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This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
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Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
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Population
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass lies within the top 10% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends
According to investigations by AreaSearch, the population of Albion Park - Macquarie Pass stands at approximately 24,368 in May 2026. This represents a growth of 5,342 people (28.1%) from the 2021 Census, when 19,026 people were recorded. This variance is calculated using the June 2025 ABS estimated resident population of 23,649 and a further 1,283 validated new addresses identified after the Census. With this population level, the density ratio reaches 324 persons per square kilometer, indicating substantial space per inhabitant and potential capacity for subsequent expansion. The 28.1% growth rate of Albion Park - Macquarie Pass since the 2021 census outstripped the Rest of NSW (4.9%) and the SA4 region, establishing it as a regional growth leader. The primary driver of this demographic expansion was interstate migration, which accounted for roughly 72.4% of total population increases recently, though natural increase and overseas migration also made positive contributions.
AreaSearch utilizes population projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia published in 2024, using 2022 as a base year. Where SA2 data is unavailable from this source, projections from the NSW State Government released in 2022 with a 2021 base year are substituted. Age bracket growth trends from these datasets are projected forward to all localities for the years 2032 to 2041. Future demographic forecasts suggest remarkable expansion that ranks in the highest 10 percent of countrywide non-metropolitan zones, with the population projected to rise by 12,139 persons by 2041 relative to the most recent annual ERP statistics, representing a cumulative increase of 46.9% over the 16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
The level of residential development activity in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass was found to be higher than 90% of real estate markets across the country
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass averages approximately 372 home approvals annually, with a total of 1,864 dwellings approved during the last 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) and 410 during the current FY-26 period. Given that 3.2 new residents have been added for each completed residence over the last 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), the volume of new supply lags demand significantly, which typically intensifies buyer rivalry and elevates prices, even as new buildings are built for an average value of $265,000—below regional benchmarks—presenting more budget-friendly purchasing options. Furthermore, commercial development approvals have reached $1.3 million this financial year, highlighting the predominantly residential character of the locality.
Compared to the Rest of NSW, Albion Park - Macquarie Pass generates 114.0% more new dwelling approvals (per person), offering buyers plenty of alternatives despite a recent deceleration in building trends. This figure sits well above the nationwide average, reflecting strong developer commitment. Recent housing starts consist of 60.0% detached houses and 40.0% semi-detached properties or apartments, showing a growing diversity of attached dwellings that span multiple price brackets from large family residences to compact options. This marks a clear departure from the current housing stock (where houses constitute 88.0%), pointing to a shrinking supply of vacant land, changing occupant preferences, and the demand for more varied, lower-priced options. The ratio of 76 people per dwelling approval characterizes Albion Park - Macquarie Pass as a developing growth corridor.
Demographic projections indicate Albion Park - Macquarie Pass is set to add 11,420 residents by 2041 based on the most recent quarterly estimate from AreaSearch. If current building rates persist, the supply of new housing should easily satisfy this demand, offering favorable purchasing conditions and potentially enabling growth that exceeds current demographic forecasts.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Albion Park - Macquarie Pass
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally
Local infrastructure projects, planning choices, and development initiatives are major drivers of regional performance. AreaSearch has identified 26 key projects expected to influence this locality. Important developments include the Tripoli Way Extension, the Albion Park Rail Residential Development - Riverside Estate, the Mount Terry Estate, and the Con O'Keefe and Russell Street Precinct Master Plan, with specific details on the most relevant schemes provided below.
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INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Calderwood Village
Calderwood Village is a circa $50 million neighbourhood shopping centre and community hub by Revelop within Lendlease's Calderwood Valley masterplanned community. The 18,500 square metre village centre site includes a 7,500 square metre neighbourhood shopping centre anchored by Woolworths and BWS, plus specialty retailers, outdoor dining, childcare, gym, swim school, medical and allied health, veterinary services and 285 parking spaces with EV charging. Revelop appointed iprojects as construction partner after Quasar Constructions entered administration, with construction recommencing in November 2024 and the centre scheduled for March 2026 completion.
Con O'Keefe and Russell Street Precinct Master Plan
A comprehensive master plan adopted by Shellharbour City Council in May 2024 to revitalize Con O'Keefe Park and Russell Street Precinct in Albion Park. The project includes library extension, new amenities building, community garden relocation, improved sports facilities with lighting, upgraded playgrounds, skate plaza, fitness stations, enhanced landscaping and accessibility improvements. The master plan will be delivered in stages over multiple years to serve the growing community needs.
