Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Blackburn has an estimated 23,880 residents, up 8.0% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Blackburn.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Blackburn Statistical Area (Lv2), located 16 kilometres east from Melbourne CBD, has an estimated population of approximately 23,880 as of Aug 2026. This represents an increase of 1,774 people (8.0%) since the 2021 Census count of 22,106 people, based on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 23,732 as of June 2025 and 612 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area’s median age is 40, with a fairly standard age composition and moderate population expansion. Its community is exceptionally well educated, with strong educational qualifications and standout school performance levels. Other notable characteristics include a Finance and Insurance employment base, pronounced Professional and Technical employment, an elevated proportion of residents aged 15 to 24, and outstanding service amenity.
In Victoria, Australia, Blackburn is known for its parks, green spaces and tree-lined streets, as well as its schools, shopping centres and recreational facilities. The suburb has a strong sense of community, regular public events and a range of housing options.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 19,123 in 2001 and 23,732 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 23,880 (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, 14.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.8%.
Blackburn ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for education and the 93rd 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 Blackburn is $601 a week, up 2.1% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 2% above Greater Melbourne.
2% above Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $424 in 2016, $637 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $357 in 2016, $528 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $601 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +2.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $637 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $528 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Whitehorse - West | $599 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Whitehorse - West, over 12 months | +2.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Melbourne - Inner East | $622 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne - Inner East, over 12 months | +3.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Greater Melbourne | $587 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Melbourne, over 12 months | +4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, VIC, over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 85 tracked applications: 0 approved, 0 under assessment, 85 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 21 projects in Blackburn (5 under construction) and 139 more in the surrounding area.
The Koonung Creek Reserve Environmental & Infrastructure Upgrade is delivered under Planning Scheme Amendment GC271 as part of the…
17 contemporary three and four-bedroom townhouses designed by DE atelier architects.
A 4-storey low-rise residential development delivering 49 modern apartments with a central Village Square landscaped garden and secure…
A major strategic activity centre expansion and rezoning framework under Victoria's Housing Target program, facilitating 4 to 6 storey…
The Blackburn Activity Centre is a major urban renewal and transit-oriented development program led by the Victorian Government's…
Construction of two double storey townhouses and associated tree removal in a family-friendly community.
Amalgamated 6,464 sqm development super-site comprising the Albert Street Site (4,059.5 sqm) and the Chapel Street Site (2,405.2 sqm), both…
Proposed development of a 15-unit apartment complex in a four-storey building on a 732 sqm site in central Blackburn.
Comprehensive three-stage redevelopment of the former North Blackburn Shopping Centre, completed in October 2023 and rebranded as Blackburn…
Collection of 39 premium 3 and 4-bedroom townhomes by MunCorp, designed by Cera Stribley Architects.
Collection of 20 premium townhomes designed by award-winning architects Peddle Thorp.
Implementation of housing targets across the City of Whitehorse to deliver approximately 76,500 new homes by 2051.
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 66 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 7, 2026 21, 2027 13, 2028 15, 2029 0, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 5, 2036 1. 30 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 85 substantial development applications lodged in and around Blackburn over the past 5 years, 10 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 28, 2023 21, 2024 15, 2025 13, 2026 (to Oct) 7.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 85 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 65th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 125 | ABS building approvals | 84th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Blackburn SA2 include: 77-79 Whitehorse Road Apartments (Construction); Koonung Creek Reserve Environmental & Infrastructure Upgrade (GC271) (Construction); Blackburn Activity Centre Housing Expansion & Planning Scheme Amendment (Planning); Ascend Blackburn Townhomes (Approved); and 78 Whitehorse Road Townhouses (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Blackburn SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Communities, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Blackburn among the top 29% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Blackburn SA2 area has seen 294 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Blackburn SA2's current population of 23,880 has been supported by 125 approvals on average over recent years.
The Blackburn SA2 has seen 5.5 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 8.7 approvals in Greater Melbourne. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 164 people in the Blackburn SA2, compared to one for every 121 in Greater Melbourne.
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 Blackburn SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 125, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Blackburn SA2 has grown by approximately 700 people, while 626 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
Blackburn has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 23,880 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,774 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 22,106 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,774 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 8.61 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Blackburn SA2 was estimated to be approximately 23,880 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 23,732 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The blackburn sa2 has added approximately 1,774 people and shown a 8.02% increase from the 22,106 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Blackburn SA2 is estimated at 2,774 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Blackburn SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.8% per annum.
Population growth in the Blackburn SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (93.1%), Natural increase (6.9%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 93.1% of overall population gains.
