Area profile · Rest of Tas.
King Island has an estimated 1,649 residents, up 2.0% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in King Island.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The King Island Statistical Area (Lv2), located 251 kilometres south-southwest from Melbourne CBD in TAS, Australia, had an estimated population of approximately 1,649 as of Aug 2026. The 2021 Census recorded 1,617 people, indicating minimal change based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) figure from the ABS and addresses added since the Census. The island is known for its unspoiled natural setting, wildlife, pristine beaches and rugged coastline, as well as its cheese, beef and seafood. Its welcoming community and golf courses also contribute to its character as a destination.
Housing and workforce features include strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options, a low average household size, a high share of detached houses and a notable agricultural employment base, alongside elevated utilities employment. Residents include a high proportion of mature and elderly people, often living alone or as couples without children. Education levels are typically lower, incomes are in lower quartiles, and population growth is limited.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The King Island Statistical Area (Lv2), located 251 kilometres south-southwest from Melbourne CBD in TAS, Australia, had an estimated population of approximately 1,649 as of Aug 2026. The 2021 Census recorded 1,617 people, indicating minimal change based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) figure from the ABS and addresses added since the Census. The island is known for its unspoiled natural setting, wildlife, pristine beaches and rugged coastline, as well as its cheese, beef and seafood. Its welcoming community and golf courses also contribute to its character as a destination.
Housing and workforce features include strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options, a low average household size, a high share of detached houses and a notable agricultural employment base, alongside elevated utilities employment. Residents include a high proportion of mature and elderly people, often living alone or as couples without children. Education levels are typically lower, incomes are in lower quartiles, and population growth is limited.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,741 in 2001 and 1,647 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 1,649 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 15.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.6%.
King Island ranks in the 90th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 49th 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 King Island is $328 a week, for the 12 months to Jun 2026 and 31% below Regional Tas..
31% below Regional Tas. on median weekly rent
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
The change over 12 months, by dwelling type, is charted in Full.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $328 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, West Coast | $337 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, West and North West | $443 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional Tas. | $474 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, TAS | $513 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in King Island (2 under construction) and 91 more in the surrounding area.
Improvements to Currie's CBD, including new parking alignment on Edward Street, Main Street, and Meech Street, construction of new kerb bulbing, and access ramps to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility.
Construction of a new multi-purpose community hub near the Currie lighthouse. The project includes a central fireplace featuring local rock, display cabinets for historical artefacts, and statement furniture from local materials. The project is managed by Evolve Commercial.
A major expansion of the visitor facilities at Ocean Dunes golf course, including the development of 64 hotel rooms, a new reception, restaurant, and bar facilities. The project is supported by a $10 million loan from the Tasmanian Government to boost tourism on King Island.
A modern, efficient and functional facility from which to deliver hospital and community health services, including the capacity to broaden the scope of health services provided to the King Island community.
Refurbishment works at Currie Wharf to improve wharf infrastructure and user safety. The project was completed in two stages, with mobilisation in late 2022 and project works commencing in early 2023.
A significant expansion of the Cape Wickham Golf Links, including the construction of 89 self-contained villas, a new two-storey clubhouse with a pro shop, bar, restaurant, and private function rooms, a conference centre, and a wellbeing centre with a pool and gym. The development application was approved by King Island Council.
Repowering of the Bluff Point and Studland Bay wind farms in far north-west Tasmania, owned by a joint venture between Shenhua Clean Energy Holdings (75%) and Hydro Tasmania (25%).
Robbins Island and Jim's Plain Wind is a proposed up-to-900 MW wind energy project by ACEN Australia in north-west Tasmania. Jim's Plain Wind received Commonwealth development approval in July 2020, and Robbins Island Wind holds Circular Head Council, Tasmanian EPA and Commonwealth approvals, with federal approval announced in August 2025.
A permit-approved eco-tourism lodge and activity centre, 6km east of the Twelve Apostles near the Great Ocean Road. The project comprises an 18-room lodge, 20 cabins, restaurant, boat shed and nature-based activities such as walking, cycling and kayaking.
Construction is continuing on the $126 million Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre and precinct upgrade, delivered through the Geelong City Deal.
