Suburb profile · Greater Perth
South Lake has an estimated 6,221 residents, up 6.7% since the 2021 Census, with 60 projects tracked in the area around South Lake.
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.
The suburb of South Lake is located 17 kilometres south from Perth CBD. Based on AreaSearch’s analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, its population is estimated at around 6,221 as of Aug 2026. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. This is an increase of 390 people (6.7%) since the 2021 Census, when 5,831 people were recorded. The area’s market profile includes strong mortgage holder representation, a notable mining employment base, an elevated 25 to 34yo demographic, pronounced logistics and transport employment, substantial administrative employment, and a marked wholesale trade focus.
Residents are somewhat younger than in the typical Australian area, with a median age of 36, and group households form a substantial part of the local profile. Population growth has shown limited expansion patterns.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of South Lake is located 17 kilometres south from Perth CBD. Based on AreaSearch’s analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, its population is estimated at around 6,221 as of Aug 2026. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. This is an increase of 390 people (6.7%) since the 2021 Census, when 5,831 people were recorded. The area’s market profile includes strong mortgage holder representation, a notable mining employment base, an elevated 25 to 34yo demographic, pronounced logistics and transport employment, substantial administrative employment, and a marked wholesale trade focus.
Residents are somewhat younger than in the typical Australian area, with a median age of 36, and group households form a substantial part of the local profile. Population growth has shown limited expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,931 in 2006 and 6,218 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 6,221 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 16.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 37.6%.
South Lake ranks in the 72nd percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 66th 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 South Lake is $689 a week, up 3.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 5% below Greater Perth.
5% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $689 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Cockburn | $730 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Cockburn, over 12 months | +7.2% | 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 5 tracked applications: 1 approved, 2 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around South Lake, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 60 projects in and around South Lake, 17 of them under construction.
A new neighbourhood shopping centre for the Glen Iris Estate in Jandakot, featuring a modern 7-day IGA supermarket, a family-friendly bistro tavern, a dedicated health and wellness hub, two specialty retail stores, a liquor store, and three food and beverage outlets. The development includes a central piazza with landscaped seating and over 100 parking bays.
The Perth Surf Park is a $120 million major tourism and sports infrastructure development featuring a world-class 62-module Wavegarden Cove surfing lagoon. Delivered by Aventuur in Jandakot, the precinct will also include a beach club, bars, high-performance surf academy, wellness centre, and rooftop accommodation.
Jandakot Business Park is a 46-unit strata warehouse development by Capital Prudential located at 100 Prinsep Road, Jandakot. Built by Alita Constructions, the project features units ranging from 150 sqm to 539 sqm with high trusses, three-phase power, kitchenettes, and mezzanine levels. Construction is actively progressing toward completion.
Comprehensive redevelopment and master planning of the Cockburn Wetlands Precinct and Education Centre at Bibra Lake. The project upgrades community, conservation, research, and environmental education facilities across the precinct while improving sustainable access and integration with the surrounding wetland ecosystem.
ASCEND is a 220-hectare industrial and logistics estate at Jandakot Airport, developed by Dexus and Cbus Super, with high-specification warehousing. Dexus reported 24,100 sqm of developments completed at the estate in the half-year to February 2026.
Major upgrade and expansion of Yangebup Primary School delivering new permanent classrooms, a redeveloped administration building, refurbished undercover assembly area and associated external works.
Construction is underway on the Aboriginal Cultural and Visitors Centre at Bibra Lake, featuring a commercial cafe, exhibition space, community rooms, workshops, art displays, and educational bush walks celebrating Wadjuk Nyungar culture.
A 9-level mixed-use development by SKS Group known as The Boulevard Residences at 20 Linkage Avenue, Cockburn Central. It features 243 build-to-rent and residential apartments alongside six ground-floor retail tenancies, positioned directly next to Cockburn Train Station.
A 2.07-hectare vacant land site at the corner of Beeliar Drive and Kemp Road in Success, zoned for Mixed Business use. The site offers high exposure with approximately 53,160 vehicles per day and is available for lease via expressions of interest through NAI Harcourts Metro.
