Suburb profile · Greater Perth
Waterford (WA) has an estimated 2,825 residents, up 14.8% since the 2021 Census, with 32 projects tracked in the area around Waterford (WA).
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Waterford (WA) is conveniently located 7.4 kilometres south-southeast from Perth CBD. Its population is estimated at around 2,825 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. The estimate represents an increase of 365 people (14.8%) since the 2021 Census, when 2,460 people were recorded. Area characteristics include a high overseas-born population, strong outright home ownership, above-average median household income, a notable proportion aged 15 to 24yo, a very high share of married families, and an elevated Professional and Technical employment base. The suburb is culturally diverse and shows moderate population expansion.
Residents include a high proportion of teenagers, largely in family and group households. The suburb of Waterford (WA) is described as a serene suburban area balancing city access with a relaxed lifestyle, with parks, scenic leisure areas and sports activities that appeal to families and outdoor enthusiasts.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Waterford (WA) is conveniently located 7.4 kilometres south-southeast from Perth CBD. Its population is estimated at around 2,825 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. The estimate represents an increase of 365 people (14.8%) since the 2021 Census, when 2,460 people were recorded. Area characteristics include a high overseas-born population, strong outright home ownership, above-average median household income, a notable proportion aged 15 to 24yo, a very high share of married families, and an elevated Professional and Technical employment base. The suburb is culturally diverse and shows moderate population expansion.
Residents include a high proportion of teenagers, largely in family and group households. The suburb of Waterford (WA) is described as a serene suburban area balancing city access with a relaxed lifestyle, with parks, scenic leisure areas and sports activities that appeal to families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,204 in 2006 and 2,752 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,825 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 17.3%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.4%.
Waterford (WA) ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for health and the 89th for cultural diversity.
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 Waterford (WA) is $600 a week, down 7.9% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 17% below Greater Perth.
17% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $600 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | -7.9% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 32 projects in and around Waterford (WA), 8 of them under construction.
A $163 million redevelopment of the Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University's Bentley campus into Hockey Australia's national hockey centre. The project includes four outdoor pitches, with at least two to International Hockey Federation Category 1 standard, an indoor hockey centre with FIH-standard courts, a 1,000-seat stadium expandable to 10,000 in…
A $350 million major redevelopment completed in late 2018 that established Westfield Carousel as Western Australia's largest shopping destination.
Coterie is a boutique apartment development offering 18 one, two, and three-bedroom luxury apartments in the heart of leafy Como. It blends modern design with the tranquility of a peaceful neighbourhood, featuring architect-designed living, views of the Swan River and Perth City, double-glazed windows, abundant natural light, and premium materials.
A $27.5 million three-storey mixed-use development by Fabcot Pty Ltd (Woolworths Group) at the corner of Albany Highway and Shepperton Road, East Victoria Park.
The Promontory is the first stage of the Chapel Hill development in South Como, featuring 86 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments designed with Art Deco influences, offering panoramic views of the Swan and Canning Rivers, and targeting a 5 Star Green Star certification for sustainability.
Research-led digital twin project at Curtin University's Bentley campus supporting the Pathways to Net Zero Precincts program. The project is piloting an integrated digital twin platform using real-time building sensor data to improve space utilisation, operational energy efficiency, Consumer Energy Resource integration, and precinct-scale decarbonisation.
Staged redevelopment of the Kent Street Weir Precinct on the Canning River, delivered by the City of Canning as a major community recreation and environmental upgrade.
Henley Rise is a proposed 156-unit residential housing project featuring two towers (11 and 12 levels) with diverse apartment options. Developed by Blueways Group in collaboration with Aria Land, the development targets Perth's growing demand for high-density living with views over the Canning and Swan Rivers, with an estimated end value of $150m.
