Area profile · Rest of WA
Margaret River has an estimated 12,534 residents, up 23.0% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Margaret River.
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.
The Margaret River Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 235 kilometres south-southwest of the Perth CBD in Western Australia. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the population is estimated at around 12,534 as of Aug 2026. This represents an increase of 2,341 people (23.0%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 10,193 people. The estimate is inferred from the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 12,077 as of June 2025, along with 679 validated new addresses added since the Census date.
Development activity and population drivers in the area are well above average, supported by a well-educated local population and a notable hospitality employment base. Residents include an elevated share of 45 to 54 year olds and a pronounced presence of 35 to 44 year olds, alongside substantial mining employment. The area is distinguished by a high proportion of middle-aged residents, largely living in group households, and its population growth shows strong expansion.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Margaret River Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 235 kilometres south-southwest of the Perth CBD in Western Australia. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the population is estimated at around 12,534 as of Aug 2026. This represents an increase of 2,341 people (23.0%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 10,193 people. The estimate is inferred from the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 12,077 as of June 2025, along with 679 validated new addresses added since the Census date.
Development activity and population drivers in the area are well above average, supported by a well-educated local population and a notable hospitality employment base. Residents include an elevated share of 45 to 54 year olds and a pronounced presence of 35 to 44 year olds, alongside substantial mining employment. The area is distinguished by a high proportion of middle-aged residents, largely living in group households, and its population growth shows strong expansion.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,752 in 2001 and 12,077 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 12,534 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 16.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 35.8%.
Margaret River ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for development activity and the 87th for population growth.
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 Margaret River is $750 a week, up 5.8% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 12% above Regional WA.
12% above Regional WA on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $750 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Bunbury | $668 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Bunbury, over 12 months | +7.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional WA | $667 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Regional WA, over 12 months | +10.2% | 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 4 tracked applications: 1 approved, 3 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Margaret River, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 11 projects in Margaret River (3 under construction) and 72 more in the surrounding area.
Australia's first net-positive circular hotel in Margaret River featuring 32 rooms and 5 villas, designed to boost local tourism while operating with net-positive environmental impacts via renewable energy and sustainable architecture.
An ambitious luxury hotel and spa development restoring the historic 1865-built Wallcliffe House homestead in Margaret River, which was destroyed by bushfires in 2011.
A comprehensive masterplanned community by The Lester Group located 800 metres from Margaret River town centre. The development includes an established residential estate with various sized lots, a proposed over-50s lifestyle community, village centre with retail and commercial spaces, Rapids Landing Primary School, parklands, and native bush reserves.
Spindrift Margaret River is a masterplanned residential community by Goldfields Group featuring around 400 to 452 lots, integrated open green spaces, parks, and playgrounds located near the Margaret River township.
A pioneering sustainable residential development featuring over 350 homes across 11 residential clusters with extensive permaculture areas, community gardens, renewable energy systems, and environmental conservation areas. The 120-hectare ecovillage is designed to be self-sufficient in renewable energy, water, and fresh food production.
A proposed $138 million luxury coastal tourism precinct on the southern headland of Gnarabup Beach, comprising a 121-room Westin Margaret River Resort & Spa and the Gnarabup Beach Village. The village is planned with 51 beach houses, 4 townhouses and 25 apartments on 8.1 hectares.
Managed by Water Corporation, the Gnarabup Wastewater Treatment Plant on Gas Bay Road currently holds licence L6640/1994/11 to treat up to 356 cubic metres of sewage per day. Future capacity increases are under review to address community considerations surrounding local tourism and regional development proposals.
A comprehensive streetscape improvement project along Bussell Highway in Margaret River, featuring new lighting, landscaping, public art installations, improved pedestrian facilities, traffic calming roundabouts, and a festival precinct on Fearn Avenue.
Birdwood Cowaramup is a masterplanned residential community by Yolk Property Group featuring approximately 430 lots, including family-sized homesites and an over-55s lifestyle living component, situated within the Margaret River region.
Structure plan for Lot 112 Andrews Way establishing residential (approx R20) and a future commercial development area to facilitate subdivision and new housing supply in Margaret River.
A comprehensive 67.63-hectare residential development featuring 411 residential lots at a variety of densities ranging from R10-R60, a 250-dwelling lifestyle living component, and an integrated open space network. The structure plan facilitates subdivision and development following LPS1 Amendment 74.