Glen Iris Estate is a new master-planned residential neighbourhood in Jandakot, developed on the former Glen Iris golf course by Eastcourt Property Group. The estate features around 500 planned residential dwellings, leafy streetscapes, and abundant green spaces covering 25% of the total site.
A residential estate by Goddard Property Group in Success, WA, offering titled homesites ranging from 150m2 to 495m2, starting at $219,000. Located next to Success Primary School and near Beeliar Regional Park, the development includes 1.1Ha of rehabilitated wetlands conservation land, promoting sustainable community living.
A mixed-use town centre redevelopment of the Yangebup Shopping Centre. The project is designed to deliver a modern local main street hub featuring a full-line supermarket, specialty retail, medical and allied health services, a childcare centre, gym, and flexible community spaces.
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: 2026 7, 2027 8, 2028 7, 2029 2, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 2. 8 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 5 substantial development applications lodged in and around South Lake over the period covered (about 1.9 years), 2 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2024 (part year) 1, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 1.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.9 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 59th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 28 | ABS building approvals | 41st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.9 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.9 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of South Lake include: Glen Iris Local Shopping Centre (Construction); The Boulevard Residences & Holiday Inn Express Cockburn (Construction); Cockburn Central North (Muriel Court) Structure Plan (Approved); Cockburn Wetlands Precinct Redevelopment (Planning); and Glen Iris Estate Jandakot (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of South Lake spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Sports & Recreation, and Residential Development, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees South Lake recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of South Lake area has seen 82 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of South Lake's current population of 6,221 has been supported by 28 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of South Lake has seen 4.6 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 151 people in the suburb of South Lake, 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 South Lake's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 28, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of South Lake has grown by approximately 184 people, while 142 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.3 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
South Lake 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 | 6,221 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,934 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 69th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 5,831 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 390 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.22 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of South Lake was estimated to be approximately 6,221 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,218 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of South Lake has added approximately 390 people and shown a 6.69% increase from the 5,831 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of South Lake is estimated at 1,932 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of South Lake has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of South Lake is driven by: Overseas migration (64.0%), Natural increase (36.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 64.0% of overall population gains.
South Lake's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 36 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 30th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 15.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 28.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 55.5% | 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 | 36 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 16.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of South Lake at 36 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 36 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 36 years as at August 2026, South Lake is comparable to the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of South Lake compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 16.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of South Lake compared to the Greater Perth region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 4.3% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of South Lake is broadly in line with Greater Perth.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.9% of the population in the suburb of South Lake as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 15.0% of the population in the suburb of South Lake as at August 2026.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 60% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $63,456 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 68th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $77,177 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,742 | 2021 Census, weekly | 49th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $795 | 2021 Census, weekly | 48th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 19.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,037 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 21.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of South Lake is approximately $67,923. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $63,456.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of South Lake is approximately $82,610. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $77,177.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of South Lake is approximately $67,923 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $63,456 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of South Lake is approximately $82,610 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $77,177 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of South Lake's households (~37.6% / 800 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of South Lake is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 37.6% 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 South Lake is $1,742/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of South Lake is $2,037/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of South Lake is $795/wk.
The suburb of South Lake's income level is above the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of South Lake's median income among taxpayers is $63,456 and the average income stands at $77,177, which compares to figures for Greater Perth's of $64,047 and $84,609 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $67,923 (median) and $82,610 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of South Lake is $6,372 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of South Lake's disposable income is $6,372 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in South Lake has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,415 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 5,210 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,633 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of South Lake has approximately 3,415 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.0%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of South Lake stands at 6.0%, which is 1.8 percentage points above Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of South Lake is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.6% of employment), construction (10.5%), and retail trade (9.2%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 34.3% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include education & training and manufacturing.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of South Lake has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of South Lake is 70.8%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The suburb of South Lake shows notable specialisation in manufacturing, which employs 7.9% of the local workforce compared to 5.5% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the 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 South Lake's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in South Lake: university qualifications 21.1%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 965.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.2% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 21.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 42.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
21.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of South Lake have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
42.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of South Lake have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of South Lake ranks in the 28th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of South Lake are: Certificate (26.8%), Bachelor Degree (15.2%), Advanced Diploma (9.3%).
