Area profile · Greater Perth
Bentley - Wilson - St James has an estimated 24,551 residents, up 19.1% since the 2021 Census, with 17 projects tracked in Bentley - Wilson - St James.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Bentley - Wilson - St James Statistical Area (Lv2), conveniently located 7.8 kilometres southeast from Perth CBD, had an estimated population of around 24,551 as of Aug 2026. This represents growth of 3,939 people (19.1%) since the 2021 Census count of 20,612. The estimate draws on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 24,479 as of June 2025 and 264 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is highly culturally diverse, with a high proportion of residents born overseas, and shows moderate population expansion. Its population includes notable shares of teenagers and young adults, alongside elevated 25 to 34yo and 15 to 24yo demographics.
The area's households include a substantial share of lone person and group households, alongside an above-average renting population and a strong semi-detached presence. Employment is notably concentrated in administration, and the community's demographic profile includes a high proportion of teenagers and young adults. These characteristics form part of the area’s varied population and housing profile.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Bentley - Wilson - St James Statistical Area (Lv2), conveniently located 7.8 kilometres southeast from Perth CBD, had an estimated population of around 24,551 as of Aug 2026. This represents growth of 3,939 people (19.1%) since the 2021 Census count of 20,612. The estimate draws on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 24,479 as of June 2025 and 264 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is highly culturally diverse, with a high proportion of residents born overseas, and shows moderate population expansion. Its population includes notable shares of teenagers and young adults, alongside elevated 25 to 34yo and 15 to 24yo demographics.
The area's households include a substantial share of lone person and group households, alongside an above-average renting population and a strong semi-detached presence. Employment is notably concentrated in administration, and the community's demographic profile includes a high proportion of teenagers and young adults. These characteristics form part of the area’s varied population and housing profile.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 16,712 in 2001 and 24,479 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 24,551 (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, 26.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.3%.
Bentley - Wilson - St James ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for development activity and the 88th 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 Bentley - Wilson - St James is $660 a week, up 14.2% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 9% below Greater Perth.
9% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $660 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +14.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Canning | $720 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Canning, over 12 months | +9.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South East | $716 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - South East, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 8 tracked applications: 6 approved, 2 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 17 projects in Bentley - Wilson - St James (6 under construction) and 77 more in the surrounding area.
A $163 million redevelopment of the Perth Hockey Stadium at Curtin University's Bentley campus into Hockey Australia's national hockey centre. The project includes four outdoor pitches, with at least two to International Hockey Federation Category 1 standard, an indoor hockey centre with FIH-standard courts, a 1,000-seat stadium expandable to 10,000 in…
Construction of an all-abilities district-level play space at Kent Street Weir Reserve. Features junior and senior play zones, water and sensory play areas, accessible pathways, picnic facilities, and integrated Whadjuk Noongar cultural artwork.
Comprehensive upgrade of the Merv McIntosh Pavilion and sports reserve amenities at Wyong Reserve in Bentley. The project delivers inclusive, gender-neutral changerooms, modernised umpire facilities, accessible public amenities, and upgraded social and spectator spaces.
Wilson Cove Estate is a boutique 44-lot riverside residential subdivision developed by Richard Noble & Company along the Canning River in Wilson. The masterplanned estate offers residential homesites ranging from 300 to 635 sqm alongside landscaped public open spaces, a pump track, and walking trails connecting to the foreshore reserve.
Staged redevelopment of the Kent Street Weir Precinct on the Canning River, delivered by the City of Canning as a major community recreation and environmental upgrade.
Research-led digital twin project at Curtin University's Bentley campus supporting the Pathways to Net Zero Precincts program. The project is piloting an integrated digital twin platform using real-time building sensor data to improve space utilisation, operational energy efficiency, Consumer Energy Resource integration, and precinct-scale decarbonisation.
Expansion of SwanCare Bentley Park retirement village comprising the construction of 18 residential dwellings alongside landscaped pedestrian realm upgrades and associated infrastructure. The development extends the existing aged care and independent living precinct near the St James boundary.
