Area profile · Greater Perth
Rockingham has an estimated 18,830 residents, up 14.7% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in Rockingham.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Rockingham Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 38 kilometres south-southwest from Perth CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 18,830 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 16,411 people, the area is estimated to have grown by 2,419 people (14.7%), based on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 18,827 as of June 2025 and 273 validated new addresses since the Census date.
Rockingham's profile includes a low average household size, a strong semi-detached and apartment presence, a high share of residents born overseas, a notable proportion aged 85 and over, and an elevated public administration employment base. Older Australians and elderly residents, many in lone person households, are prominent in the area, which shows moderate population expansion. Its Western Australian coastal setting features azure waters, white sandy beaches, marine life including sea lions and dolphins, a vibrant foreshore with restaurants, cafes and pubs, and parks and reserves suited to picnics and relaxation.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Rockingham Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 38 kilometres south-southwest from Perth CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 18,830 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 16,411 people, the area is estimated to have grown by 2,419 people (14.7%), based on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 18,827 as of June 2025 and 273 validated new addresses since the Census date.
Rockingham's profile includes a low average household size, a strong semi-detached and apartment presence, a high share of residents born overseas, a notable proportion aged 85 and over, and an elevated public administration employment base. Older Australians and elderly residents, many in lone person households, are prominent in the area, which shows moderate population expansion. Its Western Australian coastal setting features azure waters, white sandy beaches, marine life including sea lions and dolphins, a vibrant foreshore with restaurants, cafes and pubs, and parks and reserves suited to picnics and relaxation.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 12,516 in 2001 and 18,827 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 18,830 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 13.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 27.2%.
Rockingham ranks in the 84th percentile nationally for development activity and the 63rd 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 Rockingham is $600 a week, up 7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 17% below Greater Perth.
17% below Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $600 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Rockingham | $651 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Rockingham, over 12 months | +5.9% | 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 27 tracked applications: 21 approved, 3 under assessment, 3 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 13 projects in Rockingham (4 under construction) and 102 more in the surrounding area.
Adaptive reuse and redevelopment transforming two former childcare centres into an integrated community services facility and modernised Lotteries House. The development delivers purpose-built accommodations for not-for-profit organisations, multi-functional community meeting spaces, and upgraded accessible outdoor public areas.
Seaside Estate is a beachside masterplanned residential community in Madora Bay developed by Satterley Property Group. It features direct beach access, sustainable coastal design, parks, walking trails, a new display village on Maspalomas Drive, and proximity to schools, Mandurah, and transport links.
The Cook Labor Government has committed to a new private marina at the intersection of Wanliss Street and Rockingham Beach Road. The Department of Transport is leading an Expressions of Interest (EOI) process in 2025 to identify a private proponent to develop and operate the facility.
The City of Rockingham is planning a major redevelopment and modernisation of the Autumn Centre to improve accessibility, functional spaces, and compliance for seniors programs and services. Detailed design and staging work will inform long-term facility enhancements.
Bluerock Projects in partnership with Australian Residential Properties is developing a $36 million build-to-rent residential community at 7 McNicholl Street in the Rockingham Town Centre.
Proposed and ongoing works to upgrade and maintain the Garden Island Causeway, the sole road link to the HMAS Stirling naval base. These works are critical for ensuring secure and reliable access for defence personnel, equipment, and supplies, supporting major facility expansions under the AUKUS agreement.
Boutique residential community by Cedar Woods delivering approx. 54 green title lots and 32 turnkey townhomes between Lake Richmond and coastal bushland, about 600m from Palm Beach. Land releases are sold out with a limited range of townhomes still selling. Ongoing construction and staged delivery across the estate.
Proposed commercial office building in the Rockingham Strategic Centre, Council Avenue, Rockingham, south of Perth, with state agency tenancies, a conference auditorium and end-of-trip amenities according to the input record.
A staged transformation of the Cape Peron (Point Peron) peninsula in Rockingham into a protected coastal park, following the 2018 withdrawal of the Mangles Bay Marina proposal.
