Suburb profile · Greater Perth
South Perth has an estimated 14,639 residents, up 16.2% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in South Perth.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
Situated 2.9 kilometres south from Perth CBD, the prestigious suburb of South Perth is renowned for its tranquil environment, picturesque foreshore, and expansive parklands that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Complemented by historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and a vibrant dining and shopping precinct, the area offers a balanced lifestyle supported by excellent local schools and a strong sense of community. Demographically, the suburb of South Perth features a mature population with a median age of 42, characterised by a high proportion of lone-person and group households, an elevated renting cohort, and an established presence of semi-detached housing.
As of Aug 2026, the suburb of South Perth has an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of approximately 14,639, calculated from annual SA2-level ERP releases alongside quarterly updates to national address records. This reflects an expansion of 2,043 people (16.2%) from the 12,596 residents counted during the 2021 Census.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 2.9 kilometres south from Perth CBD, the prestigious suburb of South Perth is renowned for its tranquil environment, picturesque foreshore, and expansive parklands that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Complemented by historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and a vibrant dining and shopping precinct, the area offers a balanced lifestyle supported by excellent local schools and a strong sense of community. Demographically, the suburb of South Perth features a mature population with a median age of 42, characterised by a high proportion of lone-person and group households, an elevated renting cohort, and an established presence of semi-detached housing.
As of Aug 2026, the suburb of South Perth has an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of approximately 14,639, calculated from annual SA2-level ERP releases alongside quarterly updates to national address records. This reflects an expansion of 2,043 people (16.2%) from the 12,596 residents counted during the 2021 Census.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 11,889 in 2006 and 14,602 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 14,639 (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, 18.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.3%.
South Perth ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for education and the 94th for health.
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 Perth is $750 a week, up 9.5% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 4% above Greater Perth.
4% above Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $750 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +9.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, South Perth | $726 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, South Perth, over 12 months | +5.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South East | $716 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - South East, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 10 tracked applications: 8 approved, 2 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around South Perth, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 9 projects in South Perth (3 under construction) and 101 more in the surrounding area.
A 25-storey luxury residential tower by Edge Visionary Living, featuring 109 premium apartments with panoramic views of the city and Swan…
An approved 36-storey luxury residential tower designed by Hassell, comprising 179 apartments and extensive public amenity including a…
A $350-million, 51-storey hybrid timber tower designed to be the world's tallest hybrid timber building at 189 metres.
A luxury apartment tower on the South Perth peninsula offering around 132 one to four bedroom residences including premium skyhomes, with…
A waterfront apartment development of 121 one, two and three bedroom residences with rooftop pool, garden terrace and lounge, positioned on…
A boutique 15-storey luxury apartment development comprising two towers with 26 residential dwellings and basement parking.
The Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a major landmark project situated at the former Terrace Road Car Park site in Boorloo (Perth), connecting…
A 53-storey mixed-use development at Lot 4 Elizabeth Quay featuring 70,000 square meters of premium office space and 176 short-stay…
Redevelopment and revitalisation of the heritage-listed Perth Concert Hall to preserve its acoustic qualities, upgrade accessibility…
Garden Towers is a $277 million luxury residential development by Finbar Group featuring 331 apartments across two towers (East and West).
The original $1.3 billion Lendlease residential development at Waterbank was cancelled following geotechnical investigations finding the…
A $1.35 billion transformative urban renewal precinct reconnecting Perth CBD with Northbridge.
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 53 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 15, 2027 14, 2028 10, 2029 4, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 3, 2035 0, 2036 2. 10 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 10 substantial development applications lodged in and around South Perth over the period covered (about 1.9 years), 6 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) 6.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.9 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 6 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 10.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 86th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 139 | ABS building approvals | 87th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 8 | 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 Perth include: Lumiere South Perth (Construction); The Pearl (Dev. Approval); Aboriginal Cultural Centre (Planning); 21 The Esplanade Mixed-Use Tower (Construction); and Peninsula Place (Proposed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of South Perth spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions South Perth among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of South Perth area has seen 147 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of South Perth's current population of 14,639 has been supported by 139 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of South Perth has seen 10.4 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 196 people in the suburb of South Perth, 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 Perth's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 139, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of South Perth has grown by approximately 1,492 people, while 695 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in South Perth reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 14,639 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +16.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,840 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 12,596 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,043 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5.15 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of South Perth was estimated to be approximately 14,639 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 14,602 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of South Perth has added approximately 2,043 people and shown a 16.22% increase from the 12,596 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of South Perth is estimated at 2,843 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of South Perth has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.4% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of South Perth is driven by: Overseas migration (91.0%), Natural increase (9.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 91.0% of overall population gains.