27.1% of the population in the suburb of South Lake is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.6% in primary school, 6.9% in secondary school, 4.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of South Lake is 965, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of South Lake, with a combined enrollment of approximately 835 students.
The suburb of South Lake includes 1 primary school, 1 secondary school.
South Lake features high concentrations of group households and single parent families, with an average household size in line with Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 22.7% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 31.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.8% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.8% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,129 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,271 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 71.9% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of South Lake had 2,129 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.7% to an estimated 2,271 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of South Lake is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 71.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.7%), group households (5.2%), and other household types (0.2%).
Of the 1,531 family households, couples with children account for 31.6% of all households, couples without children at home 24.8%, and single parent families 13.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of South Lake shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the suburb of South Lake have an average of 1.6 children, matching the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 41.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 41.3% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 22.7% of all households in the suburb of South Lake, 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 5.2% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
South Lake was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 34.2% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 22.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 77.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.0% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 65.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
South Lake was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 22.9% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 34.2% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in South Lake, at 43.0% of people, although more residents (49.9%) 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 South Lake are English, comprising 25.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 23.3% of the population, and Other, comprising 13.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Serbian is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of South Lake (vs 0.3% across Greater Perth), Croatian at 1.0% (vs 0.8%) and South African at 0.8% (vs 1.0%).
34.2% of the suburb of South Lake population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
22.9% of the population in the suburb of South Lake speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
3.0% of the suburb of South Lake population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
83.0% of the suburb of South Lake population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
South Lake is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 25.1% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 92.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,600 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 34th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 48.2% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 44th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 21.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 24th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of South Lake, 25.1% of homes are owned outright, 48.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 26.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 92.8% of dwellings in the suburb of South Lake are houses.
In the suburb of South Lake, 0.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 6.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of South Lake stands at 25.1%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of South Lake is $1,600, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of South Lake is $1,176, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of South Lake, households with mortgages typically spend 21.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of South Lake is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of South Lake shows mortgage holders spending 21.2% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 20.1% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of South Lake consists of 92.8% detached houses, 6.8% semi-detached dwellings, 0.4% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in South Lake consumes approximately 15.6% of median household income ($7,543 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in South Lake show attached dwellings contributing 79% of approvals compared to 7% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 21% of applications versus 93% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health performance in South Lake is lower than the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 61st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.1% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 73.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
Around 56.0% of people in the suburb of South Lake are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of South Lake, 6.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
8.8% of people in the suburb of South Lake are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.9% of the suburb of South Lake population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.0% of people in the suburb of South Lake have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of South Lake, 56.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 49th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 35 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 695 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 29th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 184 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 4 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 5.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 35 public transport stops within the suburb of South Lake.
The suburb of South Lake has 695 weekly trips across 4 routes, averaging 99 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 213 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 496 m away and the nearest school 509 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 35 stops nearby, 695 weekly trips, access rating 49 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 49th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 496 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 509 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 636 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 663 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest shopping centre | 735 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 759 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.2 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 206 places in South Lake, about 1.7 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 South Lake is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
More sectors are coming soon for suburbs and areas. 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 South Lake.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees South Lake recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
South Lake has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 48th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in South Lake is $689 a week, +3.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
South Lake is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
South Lake's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 60% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment performance in South Lake has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
Education in South Lake: university qualifications 21.1%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 965.
South Lake features high concentrations of group households and single parent families, with an average household size in line with Greater Perth.
South Lake was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
South Lake is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Perth.
Health performance in South Lake is lower than the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
South Lake has an estimated 6,221 residents, up 6.7% since the 2021 Census, with 60 projects tracked in the area around South Lake.
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 South Lake.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to May 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 (SAL51377). 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 (May 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 South Lake 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 South Lake 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.
