Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Kensington (Vic.) has an estimated 12,471 residents, up 16.1% since the 2021 Census, with 14 projects tracked in Kensington (Vic.).
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Kensington (Vic.) Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 4.2 kilometres west-northwest from Melbourne CBD. Its population is around 12,471 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 1,726 people (16.1%) since the 2021 Census count of 10,745 people. This estimate reflects the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 12,423 as of June 2025 and 1,218 validated new addresses recorded since the Census date. The area’s profile is shaped by young professionals, above-average population density and growth drivers, substantial development activity, a dense and active development environment, above-average renting, and a strong semi-detached presence.
Residents include a high share of young adults and working-age people, with many living in lone-person or group households. Kensington is highly educated and has high incomes. The area combines urban appeal with parks and green spaces, family-oriented amenities, schools, sporting facilities, cafes, dining, arts and culture, and Victorian architecture and historical sites, alongside modern conveniences and a strong community character.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,686 in 2001 and 12,423 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 12,471 (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, 25.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.5%.
Kensington (Vic.) ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for amenities and the 83rd for development activity.
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 Kensington (Vic.) is $698 a week, up 3.9% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 19% above Greater Melbourne.
19% above Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $632 in 2016, $837 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $531 in 2016, $722 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $698 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $837 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +2.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $722 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, Melbourne City | $660 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne City, over 12 months | +3.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Melbourne - Inner | $628 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne - Inner, over 12 months | +4.4% | 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 33 tracked applications: 20 approved, 0 under assessment, 13 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 14 projects in Kensington (Vic.) (1 under construction) and 183 more in the surrounding area.
Melbourne's largest carbon-neutral adaptive reuse precinct, transforming a 122-year-old woolstore into a 50,000 sqm office and retail…
A mixed-use precinct on surplus Victorian Racing Club land at the Flemington Hill site, approved for up to 460 apartments across three…
Third stage of the adaptive reuse of the historic 122-year-old Younghusband Wool Store by Impact Investment Group, Built, Ivanhoe Cambridge…
Multi-storey residential mixed-use development situated within the Macaulay urban renewal precinct in Kensington.
Modern residential development on Racecourse Road contributing to the growing residential density in Kensington's established neighbourhood.
A 17-hectare urban renewal program transforming former industrial warehouse and factory land between the Maribyrnong River and the…
Proposed $65 million 8-storey mixed-use development by Responsible Developers Pty Ltd and BayleyWard.
The Errol Street Private Hospital is a $300 million private healthcare project proposed by Australian Unity at 265-281 Errol Street in…
A $68.2 million redevelopment of the Kensington Community Aquatic and Recreation Centre in JJ Holland Park, delivering a state-of-the-art…
Mixed residential development by Frasers Property and Citta Property Group offering 1 and 2 bedroom apartments.
Warehouse-style apartments developed by Orb Property Partners as part of The Tapestry Project.
Decommissioning, decanting, and demolition of the Royal Melbourne Hospital Materials Handling Building at Parkville to enable the Parkville…
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 71 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 2, 2025 4, 2026 19, 2027 18, 2028 10, 2029 7, 2030 4, 2031 2, 2032 4, 2033 0, 2034 1. 52 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 33 substantial development applications lodged in and around Kensington (Vic.) over the past 5 years, 4 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 9, 2023 8, 2024 6, 2025 8, 2026 (to Oct) 0.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 33 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 27.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 96th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 311 | ABS building approvals | 96th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 20 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Kensington SA2 include: Younghusband Kensington (Construction); Flemington Green (Approved); 265-271 Racecourse Road Development (Planning); Younghusband Wool Store Project Stage 3 (Proposed); and 88-96 Stubbs Street Development (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Kensington SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Communities, among others.
The Kensington SA2 ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Kensington among the top 17% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Kensington SA2 area has seen 448 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Kensington SA2's current population of 12,471 has been supported by 311 approvals on average over recent years.
The Kensington SA2 has seen 27.9 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 5863 people in the Kensington SA2, compared to one for every 121 in Greater Melbourne.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Kensington SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 311, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Kensington SA2 has grown by approximately 1,007 people, while 1,556 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating 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.
Kensington 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 | 12,471 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +16.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 5,809 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 95th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.7% | 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 | 10,745 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,726 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +4.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +6.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.15 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Kensington SA2 was estimated to be approximately 12,471 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,423 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The kensington sa2 has added approximately 1,726 people and shown a 16.06% increase from the 10,745 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Kensington SA2 is estimated at 5,801 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Kensington SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Kensington SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (61.6%), Interstate migration (19.7%), Natural increase (18.7%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 61.6% of overall population gains.
Kensington's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 34 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 21st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 36.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 65.7% | 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 | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 25.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 20.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 8.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Kensington SA2 at 34 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Kensington is 3 years younger than the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Kensington SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 25.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Kensington SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 7.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Kensington SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Melbourne. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (25.4% vs 16.4%). The most under-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (2.8% vs 5.2%) and 85+ year-olds (1.2% vs 2.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 12.8% of the population in the Kensington SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 10.0% of the population in the Kensington SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 83% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $68,674 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 81st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $85,702 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,216 | 2021 Census, weekly | 79th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,246 | 2021 Census, weekly | 93rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 36.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,063 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 18.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Kensington SA2 is approximately $73,206. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $68,674.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Kensington SA2 is approximately $91,358. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $85,702.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Kensington SA2 is approximately $73,206 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,674 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Kensington SA2 is approximately $91,358 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $85,702 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Kensington SA2's households (~31.5% / 1,488 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Kensington SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.5% 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 Kensington SA2 is $2,216/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Kensington SA2 is $3,063/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Kensington SA2 is $1,246/wk.