Spyglass Hill is a residential estate developed by Satterley Property Group in Secret Harbour, offering elevated lots with proximity to golf courses, parks, and ocean views. It forms part of the broader Secret Harbour development, which encompasses approximately 3,500 lots and has received awards for its design.
Established masterplanned residential estate by Cedar Woods in Baldivis with schools, parks, lakes and childcare on-site. Final stages are in progress with land and house-and-land packages still selling.
Two-stage construction of a new granite seawall at Mersey Point in Shoalwater to replace the existing limestone seawall and provide long-term coastal protection against erosion. The project includes a 325m seawall in stage one and an additional 100m in stage two, along with steel beach stairs.
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 65 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 4, 2026 19, 2027 15, 2028 15, 2029 2, 2030 5, 2031 0, 2032 3, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 14 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 27 substantial development applications lodged in and around Rockingham over the period covered (about 4.4 years), 5 in the last 12 months; 3 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 5, 2023 9, 2024 4, 2025 6, 2026 (to Oct) 3.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.4 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 54 | ABS building approvals | 61st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 21 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.4 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.4 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Rockingham SA2 include: Seaside Estate Madora Bay (Construction); Rockingham Marina (Planning); Rockingham Build-to-Rent Community (Approved); Rockingham Community Hub and Rockingham Lotteries House (Construction); and Autumn Centre Redevelopment (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Rockingham SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Rockingham SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 21st percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Rockingham among the top 16% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Rockingham SA2 area has seen 156 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Rockingham SA2's current population of 18,830 has been supported by 54 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Rockingham SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 54, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Rockingham SA2 has grown by approximately 2,205 people, while 270 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 8.2 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.
Population growth drivers in Rockingham are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 18,830 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +14.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 527 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 16,411 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,419 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 35.72 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Rockingham SA2 was estimated to be approximately 18,830 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 18,827 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The rockingham sa2 has added approximately 2,419 people and shown a 14.74% increase from the 16,411 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Rockingham SA2 is estimated at 527 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Rockingham SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Rockingham SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (60.8%), Interstate migration (39.2%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 60.8% of overall population gains.
Rockingham hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 27.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 47 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Rockingham SA2 at 46 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Rockingham is 9 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Rockingham SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 13.3% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Rockingham SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 7.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Rockingham SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (4.2% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (9.6% vs 5.5%). The most under-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (7.9% vs 12.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 11.7% of the population in the Rockingham SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 27.1% of the population in the Rockingham 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) | $61,864 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $75,809 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,147 | 2021 Census, weekly | 9th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $692 | 2021 Census, weekly | 26th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 13.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,645 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 35.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rockingham SA2 is approximately $66,219. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $61,864.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rockingham SA2 is approximately $81,146. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $75,809.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rockingham SA2 is approximately $66,219 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $61,864 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rockingham SA2 is approximately $81,146 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $75,809 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Rockingham SA2's households (~27.2% / 1,929 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Rockingham SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 27.2% 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 Rockingham SA2 is $1,147/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Rockingham SA2 is $1,645/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Rockingham SA2 is $692/wk.
The Rockingham SA2's income level is higher than average nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Rockingham SA2's median income among taxpayers is $61,864 and the average income stands at $75,809, 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 $66,219 (median) and $81,146 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Rockingham SA2 is $4,077 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The rockingham sa2's disposable income is $4,077 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Rockingham face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 8% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 9.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 58.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,728 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 23,097 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,599 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Rockingham SA2 has approximately 8,728 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 9.1%. 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 Rockingham SA2 stands at 9.1%, which is 4.8 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 Rockingham SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (17.1% of employment), health care & social assistance (12.9%), and construction (9.9%). Other significant employers include retail trade and manufacturing.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Rockingham 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 Rockingham SA2 is 58.4%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Greater Perth average of 69.9%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The rockingham sa2 shows notable specialisation in public administration & safety, which employs 17.1% of the local workforce compared to 6.3% across Greater Perth. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.7, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The rockingham 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.