A proposed multi-dwelling residential development delivering 28 apartments across a consolidated lot spanning 180 to 186 Hill View Terrace in Bentley. The project is currently progressing through the Metro Inner Development Assessment Panel (DAP) process.
Wanju Welcome Bentley St James is a community-led neighbourhood revitalisation initiative by the City of Canning, creating a welcoming environment where residents feel a sense of belonging and can actively shape the neighbourhood's story.
A proposed infill residential development comprising 7 multiple dwellings on Farnham Street in Bentley.
Heartwood Bentley is an urban renewal precinct within the 31-hectare Bentley Redevelopment Area in the City of Canning, approximately 8 km south of the Perth CBD. DevelopmentWA is transforming 21 hectares of government-owned land into a modern, sustainable neighbourhood delivering up to 1000 new homes, with a target of one in seven being social housing.
A major urban renewal project transforming 21 hectares of State Government-owned land - the former Brownlie Towers and sand quarry site - within a broader 31-hectare redevelopment area in Bentley, 8km south of Perth CBD. The project will deliver up to 1,000 homes including detached, terrace, medium-density and apartment options.
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 55 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 13, 2027 22, 2028 8, 2029 3, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 3. 12 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 8 substantial development applications lodged in and around Bentley - Wilson - St James over the period covered (about 2.6 years), 2 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2024 (part year) 4, 2025 2, 2026 (to Oct) 2.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 8 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 2.6 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.2 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 94 | ABS building approvals | 78th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 6 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 2.6 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 2.6 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 include: Wyong Reserve Sporting Facilities Upgrade (Construction); Australian Hockey Centre (Construction); Kent Street Weir Precinct Redevelopment (Construction); Curtin University Net Zero Precinct Digital Twin (Planning); and Juniper Rowethorpe Master Plan (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 spans multiple sectors including Sports & Recreation, Communities, and Science & Research, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 31st percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Bentley - Wilson - St James higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 area has seen 267 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2's current population of 24,551 has been supported by 94 approvals on average over recent years.
The Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 has seen 4.2 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.4 approvals in Greater Perth. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 191 people in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 94, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 has grown by approximately 2,863 people, while 470 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 6.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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 Bentley - Wilson - St James reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 24,551 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +19.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,202 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 20,612 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 3,939 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +4.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 11.15 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 was estimated to be approximately 24,551 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 24,479 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The bentley - wilson - st james sa2 has added approximately 3,939 people and shown a 19.11% increase from the 20,612 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is estimated at 2,202 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.5% per annum.
Population growth in the Bentley - Wilson - St James 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.
Bentley - Wilson - St James's young demographic places it in the bottom 12% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 31 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 12th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 45.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 56.0% | 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 | 33 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 19.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 26.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 at 31 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 33 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 31 years as at August 2026, Bentley - Wilson - St James is 6 years younger than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 7 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 26.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 7.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (26.5% vs 15.8%) and 15-24 year-olds (19.2% vs 12.8%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (7.5% vs 12.2%) and 55-64 year-olds (6.6% vs 10.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 11.8% of the population in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.0% of the population in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $50,427 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 17th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $61,585 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,482 | 2021 Census, weekly | 34th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $711 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 19.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,963 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is approximately $53,977. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $50,427.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is approximately $65,921. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $61,585.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is approximately $53,977 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $50,427 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is approximately $65,921 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $61,585 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2's households (~30.3% / 2,329 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.3% of households. In comparison, Greater Perth's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.0% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is $1,482/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is $1,963/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is $711/wk.
The Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $50,427 and an average of $61,585 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is below the national average, contrasting with Greater Perth's median income of $64,047 and average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $53,977 (median) and $65,921 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is $5,220 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The bentley - wilson - st james sa2's disposable income is $5,220 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Bentley - Wilson - St James has been broadly consistent with national averages.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 68.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 14,266 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 25,153 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 14,815 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 has approximately 14,266 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.7%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 stands at 3.7%, which is 0.5 percentage points below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.7% of employment), accommodation & food (11.1%), and retail trade (9.8%). Other significant employers include education & training and professional & technical.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Bentley - Wilson - St James 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 Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is 68.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The bentley - wilson - st james sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 11.1% of the local workforce compared to 6.8% across Greater Perth. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The bentley - wilson - st james sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Bentley - Wilson - St James ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 39.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 16.8% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 32.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 36.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 16.7% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
39.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
32.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The bentley - wilson - st james sa2 ranks in the 64th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (26.0%), Certificate (16.8%), Advanced Diploma (11.3%).