Tripoli Way Extension
Construction of the final stage of the Tripoli Way Extension to create an uninterrupted travel route connecting Terry Street in the east to the Illawarra Highway at Broughton Avenue in the west, bypassing the Albion Park town centre. The project includes widening to four lanes to Calderwood Road and two lanes to Tongarra Road at Tullimbar. This will reduce traffic congestion on the Illawarra Highway/Tongarra Road and improve connectivity to growing communities like Tullimbar and Calderwood Valley. Early electrical works began February 2025. The full scope, including the Terry Street intersection upgrade, is now funded as part of a $74 million project.
Albion Park Rail Residential Development - Riverside Estate
Large residential development featuring 850 new homes across multiple stages. The development includes parks, walking trails along Macquarie Rivulet, and community facilities to support sustainable suburban growth.
Albion Park Rail Innovation Hub
Proposed innovation and technology hub to attract startups and established tech companies to the Illawarra region. The development includes co-working spaces, research facilities, and connections to University of Wollongong programs.
Albion Park Rail Industrial Estate Development
Development of a new industrial estate to support manufacturing and logistics operations in the Illawarra region. The project includes modern warehouse facilities, office space, and improved freight access via the nearby M1 Motorway.
Mount Terry Estate
A 70-lot residential estate offering 4 and 5-bedroom house and land packages situated between creek reserves and mountain backdrops. The estate features natural character with peaceful surroundings while remaining connected to South Coast amenities including local shops, sporting facilities, and educational precincts. Ready-built packages available with completion expected in early 2026.
Albion Park Rail Water Infrastructure Upgrade
Upgrade of water supply and sewerage infrastructure to support population growth in Albion Park Rail. The project includes new water mains, pump stations, and improved stormwater management systems.
Employment
AreaSearch analysis places Albion Park - Macquarie Pass well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators
The workforce of Albion Park - Macquarie Pass is balanced between white and blue collar occupations, with a strong presence in essential services, an unemployment rate of just 3.2%, and an estimated job growth rate of 2.5% over the prior year. In March 2026, there are 12,923 employed residents, with the local unemployment rate sitting 0.9% lower than the Regional NSW figure of 4.1%, while workforce participation is exceptionally high at 72.3% compared to 60.6% in Regional NSW. Census data indicates a moderate 22.2% of the workforce worked from home, though this may reflect the influence of pandemic restrictions.
The primary employment sectors for local citizens are health care & social assistance, construction, and retail trade. Construction shows a strong local concentration, employing a share of workers 1.2 times the regional benchmark. In contrast, agriculture, forestry & fishing is underrepresented, accounting for 0.4% of jobs compared to the regional average of 5.3%. The mismatch between the Census working population and resident population suggests that local employment opportunities are somewhat limited.
Based on AreaSearch's evaluation of SALM and ABS statistics, the year ending March 2026 saw employment levels rise by 2.5% and the labour force expand by 2.6%, keeping the unemployment rate virtually unchanged. This stands in contrast to Regional NSW, where employment fell by 0.9%, the labour force declined by 0.4%, and unemployment ticked up by 0.5 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment projections from May-25 offer additional context on future demand in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass. These five and ten-year forecasts have been aligned with the local employment structure to project growth. Nationally, employment is expected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though rates vary by sector. Applying these industry projections to the local workforce mix suggests employment in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass will rise by 6.4% over five years and 13.4% over ten years (note that this is a basic weighted extrapolation for demonstration purposes and does not incorporate local population projections).
