Suburb profile · Rest of WA
Sunset Beach has an estimated 1,768 residents, up 13.5% since the 2021 Census, with 12 projects tracked in the area around Sunset Beach.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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Sunset Beach is located 378 kilometres north-northwest from Perth CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 1,768 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 210 people (13.5%) since the 2021 Census, when the population was 1,558 people. The area is noted for strong educational qualifications, a notable education employment base, an elevated proportion of 0 to 4yo residents, pronounced healthcare employment and substantial public administration employment. Residents include a high proportion of children, and the area is exceptionally well educated. Population growth has also been strong.
This Western Australian coastal location is known for picturesque beaches, white sands, clear turquoise waters and abundant marine life, with opportunities for snorkeling, fishing and diving. Indigenous history and culture are reflected in heritage sites and local art displays.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Sunset Beach is located 378 kilometres north-northwest from Perth CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 1,768 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 210 people (13.5%) since the 2021 Census, when the population was 1,558 people. The area is noted for strong educational qualifications, a notable education employment base, an elevated proportion of 0 to 4yo residents, pronounced healthcare employment and substantial public administration employment. Residents include a high proportion of children, and the area is exceptionally well educated. Population growth has also been strong.
This Western Australian coastal location is known for picturesque beaches, white sands, clear turquoise waters and abundant marine life, with opportunities for snorkeling, fishing and diving. Indigenous history and culture are reflected in heritage sites and local art displays.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,206 in 2006 and 1,768 in 2025. The Aug 2026 estimate (ABS June 2025 base) is the same.
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 15.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 38.1%.
Sunset Beach ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 95th for education.
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 Sunset Beach is $661 a week, up 23.0% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $661 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +23.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Mid West | $518 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Mid West, over 12 months | +9.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional WA | $667 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Regional WA, over 12 months | +10.2% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 12 projects in and around Sunset Beach, 6 of them under construction.
A 30 million dollar expansion of the Geraldton Homemaker Centre on North West Coastal Highway that effectively doubles the precinct to 38,471 square metres of floor space across two parallel buildings.
Fenix Resources is developing a $30 million quality worker accommodation village in Geraldton comprising 60 homes to attract and house key personnel amid regional housing constraints. Construction of the residential development is actively underway, supported by the company's expanding local operations.
A transformative $350 million infrastructure project to future-proof the port and drive economic growth in the Mid West. Key elements include a new $52 million bulk materials handling facility, a surge protection breakwater awarded to MGN Civil, and port access road upgrades being delivered by Civcon Civil and Project Management.
Redevelopment of the Youth Precinct on the Geraldton Foreshore, covering approximately 7,353 square metres of public open space on the site of the ageing existing precinct. The upgrade will deliver a skatepark, trampolines, a parkour course, a zipline, shaded seating areas, swings, and a renewed Rage Cage, along with lighting and CCTV.
Development of a 7-Eleven service station and convenience store at Lot 203 (179) Durlacher Street, Geraldton, on the southern portion of the Rigters IGA site. The 193 square metre store includes six refuelling bays, a fuel canopy, eight car parking bays, pylon signage, landscaping, and 24/7 operations.
The $192 million redevelopment of Geraldton Health Campus reached practical completion in mid-2026, delivering an expanded emergency department, a new intensive care unit and high dependency unit, an integrated mental health service, and an increased capacity of 25 additional beds.
Construction of 16 turnkey modular tiny homes in Wandina, Geraldton, designed to gold Livable Homes standard for seniors in need of social housing. Prefabricated at Summit Modular's Canning Vale facility and installed on site in just seven months.
Local development plan and design guidelines applying to the hillside subdivision created from Lots 219 and 220 Brand Highway in Mount Tarcoola.
Local Development Plan and detailed design guidelines for residential lots created from Lots 219 and 220 Brand Highway, Mount Tarcoola. The plan has been adopted by the City of Greater Geraldton and prescribes additional requirements to the Residential Design Codes, including building envelopes, setbacks, height limits, noise and bushfire mitigation…
Moreton Bay Estate is a residential land development proposed along Brand Highway in Dongara, Western Australia, offering residential lots for sale. The project expands the local housing supply and contributes to the residential development landscape of the Shire of Irwin.
The Retreat Estate is a premium waterside residential community situated between Dongara and Port Denison, offering generous house and land packages ranging from 700 to 900 square metres. Developed by LWP Property Group, the project provides a coastal lifestyle within walking distance of the Indian Ocean, Irwin River, and local marina boardwalks.