36.7% of the population in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.8% in primary school, 5.0% in secondary school, 16.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is 1031, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 7 schools within the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,244 students.
The bentley - wilson - st james sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Bentley - Wilson - St James features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 21.1% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 23.2% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,694 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 9,164 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 54.7% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 had 7,694 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 19.1% to an estimated 9,164 households today.
The average household size in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 54.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.0%), group households (12.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,209 family households, couples with children account for 21.1% of all households, couples without children at home 23.2%, and single parent families 7.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Group households are notably over-represented at 12.3% (versus 3.5% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 54.7% compared to 71.5% in Greater Perth. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 have an average of 1.2 children, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 36.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 46.4% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 33.0% of all households in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, higher than the average for Greater Perth of 24.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 12.3% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Bentley - Wilson - St James is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 51.2% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 40.8% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 59.2% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 65.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 48.8% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
Bentley - Wilson - St James scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 40.8% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 51.2% born overseas.
The main religion in Bentley - Wilson - St James was found to be Christianity, which makes up 38.6% of people in Bentley - Wilson - St James. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 7.7% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Perth average of 2.7%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bentley - Wilson - St James are English, comprising 21.0% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Other, comprising 20.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 11.2%, and Australian, comprising 16.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Korean is notably overrepresented at 1.1% of Bentley - Wilson - St James (vs 0.3% across Greater Perth), Chinese at 10.9% (vs 4.0%) and Indian at 4.0% (vs 2.6%).
51.2% of the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
40.8% of the population in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.9% of the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
65.0% of the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Bentley - Wilson - St James displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 51.6% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 21.6% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 64.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 28.2% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $330 | 2021 Census, weekly | 35th 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 | 27.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 74th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, 21.6% of homes are owned outright, 26.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 51.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 64.6% of dwellings in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 are houses.
In the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, 7.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 28.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 stands at 21.6%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is $1,202, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 22.3% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 consists of 64.6% detached houses, 28.2% semi-detached dwellings, 7.2% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Bentley - Wilson - St James consumes approximately 18.7% of median household income ($6,417 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Bentley - Wilson - St James show attached dwellings contributing 37% of approvals compared to 35% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 63% of applications versus 65% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Bentley - Wilson - St James 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 | 48.6% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 18th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 73.7% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 81.9% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
Around 48.6% of people in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, 6.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
5.5% of people in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.9% of the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.2% of people in the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2, 48.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 84 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 84th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 164 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 6,712 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 149 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 30 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 6.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 164 public transport stops within the Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2.
The Bentley - Wilson - St James SA2 has 6,712 weekly trips across 30 routes, averaging 958 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 161 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 499 m away and the nearest school 589 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 164 stops nearby, 6,712 weekly trips, access rating 84 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 76 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 76th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 499 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 589 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 695 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 814 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 884 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.2 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 6 long day care centres with 448 places in Bentley - Wilson - St James, about 2.4 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Bentley - Wilson - St James higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Bentley - Wilson - St James has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 31st percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Bentley - Wilson - St James is $660 a week, +14.2% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Bentley - Wilson - St James reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Bentley - Wilson - St James's young demographic places it in the bottom 12% of areas nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment performance in Bentley - Wilson - St James has been broadly consistent with national averages.
The educational profile of Bentley - Wilson - St James ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Bentley - Wilson - St James features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
Bentley - Wilson - St James is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Bentley - Wilson - St James displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
Health performance in Bentley - Wilson - St James is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Bentley - Wilson - St James has an estimated 24,551 residents, up 19.1% since the 2021 Census, with 17 projects tracked in Bentley - Wilson - St James.
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 Bentley - Wilson - St James.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 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 (506031124). 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 (Oct 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 Bentley - Wilson - St James 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 Bentley - Wilson - St James 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.
