Area profile · Greater Perth
Scarborough has an estimated 20,578 residents, up 17.2% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Scarborough.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Scarborough Statistical Area (Lv2), located 11.0 kilometres northwest from Perth CBD in Western Australia, combines a coastal setting with established residential and transport networks. AreaSearch estimates the population at around 20,578 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 3,026 people (17.2%) since the 2021 Census count of 17,552. The estimate draws on an ABS estimated resident population of 20,490 as of June 2025 and 252 Validated New Addresses since the Census date. Population growth and density are well above average, and overseas migration contributed approximately 80.4% of recent population gains. Housing includes a high share of semi-detached dwellings and households are relatively small.
Scarborough's population includes a high proportion of young adults and working-age residents, alongside many lone person and group households. The area shows strong population expansion patterns, while its public transport infrastructure supports convenient access.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Scarborough Statistical Area (Lv2), located 11.0 kilometres northwest from Perth CBD in Western Australia, combines a coastal setting with established residential and transport networks. AreaSearch estimates the population at around 20,578 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 3,026 people (17.2%) since the 2021 Census count of 17,552. The estimate draws on an ABS estimated resident population of 20,490 as of June 2025 and 252 Validated New Addresses since the Census date. Population growth and density are well above average, and overseas migration contributed approximately 80.4% of recent population gains. Housing includes a high share of semi-detached dwellings and households are relatively small.
Scarborough's population includes a high proportion of young adults and working-age residents, alongside many lone person and group households. The area shows strong population expansion patterns, while its public transport infrastructure supports convenient access.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 12,868 in 2001 and 20,490 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 20,578 (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, 23%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.5%.
Scarborough ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 93rd for education.
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 Scarborough is $811 a week, up 11.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 12% above Greater Perth.
12% above Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $811 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +11.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Stirling | $758 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Stirling, over 12 months | +8.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - North West | $760 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - North West, over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 258 tracked applications: 176 approved, 6 under assessment, 76 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 15 projects in Scarborough (5 under construction) and 79 more in the surrounding area.
Conversion of existing overhead distribution powerlines to underground infrastructure in Doubleview as part of the Network Renewal…
City of Stirling feasibility study and preliminary 15 percent design for an iconic ~4.5km coastal boardwalk linking Scarborough Beach to…
A $100 million transformation of the Scarborough beachfront into a world-class destination.
A $450-million luxury beachfront residential development by Edge Visionary Living, featuring two buildings (East and West) with 235 one…
A landmark mixed-use development featuring two sculpted towers of 43 and 33 storeys.
Boutique collection of 18 luxury four-bedroom terrace homes designed by RAD Architecture for INGWE Capital.
Luxury absolute beachfront development of 21 oversized 3-4 bedroom apartments in a 12-storey building designed by DKO Architecture.
A 17,200 sq m build-to-rent apartment development featuring a 21-storey residential tower atop a commercial podium with 175 dwellings.
A $120 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former White Sands Tavern site.
Beachfront public aquatic facility within the Scarborough foreshore renewal.
Approved 17-storey beachfront residential tower by Property Blue at 291-293 West Coast Highway, delivering 76 luxury apartments with…
A prestigious seafront development of 76 luxury apartments on a 3,572sqm site overlooking the Indian Ocean in Scarborough, featuring a…
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 53 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 20, 2027 13, 2028 8, 2029 4, 2030 3, 2031 1, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3. 13 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 258 substantial development applications lodged in and around Scarborough over the past 5 years, 59 in the last 12 months; 6 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 7, 2022 45, 2023 59, 2024 48, 2025 53, 2026 (to Oct) 46.
Key application 55 Alexander Drive, Menora $4.9m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 258 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 59 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 127 | ABS building approvals | 85th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 176 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 6 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Scarborough SA2 include: The Dunes Beachfront Residences (Construction); Myka Residences (Construction); Doubleview Underground Power Project (Construction); White Sands Development (Approved); and Marbella Beachside Terrace Homes (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Scarborough SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Scarborough SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 9th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Scarborough among the top 11% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Scarborough SA2 area has seen 186 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Scarborough SA2's current population of 20,578 has been supported by 127 approvals on average over recent years.
The Scarborough SA2 has seen 6.8 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 400 people in the Scarborough SA2, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Scarborough SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 127, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Scarborough SA2 has grown by approximately 2,560 people, while 635 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.0 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 Scarborough are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 20,578 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +17.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 4,139 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 17,552 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 3,026 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 4.97 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Scarborough SA2 was estimated to be approximately 20,578 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 20,490 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The scarborough sa2 has added approximately 3,026 people and shown a 17.24% increase from the 17,552 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Scarborough SA2 is estimated at 4,140 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Scarborough SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Scarborough SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (80.4%), Natural increase (19.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 80.4% of overall population gains.
