Area profile · Greater Perth
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood has an estimated 26,049 residents, up 10.0% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 36 kilometres north-northwest of the Perth CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 26,049, an increase of 2,370 people (10.0%) from the 23,679 residents counted at the 2021 Census. This change is inferred from the estimated resident population (ERP) of 26,000 from the ABS as of June 2025, together with 131 validated new addresses added since the Census date. The area shows strong representation of mortgage holders and a high population born overseas, while growth has been moderate. Residents also include a notable proportion aged 15 to 24, and the area stands out for its high proportion of teenagers.
Employment is shaped by an elevated mining employment base, pronounced retail trade employment and a substantial administrative employment presence. Taken together, these market factors describe a community with a distinctive mix of residents and industries. All of these details reflect the latest population estimate date of Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 36 kilometres north-northwest of the Perth CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 26,049, an increase of 2,370 people (10.0%) from the 23,679 residents counted at the 2021 Census. This change is inferred from the estimated resident population (ERP) of 26,000 from the ABS as of June 2025, together with 131 validated new addresses added since the Census date. The area shows strong representation of mortgage holders and a high population born overseas, while growth has been moderate. Residents also include a notable proportion aged 15 to 24, and the area stands out for its high proportion of teenagers.
Employment is shaped by an elevated mining employment base, pronounced retail trade employment and a substantial administrative employment presence. Taken together, these market factors describe a community with a distinctive mix of residents and industries. All of these details reflect the latest population estimate date of Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,286 in 2001 and 26,000 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 26,049 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 15.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 34.4%.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood ranks in the 69th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 56th for transport & access.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood is $688 a week, up 8.7% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 5% below Greater Perth.
5% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $688 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Wanneroo | $724 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Wanneroo, over 12 months | +8.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - North West | $760 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 - North West, over 12 months | +7.7% | 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 101 tracked applications: 94 approved, 5 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 21 projects in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood (2 under construction) and 119 more in the surrounding area.
Planning scheme amendment to District Planning Scheme No. 2 initiated by the City of Wanneroo, facilitating urban zoning and structure planning for residential and commercial development across Butler and Ridgewood in Perth's northern corridor.
Brighton Estate, developed by Satterley Property Group, is a master-planned community in Butler, WA. Recognized as Australia's first 6-star Green Star BeachSAFE community, it won the Urban Development Institute of Australia's Award for Master Planned Development in 2013.
Neighbourhood retail centre planned on the corner of Marmion Avenue and Reflection Boulevard, Butler, in Perth's northern growth corridor. Reported elements include a small-format supermarket, medical centre, allied health, cafes, a gym and a 91-place childcare centre.
Connolly Drive Medical Centre is an established, AGPAL-accredited medical facility providing comprehensive primary healthcare services in Butler. The purpose-built centre features a state-of-the-art facility offering general practice, on-site pathology collection, clinical psychology, and audiology services.
Butler Village Medical Centre is a modern, purpose-built family medicine practice providing comprehensive healthcare services to Butler, Alkimos, and Yanchep. The facility offers general practice, onsite pathology, dental services through Butler Village Family Dental, and chronic disease management.
A $28.57 million proposed six-storey residential building comprising 60 one- and two-bedroom social and affordable apartments situated 250 metres from Butler train station.
Butler Boulevard Medical Centre is a state-of-the-art multidisciplinary healthcare facility in Western Australia. It provides a wide range of services including general practice, minor surgery, chronic disease management, and onsite pathology.
Butler Central is a $70 million shopping centre developed by Fabcot Pty Ltd (Woolworths Group) and constructed by BGC Construction. Located at the corner of Exmouth Drive and Butler Boulevard, near Butler train station, it features over 27 stores, including Woolworths, Best & Less, Dan Murphy's, and various specialty retail and dining options, with over 450…
Large format retail centre adjacent to Butler Central and Butler Train Station, anchored by The Good Guys, Beacon Lighting, Goodlife Health Clubs, Adairs, Autobarn and other national retailers.
Jindee is a masterplanned coastal residential estate by Estates Development Company in Jindalee, WA. The development continues through staged land releases with civil works, new housing construction and sales underway.
Kingsbridge District Open Space is a public recreational area in Butler, featuring multiple sporting fields, playgrounds, walking paths, and community facilities. It serves as a key recreational hub for the local community, offering spaces for sports, leisure, and social activities.
Oldham Rise is a small coastal infill estate in Quinns Rocks delivered by LWP Property Group on elevated land off Oldham Way, within walking distance of Quinns Beach. The project will create around 68 new house and land lots with ocean views, new local streets and public realm upgrades close to Quinns Rocks Primary School and nearby parks.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 66 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 19, 2027 22, 2028 10, 2029 3, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 4, 2036 1. 12 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 101 substantial development applications lodged in and around Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood over the past 5 years, 10 in the last 12 months; 5 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 0, 2022 22, 2023 21, 2024 25, 2025 26, 2026 (to Oct) 7.