Education in Rockingham: university qualifications 13.9%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 985.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
13.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Rockingham SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
41.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Rockingham SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The rockingham sa2 ranks in the 34th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Rockingham SA2 are: Certificate (33.1%), Advanced Diploma (11.1%), Bachelor Degree (9.8%).
25.6% of the population in the Rockingham SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.3% in primary school, 7.0% in secondary school, 3.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Rockingham SA2 is 985, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 13 schools within the Rockingham SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,264 students.
The rockingham sa2 includes 6 primary schools, 7 secondary schools.
Rockingham features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.0 people | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 40.8% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 17.2% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,091 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,136 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 56.2% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Rockingham SA2 had 7,091 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 14.7% to an estimated 8,136 households today.
The average household size in the Rockingham SA2 is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 56.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (40.8%), group households (2.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,985 family households, couples with children account for 17.2% of all households, couples without children at home 27.6%, and single parent families 10.5%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the Rockingham SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 40.8% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 56.2% 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 Rockingham 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 38.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.7% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 40.8% of all households in the Rockingham 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 2.9% of households, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Rockingham 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 | 36.8% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 89.9% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 63.2% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
Rockingham was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 10.1% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 36.8% born overseas.
The main religion in Rockingham was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.1% of people in Rockingham. This compares to 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Rockingham are English, comprising 36.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Perth's 28.0%, Australian, comprising 22.7% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 8.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.9% of Rockingham (vs 0.7% across Greater Perth), Serbian at 0.8% (vs 0.3%) and Maori at 1.3% (vs 0.9%).
36.8% of the Rockingham SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
10.1% of the population in the Rockingham SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
1.5% of the Rockingham SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
81.8% of the Rockingham SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Rockingham displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 37.8% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 35.8% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 64.0% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 26.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 19.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $300 | 2021 Census, weekly | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 26.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 30.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 90th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Rockingham SA2, 35.8% of homes are owned outright, 26.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 37.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 64.0% of dwellings in the Rockingham SA2 are houses.
In the Rockingham SA2, 13.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 19.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Rockingham SA2 stands at 35.8%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Rockingham SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Rockingham SA2 is $893, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Rockingham SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 30.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Rockingham SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Rockingham SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 30.5% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 26.2% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the Rockingham SA2 consists of 64.0% detached houses, 19.7% semi-detached dwellings, 13.8% apartments, and 2.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Rockingham consumes approximately 18.0% of median household income ($4,967 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Rockingham show attached dwellings contributing 41% of approvals compared to 36% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 59% of applications versus 64% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Rockingham is lower than the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 54.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 57th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 61.2% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.1% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Around 54.7% of people in the Rockingham SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the Rockingham SA2, 7.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.7% of people in the Rockingham SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.8% of the Rockingham SA2 population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.3% of people in the Rockingham SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Rockingham SA2, 54.7% 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 | 57 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 57th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 167 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,576 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 57th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 113 | 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 | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 5.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 167 public transport stops within the Rockingham SA2.
The Rockingham SA2 has 2,576 weekly trips across 10 routes, averaging 368 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 227 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 1.0 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.1 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 167 stops nearby, 2,576 weekly trips, access rating 57 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 29 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 29th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.0 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 7 long day care centres with 402 places in Rockingham, about 1.8 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 Rockingham 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 Rockingham.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Rockingham among the top 16% of areas assessed nationwide.
Rockingham has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 21st percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Rockingham is $600 a week, +7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Population growth drivers in Rockingham are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Rockingham hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment conditions in Rockingham face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 8% of areas assessed nationally.
Education in Rockingham: university qualifications 13.9%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 985.
Rockingham features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Rockingham was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Rockingham displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Rockingham is lower than the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across 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.
Rockingham has an estimated 18,830 residents, up 14.7% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in Rockingham.
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 Rockingham.
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 (507051188). 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 Rockingham 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 Rockingham 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.
