Area profile · Greater Perth
Calista has an estimated 7,901 residents, up 6.3% since the 2021 Census, with 104 projects tracked in the area around Calista.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
Located 33 kilometres south from Perth CBD in Western Australia, the Calista Statistical Area (Lv2) is a peaceful suburban community recognised for its attractive natural surroundings, lush parks, and pristine landscapes. As of August 2026, AreaSearch estimates Calista's population to be approximately 7,901, with the latest population estimate date being Aug 2026. This reflects an increase of 467 people (6.3%) from the 2021 Census population count of 7,434, a trend established by blending the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 7,882 as of June 2025 with 79 Validated New Addresses confirmed since the Census. While demographic expansion exhibits limited expansion patterns, the area maintains a family-friendly environment with a substantial proportion 0 to 4yo, an established median age 39, and a prominent presence of lone person households amidst a tranquil community atmosphere.
Economically, the Calista Statistical Area (Lv2) is distinguished by affordable housing options and a strong mortgage holder representation.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 33 kilometres south from Perth CBD in Western Australia, the Calista Statistical Area (Lv2) is a peaceful suburban community recognised for its attractive natural surroundings, lush parks, and pristine landscapes. As of August 2026, AreaSearch estimates Calista's population to be approximately 7,901, with the latest population estimate date being Aug 2026. This reflects an increase of 467 people (6.3%) from the 2021 Census population count of 7,434, a trend established by blending the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 7,882 as of June 2025 with 79 Validated New Addresses confirmed since the Census. While demographic expansion exhibits limited expansion patterns, the area maintains a family-friendly environment with a substantial proportion 0 to 4yo, an established median age 39, and a prominent presence of lone person households amidst a tranquil community atmosphere.
Economically, the Calista Statistical Area (Lv2) is distinguished by affordable housing options and a strong mortgage holder representation.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,642 in 2001 and 7,882 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,901 (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, 14.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.9%.
Calista ranks in the 58th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 52nd 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 Calista is $555 a week, up 4.9% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 23% below Greater Perth.
23% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $555 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Kwinana | $650 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Kwinana, over 12 months | +5.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South West | $717 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 West, over 12 months | +6.4% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 104 projects in and around Calista, 34 of them under construction.
Cassia is a masterplanned residential community delivered by Satterley Property Group in partnership with DevelopmentWA, spanning two precincts - Cassia Glades in Kwinana Town Centre and Cassia Rise in Parmelia.
Westport is the WA Government program to plan and deliver a future container port and integrated freight supply chain at Kwinana, relocating container trade from Fremantle when required, from the late 2030s.
70.8km suburban railway line connecting Perth CBD to Mandurah with 13 stations including Rockingham and Warnbro stations. Operates through Kwinana Freeway median with dedicated underground tunnels through Perth CBD. Serves as vital transport link for region. Recent extensions include integration with Thornlie-Cockburn Link in June 2025.
Boutique residential estate by Satterley Property Group set against the Bollard Bulrush Wetlands in Wellard. Features environmentally sensitive design with natural amenities, quality homesites, and active civil construction.
Comprehensive redevelopment of the Kwinana Recquatic Centre featuring a new warm water program pool, hydrotherapy pool, family leisure pool with water play, and modernised health and fitness facilities. The project is funded through the City of Kwinana and federal support, with planning and design progressing toward construction phases.
Stage 2 modernisation of Parmelia Primary School delivering new early childhood classrooms and a covered assembly area. Works are funded through the WA Government school building program and managed by Building Management and Works (BMW) on behalf of the Department of Education.
Wellard Green is a 146-lot residential land estate by Wolfdene in partnership with Blueways Group. Located adjacent to the Wellard Bulrush Nature Reserve and close to Wellard Train Station, the estate is being delivered in staged releases with civil works underway and Stage 1 sold out.
A $6.32 million community infrastructure project delivered by the City of Kwinana to build a modern community centre and sports pavilion in Wellard West, providing multi-purpose indoor spaces, changing facilities, and community gathering spaces.
Planned refurbishment and modest expansion of the Parmelia Community Centre to improve accessibility, modernise the existing facility and provide additional flexible community spaces for local programs and events. The project remains listed within the City of Kwinana capital works program with planning activities underway.
Five mixed-use development sites totaling approx. 10,739 sqm adjacent to Wellard Train Station and Wellard Square. The lots are zoned Neighbourhood Centre R80 enabling retail, residential, office and community uses.
Replacement of ageing change rooms and construction of new community pavilion with universal access at Parmelia Oval.
Sunrise at Wellard is a master-planned residential community developed by Okeland Communities in the City of Kwinana. The estate spans over 350 residential home lots complemented by landscaped communal parklands, playgrounds, outdoor fitness facilities, and direct connectivity to the Wellard train station and Kwinana Freeway.
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 58 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 20, 2027 9, 2028 15, 2029 4, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 17 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 1 substantial development application lodged in and around Calista over the period covered (about 0.2 years); 1 is recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Status of the 1 tracked applications: 0 approved, 1 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.2 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 18th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 12 | ABS building approvals | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Applications under assessment | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.2 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Calista SA2 include: Cassia Estate (Construction); Westport - Kwinana Container Port (Planning); Parmelia Primary School Modernisation Stage 2 (Construction); Hammond West Private Estate (Construction); and Anketell Road Upgrade (Leath Road to Kwinana Freeway) (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Calista SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Education & Training, and Business Parks & Technology Hubs, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Calista SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 35th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Calista compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Calista SA2 area has seen 35 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Calista SA2's current population of 7,901 has been supported by 12 approvals on average over recent years.
