Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Carrum Downs has an estimated 23,589 residents, up 7.3% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in Carrum Downs.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Carrum Downs Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 37 kilometres south-southeast from Melbourne CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 23,589 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 1,613 people (7.3%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 21,976 people. This change is inferred from the ABS estimated resident population of 23,464 as of June 2025 and 689 Validated New Addresses since the Census date. Market characteristics include strong mortgage holder representation, notable manufacturing employment, elevated construction employment, a pronounced wholesale trade presence, high semi-detached housing levels, and a substantial 35 to 44yo presence.
The area has a high proportion of children and shows moderate population expansion. Situated in VIC, Australia, Carrum Downs is described as a serene, family-friendly community with local amenities including parks and nature reserves, shopping centres, dining options, and schools and educational facilities. Its welcoming atmosphere and tranquil lifestyle are paired with the conveniences of modern living.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 15,419 in 2001 and 23,464 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 23,589 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 16.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 40.1%.
Carrum Downs ranks in the 68th percentile nationally for population growth and the 59th for cultural diversity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Carrum Downs is $553 a week, up 7.8% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 6% below Greater Melbourne.
6% below Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $368 in 2016, $583 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $293 in 2016, $471 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $553 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $583 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +3.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $471 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 | +2.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Frankston | $550 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Frankston, over 12 months | +7.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Mornington Peninsula | $570 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Mornington Peninsula, over 12 months | +7.8% | 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 168 tracked applications: 0 approved, 0 under assessment, 168 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 13 projects in Carrum Downs (5 under construction) and 104 more in the surrounding area.
Boutique residential land estate of around 180 residential lots located on the corner of Ballarto Road and McCormicks Road in Skye…
A $2.03 million upgrade of Banyan Reserve in Carrum Downs delivered in partnership between Frankston City Council and the Victorian…
Redevelopment and modernisation of the Len Phelps Pavilion at Carrum Downs Recreation Reserve by Frankston City Council.
Prime residential development site with permit approval for 59 townhouses, sold by Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne in 2021.
Two new multi-use courts at Lavender Hill Reserve, Carrum Downs and Pratt Reserve in Frankston South.
Boutique development of 13 townhouses (2, 3 and 4 bedroom designs) at 110 Cadles Road by Thomas Anderson Design.
162 modern townhomes at 26 Brunnings Road, Carrum Downs delivered by Metricon TownLiving with Modus Developments and Newland Developers.
A boutique development of 7 contemporary townhouses currently under construction in Carrum Downs.
A master planned residential community in Skye in Melbourne's south east, featuring around 450 residential lots, local parks, wetlands and…
149 new formalised car parking spaces, new public toilets close to play space, improved pedestrian access, traffic flow and public lighting…
Comprehensive local area traffic management and road safety infrastructure enhancements across the McCormicks Precinct in Carrum Downs.
Upgraded Hall Road between McCormicks Road and Cranbourne-Frankston Road including road duplication, new centre median and kerb-side safety…
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 53 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2023 1, 2024 2, 2025 7, 2026 15, 2027 12, 2028 9, 2029 3, 2030 1, 2031 1, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 1. 13 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 168 substantial development applications lodged in and around Carrum Downs over the past 5 years, 16 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 48, 2023 43, 2024 32, 2025 34, 2026 (to Oct) 11.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 168 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 16 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 57th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 100 | ABS building approvals | 79th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Carrum Downs SA2 include: Banyan Reserve Pump Track and Play Space (Construction); 42-50 Hall Road Townhouses (Approved); Len Phelps Pavilion Redevelopment (Planning); 33 McCormicks Road Residential Development (Proposed); and 110 Cadles Road Townhouses (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Carrum Downs SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Carrum Downs recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Carrum Downs SA2 area has seen 61 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Carrum Downs SA2's current population of 23,589 has been supported by 100 approvals on average over recent years.
The Carrum Downs SA2 has seen 4.5 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 772 people in the Carrum Downs SA2, compared to one for every 121 in Greater Melbourne.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Carrum Downs SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 100, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Carrum Downs SA2 has grown by approximately 1,073 people, while 502 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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 Carrum Downs are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 23,589 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +7.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,162 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 54th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 21,976 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,613 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 20.31 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Carrum Downs SA2 was estimated to be approximately 23,589 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 23,464 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The carrum downs sa2 has added approximately 1,613 people and shown a 7.34% increase from the 21,976 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Carrum Downs SA2 is estimated at 1,161 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Carrum Downs SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Carrum Downs SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (56.8%), Natural increase (41.9%), Interstate migration (1.3%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 56.8% of overall population gains.
Carrum Downs's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 36 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 27th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 14.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 56.1% | 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 | 36 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 15.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Carrum Downs SA2 at 36 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 36 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 36 years as at August 2026, Carrum Downs is comparable to the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Carrum Downs SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 12.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Carrum Downs SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 11.3% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Carrum Downs SA2 is broadly in line with Greater Melbourne.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.6% of the population in the Carrum Downs SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 14.1% of the population in the Carrum Downs SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $61,232 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 60th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $66,325 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,658 | 2021 Census, weekly | 45th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $817 | 2021 Census, weekly | 52nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,993 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 21.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Carrum Downs SA2 is approximately $65,273. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $61,232.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Carrum Downs SA2 is approximately $70,702. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $66,325.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Carrum Downs SA2 is approximately $65,273 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $61,232 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Carrum Downs SA2 is approximately $70,702 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $66,325 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Carrum Downs SA2's households (~40.1% / 3,331 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Carrum Downs SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 40.1% 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 Carrum Downs SA2 is $1,658/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Carrum Downs SA2 is $1,993/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Carrum Downs SA2 is $817/wk.