The $9.86 million redevelopment of the Dongara Health Centre, completed in June 2023, involved significant upgrades to the emergency department and residential aged care facility.
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 7 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 1, 2027 4, 2028 1, 2029 1. 2 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 2.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 5 | ABS building approvals | 12th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Sunset Beach include: Glenfield Commercial Retail Hub (Planning); Youth Precinct Redevelopment Project (Construction); Geraldton Airport Microgrid Project (Completed); Dongara-Geraldton-Northampton Route (DGN Route) (Planning); and Geraldton Heights Estate (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Sunset Beach spans multiple sectors including Precincts & Urban Renewal, Sports & Recreation, and Energy, among others.
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Sunset Beach currently ranks below national averages at the 5th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Sunset Beach when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Sunset Beach area has seen 22 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Sunset Beach's current population of 1,768 has been supported by 5 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Sunset Beach has seen 2.7 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.3 approvals in Regional WA. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 159 people in the suburb of Sunset Beach, compared to one for every 164 in Regional WA.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Sunset Beach's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 5, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Sunset Beach has grown by approximately 173 people, while 23 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 7.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Sunset Beach are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,768 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 987 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 51st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 1,558 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 210 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.79 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Sunset Beach was estimated to be approximately 1,768 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 1,768 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Sunset Beach has added approximately 210 people and shown a 13.48% increase from the 1,558 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Sunset Beach is estimated at 988 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Sunset Beach has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.9% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Sunset Beach is driven by: Interstate migration (57.99999999999999%), Natural increase (31.0%), Overseas migration (11.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 57.99999999999999% of overall population gains.
Sunset Beach'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 | 36th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 16.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 20.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 27.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.0% | 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 | 37 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.8% | 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 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Sunset Beach at 36 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 37 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 36 years as at August 2026, Sunset Beach is 4 years younger than the Regional WA 2021 Census average (40 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 Sunset Beach compared to the Regional WA region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 15.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Sunset Beach compared to the Regional WA region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 8.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Sunset Beach show significant variance compared to Regional WA. The most over-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (7.6% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 20.4% of the population in the suburb of Sunset Beach as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 16.1% of the population in the suburb of Sunset Beach as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $64,917 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,630 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,740 | 2021 Census, weekly | 49th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $888 | 2021 Census, weekly | 65th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 16.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,115 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 27.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is approximately $69,487. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,917.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is approximately $86,306. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,630.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is approximately $69,487 compared to $67,299 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,917 and $62,873 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is approximately $86,306 compared to $83,842 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,630 and $78,328 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Sunset Beach's households (~38.2% / 223 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Sunset Beach is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 38.2% of households. In comparison, Regional WA's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.1% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is $1,740/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is $2,115/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is $888/wk.
The suburb of Sunset Beach's income level is very high nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Sunset Beach's median income among taxpayers is $64,917 and the average income stands at $80,630, which compares to figures for Regional WA's of $62,873 and $78,328 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $69,487 (median) and $86,306 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Sunset Beach is $6,585 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Sunset Beach's disposable income is $6,585 compared to $6,025 for Regional WA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Sunset Beach rank among the top 5% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 919 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Labour force | 928 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Sunset Beach has approximately 919 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.0%. 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 Sunset Beach stands at 1.0%, which is 2.5 percentage points below Regional WA's rate of 3.5%. 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 Sunset Beach is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.2% of employment), education & training (12.8%), and retail trade (10.6%). Other significant employers include construction and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Sunset Beach has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional WA saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Sunset Beach is 65.4%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate matching the Regional WA average of 65.4%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional WA.
The suburb of Sunset Beach shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 18.2% of the local workforce compared to 11.9% across Regional WA. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 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 Sunset Beach'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 saw a 3.5% decline, ranking 30th out of 37 regions nationally.
Sunset Beach demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 5% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
18.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Sunset Beach have university qualifications, compared to 17.6% in Regional WA.
39.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Sunset Beach have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.5% in Regional WA.
The suburb of Sunset Beach ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Sunset Beach are: Certificate (31.7%), Bachelor Degree (12.8%), Advanced Diploma (10.8%).