South Perth's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 22.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 30.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.9% | 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 | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 6.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 18.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.5% | 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 Perth at 42 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, South Perth is 5 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of South Perth compared to the Greater Perth region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 12.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of South Perth compared to the Greater Perth region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 6.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of South Perth show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (8.2% vs 5.5%) and 65-74 year-olds (12.1% vs 8.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 0-4 year-olds (2.8% vs 5.5%) and 5-14 year-olds (6.8% vs 12.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 9.6% of the population in the suburb of South Perth as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 22.8% of the population in the suburb of South Perth as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 78% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $71,145 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 86th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $115,527 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,026 | 2021 Census, weekly | 67th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,147 | 2021 Census, weekly | 88th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 33.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,864 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of South Perth is approximately $76,154. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $71,145.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of South Perth is approximately $123,660. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $115,527.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of South Perth is approximately $76,154 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $71,145 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of South Perth is approximately $123,660 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $115,527 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of South Perth's households (~29.3% / 1,648 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of South Perth is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.3% 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 Perth is $2,026/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of South Perth is $2,864/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of South Perth is $1,147/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of South Perth's median income among taxpayers is $71,145, with an average of $115,527. This is exceptionally high nationally, and compares to Greater Perth's median of $64,047 and average of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $76,154 (median) and $123,660 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of South Perth is $7,578 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of South Perth's disposable income is $7,578 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees South Perth performing better than 92% of local markets assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 9,101 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,807 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,282 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of South Perth has approximately 9,101 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.0%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of South Perth stands at 2.0%, which is 2.2 percentage points below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of South Perth is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.4% of employment), professional & technical (14.4%), and education & training (10.2%). Other significant employers include retail trade and mining.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of South Perth has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of South Perth is 70.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The suburb of South Perth shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 14.4% of the local workforce compared to 8.2% across Greater Perth. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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 Perth's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational achievement in South Perth places it within the top 6% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 14.3% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 51.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 25.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
51.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of South Perth have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
25.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of South Perth have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of South Perth ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of South Perth are: Bachelor Degree (32.4%), Postgraduate (14.3%), Certificate (12.6%).
27.5% of the population in the suburb of South Perth is currently engaged in formal education, including 5.8% in primary school, 6.5% in secondary school, 10.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of South Perth is 1143, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the suburb of South Perth, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,066 students.
The suburb of South Perth includes 3 primary schools, 1 combined school.
South Perth features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 36.7% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 20.3% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.1% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.1% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,625 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 6,537 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 58.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of South Perth had 5,625 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 16.2% to an estimated 6,537 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of South Perth is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 58.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (36.7%), group households (5.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,262 family households, couples with children account for 20.3% of all households, couples without children at home 30.1%, and single parent families 6.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of South Perth shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 36.7% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 58.0% compared to 71.5% in Greater Perth. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of South Perth have an average of 1.2 children, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 37.9% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 36.7% of all households in the suburb of South Perth, higher than the average for Greater Perth of 24.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 5.3% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
South Perth 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 | 39.8% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 21.2% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 78.8% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 80.9% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 60.2% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
South Perth was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 21.2% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 39.8% born overseas.
The main religion in South Perth was found to be Christianity, which makes up 46.1% of people in South Perth. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.5% of the population, compared to 0.3% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in South Perth are English, comprising 27.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 18.9% of the population, and Other, comprising 11.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South African is notably overrepresented at 0.9% of South Perth (vs 1.0% across Greater Perth), French at 0.7% (vs 0.5%) and Croatian at 0.9% (vs 0.8%).
39.8% of the suburb of South Perth population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
21.2% of the population in the suburb of South Perth speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
0.6% of the suburb of South Perth population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
80.9% of the suburb of South Perth population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
South Perth displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 43.6% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 34.1% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 33.9% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,200 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 22.4% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 36.6% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $375 | 2021 Census, weekly | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 29th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 60th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of South Perth, 34.1% of homes are owned outright, 22.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 43.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 33.9% of dwellings in the suburb of South Perth are houses.
In the suburb of South Perth, 29.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 36.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of South Perth stands at 34.1%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of South Perth is $2,200, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of South Perth is $1,201, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of South Perth, households with mortgages typically spend 25.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of South Perth is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of South Perth shows mortgage holders spending 25.1% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 18.5% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of South Perth consists of 33.9% detached houses, 36.6% semi-detached dwellings, 29.4% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in South Perth consumes approximately 13.7% of median household income ($8,773 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 Perth show attached dwellings contributing 61% of approvals compared to 66% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 39% of applications versus 34% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
South Perth's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 71.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 93rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 73.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.7% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
Around 71.5% of people in the suburb of South Perth are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of South Perth, 2.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.5% of people in the suburb of South Perth are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.9% of the suburb of South Perth population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.6% of people in the suburb of South Perth have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of South Perth, 71.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 73 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 78 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 3,130 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 63rd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 185 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 9 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 78 public transport stops within the suburb of South Perth.
The suburb of South Perth has 3,130 weekly trips across 9 routes, averaging 447 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 128 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 366 m away and the nearest pharmacy 472 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 78 stops nearby, 3,130 weekly trips, access rating 73 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 81 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 81st percentile nationally |
| Nearest dentist | 333 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 366 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 472 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 478 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 621 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 631 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 807 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.8 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 214 places in South Perth, about 2.2 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 Perth 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 Perth.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions South Perth among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
South Perth has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 40th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in South Perth is $750 a week, +9.5% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in South Perth reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
South Perth's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 78% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees South Perth performing better than 92% of local markets assessed across Australia.
Educational achievement in South Perth places it within the top 6% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
South Perth features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
South Perth 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 Perth displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
South Perth's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
South Perth has an estimated 14,639 residents, up 16.2% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in South Perth.
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 Perth.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Sep 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 (SAL51381). 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 (Sep 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 Perth 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 Perth 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.
