Area profile · Greater Hobart
South Hobart - Fern Tree has an estimated 6,768 residents, up 0.6% since the 2021 Census, with 69 projects tracked in the area around South Hobart - Fern Tree.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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South Hobart - Fern Tree Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 3.4 kilometres southwest of the Hobart CBD. AreaSearch estimates the population at approximately 6,768 as of Aug 2026. Compared with the 6,727 people recorded at the 2021 Census, the area is estimated to have changed minimally, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figure from the ABS together with new addresses added since the Census. Key market factors include strong educational qualifications across the community, standout school performance, a notable education employment base, elevated arts and recreation employment, a pronounced healthcare employment presence, and a substantial utilities employment focus.
Residents show a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 39, and the area is exceptionally well educated. In terms of population growth, the area shows moderate expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
South Hobart - Fern Tree Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 3.4 kilometres southwest of the Hobart CBD. AreaSearch estimates the population at approximately 6,768 as of Aug 2026. Compared with the 6,727 people recorded at the 2021 Census, the area is estimated to have changed minimally, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figure from the ABS together with new addresses added since the Census. Key market factors include strong educational qualifications across the community, standout school performance, a notable education employment base, elevated arts and recreation employment, a pronounced healthcare employment presence, and a substantial utilities employment focus.
Residents show a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 39, and the area is exceptionally well educated. In terms of population growth, the area shows moderate expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,614 in 2001 and 6,752 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 6,768 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32.4%.
South Hobart - Fern Tree ranks in the 92nd percentile nationally for education and the 88th for transport & access.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in South Hobart - Fern Tree is $548 a week, up 5.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $548 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Hobart Inner | $543 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Hobart Inner, over 12 months | +9.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Hobart | $551 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Hobart, over 12 months | +7.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Hobart | $551 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Hobart, over 12 months | +7.9% | 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 | |
| Change in median rent, TAS, over 12 months | +9.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 3 tracked applications: 0 approved, 3 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 69 projects in and around South Hobart - Fern Tree, 21 of them under construction.
Upgrade of the South Arm Road and Acton Road intersection at Lauderdale including traffic signals, dual lanes, dedicated turning lanes, cycling facilities, accessible bus stops, pedestrian crossings, improved school access and preparation for the staged duplication of South Arm Highway from Pass Road to Acton Road.
Proposed multi-purpose gateway precinct at Halls Saddle, a disused council-owned quarry near Fern Tree just outside Wellington Park. The precinct would create a park-and-ride visitor hub, with cars parking at the saddle and shuttle buses carrying visitors up Pinnacle Road to the kunanyi/Mt Wellington summit, reducing congestion and safety issues on the…
Major Hobart City Deal transport project delivering a northbound T3 transit lane between Olinda Grove and Macquarie Street to improve travel times for buses, emergency services and high-occupancy vehicles. The project complements the Huntingfield and Firthside Park and Ride facilities, Transit Lane Connector and Macquarie and Davey Street bus improvements.
Adaptive reuse and expansion of the historic 1930s Hobart Masonic Hall. The project involves a seven-storey addition above the existing Stripped Classical style building to create a 51-room hotel. The design preserves the heritage facade and internal halls while adding five levels of accommodation and a rooftop bar.
Expansion and modernisation of the Royal Hobart Hospital emergency department at 48 Liverpool Street, Hobart, as part of the wider Stage 2 redevelopment. The $130 million works increase treatment points from 81 to 120, add CT and X-ray capacity, and create paediatric and mental health waiting areas. Phase 1 was completed in 2023.
A 10-year partnership from 2019 to 2029 between the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and the Clarence, Glenorchy, Hobart and Kingborough councils to coordinate investment across Greater Hobart.
A $300 million mixed-use cultural and urban renewal precinct spanning nearly an entire city block (Murray, Liverpool, Bathurst and Watchorn streets) in Hobart's CBD. Stage 1 - a nine-storey mixed-use office/retail building at 25 Watchorn St designed by Fender Katsalidis - received City of Hobart approval and demolition/construction works are underway.
Lumina is a purpose-built, column-free function centre being added to The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott, within the Parliament Square precinct in Hobart. Designed by fjcstudio and constructed by SHAPE Tasmania for JGS Property, the venue features a clear-span event space finished in mass-engineered Tasmanian Plantation Oak timber.