A staged long-term redevelopment of the Kent Street Weir Precinct on the banks of the Canning River (Djarlgarro Beeliar) in Wilson. Works include a new district-level inclusive play space with cultural interpretation elements, an off-leash dog exercise area, wetland buffer expansion with over 21,000 native plants, a pump track, upgraded shelters and BBQ…
Curtin University Building 316 is a five-storey, 22,000-square-metre dedicated sciences building housing the School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences and the WA School of Mines.
Major expansion of Westfield Booragoon from 72,000 square metres to 120,000 square metres across two stages. Stage 1 includes a new entertainment and leisure precinct with a 9-screen Hoyts cinema complex, fresh food precinct with relocated and expanded Woolworths, a new boutique supermarket, food laneway, 53 additional specialty stores, new east-west mall…
The Town of Victoria Park has completed the 4.7 hectare Elizabeth Baillie Park redevelopment as part of the wider Elizabeth Baillie Precinct transformation.
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 12 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 4, 2027 2, 2028 3, 2029 2. 7 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 5.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 15 | ABS building approvals | 27th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Waterford include: Australian Hockey Centre (Construction); Curtin University B316 Sciences Building (Construction); Wyong Reserve Sporting Facilities Upgrade (Construction); SwanCare Bentley Park Expansion (127-143 Hill View Terrace) (Approved); and Whaleback Golf Course & Hospitality Revitalisation (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Waterford spans multiple sectors including Sports & Recreation, Transport & Logistics, and Science & Research, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Waterford when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Waterford area has seen 23 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Waterford's current population of 2,825 has been supported by 15 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Waterford has seen 5.7 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 238 people in the suburb of Waterford, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Waterford's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 15, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Waterford has grown by approximately 229 people, while 73 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.1 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 Waterford 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 | 2,825 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +14.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,813 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,460 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 365 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.56 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Waterford was estimated to be approximately 2,825 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,752 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of waterford has added approximately 365 people and shown a 14.84% increase from the 2,460 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Waterford is estimated at 1,811 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Waterford has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.6% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Waterford is driven by: Overseas migration (87.0%), Interstate migration (13.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 87.0% of overall population gains.
Waterford's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 40 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 34.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 51.4% | 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 | 41 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 17.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Waterford at 40 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 41 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Waterford is 3 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 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 Waterford compared to the Greater Perth region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 13.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Waterford compared to the Greater Perth region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 7.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Waterford show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age group is 65-74 year-olds (13.2% vs 8.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.4% vs 2.0%) and 5-14 year-olds (7.7% vs 12.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 11.2% of the population in the suburb of Waterford as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.0% of the population in the suburb of Waterford 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) | $56,556 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 38th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,990 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,301 | 2021 Census, weekly | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $801 | 2021 Census, weekly | 49th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 38.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,554 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 18.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Waterford is approximately $60,538. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $56,556.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Waterford is approximately $86,692. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,990.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Waterford is approximately $60,538 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,556 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Waterford is approximately $86,692 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,990 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Waterford's households (~27.4% / 228 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Waterford is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.4% 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 Waterford is $2,301/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Waterford is $2,554/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Waterford is $801/wk.
The suburb of Waterford shows a median taxpayer income of $56,556 and an average of $80,990 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is very high nationally, contrasting with Greater Perth's median income of $64,047 and average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $60,538 (median) and $86,692 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Waterford is $8,739 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of waterford's disposable income is $8,739 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Waterford exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,543 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,355 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,596 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Waterford has approximately 1,543 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Waterford stands at 3.3%, which is 0.9 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 Waterford is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.3% of employment), professional & technical (14.6%), and education & training (10.6%). Other significant employers include retail trade and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Waterford has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. 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 Waterford is 65.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The suburb of waterford shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 14.6% of the local workforce compared to 8.2% across Greater Perth. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The suburb of waterford's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Waterford (WA): university qualifications 50.9%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 718.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 32.2% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 15.0% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 50.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 25.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
50.9% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Waterford have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
25.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Waterford have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The suburb of waterford ranks in the 31th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Waterford are: Bachelor Degree (32.2%), Postgraduate (15.0%), Certificate (11.8%).
