Area profile · Greater Perth
South Perth - Kensington has an estimated 19,484 residents, up 13.1% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in South Perth - Kensington.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located just 3.0 kilometres south from Perth CBD, the South Perth - Kensington Statistical Area (Lv2) is a prestigious and highly sought-after riverside enclave renowned for its picturesque foreshore, tree-lined streets, historic character, and abundant parks. The neighbourhood offers an enviable lifestyle that balances peaceful open spaces with vibrant cafes, restaurants, and retail destinations. As of August 2026, the area's population is estimated at approximately 19,484 residents, reflecting an increase of 2,258 people (13.1%) from the 17,226 recorded at the 2021 Census. This ongoing demographic expansion is underpinned by the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 19,447 as of June 2025, alongside 514 Validated New Addresses confirmed since the census count.
Demographically, the area maintains a standard age distribution with a median age of 40, alongside a low average household size and a notable share of single-person and group dwellings. Residential living features a strong semi-detached and attached housing presence complemented by an above-average renting population.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located just 3.0 kilometres south from Perth CBD, the South Perth - Kensington Statistical Area (Lv2) is a prestigious and highly sought-after riverside enclave renowned for its picturesque foreshore, tree-lined streets, historic character, and abundant parks. The neighbourhood offers an enviable lifestyle that balances peaceful open spaces with vibrant cafes, restaurants, and retail destinations. As of August 2026, the area's population is estimated at approximately 19,484 residents, reflecting an increase of 2,258 people (13.1%) from the 17,226 recorded at the 2021 Census. This ongoing demographic expansion is underpinned by the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 19,447 as of June 2025, alongside 514 Validated New Addresses confirmed since the census count.
Demographically, the area maintains a standard age distribution with a median age of 40, alongside a low average household size and a notable share of single-person and group dwellings. Residential living features a strong semi-detached and attached housing presence complemented by an above-average renting population.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 15,253 in 2001 and 19,447 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 19,484 (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, 17.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28%.
South Perth - Kensington ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 92nd for health.
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 South Perth - Kensington is $750 a week, up 7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 4% above Greater Perth.
4% above Greater Perth 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 | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, South Perth | $726 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, South Perth, over 12 months | +5.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South East | $716 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 East, over 12 months | +7.0% | 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 29 tracked applications: 21 approved, 4 under assessment, 4 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 9 projects in South Perth - Kensington (2 under construction) and 156 more in the surrounding area.
A 25-storey luxury residential tower by Edge Visionary Living, featuring 109 premium apartments with panoramic views of the city and Swan…
An approved 36-storey luxury residential tower designed by Hassell, comprising 179 apartments and extensive public amenity including a…
A $350-million hybrid timber tower development approved for South Perth, featuring premium apartments, a paddock-to-plate urban farm, and…
A $350-million, 51-storey hybrid timber tower designed to be the world's tallest hybrid timber building at 189 metres.
A luxury apartment tower on the South Perth peninsula offering around 132 one to four bedroom residences including premium skyhomes, with…
A boutique 15-storey luxury apartment development comprising two towers with 26 residential dwellings and basement parking.
The Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a major landmark project situated at the former Terrace Road Car Park site in Boorloo (Perth), connecting…
Garden Towers is a $277 million luxury residential development by Finbar Group featuring 331 apartments across two towers (East and West).
A 53-storey mixed-use development at Lot 4 Elizabeth Quay featuring 70,000 square meters of premium office space and 176 short-stay…
The original $1.3 billion Lendlease residential development at Waterbank was cancelled following geotechnical investigations finding the…
Redevelopment and revitalisation of the heritage-listed Perth Concert Hall to preserve its acoustic qualities, upgrade accessibility…
Shoppe on Langley Park is the retail and lifestyle hub within The Langley integrated riverside precinct in East Perth, linking with…
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 83 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 3, 2026 22, 2027 25, 2028 14, 2029 7, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 3, 2035 1, 2036 3. 16 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 29 substantial development applications lodged in and around South Perth - Kensington over the period covered (about 4.2 years), 10 in the last 12 months; 4 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 4, 2023 7, 2024 4, 2025 4, 2026 (to Oct) 10.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 29 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.2 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 8.2 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 80th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 150 | ABS building approvals | 88th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 21 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.2 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.2 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the South Perth - Kensington SA2 include: Lumiere South Perth (Construction); The Pearl (Dev. Approval); Aboriginal Cultural Centre (Planning); Peninsula Place (Proposed); and 21 The Esplanade Mixed-Use Tower (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the South Perth - Kensington SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the South Perth - Kensington SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 33rd percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places South Perth - Kensington among the top 26% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 area has seen 157 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The South Perth - Kensington SA2's current population of 19,484 has been supported by 150 approvals on average over recent years.
The South Perth - Kensington SA2 has seen 8.2 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 351 people in the South Perth - Kensington SA2, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the South Perth - Kensington SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 150, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 has grown by approximately 1,475 people, while 748 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.0 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in South Perth - Kensington reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 19,484 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,512 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 78th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 17,226 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,258 | 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 | +2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 7.76 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the South Perth - Kensington SA2 was estimated to be approximately 19,484 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 19,447 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The south perth - kensington sa2 has added approximately 2,258 people and shown a 13.11% increase from the 17,226 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is estimated at 2,511 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (93.5%), Natural increase (6.5%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 93.5% of overall population gains.