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 60% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch
According to the latest postcode-level ATO data released for the financial year 2023, the median income of taxpayers in the Albion Park - Macquarie Pass SA2 is $58,771, with an average of $68,424. These figures align closely with national averages and exceed the Regional NSW median of $52,390 and average of $65,215. Adjusting for Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since financial year 2023, current figures are estimated at approximately $64,836 (median) and $75,485 (average) as of March 2026. Data from the 2021 Census shows personal, family, and household incomes in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass sit near the 66th percentile nationwide. The dominant income bracket is $1,500 - 2,999, containing 39.1% of residents (9,527 people), which is consistent with the broader surrounding region where 29.9% fall into this bracket. While high housing costs absorb 16.9% of income, strong earnings keep disposable income at the 69th percentile, and the area sits in the 6th decile of the SEIFA index.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to the broader region
The composition of dwellings in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass at the most recent Census was 87.5% houses and 12.6% other options (townhouses, apartments, and alternative structures), compared to 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings in Regional NSW. Home ownership levels in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass trailed the regional average at 28.6%, with the remaining properties occupied by mortgage holders (53.1%) or tenants (18.4%). The median monthly mortgage payment of $2,167 was significantly higher than the Regional NSW average of $1,733, and the median weekly rent of $480 also exceeded the regional figure of $330. Nationally, mortgage repayments in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass are higher than the Australian average of $1,863, and weekly rents are well above the national median of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass features high concentrations of family households, with a higher-than-average median household size
Families make up the vast majority of households at 83.9%, consisting of couples with children (42.2%), couples without children (28.3%), and single parent households (12.4%). Non-family living arrangements account for the remaining 16.1%, with single person households representing 14.6% and group households making up 1.6%. The median household size of 2.9 individuals is larger than the Regional NSW average of 2.4.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational attainment in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass aligns closely with national averages, showing typical qualification patterns and performance metrics
The region shows lower levels of higher education, with university graduation rates at 16.5%, well below the state average of 32.2%. This gap highlights both an educational challenge and a target for future academic programs. Bachelor degrees are the most common higher qualification at 11.9%, followed by postgraduate degrees (2.8%) and graduate diplomas (1.8%). Vocational and technical training is highly prevalent, with 46.4% of residents aged 15+ holding qualifications, including advanced diplomas (11.6%) and certificates (34.8%).
Enrolment in education is strong, with 30.1% of the population participating in formal study. This comprises 11.0% of residents in primary school, 8.0% in high school, and 3.3% undertaking tertiary courses.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Public transport analysis identifies 140 active transit stops in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass, which are served by various bus routes. These stops accommodate 51 unique routes that deliver 746 weekly passenger trips. Transport access is highly rated, with residents living an average of 179 meters from the nearest stop. The area is mostly residential, meaning most workers commute out of the district, with private cars remaining the dominant mode of travel at 96%. Vehicle ownership averages 1.8 cars per household, which is higher than the regional average. Around 22.2% of residents worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-related conditions.
Service frequency averages 106 daily trips across all routes, which translates to approximately 5 weekly trips per transit stop. The map shows the 100 transit stops situated closest to the center of the area.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass is lower than average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass faces notable health challenges, indicated by AreaSearch's evaluation of mortality indices and the prevalence of chronic illnesses across both younger and older demographics, while the level of private health insurance coverage sits slightly ahead of the average SA2 region at approximately 53% of the population (~12,988 people).
Mental health conditions and asthma are the most common medical diagnoses, affecting 9.3 and 8.4% of citizens respectively, though 69.1% of residents reported having no long-term health issues compared to 63.3% in Regional NSW. Health profiles for working-age residents are generally average. The area has 12.5% of its population aged 65 and over (3,036 people), which is lower than the Regional NSW figure of 23.4%. Health outcomes among older residents present some difficulties, with national rankings aligning closely with general population trends.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics
Cultural diversity in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass is lower than average, with 87.0% of the population born in Australia, 93.0% holding citizenship, and 93.2% speaking only English at home. Christianity is the dominant religion, practiced by 56.8% of the population, compared to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
Regarding parental country of birth, the three most common ancestries in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass are Australian (30.2%), English (29.7%), and Scottish (6.9%). The area also displays higher concentrations of specific ethnic groups compared to the wider region: Spanish ancestry is represented at 1.1% (compared to 0.3% regionally), Maltese at 1.5% (compared to 0.4%), and Macedonian at 1.1% (compared to 0.4%).
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Albion Park - Macquarie Pass hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide
The median age of 33 years in Albion Park - Macquarie Pass is much younger than the Regional NSW average of 43 and the national average of 38. Compared to Regional NSW, there is a high concentration of residents aged 25 - 34 (16.4%) and a lower proportion of those aged 65 - 74 (7.6%). Post-2021 Census data shows the 35 to 44 age bracket expanded from 13.4% to 16.1% of the population, whereas the 55 to 64 group decreased from 10.9% to 9.2%, and the 45 to 54 cohort fell from 12.3% to 11.1%. Demographic projections for 2041 suggest significant changes, with the 35 to 44 age bracket leading the shift, growing by 62% (2,453 people) to reach 6,379 from 3,925.