The Calista SA2 has seen 1.6 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 451 people in the Calista SA2, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Calista SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 12, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Calista SA2 has grown by approximately 211 people, while 62 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.4 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.
Calista is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,901 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 522 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,434 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 467 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 15.14 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Calista SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,901 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,882 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The calista sa2 has added approximately 467 people and shown a 6.28% increase from the 7,434 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Calista SA2 is estimated at 522 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Calista SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Calista SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (98.4%), Natural increase (1.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 98.4% of overall population gains.
Calista's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 46th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 17.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.5% | 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 | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.4% | 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 Calista SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Calista is 2 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Calista SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 12.3% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Calista SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 12.9% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Calista SA2 is broadly in line with Greater Perth.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.1% of the population in the Calista SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 17.0% of the population in the Calista SA2 as at August 2026.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $64,289 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 70th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $74,548 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,213 | 2021 Census, weekly | 14th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $594 | 2021 Census, weekly | 10th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 9.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,521 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 34.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Calista SA2 is approximately $68,815. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,289.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Calista SA2 is approximately $79,796. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $74,548.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Calista SA2 is approximately $68,815 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,289 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Calista SA2 is approximately $79,796 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,548 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Calista SA2's households (~29.9% / 858 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Calista SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.9% 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 Calista SA2 is $1,213/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Calista SA2 is $1,521/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Calista SA2 is $594/wk.
The Calista SA2's income level is above the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Calista SA2's median income among taxpayers is $64,289 and the average income stands at $74,548, which compares to figures for Greater Perth's of $64,047 and $84,609 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $68,815 (median) and $79,796 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Calista SA2 is $4,284 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The calista sa2's disposable income is $4,284 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Calista face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 7% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 14.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 61.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,299 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,628 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,873 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Calista SA2 has approximately 3,299 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 14.8%. 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 Calista SA2 stands at 14.8%, which is 10.6 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 Calista SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.0% of employment), manufacturing (10.6%), and retail trade (10.5%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Calista SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Calista SA2 is 61.2%, 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%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The calista sa2 shows notable specialisation in manufacturing, which employs 10.6% of the local workforce compared to 5.5% across Greater Perth. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The calista 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.
Calista faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.0% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 12.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.5% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 47.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.1% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
12.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Calista SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
47.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Calista SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The calista sa2 ranks in the 12th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Calista SA2 are: Certificate (31.5%), Bachelor Degree (9.0%), Advanced Diploma (8.9%).
29.3% of the population in the Calista SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.4% in primary school, 8.1% in secondary school, 3.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Calista SA2 is 930, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 6 schools within the Calista SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,061 students.
The calista sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Calista features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, 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 | 33.3% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 16.6% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,874 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,055 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 62.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Calista SA2 had 2,874 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.3% to an estimated 3,055 households today.
The average household size in the Calista 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 62.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.3%), group households (4.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,796 family households, couples with children account for 23.7% of all households, couples without children at home 20.5%, and single parent families 16.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the Calista SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.3% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 62.5% compared to 71.5% in Greater Perth. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Calista SA2 have an average of 1.8 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 33.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 42.5% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 33.3% of all households in the Calista 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 4.1% of households, slightly above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Calista was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 87.9% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.2% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 68.7% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
Calista was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 12.1% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 31.3% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Calista, at 40.3% of people, although more residents (55.4%) 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 Calista are English, comprising 31.8% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.1% of the population, and Other, comprising 8.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maori is notably overrepresented at 2.2% of Calista (vs 0.9% across Greater Perth), Welsh at 0.9% (vs 0.7%) and New Zealand at 1.1% (vs 0.8%).
31.3% of the Calista SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
12.1% of the population in the Calista SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
3.3% of the Calista SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
83.2% of the Calista SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Calista 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 | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 22.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 87.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 44.5% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $275 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 68th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 24.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 56th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Calista SA2, 22.4% of homes are owned outright, 44.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 33.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 87.6% of dwellings in the Calista SA2 are houses.
In the Calista SA2, 3.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Calista SA2 stands at 22.4%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Calista SA2 is $1,300, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Calista SA2 is $972, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Calista SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 24.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Calista SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Calista SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 24.7% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 22.7% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the Calista SA2 consists of 87.6% detached houses, 8.8% semi-detached dwellings, 3.4% apartments, and 0.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Calista consumes approximately 18.5% of median household income ($5,252 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Calista show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 12% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 88% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Health performance in Calista is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 54.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 54th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 60.9% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 68.6% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
Around 54.1% of people in the Calista SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the Calista SA2, 8.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
8.4% of people in the Calista SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.9% of the Calista SA2 population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.4% of people in the Calista SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Calista SA2, 54.1% 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 | 52 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 51 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 749 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 30th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 155 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 5 | 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 | 4.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 51 public transport stops within the Calista SA2.
The Calista SA2 has 749 weekly trips across 5 routes, averaging 107 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 211 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 490 m away and the nearest child care centre 579 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 51 stops nearby, 749 weekly trips, access rating 52 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 23 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 490 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 579 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 585 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 589 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 803 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 7.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 3 long day care centres with 214 places in Calista, about 2.5 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Calista is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Calista.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Calista compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Calista has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 35th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Calista is $555 a week, +4.9% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Calista is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Calista's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Calista face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 7% of areas assessed nationally.
Calista faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Calista features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Calista was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Calista is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
Health performance in Calista is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Calista has an estimated 7,901 residents, up 6.3% since the 2021 Census, with 104 projects tracked in the area around Calista.
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 Calista.
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 (507031170). 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 Calista 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 Calista 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.