Two year tactical trial to reshape a 700 m stretch of Collins Street with separated bike lanes, a zebra crossing, lower speed limits, street planting and a new streetside dining area, improving safety and access for people walking and riding while supporting nearby businesses.
TasPorts is delivering a staged redevelopment of Hobart's Macquarie Wharves to modernise critical port infrastructure supporting Antarctic research, cruise, trade and logistics.
Six storey residential apartment building of approximately 28 dwellings opposite St Davids Park. Proposed by Moda with architecture by Room 11. Council approval was secured following revisions to height and massing; construction timing not announced.
The University of Tasmania is redeveloping its Sandy Bay campus as a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) precinct, to be delivered in stages through retrofits of existing buildings, new facilities and landscape enhancement.
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 34 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2021 1, 2022 0, 2023 0, 2024 0, 2025 8, 2026 5, 2027 5, 2028 6, 2029 2, 2030 2, 2031 1, 2032 2, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 1. 20 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 3 substantial development applications lodged in and around South Hobart - Fern Tree over the period covered (about 0.5 years), 3 in the last 12 months; 3 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.5 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 12 | ABS building approvals | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Applications under assessment | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.5 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 include: South Arm Highway Upgrade (Acton Road and South Arm Road Intersection Upgrade) (Construction); Halls Saddle Mountain Gateway Precinct Proposal (Planning); Southern Outlet Transit Lane (Construction); University of Tasmania Sandy Bay Campus Redevelopment (Planning); and Hobart City Deal (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Health & Medical, and Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 3rd percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in South Hobart - Fern Tree is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 area has seen 28 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2's current population of 6,768 has been supported by 12 approvals on average over recent years.
The South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 has seen 1.8 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 4.7 approvals in Greater Hobart. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 644 people in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, compared to one for every 255 in Greater Hobart.
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 South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 12, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 has seen 62 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
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 South Hobart - Fern Tree are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,768 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 288 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,727 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 41 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.4% | 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 | 23.49 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 was estimated to be approximately 6,768 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,752 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The south hobart - fern tree sa2 has added approximately 41 people and shown a 0.61% increase from the 6,727 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is estimated at 288 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.9% per annum.
Population growth in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
South Hobart - Fern Tree's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 46th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 17.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 29.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.1% | 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 | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, South Hobart - Fern Tree is equal to the Greater Hobart 2021 Census average and similarly aligned with comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 compared to the Greater Hobart region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 14.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 compared to the Greater Hobart region is the 0 - 4 group, making up 3.4% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is broadly in line with Greater Hobart.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.8% of the population in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 17.9% of the population in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 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) | $59,103 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 50th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,502 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,827 | 2021 Census, weekly | 54th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $902 | 2021 Census, weekly | 67th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 26.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,294 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is approximately $62,714. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $59,103.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is approximately $85,421. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,502.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is approximately $62,714 compared to $61,347 in Greater Hobart. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $59,103 and $57,815 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is approximately $85,421 compared to $73,587 in Greater Hobart. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,502 and $69,350 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2's households (~32.5% / 844 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.5% of households. In comparison, Greater Hobart's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.2% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is $1,827/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is $2,294/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is $902/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is well above average nationally, with the median assessed at $59,103 while the average income stands at $80,502. This contrasts to Greater Hobart's figures of a median income of $57,815 and an average income of $69,350. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $62,714 (median) and $85,421 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is $6,893 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The south hobart - fern tree sa2's disposable income is $6,893 compared to $5,694 for Greater Hobart, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in South Hobart - Fern Tree exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 69.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,902 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 5,692 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,021 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 has approximately 3,902 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.0%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 stands at 3.0%, which is 1.8 percentage points below Greater Hobart's rate of 4.7%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.9% of employment), education & training (16.1%), and professional & technical (11.7%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Hobart saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is 69.2%, 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 leading the Greater Hobart average of 63.7%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The south hobart - fern tree sa2 shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 16.1% of the local workforce compared to 10.8% across Greater Hobart. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The south hobart - fern tree sa2'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 saw a 6.4% decline, ranking 34th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational achievement in South Hobart - Fern Tree places it within the top 8% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 32.7% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 18.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 57.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 6.0% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.1% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 23.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 34.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
57.2% of people aged 15 and over in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 32.8% in Greater Hobart.
23.1% of people aged 15 and over in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 36.2% in Greater Hobart.
The south hobart - fern tree sa2 ranks in the 92th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (32.7%), Postgraduate (18.5%), Certificate (11.6%).
