Area profile · Rest of Vic.
Portland has an estimated 11,277 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Portland.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Portland Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 302 kilometres west-southwest from Melbourne CBD. As of Aug 2026, its population is approximately 11,277, compared with 11,230 people at the 2021 Census, representing minimal change based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) figure from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census. The area shows moderate population expansion patterns. Its profile includes strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options, a low average household size, above-average children per family, a notable manufacturing employment base and an elevated 65 to 74yo demographic.
Residents include a high proportion of mature and retirement agedandelderly people. The area generally has lower education levels and lower-quartile income levels. Portland, in Victoria, Australia, is known for its natural scenery and maritime history, with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, forests, historic buildings, museums and a working harbor.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,746 in 2001 and 11,124 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,277 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.3%.
Portland ranks in the 44th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 40th for amenities.
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 Portland is $482 a week, up 7.7% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 5% above Regional Vic..
5% above Regional Vic. on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $260 in 2016, $490 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $192 in 2016, $372 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $482 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $490 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $372 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 | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Warrnambool and South West | $451 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Warrnambool and South West, over 12 months | +6.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Regional Vic. | $458 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Vic., over 12 months | +5.9% | 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 36 tracked applications: 34 approved, 0 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 5 projects in Portland and 99 more in the surrounding area.
A 1,000 MW / 2,500 MWh grid-scale battery energy storage park on industrial land at Madeira Packet Road, Portland.
Refurbishment and redevelopment of the Portland Yacht Club and Portland Sport Fishing Club facilities on the Portland Foreshore.
The Spinifex Offshore Wind Farm is a planned 1.2 GW offshore wind facility proposed to be situated 10 to 50 kilometres off the coast of…
A large-scale hybrid bio/e-methanol development in Portland, Victoria, converting over 500,000 tonnes of residual plantation forestry…
The Portland North Employment Precinct is a 10-hectare development aimed at boosting the local economy through job creation and business…
A $2.35 million advanced manufacturing facility at Portland Airport developed by FormFlow to produce up to 200 relocatable modular homes…
The Southern Winds Offshore Wind Project by BlueFloat Energy plans a 1,155 MW wind farm 8-20 km off Victoria's coast, covering 290 sq km.
Road upgrade project on Settlers Rd in Tyrendarra funded under the Roads to Recovery Program.
This project upgraded the bridge over the Fitzroy River on the Princes Highway West at Tyrendarra to improve safety and efficiency for all…
This project constructed a westbound overtaking lane on the Princes Highway West at Tyrendarra to improve safety and traffic flow.
A restructure plan to address lots with inadequate road access in the Tyrendarra town area through re-subdivision and consolidation.
Tourism and cultural infrastructure delivered across five sites in the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape — Tyrendarra Recreation Reserve…
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 51 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 14, 2027 14, 2028 8, 2029 4, 2030 2, 2031 1, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3, 2036 1. 25 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 36 substantial development applications lodged in and around Portland over the past 5 years, none in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 0, 2022 16, 2023 9, 2024 8, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 0.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 36 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 0 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 49th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 43 | ABS building approvals | 54th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 34 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Portland SA2 include: Portland Renewable Fuels Project (Planning); Portland Foreshore Multipurpose Facility (Approved); Portland Energy Park (Approved); Portland North Employment Precinct (Completed); and Housing Manufacturing Hub (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Portland SA2 spans multiple sectors including Energy, Sports & Recreation, and Business Parks & Technology Hubs, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Portland SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 33rd percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Portland compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Portland SA2 area has seen 96 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Portland SA2's current population of 11,277 has been supported by 43 approvals on average over recent years.
The Portland SA2 has seen 3.8 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.6 approvals in Regional Vic.. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 241 people in the Portland SA2, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
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 Portland SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 43, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the Portland SA2 has seen 213 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Portland reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,277 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 176 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 11,230 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 47 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.2% | 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 | 63.98 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Portland SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,277 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,133 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The portland sa2 has added approximately 47 people and shown a 0.42% increase from the 11,230 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Portland SA2 is estimated at 176 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Portland SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Portland SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Portland hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 47 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 27.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 19.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 46.2% | 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 | 47 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 8.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Portland SA2 at 47 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 47 years as at August 2026, Portland is 4 years older than the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average (43 years) and 9 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Portland SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 15.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Portland SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.7% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Portland SA2 is broadly in line with Regional Vic..
