ABS 2021 Census · Updated 31 March 2026
Palmerston is a well-established middle-ring suburb of Canberra, Australia, with a population of approximately 5,579, making it a smaller community. Located approximately 10 km from the Canberra CBD, Palmerston is a middle ring area in Australian Capital Territory. The median household income is $120,432 AUD per year (ABS 2021 Census).
Palmerston benefits from a high-income resident base, supporting premium property pricing. Its proximity to the CBD adds a strong location premium.
Map shows Palmerston, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.
Official Australia Post postcode for Palmerston. A postcode may cover multiple suburbs.
Australia Post Postcode Finder →Usual resident population at census night. Source: ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.
ABS Census Data →Weekly median rent for occupied private dwellings. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Live rental data integration coming soon.
State Rental Authority →Annual median household income (before tax) for all households. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Straight-line distance from the suburb centroid (ABS 2021 SAL geography) to the nearest capital city CBD. Actual driving distance will be longer.
Estimated 1 school within or near this suburb based on ABS 2021 data.
Find schools near Palmerston on My School →Estimated 2 parks and green spaces near this suburb. Source: ABS 2021 data.
Monthly median mortgage repayment for households currently paying off a mortgage. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Proportion of separate houses vs units, townhouses, and other dwelling types. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Relevant for investors assessing rental demand mix.
ABS Census Data →Palmerston's middle-ring location balances affordability with accessibility. These suburbs often benefit from established infrastructure, good schools, and transport links — making them attractive to families and long-term tenants. The median rent of $450/week (ABS 2021) indicates a mid-range rental market. Owner-occupiers face a median mortgage repayment of $1,940/month. A median household income of $120,432/year supports premium property values and indicates a well-employed resident base.
With robust local demand and income levels, Palmerston is a natural candidate for patient investors.
Strong tenant demand in Palmerston underpins consistent rental income and low vacancy risk.
The resale market in Palmerston may not support quick-turnaround renovation projects.
Run the numbers on a Palmerston property
Scenario comparison, cash flow analysis, tax modelling, and PDF export — all in one place.
Create free account →Palmerston is well-positioned for continued price appreciation through 2026, underpinned by high household incomes and location appeal. The rental market in Palmerston should see steady occupancy, with moderate upward pressure on rents. Confidence in Palmerston's medium-term prospects is reflected in sustained buyer interest.
Palmerston is a middle ring area in Australian Capital Territory with a population of 5,579. The median rent is $450/week and the median household income is $120,432/year (ABS 2021 Census). As with any property investment, conduct thorough due diligence on current listings, vacancy rates, and local infrastructure plans before committing.
Key demand drivers in Palmerston include established amenities and transport access. 58% of dwellings are separate houses. The area has approximately 1 schools and 2 parks nearby.
According to the ABS 2021 Census, Palmerston has a population of approximately 5,579. For historical population trends and intercensal estimates, visit the ABS Census Data Explorer at abs.gov.au.
Palmerston is approximately 10 km straight-line distance from the Canberra CBD (calculated from ABS 2021 suburb centroid coordinates). This close proximity means excellent access to employment, dining, and entertainment.