Birdwood Cowaramup Estate is a masterplanned community featuring large residential lifestyle lots ranging from 600 to 1,900 m2 alongside an Over-55s lifestyle village. Situated 450 m from the Cowaramup town centre, the development includes public open space, walking trails, a dog park, and an adventure playground.
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 42 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 12, 2027 10, 2028 10, 2029 2, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 12 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 4 substantial development applications lodged in and around Margaret River over the period covered (about 1.6 years), 3 in the last 12 months; 3 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Key application Lots 100 & 256 Clarke Road, Margaret River $13m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.6 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 11.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 87th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 126 | ABS building approvals | 84th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.6 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.6 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Margaret River SA2 include: Rapids Landing Masterplanned Community (Construction); Margaret River Net-Positive Circular Hotel (Approved); Goldfields Group Darch Road Development (Proposed); Lot 112 Andrews Way Margaret River Structure Plan (Approved); and Margaret River Wa 6285 (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Margaret River SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Tourism, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Margaret River SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 2nd percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Margaret River higher than 95% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the Margaret River SA2 area has seen 344 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Margaret River SA2's current population of 12,534 has been supported by 126 approvals on average over recent years.
The Margaret River SA2 has seen 11.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.3 approvals in Regional WA. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 69 people in the Margaret River SA2, compared to one for every 164 in Regional WA.
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 Margaret River SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 126, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Margaret River SA2 has grown by approximately 1,821 people, while 628 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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.
Margaret River lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,534 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +23.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 93 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +3.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 10,193 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,341 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +3.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 134.43 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Margaret River SA2 was estimated to be approximately 12,534 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,077 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The margaret river sa2 has added approximately 2,341 people and shown a 22.97% increase from the 10,193 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Margaret River SA2 is estimated at 93 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Margaret River SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.9% per annum.
Population growth in the Margaret River SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (50.3%), Interstate migration (35.7%), Natural increase (14.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 50.3% of overall population gains.
Margaret River's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 40 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 15.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 19.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 56.5% | 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 | 40 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Margaret River SA2 at 40 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Margaret River is equal to the Regional WA 2021 Census average and 2 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Margaret River SA2 compared to the Regional WA region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 15.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Margaret River SA2 compared to the Regional WA region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 10.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Margaret River SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional WA. The most under-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (1.0% vs 2.0%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 19.1% of the population in the Margaret River SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 15.0% of the population in the Margaret River 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) | $51,143 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $70,741 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,678 | 2021 Census, weekly | 46th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $851 | 2021 Census, weekly | 59th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 19.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,986 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 21.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Margaret River SA2 is approximately $54,743. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $51,143.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Margaret River SA2 is approximately $75,721. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $70,741.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Margaret River SA2 is approximately $54,743 compared to $67,299 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $51,143 and $62,873 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Margaret River SA2 is approximately $75,721 compared to $83,842 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,741 and $78,328 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Margaret River SA2's households (~35.8% / 1,247 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Margaret River SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 35.8% of households. In comparison, Regional WA's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.1% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Margaret River SA2 is $1,678/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Margaret River SA2 is $1,986/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Margaret River SA2 is $851/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Margaret River SA2's median income among taxpayers is $51,143, with an average of $70,741. This is in line with the national averages, and compares to Regional WA's median of $62,873 and average of $78,328. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $54,743 (median) and $75,721 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Margaret River SA2 is $6,109 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The margaret river sa2's disposable income is $6,109 compared to $6,025 for Regional WA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Margaret River ranks among the strongest 15% of areas evaluated nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 73.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,082 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,557 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,224 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Margaret River SA2 has approximately 7,082 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.0%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Margaret River SA2 stands at 2.0%, which is 1.8 percentage points below Regional WA's rate of 3.8%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Margaret River SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are accommodation & food (13.8% of employment), construction (10.6%), and retail trade (10.3%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 34.7% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include health care & social assistance and manufacturing.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Margaret River SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional WA saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Margaret River SA2 is 73.6%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Regional WA average of 65.4%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The margaret river sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 13.8% of the local workforce compared to 7.1% across Regional WA. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The margaret river sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.7% decline, ranking 31st out of 37 regions nationally.
Margaret River shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 22.2% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 30.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 27.0% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.0% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.5% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
30.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Margaret River SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 17.6% in Regional WA.
29.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Margaret River SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.5% in Regional WA.