Key application 3550 Mitchell Freeway Nowergup Industrial | $50m Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 101 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 11th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 28 | ABS building approvals | 40th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 94 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 include: Brighton Estate Master Planned Community (Construction); Butler Social and Affordable Housing Precinct (Under Assessment); Butler District Planning Scheme Amendment No. 212 (Approved); Jindee Estate (Construction); and Jindalee Boulevard Coastal Apartment Complex (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Business Parks & Technology Hubs, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 11th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 area has seen 62 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2's current population of 26,049 has been supported by 28 approvals on average over recent years.
The Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 has seen 1.1 approval 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 848 people in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 28, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 has grown by approximately 1,406 people, while 139 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 10.1 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.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood 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 | 26,049 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +10.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,596 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 80th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 23,679 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,370 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 10.03 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 was estimated to be approximately 26,049 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 26,000 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The butler - merriwa - ridgewood sa2 has added approximately 2,370 people and shown a 10.01% increase from the 23,679 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is estimated at 2,597 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.8% per annum.
Population growth in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (79.5%), Natural increase (20.5%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 79.5% of overall population gains.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
| 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 | 16th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 15.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 29.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.9% | 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 | 34 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 at 34 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 34 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood is 3 years younger than the Greater Perth 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 Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 15.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 14.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (2.8% vs 2.0%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.7% of the population in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 15.3% of the population in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $62,585 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 65th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $79,036 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,542 | 2021 Census, weekly | 37th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $730 | 2021 Census, weekly | 34th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 16.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,848 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 24.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is approximately $66,991. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $62,585.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is approximately $84,600. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $79,036.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is approximately $66,991 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $62,585 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is approximately $84,600 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $79,036 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2's households (~34.3% / 2,854 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 34.3% 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 Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is $1,542/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is $1,848/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is $730/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is well above average nationally, with the median assessed at $62,585 while the average income stands at $79,036. This contrasts to Greater Perth's figures of a median income of $64,047 and an average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $66,991 (median) and $84,600 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is $5,288 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The butler - merriwa - ridgewood sa2's disposable income is $5,288 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 8.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 69.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 13,417 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 20,867 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 14,690 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 has approximately 13,417 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 8.7%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 stands at 8.7%, which is 4.4 percentage points above Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.0% of employment), construction (11.8%), and retail trade (11.6%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood 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 Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is 69.0%, 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 butler - merriwa - ridgewood sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 11.8% of the local workforce compared to 9.3% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The butler - merriwa - ridgewood sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 14.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 43.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
14.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
43.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The butler - merriwa - ridgewood sa2 ranks in the 43th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 are: Certificate (30.5%), Advanced Diploma (11.5%), Bachelor Degree (10.7%).
32.6% of the population in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.9% in primary school, 9.8% in secondary school, 4.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is 993, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 10 schools within the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,177 students.
The butler - merriwa - ridgewood sa2 includes 6 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.7 people | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 23.2% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 22.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 16.9% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,312 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 9,144 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 74.4% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 had 8,312 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 10.0% to an estimated 9,144 households today.
The average household size in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is 2.7 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 74.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (23.2%), group households (2.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 6,184 family households, couples with children account for 33.5% of all households, couples without children at home 22.7%, and single parent families 16.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 42.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.8% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 23.2% of all households in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, similar to 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 2.4% of households, below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 42.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 14.6% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 85.4% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.3% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 57.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 14.6% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 42.3% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood, at 44.2% of people, although more residents (51.1%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood are English, comprising 34.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 21.2% of the population, and Other, comprising 9.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maori is notably overrepresented at 2.4% of Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood (vs 0.9% across Greater Perth), South African at 1.8% (vs 1.0%) and Welsh at 0.9% (vs 0.7%).
42.3% of the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
14.6% of the population in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.8% of the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
81.3% of the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 32.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 14.6% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 91.0% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 52.6% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $340 | 2021 Census, weekly | 37th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 66th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, 14.6% of homes are owned outright, 52.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 32.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 91.0% of dwellings in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 are houses.
In the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, 0.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 stands at 14.6%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is $1,393, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 25.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 25.9% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 22.0% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 consists of 91.0% detached houses, 8.4% semi-detached dwellings, 0.7% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood consumes approximately 20.9% of median household income ($6,677 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood show attached dwellings contributing 23% of approvals compared to 9% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 77% of applications versus 91% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood: private health cover 56.5%, no long-term health condition 68.8%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.8% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.0% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
Around 56.5% of people in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, 5.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
8.1% of people in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.3% of people in the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2, 56.5% 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 moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 56 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 56th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 106 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,905 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 61st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 246 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 10 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 6.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 106 public transport stops within the Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2.
The Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood SA2 has 2,905 weekly trips across 10 routes, averaging 415 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 196 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 406 m away and the nearest school 525 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 106 stops nearby, 2,905 weekly trips, access rating 56 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 16 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 16th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 406 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 525 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 600 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 646 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 681 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 828 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 888 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 4.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 11.4 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 12 long day care centres with 1,021 places in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood, about 1.4 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 sees Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 11th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood is $688 a week, +8.7% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
Health in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood: private health cover 56.5%, no long-term health condition 68.8%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood has an estimated 26,049 residents, up 10.0% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood.
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 Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood.
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 (505031099). 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 Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood 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 Butler - Merriwa - Ridgewood 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.