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.6% of the population in the Portland SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 27.8% of the population in the Portland SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $52,479 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $62,554 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,200 | 2021 Census, weekly | 13th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $631 | 2021 Census, weekly | 15th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,551 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 33.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Portland SA2 is approximately $55,943. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $52,479.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Portland SA2 is approximately $66,683. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $62,554.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Portland SA2 is approximately $55,943 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $52,479 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Portland SA2 is approximately $66,683 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $62,554 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Portland SA2's households (~28.3% / 1,301 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Portland SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.3% of households. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Portland SA2 is $1,200/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Portland SA2 is $1,551/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Portland SA2 is $631/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Portland SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $52,479 with the average level standing at $62,554. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $53,720 and $66,176 across Regional Vic. respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $55,943 (median) and $66,683 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Portland SA2 is $4,571 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The portland sa2's disposable income is $4,571 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Portland presents a mixed picture: unemployment remains low at 3.8%, yet recent job losses have affected its comparative national standing.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 53.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,736 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,478 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,922 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Portland SA2 has approximately 4,736 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.8%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement, though the very low unemployment rate of 3.8% indicates the ranking primarily reflects recent job losses rather than underlying labor market weakness.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Portland SA2 stands at 3.8%, which is broadly in line with Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.8%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Portland SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.6% of employment), manufacturing (15.2%), and education & training (8.8%). Other significant employers include retail trade and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Portland SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Portland SA2 is 53.1%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The portland sa2 shows notable specialisation in manufacturing, which employs 15.2% of the local workforce compared to 7.7% across Regional Vic.. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The portland sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. However, the low unemployment rate of 3.8% suggests the ranking is driven by recent job losses rather than structural weakness. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.6% growth, ranking 15th out of 37 regions nationally.
Portland faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 46.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.0% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
13.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Portland SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
46.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Portland SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The portland sa2 ranks in the 21th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Portland SA2 are: Certificate (29.8%), Bachelor Degree (9.8%), Advanced Diploma (9.5%).
25.4% of the population in the Portland SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.4% in primary school, 8.0% in secondary school, 1.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Portland SA2 is 963, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 10 schools within the Portland SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,863 students.
The portland sa2 includes 6 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Portland features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.2% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 21.8% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,596 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,615 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 65.1% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Portland SA2 had 4,596 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 4,615 households today.
The average household size in the Portland SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 65.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.2%), group households (2.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,992 family households, couples with children account for 21.8% of all households, couples without children at home 31.0%, and single parent families 11.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the Portland SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Portland SA2 have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 44.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.0% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 32.2% of all households in the Portland SA2, similar to the average for Regional Vic. of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.7% of households, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%.
Portland is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.3% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 90.3% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 90.0% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
Portland was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 90.3% of its population being citizens, 90.0% born in Australia, and 96.3% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Portland, at 45.0% of people, although more residents (53.3%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 47.3% across Regional Vic..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Portland are English, comprising 33.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 32.3% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 1.7% of Portland (vs 1.7% across Regional Vic.), German at 4.3% (vs 3.5%) and Maltese at 0.5% (vs 0.5%).
10.0% of the Portland SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
3.7% of the population in the Portland SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
2.1% of the Portland SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
90.3% of the Portland SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Portland 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 | 25.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 42.6% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 89.4% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,105 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 11th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.9% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $250 | 2021 Census, weekly | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 21.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 24th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Portland SA2, 42.6% of homes are owned outright, 31.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 25.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 89.4% of dwellings in the Portland SA2 are houses.
In the Portland SA2, 1.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Portland SA2 stands at 42.6%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Portland SA2 is $1,105, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Portland SA2 is $629, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Portland SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 21.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Portland SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Portland SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 21.2% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 20.8% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the Portland SA2 consists of 89.4% detached houses, 8.7% semi-detached dwellings, 1.2% apartments, and 0.7% other dwelling types.
Housing in Portland consumes approximately 12.1% of median household income ($5,196 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Portland show attached dwellings contributing 40% of approvals compared to 11% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 60% of applications versus 89% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Portland is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 48.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 21st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 60.0% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 69.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
Around 48.8% of people in the Portland SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the Portland SA2, 8.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
8.1% of people in the Portland SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.5% of the Portland SA2 population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.5% of people in the Portland SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Portland SA2, 48.8% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.8%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 32 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 59 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 188 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 15th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 189 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 4 | 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 | 7.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 59 public transport stops within the Portland SA2.
The Portland SA2 has 188 weekly trips across 4 routes, averaging 26 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 307 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 862 m away and the nearest school 946 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 59 stops nearby, 188 weekly trips, access rating 32 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 40 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 40th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 862 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 946 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 78.2 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 252 places in Portland, about 2.1 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Portland is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
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Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Portland.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Portland compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Portland has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 33rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Portland is $482 a week, +7.7% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Portland reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Portland hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
The employment landscape in Portland presents a mixed picture: unemployment remains low at 3.8%, yet recent job losses have affected its comparative national standing.
Portland faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Portland features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
Portland is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Portland is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Portland is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Portland has an estimated 11,277 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Portland.
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 Portland.
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 (217011422). 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 Portland 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 Portland 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.