The margaret river sa2 ranks in the 78th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Margaret River SA2 are: Certificate (27.0%), Bachelor Degree (22.2%), Advanced Diploma (13.0%).
30.8% of the population in the Margaret River SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.5% in primary school, 9.7% in secondary school, 2.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Margaret River SA2 is 1048, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the Margaret River SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,487 students.
The margaret river sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Margaret River features high concentrations of group households, with a larger average household size than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 22.5% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.2% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,487 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,288 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 72.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Margaret River SA2 had 3,487 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 23.0% to an estimated 4,288 households today.
The average household size in the Margaret River SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional WA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 72.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.5%), group households (4.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,525 family households, couples with children account for 32.9% of all households, couples without children at home 27.2%, and single parent families 11.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional WA, the Margaret River SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Margaret River SA2 have an average of 1.6 children, slightly below the Regional WA average of 1.9. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.3% have never married. This compares to 46.4% married and 35.8% never married across Regional WA.
Single-person households represent 22.5% of all households in the Margaret River SA2, similar to the average for Regional WA of 27.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.9% of households, above the Regional WA average of 2.8%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Margaret River 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 | 26.2% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 89.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 82.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 73.8% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
Margaret River was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 10.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 26.2% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Margaret River, at 27.3% of people, although more residents (69.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.6% of the population, compared to 1.0% across Regional WA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Margaret River are English, comprising 33.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.5% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 1.1% of Margaret River (vs 0.4% across Regional WA), Welsh at 0.8% (vs 0.6%) and Dutch at 1.9% (vs 1.5%).
26.2% of the Margaret River SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional WA.
10.3% of the population in the Margaret River SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.7% in Regional WA.
1.0% of the Margaret River SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 6.1% in Regional WA.
82.9% of the Margaret River SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 82.8% in Regional WA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Margaret River is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 27.0% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 92.4% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,700 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 39th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 42.2% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 6.0% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $380 | 2021 Census, weekly | 54th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 23.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 43rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Margaret River SA2, 30.8% of homes are owned outright, 42.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 27.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 92.4% of dwellings in the Margaret River SA2 are houses.
In the Margaret River SA2, 0.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 6.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Margaret River SA2 stands at 30.8%, compared to 34.1% in Regional WA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Margaret River SA2 is $1,700, compared to $1,560 in Regional WA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Margaret River SA2 is $1,162, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Margaret River SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 23.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Margaret River SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Margaret River SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 23.4% of income on repayments (vs 22.5% in Regional WA), while renters spend 22.6% of income on rent (vs 16.6% in Regional WA).
The dwelling mix in the Margaret River SA2 consists of 92.4% detached houses, 6.0% semi-detached dwellings, 0.8% apartments, and 0.9% other dwelling types.
Housing in Margaret River consumes approximately 16.0% of median household income ($7,266 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Margaret River show attached dwellings contributing 3% of approvals compared to 8% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 97% of applications versus 92% 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.
The level of general health in Margaret River is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 52.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 44th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 76.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 81.6% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
Around 52.7% of people in the Margaret River SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.4% in Regional WA.
In the Margaret River SA2, 3.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Regional WA require similar assistance.
6.1% of people in the Margaret River SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.2% of the population across Regional WA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 1.8% of the Margaret River SA2 population, while in Regional WA, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.8% of people in the Margaret River SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional WA,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Margaret River SA2, 52.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional WA sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.4%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 22 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 1 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Weekly public transport trips | 22 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 3rd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 12,090 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 1 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 12.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 1 public transport stops within the Margaret River SA2.
The Margaret River SA2 has 22 weekly trips across 1 routes, averaging 3 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 2681 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 1.9 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.9 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 1 stop nearby, 22 weekly trips, access rating 22 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 54 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 54th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 43.3 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 5 long day care centres with 254 places in Margaret River, about 2.8 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 Margaret River 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 Margaret River.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Margaret River higher than 95% of real estate markets across the country.
Margaret River has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 2nd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Margaret River is $750 a week, +5.8% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Margaret River lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Margaret River's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment performance in Margaret River ranks among the strongest 15% of areas evaluated nationally.
Margaret River shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Margaret River features high concentrations of group households, with a larger average household size than Regional WA.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Margaret River was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Margaret River is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Regional WA.
The level of general health in Margaret River is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Margaret River has an estimated 12,534 residents, up 23.0% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Margaret River.
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 Margaret River.
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 (501011004). 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 Margaret River 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 Margaret River 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.