A staged 100 million AUD Australian and Tasmanian Government highway upgrade program delivering road realignments, overtaking lanes, junction upgrades, shoulder widening and a heavy vehicle rest area between Wynyard and Marrawah.
A new lookout at the 'Saddle' in the Twelve Apostles Precinct that expands viewing areas and improves accessibility for growing visitor numbers. The lookout is part of the broader Shipwreck Coast Master Plan.
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 60 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 20, 2027 21, 2028 7, 2029 1, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 2. 15 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 1.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 3 | ABS building approvals | 8th percentile nationally |
Dwelling approval activity in the King Island SA2 area has seen 4 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The King Island SA2's current population of 1,649 has been supported by 3 approvals on average over recent years.
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 King Island SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 3, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the King Island SA2 has grown by approximately 8 people, while 16 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the King Island SA2 include: King Island Hospital Redevelopment -Stage 2 (Completed); Currie Main Street Improvements (Construction); King Island Hub Project (Construction); Ocean Dunes Golf Course Expansion (Approved); and Currie Wharf Refurbishment (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the King Island SA2 spans multiple sectors including Tourism, Health & Medical, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the King Island SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the King Island SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 6th percentile.
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.
King Island is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,649 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 1,617 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 32 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1,095.74 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the King Island SA2 was estimated to be approximately 1,649 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 1,647 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The king island sa2 has added approximately 32 people and shown a 1.98% increase from the 1,617 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the King Island SA2 is estimated at 1 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the King Island SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.3% per annum.
Population growth in the King Island SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (79.4%), Natural increase (20.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 79.4% of overall population gains.
King Island hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 45 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 78th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 25.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 17.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.6% | 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 | 45 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the King Island SA2 at 45 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 45 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 45 years as at August 2026, King Island is equal to the Regional Tas. 2021 Census average and 7 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the King Island SA2 compared to the Regional Tas. region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 13.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the King Island SA2 compared to the Regional Tas. region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 8.0% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the King Island SA2 is broadly in line with Regional Tas..
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.1% of the population in the King Island SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 25.3% of the population in the King Island SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $54,060 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 29th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $66,000 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,330 | 2021 Census, weekly | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $845 | 2021 Census, weekly | 58th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 13.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,719 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the King Island SA2 is approximately $57,363. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $54,060.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the King Island SA2 is approximately $70,033. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $66,000.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the King Island SA2 is approximately $57,363 compared to $56,028 in Regional Tas.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,060 and $52,802 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the King Island SA2 is approximately $70,033 compared to $67,059 in Regional Tas.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $66,000 and $63,198 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the King Island SA2's households (~31.6% / 206 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the King Island SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.6% of households. In comparison, Regional Tas.'s largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 28.5% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the King Island SA2 is $1,330/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the King Island SA2 is $1,719/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the King Island SA2 is $845/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the King Island SA2's median income among taxpayers is $54,060, with an average of $66,000. This is below the national average, and compares to Regional Tas.'s median of $52,802 and average of $63,198. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $57,363 (median) and $70,033 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the King Island SA2 is $5,267 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The king island sa2's disposable income is $5,267 compared to $4,607 for Regional Tas., based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees King Island performing better than 90% of local markets assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 71.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 953 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 1,567 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 967 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the King Island SA2 has approximately 953 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.4%. 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 June 2026, the unemployment rate in the King Island SA2 stands at 1.4%, which is 2.8 percentage points below Regional Tas.'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 King Island SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (27.1% of employment), manufacturing (12.1%), and health care & social assistance (8.4%). Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the King Island SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional Tas. saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the King Island SA2 is 71.4%, 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 Regional Tas. average of 58.7%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The king island sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 27.1% of the local workforce compared to 8.4% across Regional Tas.. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.2, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The king island sa2'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 0.3% growth, ranking 21st out of 37 regions nationally.
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the King Island SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 17.3% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (8.4%), education & training (6.2%), and professional & technical (2.3%).
King Island faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 17.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.3% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
17.1% of people aged 15 and over in the King Island SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 19.3% in Regional Tas..