The Kensington SA2's income level is among the highest in Australia according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Kensington SA2's median income among taxpayers is $68,674 and the average income stands at $85,702, 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 $73,206 (median) and $91,358 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Kensington SA2 is $8,023 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The kensington sa2's disposable income is $8,023 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Kensington shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 76.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,047 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,135 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,622 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Kensington SA2 has approximately 8,047 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.7%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Kensington SA2 stands at 6.7%, which is 1.8 percentage points above Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Kensington SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (17.3% of employment), health care & social assistance (14.8%), and education & training (11.2%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and finance & insurance.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Kensington 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 Kensington SA2 is 76.6%, 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%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The kensington sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 17.3% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% across Greater Melbourne. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The kensington 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.
Kensington shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 35.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 18.3% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 59.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 23.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
59.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Kensington SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
23.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Kensington SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The kensington sa2 ranks in the 80th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Kensington SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (35.5%), Postgraduate (18.3%), Certificate (8.8%).
28.0% of the population in the Kensington SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.9% in primary school, 4.8% in secondary school, 10.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Kensington SA2 is 1097, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 4 schools within the Kensington SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 793 students.
The kensington sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Kensington features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 34.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 20.1% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,727 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,486 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 56.3% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 0.8 per family | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Kensington SA2 had 4,727 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 16.1% to an estimated 5,486 households today.
The average household size in the Kensington SA2 is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 56.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (34.9%), group households (8.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,661 family households, couples with children account for 20.1% of all households, couples without children at home 27.1%, and single parent families 7.5%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Kensington SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.9% (versus 24.8% in Greater Melbourne). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 56.3% compared to 70.9% in Greater Melbourne. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Marriage patterns reveal 32.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 54.5% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 34.9% of all households in the Kensington SA2, higher than 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 8.8% of households, above the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Kensington 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 | 32.2% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 25.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 74.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.6% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 67.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.4% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
Kensington was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 32.2% of its population born overseas and 25.7% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Kensington, at 29.0% of people, although more residents (60.1%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 4.4% of the population, compared to 4.2% across Greater Melbourne.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Kensington are English, comprising 21.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 18.4% of the population, and Other, comprising 11.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Irish is notably overrepresented at 10.9% of Kensington (vs 6.5% across Greater Melbourne), Vietnamese at 2.3% (vs 1.9%) and Chinese at 7.5% (vs 6.5%).
32.2% of the Kensington SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
25.7% of the population in the Kensington SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
0.4% of the Kensington SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
83.6% of the Kensington SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Kensington displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 50.2% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 18.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 29.3% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,162 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.2% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 53.4% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $416 | 2021 Census, weekly | 70th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 35th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
In the Kensington SA2, 18.6% of homes are owned outright, 31.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 50.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 17.2% of dwellings in the Kensington SA2 are houses.
In the Kensington SA2, 29.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 53.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Kensington SA2 stands at 18.6%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Kensington SA2 is $2,162, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Kensington SA2 is $1,579, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Kensington SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 22.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Kensington SA2 is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Kensington SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 22.5% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 18.8% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Kensington SA2 consists of 17.2% detached houses, 53.4% semi-detached dwellings, 29.3% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Kensington consumes approximately 16.5% of median household income ($9,595 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Kensington show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 83% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 17% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Kensington is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Health in Kensington (Vic.): private health cover 59.7%, no long-term health condition 71.7%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 59.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 78th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 71.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.9% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
Around 59.7% of people in the Kensington SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Kensington SA2, 4.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
8.9% of people in the Kensington SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the Kensington SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.3% of people in the Kensington SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Kensington SA2, 59.7% 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 good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 68 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 68th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 22 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 3,069 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 62nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 565 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 7 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 52.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 22 public transport stops within the Kensington SA2.
The Kensington SA2 has 3,069 weekly trips across 7 routes, averaging 438 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 200 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest supermarket is 316 m away and the nearest child care centre 329 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 22 stops nearby, 3,069 weekly trips, access rating 68 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 94 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 94th percentile nationally |
| Nearest supermarket | 316 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 329 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 389 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 512 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 516 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 520 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 799 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 912 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.6 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 303 places in Kensington (Vic.), about 2.1 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 positions Kensington among the top 17% of areas assessed nationwide.
Kensington has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Kensington (Vic.) is $698 a week, +3.9% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Kensington has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Kensington's population is younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 83% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The employment landscape in Kensington shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
Kensington shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Kensington features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
Kensington 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.
Kensington displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Melbourne.
Health in Kensington (Vic.): private health cover 59.7%, no long-term health condition 71.7%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Kensington (Vic.) has an estimated 12,471 residents, up 16.1% since the 2021 Census, with 14 projects tracked in Kensington (Vic.).
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 Kensington (Vic.).
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Sep 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 (206041121). 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 (Sep 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 Kensington (Vic.) 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 Kensington (Vic.) 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.
