Scarborough in numbers
- Population: 17,605 (2021 Census), up from about 12,000 in 2001.
- Median age: 36 (2021), up from 32 (2001).
- Median weekly household income: about $2,107 (2021).
- Median weekly rent: about $405 (2021), compared with $175 in 2001.
- Distance from Perth: about 13–14 km north-west of the CBD.
2021 vs 2001 Census comparison
| Measure | 2001 Census | 2021 Census |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,048 | 17,605 |
| Median age | 32 | 36 |
| Median weekly household income | $790 | about $2,107 |
| Median weekly rent | $175 | about $405 |
| Median monthly mortgage repayment | $1,005 | about $2,167 |
| Unemployment | 8% | about 3.6% |
| Born in Australia | — | about 82% (Census figure for this suburb profile) |
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing (2001 and 2021). 2021 figures are for the Scarborough (WA) suburb and locality. Check ABS QuickStats for the latest figures, as boundaries and methods change between censuses.
2001 snapshot
In 2001 Scarborough had about 7,100 homes: 25% fully owned and 37% rented. There were 2,183 separate houses, 2,395 semi-detached houses and 1,604 apartments, with average lot sizes of about 800 m². The median house sale price was around $417,000. About 24% of workers were professionals and 30% worked in clerical, sales or service roles. There were 1,381 couples without children and 811 couples with children.
What the numbers show
- Growth: the population has grown by nearly half since 2001 as townhouses and apartments replaced older houses.
- Rising costs: rents and mortgage repayments have more than doubled, reflecting Perth's property boom and the beachfront redevelopment.
- Higher incomes and lower unemployment: household incomes have risen strongly and unemployment has fallen.
- A slightly older suburb: the median age has risen from 32 to 36, though Scarborough remains popular with young adults and renters.
Thinking of buying or renting? See Scarborough real estate and accommodation.
Related links
- Compare Scarborough Suburb Statistics of Education & Income
- Please visit the Scarborough Beach major sponsor
- Scarborough Beach, Western Australia
Last updated 2 November 2026 · Scarboro.info, an independent guide to Scarborough Beach, Perth.