39.2% of people aged 15 and over in the King Island SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 43.0% in Regional Tas..
The king island sa2 ranks in the 23th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the King Island SA2 are: Certificate (33.3%), Bachelor Degree (12.2%), Advanced Diploma (10.5%).
25.9% of the population in the King Island SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.8% in primary school, 6.8% in secondary school, 1.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the King Island SA2 is 940, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the King Island SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 185 students.
The king island sa2 includes 1 combined school.
King Island features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Tas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 35.3% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 652 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 665 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.5% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the King Island SA2 had 652 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.0% to an estimated 665 households today.
The average household size in the King Island SA2 is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.3 in Regional Tas. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (35.3%), group households (3.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 401 family households, couples with children account for 19.9% of all households, couples without children at home 32.9%, and single parent families 7.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Tas., the King Island SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 35.3% (versus 30.1% in Regional Tas.). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.5% compared to 67.2% in Regional Tas.. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the King Island SA2 have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Regional Tas. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.4% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 33.8% never married across Regional Tas..
Single-person households represent 35.3% of all households in the King Island SA2, higher than the average for Regional Tas. of 30.1%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.2% of households, slightly above the Regional Tas. average of 2.8%.
King Island 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 | 14.5% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.4% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 85.5% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
King Island was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.4% of its population being citizens, 85.5% born in Australia, and 93.6% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in King Island, at 40.8% of people, although more residents (56.6%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.2% of the population, compared to 0.9% across Regional Tas..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in King Island are English, comprising 33.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 32.1% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 7.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.5% of King Island (vs 1.7% across Regional Tas.), New Zealand at 0.9% (vs 0.4%) and South African at 0.6% (vs 0.2%).
14.5% of the King Island SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.4% across Regional Tas..
6.4% of the population in the King Island SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 5.8% in Regional Tas..
1.8% of the King Island SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.1% in Regional Tas..
84.4% of the King Island SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.3% in Regional Tas..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
King Island 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 | 27.4% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 47.6% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.4% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,083 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 10th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 25.0% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $190 | 2021 Census, weekly | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 14.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 7th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 18.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 9th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the King Island SA2, 47.6% of homes are owned outright, 25.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 27.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.4% of dwellings in the King Island SA2 are houses.
In the King Island SA2, 0.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 3.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the King Island SA2 stands at 47.6%, compared to 41.1% in Regional Tas..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the King Island SA2 is $1,083, compared to $1,274 in Regional Tas..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the King Island SA2 is $496, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the King Island SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 18.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 14.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the King Island SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the King Island SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 18.8% of income on repayments (vs 24.0% in Regional Tas.), while renters spend 14.3% of income on rent (vs 20.4% in Regional Tas.).
The dwelling mix in the King Island SA2 consists of 95.4% detached houses, 3.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.6% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in King Island consumes approximately 8.6% of median household income ($5,759 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
King Island's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 32nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 66.9% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.8% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the King Island SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 49.5% in Regional Tas..
In the King Island SA2, 3.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 7.3% of people in Regional Tas. require similar assistance.
6.6% of people in the King Island SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional Tas. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the King Island SA2 population, while in Regional Tas., 4.8% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.8% of people in the King Island SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Tas.,4.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the King Island SA2, 50.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Tas. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 49.5%.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 9.4 km away and the nearest hospital 9.4 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 6 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 6th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 9.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 9.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 9.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 9.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest child care | 9.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 9.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 9.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 9.7 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 is 1 long day care centre with 65 places in King Island, about 1.5 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 King Island 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 King Island.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in King Island is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
King Island has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 6th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in King Island is $328 a week for the 12 months to Jun 2026.
King Island is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
King Island hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees King Island performing better than 90% of local markets assessed across Australia.
King Island faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
King Island features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Tas.
King Island ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
King Island is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
King Island's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport in King Island: transport access 10/100.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
King Island has an estimated 1,649 residents, up 2.0% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in King Island.
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 King Island.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 2025. 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.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may 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 (604031093). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
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 (Jul 2025) 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 King Island 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 King Island with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 10 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 10th percentile nationally |
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
