6% of people walking to work. The average number of motor vehicles is 1.2 per household, which is below the regional standard.

A minor segment of 10.5% of the population worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect public health measures related to the pandemic. Transit services average 65 daily runs across all routes, which translates to approximately 6 weekly services for each individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Sale?
There are 69 public transport stops within the suburb of Sale.
How frequent are the transport services in Sale?
the suburb of Sale has 460 weekly trips across 13 routes, averaging 65 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Sale?
On average, residential properties are 217 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Sale

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61.6% of residents in Sale report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 81% of areas nationally. 8.5% need daily assistance with core activities, and 52.1% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 6.1 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Public health records indicate notable issues in the suburb of Sale, according to AreaSearch indicators tracking mortality and the occurrence of chronic illnesses across both older and younger age groups. Furthermore, the rate of residents holding private health insurance is slightly below the SA2 average, covering approximately 52% of the population, which corresponds to roughly 7,461 people. Mental health conditions and arthritis represent the most prevalent medical issues locally, affecting 10.7% and 9.9% of the population respectively. Meanwhile, 61.6% of residents reported having no chronic medical conditions, compared to 63.4% across Regional Vic..

The working-age cohort experiences significant health pressures, with higher rates of chronic illness. Residents aged 65 and older make up 23.0% of the population (3,294 people). The health metrics for these older residents present some challenges, with national comparative rankings aligning closely with those of the broader community.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Sale have private health insurance?
Around 52.1% of people in the suburb of Sale are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.5% in the broader region of Regional Vic..
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Sale?
In the suburb of Sale, 8.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Sale?
9.1% of people in the suburb of Sale are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Sale?
Diabetes affects 4.9% of the the suburb of Sale population, while in the surrounding region, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Sale?
4.3% of people in the suburb of Sale have heart disease. Across the region of Regional Vic., 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Sale compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Sale, 52.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.5%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Sale

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Sale is largely Australian-born, at 86.4% of residents, with 6.8% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are Australian (31.5%) and English (30.6%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The suburb of Sale exhibits lower levels of cultural diversity than average, with citizens making up 89.3% of the population, 86.4% born within Australia, and 93.2% speaking only English at home. Christianity is the primary religion, followed by 47.2% of the community. The most distinct regional variance is in the Other religious category, which accounts for 0.7% of residents compared to 0.8% across Regional Vic.. Regarding parental country of birth, the three most common ancestries in the suburb of Sale are Australian at 31.5%, English at 30.6%, and Irish at 8.7%.

Minor variances are present in other ethnic origins, with Dutch ancestry accounting for 1.9% of residents (compared to 1.7% in the region), Sri Lankan background at 0.3% (compared to 0.1%), and Scottish ancestry at 8.2% (compared to 8.8%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Sale?
Sale was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.3% of its population being citizens, 86.4% born in Australia, and 93.2% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Sale?
The main religion in Sale was found to be Christianity, which makes up 47.2% of people in Sale. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 0.7% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional Vic..
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Sale?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Sale are Australian, comprising 31.5% of the population, English, comprising 30.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 1.9% of Sale (vs 1.7% regionally), Sri Lankan at 0.3% (vs 0.1%) and Scottish at 8.2% (vs 8.8%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
13.6% of the the suburb of Sale population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Sale population speaks a language other than English at home?
6.8% of the population in the suburb of Sale speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Sale identify as Australian Aboriginal?
1.9% of the the suburb of Sale population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Sale?
89.3% of the the suburb of Sale population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Sale

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The median resident of Sale is 42. 25.4% 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 in the suburb of Sale is 42 years, which is close to the Regional Vic. average of 43 years and older than the national median of 38 years. Demographic data indicates that young adults aged 25 to 34 are well represented at 14.4% of the population, while the 45 to 54 cohort is relatively small at 10.5% compared to Regional Vic.. Since 2021, the cohort aged 25 to 34 expanded from 12.6% to 14.4% of the population, whereas the cohort aged 45 to 54 contracted from 12.2% to 10.5%.

Population forecasts through to 2041 indicate demographic shifts, with the 25 to 34 age bracket projected to grow the fastest, increasing by 48% (adding 995 residents to reach 3,058), while the cohort aged 55 to 64 is expected to contract by four individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Sale?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Sale is 42 years.
How does the suburb of Sale's median age compare to broader areas?
At 42 years, Sale is comparable to the Regional Vic. average (43 years) yet 4 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Sale?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Sale compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 14.4% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Sale?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Sale compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 10.5% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Sale is broadly in line with the Regional Vic. region.
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Sale?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Sale is 17.8%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Sale?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Sale is 23.0%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Sale

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, State agencies, Local governments Daily Jul 2026 last month all 7 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 Jul 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 — 257 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (14,296 at the 2021 Census → 14,325 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 (SAL22226). 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 Sale 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 Sale 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 Sale 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 (Jul 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