31.6% of the population in the suburb of Waterford is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.4% in primary school, 7.8% in secondary school, 10.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Waterford is 718, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Waterford, with a combined enrollment of approximately 138 students.
The suburb of waterford includes 1 secondary school.
Waterford features high concentrations of group households and family households but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.8 people | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 14.4% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 37.2% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.5% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.2% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 6.0% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 831 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 954 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 79.6% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Waterford had 831 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 14.8% to an estimated 954 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Waterford is 2.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 79.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (14.4%), group households (6.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 661 family households, couples with children account for 37.2% of all households, couples without children at home 31.5%, and single parent families 8.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the suburb of Waterford shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 79.6% (versus 71.5% in Greater Perth). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 14.4% compared to 24.9% in Greater Perth. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Waterford 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 57.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.9% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 14.4% of all households in the suburb of Waterford, notably lower 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 6.0% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Waterford is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 53.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 41.8% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 58.2% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 76.6% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 46.9% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
Waterford scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 41.8% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 53.1% born overseas.
The main religion in Waterford was found to be Christianity, which makes up 50.4% of people in Waterford. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 7.8% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Perth average of 2.7%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Waterford are Chinese, comprising 23.7% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 4.0%, English, comprising 19.1% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Perth's 28.0%, and Other, comprising 13.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Polish is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Waterford (vs 0.7% across Greater Perth), Korean at 0.8% (vs 0.3%) and Sri Lankan at 0.6% (vs 0.2%).
53.1% of the suburb of Waterford population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
41.8% of the population in the suburb of Waterford speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.5% of the suburb of Waterford population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
76.6% of the suburb of Waterford population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Waterford is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 15.6% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 50.5% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 90.3% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,817 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 94th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.9% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $410 | 2021 Census, weekly | 69th 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 | 28.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 82nd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Waterford, 50.5% of homes are owned outright, 33.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 15.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 90.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Waterford are houses.
In the suburb of Waterford, 0.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 9.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Waterford stands at 50.5%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Waterford is $2,817, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Waterford is $1,232, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Waterford, households with mortgages typically spend 28.3% 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 Waterford is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Waterford shows mortgage holders spending 28.3% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 17.8% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Waterford consists of 90.3% detached houses, 9.7% semi-detached dwellings, 0.0% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Waterford consumes approximately 12.4% of median household income ($9,963 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Waterford show attached dwellings contributing 18% of approvals compared to 10% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 82% of applications versus 90% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Waterford'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 | 57.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 70th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 76.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 83.8% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
Around 57.5% of people in the suburb of Waterford are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the suburb of Waterford, 3.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
5.2% of people in the suburb of Waterford are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the suburb of Waterford population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.7% of people in the suburb of Waterford have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Waterford, 57.5% 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 | 79 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 79th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 9 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 9th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,459 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 42nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 297 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 7 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 11.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 9 public transport stops within the suburb of Waterford.
The suburb of Waterford has 1,459 weekly trips across 7 routes, averaging 208 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 264 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 664 m away and the nearest supermarket 678 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 9 stops nearby, 1,459 weekly trips, access rating 79 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 63 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 664 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 678 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 714 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 715 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 728 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 781 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 813 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.9 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).
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Waterford when compared nationally.
Waterford has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 47th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Waterford (WA) is $600 a week, -7.9% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Population growth drivers in Waterford are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Waterford's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 60% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment performance in Waterford exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
Education in Waterford (WA): university qualifications 50.9%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 718.
Waterford features high concentrations of group households and family households but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
Waterford is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Waterford is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Waterford'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.
Waterford (WA) has an estimated 2,825 residents, up 14.8% since the 2021 Census, with 32 projects tracked in the area around Waterford (WA).
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 Waterford (WA).
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL51544). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Waterford (WA) 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 Waterford (WA) 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.
