Laura

The typical resident is 48, which is far older than the national figure of 38. While seniors are numerous, there is also a notable presence of children, with 19.7% of the population under 15, a figure slightly above the state and national averages.

Most residents were born in Australia, and the area has far fewer overseas-born people than the state or national average. Common ancestries include Australian, English, German, Scottish, and Irish.

English is the primary language here, with only 2% of people using another language at home. This is far below the national figure of 22.3%.

About 48.2% of the community identifies as Christian, while 41.4% report no religion. The latter is slightly above the national figure but well below the South Australian average.

Educational attainment is lower than the state and national figures, with only 39.6% of residents having completed Year 12. Those with a bachelor degree or higher make up 13.2% of adults, which is far below the national average of 26.3%.

Incomes in Laura are much lower than in most similar areas. The typical weekly household income is $1,042, which is far below the national figure of $1,746.

Residents experience more health challenges than those in most areas, with 37.9% having a long-term health condition. This is far above the national figure of 27.7%, and 7.5% of people need help with daily activities.

Community spirit is very high, with 34.6% of people volunteering—a figure far above the national average of 14.1%. More people also spend time on unpaid housework and providing care than in most similar areas.

First Nations people make up 2.7% of the population. This group is noticeably younger than the state and national average, with a typical age of 18, though typical personal incomes are a little below the national figure.

Homes are often smaller or occupied by single people, with 32.9% of residents living alone. This is well above the national figure of 25.6%.

The area is dominated by separate houses, and 46.5% of homes are owned outright, which is far above the national figure. Both typical weekly rents ($200) and mortgage payments ($892) are well below the national averages.

Most people drive to work, and 35.9% of homes have two vehicles. While public transport use is low, the town has more public transport stops than 72% of similar areas.

The community is relatively stable, with fewer people moving in the last five years compared to the state and national averages. There have been no recent arrivals from overseas.

About 52.9% of adults are working or looking for work, which is well below the national average. Common industries include health care, agriculture, and manufacturing.

The area has some of the lowest crime rates at its level, and the recorded offence rate has fallen by 45.5% over the last five years.

The town is somewhat walkable, with a high number of amenities per resident. This is especially true for health services and groceries, which are within a 15-minute walk for many residents.