30.0% of the population in the suburb of Sunset Beach is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.1% in primary school, 7.7% in secondary school, 3.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
Sunset Beach features high concentrations of couples without children and single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 25.3% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 584 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 663 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 71.1% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Sunset Beach had 584 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.5% to an estimated 663 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Sunset Beach is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional WA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 71.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (25.2%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.5%).
Of the 415 family households, couples with children account for 25.3% of all households, couples without children at home 31.3%, and single parent families 12.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional WA, the suburb of Sunset Beach shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Sunset Beach have an average of 1.7 children, slightly below the Regional WA average of 1.9. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 37.7% have never married. This compares to 46.4% married and 35.8% never married across Regional WA.
Single-person households represent 25.2% of all households in the suburb of Sunset Beach, similar to the average for Regional WA of 27.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.1% of households, slightly above the Regional WA average of 2.8%.
Sunset Beach ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 18.3% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 90.3% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 85.0% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 81.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
Sunset Beach was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 85.0% of its population being citizens, 81.7% born in Australia, and 90.3% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Sunset Beach was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.6% of people in Sunset Beach. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 2.3% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional WA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Sunset Beach are Australian, comprising 31.1% of the population, English, comprising 29.3% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 6.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: New Zealand is notably overrepresented at 1.2% of Sunset Beach (vs 0.9% across Regional WA), South African at 1.1% (vs 0.6%) and Maori at 1.0% (vs 1.0%).
18.3% of the suburb of Sunset Beach population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional WA.
9.7% of the population in the suburb of Sunset Beach speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.7% in Regional WA.
5.4% of the suburb of Sunset Beach population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 6.1% in Regional WA.
85.0% of the suburb of Sunset Beach population holds citizenship, compared to 82.8% in Regional WA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Sunset Beach is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 33.0% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 33.2% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 93.0% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 31st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.7% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $310 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 17.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 15th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Sunset Beach, 33.2% of homes are owned outright, 33.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 33.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 93.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Sunset Beach are houses.
In the suburb of Sunset Beach, 0.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Sunset Beach stands at 33.2%, compared to 34.1% in Regional WA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Sunset Beach is $1,517, compared to $1,560 in Regional WA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Sunset Beach is $954, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Sunset Beach, households with mortgages typically spend 20.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Sunset Beach is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Sunset Beach shows mortgage holders spending 20.1% of income on repayments (vs 22.5% in Regional WA), while renters spend 17.8% of income on rent (vs 16.6% in Regional WA).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Sunset Beach consists of 93.0% detached houses, 2.7% semi-detached dwellings, 0.0% apartments, and 4.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Sunset Beach consumes approximately 12.7% of median household income ($7,534 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Sunset Beach show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 7% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 93% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Health performance in Sunset Beach is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 57.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 70th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.1% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.1% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
Around 57.4% of people in the suburb of Sunset Beach are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.4% in Regional WA.
In the suburb of Sunset Beach, 3.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Regional WA require similar assistance.
9.6% of people in the suburb of Sunset Beach are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.2% of the population across Regional WA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.6% of the suburb of Sunset Beach population, while in Regional WA, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.4% of people in the suburb of Sunset Beach have heart disease. Across Regional WA,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Sunset Beach, 57.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional WA sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.4%.
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 | 46 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 46th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 23 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 99 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 10th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 82 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 2 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 3.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 23 public transport stops within the suburb of Sunset Beach.
The suburb of Sunset Beach has 99 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 14 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 155 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest supermarket is 590 m away and the nearest pharmacy 628 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 23 stops nearby, 99 weekly trips, access rating 46 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 42 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest supermarket | 590 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 628 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 5.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 5.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 5.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 7.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
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 Sunset Beach is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Sunset Beach.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Sunset Beach when compared nationally.
Sunset Beach has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 5th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Sunset Beach is $661 a week, +23.0% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Population growth drivers in Sunset Beach are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Sunset Beach's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment.
Employment conditions in Sunset Beach rank among the top 5% of areas assessed nationally.
Sunset Beach demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 5% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Sunset Beach features high concentrations of couples without children and single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
Sunset Beach ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Sunset Beach is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional WA.
Health performance in Sunset Beach is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent 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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Sunset Beach has an estimated 1,768 residents, up 13.5% since the 2021 Census, with 12 projects tracked in the area around Sunset Beach.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 15 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 Sunset Beach.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 (SAL51419). 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) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, 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 Sunset Beach 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 Sunset Beach 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.