34.0% of the population in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.9% in primary school, 7.5% in secondary school, 11.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is 1137, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 3 schools within the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 462 students.
The south hobart - fern tree sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 1 combined school.
South Hobart - Fern Tree features high concentrations of group households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Greater Hobart.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 28.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.4% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 7.1% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,599 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,615 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 64.2% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 had 2,599 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 2,615 households today.
The average household size in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Greater Hobart and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 64.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (28.7%), group households (7.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,669 family households, couples with children account for 25.2% of all households, couples without children at home 28.4%, and single parent families 9.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Hobart, the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 have an average of 1.2 children, slightly below the Greater Hobart average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 37.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 45.0% have never married. This compares to 43.0% married and 38.7% never married across Greater Hobart.
Single-person households represent 28.7% of all households in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, similar to the average for Greater Hobart of 27.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 7.1% of households, above the Greater Hobart average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in South Hobart - Fern Tree was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 24.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 14.3% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 85.7% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.5% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 75.6% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
South Hobart - Fern Tree was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 24.4% of its population born overseas and 14.3% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in South Hobart - Fern Tree, at 25.5% of people, although more residents (68.7%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 2.3% of the population, compared to 1.4% across Greater Hobart.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in South Hobart - Fern Tree are English, comprising 30.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 24.6% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.1% of South Hobart - Fern Tree (vs 1.5% across Greater Hobart), Welsh at 0.8% (vs 0.5%) and French at 0.8% (vs 0.3%).
24.4% of the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Greater Hobart.
14.3% of the population in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 13.4% in Greater Hobart.
1.1% of the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.0% in Greater Hobart.
84.5% of the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 85.0% in Greater Hobart.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
South Hobart - Fern Tree 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 | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 37.4% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 75.3% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,625 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 35th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.2% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $380 | 2021 Census, weekly | 54th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 18th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
In the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, 37.4% of homes are owned outright, 33.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 29.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 75.3% of dwellings in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 are houses.
In the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, 10.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 stands at 37.4%, compared to 35.0% in Greater Hobart.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is $1,625, compared to $1,517 in Greater Hobart.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is $1,023, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 20.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 20.5% of income on repayments (vs 22.7% in Greater Hobart), while renters spend 20.8% of income on rent (vs 22.7% in Greater Hobart).
The dwelling mix in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 consists of 75.3% detached houses, 13.2% semi-detached dwellings, 10.9% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in South Hobart - Fern Tree consumes approximately 12.9% of median household income ($7,911 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in South Hobart - Fern Tree show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 25% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 75% 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.
South Hobart - Fern Tree's residents are healthier than average 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 | 57.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 68th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 69.7% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 76.7% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
Around 57.1% of people in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Greater Hobart.
In the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, 4.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.2% of people in Greater Hobart require similar assistance.
7.2% of people in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.7% of the population across Greater Hobart is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.3% of the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 population, while in Greater Hobart, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.6% of people in the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Hobart,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2, 57.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Hobart sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 88 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 88th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 77 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 61st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 7,318 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 88 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 92 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 77 public transport stops within the South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2.
The South Hobart - Fern Tree SA2 has 7,318 weekly trips across 92 routes, averaging 1,045 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 211 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 1.2 km away and the nearest school 1.4 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 77 stops nearby, 7,318 weekly trips, access rating 88 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 25 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 25th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 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). There are 3 long day care centres with 283 places in South Hobart - Fern Tree, about 0.8 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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An area report on South Hobart - Fern Tree is built to order and emailed to you.
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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 in South Hobart - Fern Tree is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
South Hobart - Fern Tree has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 3rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in South Hobart - Fern Tree is $548 a week, +5.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Population growth drivers in South Hobart - Fern Tree are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
South Hobart - Fern Tree's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment.
Employment performance in South Hobart - Fern Tree exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators.
Educational achievement in South Hobart - Fern Tree places it within the top 8% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
South Hobart - Fern Tree features high concentrations of group households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Greater Hobart.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in South Hobart - Fern Tree was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
South Hobart - Fern Tree is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
South Hobart - Fern Tree's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high 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.
South Hobart - Fern Tree has an estimated 6,768 residents, up 0.6% since the 2021 Census, with 69 projects tracked in the area around South Hobart - Fern Tree.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for South Hobart - Fern Tree.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 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 14 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 (601051032). 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 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for South Hobart - Fern Tree from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares South Hobart - Fern Tree 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.