The Carrum Downs SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Carrum Downs SA2's median income among taxpayers is $61,232 and the average income stands at $66,325, which compares to figures for Greater Melbourne's of $59,834 and $78,435 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $65,273 (median) and $70,702 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Carrum Downs SA2 is $5,885 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The carrum downs sa2's disposable income is $5,885 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Carrum Downs has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 12,998 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 24,428 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 13,598 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Carrum Downs SA2 has approximately 12,998 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 Carrum Downs 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 Carrum Downs SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.4% of employment), construction (14.4%), and manufacturing (11.9%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Carrum Downs 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 Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Carrum Downs SA2 is 70.5%, 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 Greater Melbourne average of 70.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Melbourne.
The carrum downs sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 14.4% of the local workforce compared to 9.7% 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.
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The carrum downs 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.
Educational attainment in Carrum Downs sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 17.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.4% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
17.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Carrum Downs SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
41.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Carrum Downs SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The carrum downs sa2 ranks in the 45th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Carrum Downs SA2 are: Certificate (29.4%), Bachelor Degree (12.1%), Advanced Diploma (11.8%).
27.7% of the population in the Carrum Downs SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.7% in primary school, 7.2% in secondary school, 3.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Carrum Downs SA2 is 1005, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the Carrum Downs SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,546 students.
The carrum downs sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Carrum Downs features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 31.1% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 22.4% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 15.5% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,307 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,917 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.1% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Carrum Downs SA2 had 8,307 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 7.3% to an estimated 8,917 households today.
The average household size in the Carrum Downs SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.7%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,823 family households, couples with children account for 31.1% of all households, couples without children at home 22.4%, and single parent families 15.5%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Carrum Downs SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Carrum Downs SA2 have an average of 1.5 children, slightly above the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 38.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 41.1% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 26.7% of all households in the Carrum Downs 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 3.1% of households, below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Carrum Downs 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 | 25.9% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 18.2% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 81.8% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.7% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 74.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
Carrum Downs was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 25.9% of its population born overseas and 18.2% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Carrum Downs, at 40.7% of people, although more residents (50.9%) 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 Carrum Downs are English, comprising 27.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 20.1%, Australian, comprising 25.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 18.4%, and Other, comprising 9.5% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Melbourne's 14.6%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Russian is notably overrepresented at 0.6% of Carrum Downs (vs 0.4% across Greater Melbourne), Sri Lankan at 0.7% (vs 0.8%) and Maori at 1.0% (vs 0.3%).
25.9% of the Carrum Downs SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
18.2% of the population in the Carrum Downs SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
1.1% of the Carrum Downs SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
86.7% of the Carrum Downs SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Carrum Downs is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 22.9% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 79.1% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 49.0% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 19.6% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $370 | 2021 Census, weekly | 50th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 65th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 24.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 50th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Carrum Downs SA2, 22.9% of homes are owned outright, 49.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 28.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 79.1% of dwellings in the Carrum Downs SA2 are houses.
In the Carrum Downs SA2, 0.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 19.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Carrum Downs SA2 stands at 22.9%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Carrum Downs SA2 is $1,733, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Carrum Downs SA2 is $1,299, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Carrum Downs SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 24.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Carrum Downs SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Carrum Downs SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 24.1% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 22.3% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Carrum Downs SA2 consists of 79.1% detached houses, 19.6% semi-detached dwellings, 0.4% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Carrum Downs consumes approximately 18.1% of median household income ($7,179 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Carrum Downs show attached dwellings contributing 67% of approvals compared to 21% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 33% of applications versus 79% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Carrum Downs is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older 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 | 65.6% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.3% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the Carrum Downs SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Carrum Downs SA2, 6.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
9.6% of people in the Carrum Downs SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.5% of the Carrum Downs SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.3% of people in the Carrum Downs SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Carrum Downs SA2, 50.4% 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 moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 58 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 58th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 105 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 74th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 3,746 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 68th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 224 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 6 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 16.4% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 105 public transport stops within the Carrum Downs SA2.
The Carrum Downs SA2 has 3,746 weekly trips across 6 routes, averaging 535 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 214 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 383 m away and the nearest GP 559 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 105 stops nearby, 3,746 weekly trips, access rating 58 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 45 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 45th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 383 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 559 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 584 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 716 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 762 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 935 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 6.8 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 11 long day care centres with 1,056 places in Carrum Downs, about 1.6 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 sees Carrum Downs recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Carrum Downs ranks in the 37th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Carrum Downs is $553 a week, +7.8% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Population growth drivers in Carrum Downs are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Carrum Downs's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Carrum Downs has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
Educational attainment in Carrum Downs sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Carrum Downs features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Carrum Downs was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Carrum Downs is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Melbourne.
Health performance in Carrum Downs is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Carrum Downs has an estimated 23,589 residents, up 7.3% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in Carrum Downs.
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 Carrum Downs.
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 (214011370). 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 Carrum Downs 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 Carrum Downs 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.