Scarborough's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 36 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 27th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 32.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 63.4% | 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 | 36 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 23.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 19.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Scarborough SA2 at 36 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 36 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 36 years as at August 2026, Scarborough is comparable to the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Scarborough SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 23.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Scarborough SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 9.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Scarborough SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (23.0% vs 15.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.0% of the population in the Scarborough SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.3% of the population in the Scarborough SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 87% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $74,729 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $101,475 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,108 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,232 | 2021 Census, weekly | 92nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 32.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,790 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 17.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Scarborough SA2 is approximately $79,990. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $74,729.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Scarborough SA2 is approximately $108,619. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $101,475.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Scarborough SA2 is approximately $79,990 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,729 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Scarborough SA2 is approximately $108,619 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $101,475 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Scarborough SA2's households (~31.6% / 2,406 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Scarborough SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.6% 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 Scarborough SA2 is $2,108/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Scarborough SA2 is $2,790/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Scarborough SA2 is $1,232/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Scarborough SA2 is among the top percentile nationally, with the median assessed at $74,729 while the average income stands at $101,475. This contrasts to Greater Perth's figures of a median income of $64,047 and an average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $79,990 (median) and $108,619 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Scarborough SA2 is $7,660 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The scarborough sa2's disposable income is $7,660 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Scarborough rank among the top 4% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 80.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 13,988 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 15,258 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 14,296 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Scarborough SA2 has approximately 13,988 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.2%. 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 Scarborough SA2 stands at 2.2%, which is 2.1 percentage points below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Scarborough SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.1% of employment), professional & technical (10.5%), and mining (10.1%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Scarborough SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Scarborough SA2 is 80.6%, 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 Greater Perth average of 69.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The scarborough sa2 shows notable specialisation in mining, which employs 10.1% of the local workforce compared to 7.0% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The scarborough 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 experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational achievement in Scarborough places it within the top 7% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 31.1% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 44.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 19.2% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 24.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
44.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Scarborough SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
24.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Scarborough SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The scarborough sa2 ranks in the 93th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Scarborough SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (31.1%), Certificate (19.2%), Advanced Diploma (12.0%).
26.5% of the population in the Scarborough SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.6% in primary school, 5.6% in secondary school, 7.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Scarborough SA2 is 1104, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the Scarborough SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 468 students.
The scarborough sa2 includes 2 primary schools.
Scarborough features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 34.5% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 21.0% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.2% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,622 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,936 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 58.1% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.1 per family | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Scarborough SA2 had 7,622 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 17.2% to an estimated 8,936 households today.
The average household size in the Scarborough SA2 is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 58.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (34.5%), group households (7.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,428 family households, couples with children account for 21.0% of all households, couples without children at home 27.2%, and single parent families 8.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the Scarborough SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.5% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 58.1% 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 Scarborough SA2 have an average of 1.1 children, slightly below the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 33.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 48.6% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 34.5% of all households in the Scarborough 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 7.4% of households, above the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Scarborough 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 | 33.7% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 86.0% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 80.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 66.3% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
Scarborough was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 14.0% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 33.7% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Scarborough, at 39.8% of people, although more residents (57.1%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Scarborough are English, comprising 29.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 21.7% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Scarborough (vs 0.5% across Greater Perth), Welsh at 0.9% (vs 0.7%) and South African at 1.1% (vs 1.0%).
33.7% of the Scarborough SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
14.0% of the population in the Scarborough SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
0.7% of the Scarborough SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
80.8% of the Scarborough SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Scarborough displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 40.3% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 36.2% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,154 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 47.7% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $405 | 2021 Census, weekly | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 19.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 35th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 23.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 45th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Scarborough SA2, 24.1% of homes are owned outright, 35.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 40.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 36.2% of dwellings in the Scarborough SA2 are houses.
In the Scarborough SA2, 16.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 47.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Scarborough SA2 stands at 24.1%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Scarborough SA2 is $2,154, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Scarborough SA2 is $1,474, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Scarborough SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 23.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 19.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Scarborough SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Scarborough SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 23.6% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 19.2% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the Scarborough SA2 consists of 36.2% detached houses, 47.7% semi-detached dwellings, 16.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Scarborough consumes approximately 16.1% of median household income ($9,128 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Scarborough show attached dwellings contributing 67% of approvals compared to 64% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 33% of applications versus 36% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Scarborough's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 69.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 91st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 75.6% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
Around 69.5% of people in the Scarborough SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the Scarborough SA2, 2.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.6% of people in the Scarborough SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.1% of the Scarborough SA2 population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.4% of people in the Scarborough SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Scarborough SA2, 69.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 60 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 60th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 80 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,737 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 257 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 6 | 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 | 10.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 80 public transport stops within the Scarborough SA2.
The Scarborough SA2 has 2,737 weekly trips across 6 routes, averaging 391 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 160 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 517 m away and the nearest pharmacy 536 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 80 stops nearby, 2,737 weekly trips, access rating 60 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 67 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 67th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 517 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 536 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 596 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 607 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 655 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 730 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 818 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 889 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.5 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 222 places in Scarborough, about 4.7 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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An area report on Scarborough is built to order and emailed to you.
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Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Scarborough.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Scarborough among the top 11% of areas assessed nationwide.
Scarborough has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 9th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Scarborough is $811 a week, +11.6% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Population growth drivers in Scarborough are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Scarborough's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 87% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Scarborough rank among the top 4% of areas assessed nationally.
Educational achievement in Scarborough places it within the top 7% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
Scarborough features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Scarborough was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Scarborough displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Perth.
Scarborough's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Scarborough has an estimated 20,578 residents, up 17.2% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Scarborough.
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 Scarborough.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Sep 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 (505021092). 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 (Sep 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 Scarborough 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 Scarborough 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.
