The size of Barkstead is approximately 21.1 square kilometres. It has 3 parks covering nearly 97.7% of total area. The population of Barkstead in 2011 was 1,219 people. By 2016 the population was 32 showing a population decline of 97.4% in the area during that time. The predominant age group in Barkstead is 50-59 years. Households in Barkstead are primarily childless couples and are likely to be repaying $800 - $999 per month on mortgage repayments. In general, people in Barkstead work in a labourer occupation. In 2011, 88% of the homes in Barkstead were owner-occupied compared with 106.6% in 2016.