South Perth - Kensington'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 | 20.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 30.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.6% | 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 | 3.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 8.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.5% | 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 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the South Perth - Kensington 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, South Perth - Kensington is 3 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) 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 South Perth - Kensington SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 10.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 8.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most under-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (3.2% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 11.9% of the population in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.5% of the population in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 80% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $70,153 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 84th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $113,916 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,113 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,131 | 2021 Census, weekly | 87th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 35.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,007 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 18.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is approximately $75,092. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $70,153.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is approximately $121,936. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $113,916.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is approximately $75,092 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,153 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is approximately $121,936 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $113,916 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the South Perth - Kensington SA2's households (~28.0% / 2,031 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.0% 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 South Perth - Kensington SA2 is $2,113/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is $3,007/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is $1,131/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the South Perth - Kensington SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $70,153 with the average level standing at $113,916. This is among the top percentile nationally and compares to levels of $64,047 and $84,609 across Greater Perth respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $75,092 (median) and $121,936 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is $7,867 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The south perth - kensington sa2's disposable income is $7,867 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees South Perth - Kensington performing better than 94% of local markets assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 71.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 12,132 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 18,027 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 12,343 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the South Perth - Kensington SA2 has approximately 12,132 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.7%. 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 South Perth - Kensington SA2 stands at 1.7%, which is 2.5 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 South Perth - Kensington SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.2% of employment), professional & technical (14.2%), and education & training (10.9%). Other significant employers include retail trade and mining.
Over the past year to June 2026, the South Perth - Kensington SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is 71.5%, 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%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The south perth - kensington sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 14.2% of the local workforce compared to 8.2% across Greater Perth. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The south perth - kensington 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.
South Perth - Kensington 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 | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 50.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 26.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
50.4% of people aged 15 and over in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
26.0% of people aged 15 and over in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The south perth - kensington sa2 ranks in the 85th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (32.4%), Postgraduate (13.5%), Certificate (12.8%).
29.3% of the population in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.0% in primary school, 7.6% in secondary school, 9.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is 1108, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 7 schools within the South Perth - Kensington SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,797 students.
The south perth - kensington sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 2 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
South Perth - Kensington features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.6% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,254 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,205 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.3% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the South Perth - Kensington SA2 had 7,254 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.1% to an estimated 8,205 households today.
The average household size in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.6%), group households (5.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,447 family households, couples with children account for 24.4% of all households, couples without children at home 28.7%, and single parent families 6.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the South Perth - Kensington SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.6% (versus 24.9% in Greater Perth). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.3% 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 South Perth - Kensington SA2 have an average of 1.2 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 45.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.1% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 33.6% of all households in the South Perth - Kensington 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 5.1% 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 South Perth - Kensington 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 | 35.7% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 18.2% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 81.8% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.2% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 64.3% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
South Perth - Kensington was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 18.2% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 35.7% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in South Perth - Kensington, at 46.0% of people, although more residents (46.2%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.4% of the population, compared to 0.3% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in South Perth - Kensington are English, comprising 28.3% of the population, Australian, comprising 20.8% of the population, and Other, comprising 10.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South African is notably overrepresented at 0.9% of South Perth - Kensington (vs 1.0% across Greater Perth), Croatian at 0.9% (vs 0.8%) and Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.7%).
35.7% of the South Perth - Kensington SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
18.2% of the population in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
0.7% of the South Perth - Kensington SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
83.2% of the South Perth - Kensington SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
South Perth - Kensington displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 40.0% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 33.2% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 44.7% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,388 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 85th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 31.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $375 | 2021 Census, weekly | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 17.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 68th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the South Perth - Kensington SA2, 33.2% of homes are owned outright, 26.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 40.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 44.7% of dwellings in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 are houses.
In the South Perth - Kensington SA2, 24.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 31.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 stands at 33.2%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is $2,388, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is $1,289, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the South Perth - Kensington SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 26.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 26.1% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 17.7% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 consists of 44.7% detached houses, 31.2% semi-detached dwellings, 24.1% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in South Perth - Kensington consumes approximately 14.1% of median household income ($9,149 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in South Perth - Kensington show attached dwellings contributing 61% of approvals compared to 55% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 39% of applications versus 45% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
South Perth - Kensington'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 | 75.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 95th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 73.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 79.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
Around 75.0% of people in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the South Perth - Kensington SA2, 2.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.9% of people in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the South Perth - Kensington SA2 population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.3% of people in the South Perth - Kensington SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the South Perth - Kensington SA2, 75.0% 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 | 73 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 121 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 80th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 3,922 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 69th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 161 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 17 | 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 | 12.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 121 public transport stops within the South Perth - Kensington SA2.
The South Perth - Kensington SA2 has 3,922 weekly trips across 17 routes, averaging 560 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 133 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 355 m away and the nearest GP 526 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 121 stops nearby, 3,922 weekly trips, access rating 73 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 79 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 79th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 355 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 356 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 526 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 536 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 566 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 659 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 779 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.9 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 6 long day care centres with 401 places in South Perth - Kensington, about 1.5 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places South Perth - Kensington among the top 26% of areas assessed nationwide.
South Perth - Kensington has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 33rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in South Perth - Kensington is $750 a week, +7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
An assessment of population growth drivers in South Perth - Kensington reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
South Perth - Kensington's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 80% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees South Perth - Kensington performing better than 94% of local markets assessed across Australia.
South Perth - Kensington shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
South Perth - Kensington features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in South Perth - Kensington was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
South Perth - Kensington displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
South Perth - Kensington'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.
South Perth - Kensington has an estimated 19,484 residents, up 13.1% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in South Perth - Kensington.
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 South Perth - Kensington.
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 (506071147). 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 South Perth - Kensington 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 South Perth - Kensington 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.