Blackburn's population is slightly older than 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 | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 18.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 27.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.4% | 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 | 40 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Blackburn SA2 at 40 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Blackburn is 3 years older than the Greater Melbourne 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 Blackburn SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 12.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Blackburn SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Blackburn SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Melbourne. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (3.4% vs 2.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.7% of the population in the Blackburn SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 18.3% of the population in the Blackburn SA2 as at August 2026.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 65% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $59,874 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 54th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $82,408 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,050 | 2021 Census, weekly | 68th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $900 | 2021 Census, weekly | 67th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 32.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,557 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Blackburn SA2 is approximately $63,826. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $59,874.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Blackburn SA2 is approximately $87,847. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $82,408.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Blackburn SA2 is approximately $63,826 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $59,874 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Blackburn SA2 is approximately $87,847 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $82,408 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Blackburn SA2's households (~28.8% / 2,376 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Blackburn SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.8% of households. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Blackburn SA2 is $2,050/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Blackburn SA2 is $2,557/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Blackburn SA2 is $900/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Blackburn SA2 is well above average nationally, with the median assessed at $59,874 while the average income stands at $82,408. This contrasts to Greater Melbourne's figures of a median income of $59,834 and an average income of $78,435. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $63,826 (median) and $87,847 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Blackburn SA2 is $7,618 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The blackburn sa2's disposable income is $7,618 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Blackburn remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 69.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 13,582 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 21,375 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 14,205 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Blackburn SA2 has approximately 13,582 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.4%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Blackburn SA2 stands at 4.4%, which is 0.5 percentage points below Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Blackburn SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.6% of employment), professional & technical (14.0%), and education & training (10.9%). Other significant employers include retail trade and finance & insurance.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Blackburn SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Blackburn 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 trailing the Greater Melbourne average of 70.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Melbourne.
The blackburn sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 14.0% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% across Greater Melbourne. 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.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The blackburn sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 2.6% decline, ranking 28th out of 37 regions nationally.
Blackburn demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 4% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 29.9% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 13.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 48.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 30.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
48.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Blackburn SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
30.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Blackburn SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The blackburn sa2 ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Blackburn SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (29.9%), Postgraduate (13.4%), Certificate (11.3%).
31.0% of the population in the Blackburn SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.3% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 7.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Blackburn SA2 is 1131, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 8 schools within the Blackburn SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,003 students.
The blackburn sa2 includes 7 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Blackburn features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 36.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,259 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,922 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 71.1% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.4 per family | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Blackburn SA2 had 8,259 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.0% to an estimated 8,922 households today.
The average household size in the Blackburn SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 71.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (25.2%), group households (3.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,872 family households, couples with children account for 36.7% of all households, couples without children at home 24.4%, and single parent families 9.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Blackburn SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Blackburn SA2 have an average of 1.4 children, matching the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 52.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.9% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 25.2% of all households in the Blackburn SA2, similar to the average for Greater Melbourne of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.6% of households, slightly below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%.
Blackburn was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 34.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 67.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.0% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 65.5% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
Blackburn scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 34.5% of its population born overseas and 32.4% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Blackburn, at 43.3% of people, although more residents (46.7%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 43.0% across Greater Melbourne.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Blackburn are English, comprising 22.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 19.7% of the population, and Chinese, comprising 15.0% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 6.5%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Sri Lankan is notably overrepresented at 0.6% of Blackburn (vs 0.8% across Greater Melbourne), Greek at 2.1% (vs 2.7%) and Korean at 0.6% (vs 0.3%).
34.5% of the Blackburn SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
32.4% of the population in the Blackburn SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
0.2% of the Blackburn SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
83.0% of the Blackburn SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Blackburn 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 | 24.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 39.8% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 71.6% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 35.3% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 19.5% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $420 | 2021 Census, weekly | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 48th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 66th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Blackburn SA2, 39.8% of homes are owned outright, 35.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 24.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 71.6% of dwellings in the Blackburn SA2 are houses.
In the Blackburn SA2, 8.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 19.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Blackburn SA2 stands at 39.8%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Blackburn SA2 is $2,300, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Blackburn SA2 is $1,265, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Blackburn SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 25.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Blackburn SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Blackburn SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 25.9% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 20.5% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Blackburn SA2 consists of 71.6% detached houses, 19.5% semi-detached dwellings, 8.9% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Blackburn consumes approximately 14.2% of median household income ($8,876 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Blackburn show attached dwellings contributing 53% of approvals compared to 28% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 47% of applications versus 72% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Blackburn's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with younger cohorts in particular seeing very low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 58.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 73rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.2% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 79.2% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
Around 58.7% of people in the Blackburn SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Blackburn SA2, 5.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
7.2% of people in the Blackburn SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.7% of the Blackburn SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.4% of people in the Blackburn SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Blackburn SA2, 58.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.5%.
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 | 93 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 126 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 81st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 13,127 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 189 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 21 | 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 | 43.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 126 public transport stops within the Blackburn SA2.
The Blackburn SA2 has 13,127 weekly trips across 21 routes, averaging 1,875 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 176 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 338 m away and the nearest school 480 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 126 stops nearby, 13,127 weekly trips, access rating 93 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 90 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 90th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 338 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 429 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 480 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 611 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 647 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 653 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 656 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.7 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 are 8 long day care centres with 737 places in Blackburn, about 1.3 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Blackburn among the top 29% of areas assessed nationwide.
Blackburn ranks in the 63rd percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Blackburn is $601 a week, +2.1% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Blackburn has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Blackburn's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 65% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Blackburn remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
Blackburn demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 4% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Blackburn features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Greater Melbourne.
Blackburn was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Blackburn is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Blackburn's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with younger cohorts in particular seeing very low prevalence of common health conditions.
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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Blackburn has an estimated 23,880 residents, up 8.0% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Blackburn.
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 Blackburn.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, 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 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 (207031161). 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 (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 Blackburn 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 Blackburn 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.