Area profile · Rest of NSW
Ballina has an estimated 18,871 residents, up 1.3% since the 2021 Census, with 14 projects tracked in Ballina.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Ballina Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 163 kilometres south-southeast from Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 18,871 as of Aug 2026, compared with 18,629 people in the 2021 Census. The area’s profile includes a strong semi-detached presence, low average household size, a notable healthcare employment base, outstanding service amenity, and a high share of retirement-aged and older residents, including elevated proportions aged 85 and over and 75 to 84yo. Many older residents live alone, and income levels are in the lower quartile.
Ballina shows moderate population expansion patterns. Its population estimate since the 2021 Census reflects minimal change, based on AreaSearch’s assessment of the latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) figure from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census. The area is a coastal New South Wales destination known for its beaches, marine life and waterways, which support surfing, swimming and other water sports.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 16,711 in 2001 and 18,813 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 18,871 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 15.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 27.4%.
Ballina ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for amenities and the 73rd for sales activity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Ballina is $707 a week, up 4.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 22% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.2%.
22% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $499 in 2017, $771 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $336 in 2017, $548 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/20 Crane Street, Ballina NSW 2478 | $775,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 2/31 Fox Street, Ballina NSW 2478 | $755,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 4 Melaleuca Place, East Ballina NSW 2478 | $1,445,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 34 Smith Drive, West Ballina NSW 2478 | $1,600,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1/16 Vera Street, Ballina NSW 2478 | $840,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 6/24 McKinnon Street, East Ballina NSW 2478 | $767,500 | 24 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 9/163 Fox Street, Ballina NSW 2478 | $840,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 6 Flinders Place, West Ballina NSW 2478 | $745,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 30 Daydream Avenue, West Ballina NSW 2478 | $865,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 3/1 Beachfront Parade, East Ballina NSW 2478 | $1,210,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 45 residential sales recorded since 7 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 45, houses and units together, was $860,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $707 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.05m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $804k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $860,000 | Median of the 45 most recent residential sales, settled 7 Aug 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $771 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $548 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Richmond Valley - Coastal | $837 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Richmond Valley - Coastal, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Richmond - Tweed | $754 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Richmond - Tweed, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 267 tracked applications: 79 approved, 52 under assessment, 136 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 14 projects in Ballina (2 under construction) and 113 more in the surrounding area.
A purpose-built NSW State Emergency Service Ballina Unit headquarters and Emergency Operations Centre at the corner of Angels Beach Drive…
Planning and site selection activities are underway for the future long-term clinical sustainability of Ballina District Hospital to serve…
SOLHAVEN by CADRE is an impact led development, comprising of 2 & 3 bedroom residences with flexible use ground floor, commercial leasing…
The project involves duplicating the existing two-lane Fishery Creek Bridge and Canal Bridge to provide four continuous traffic lanes to…
The Total Tools Ballina development is a large-format retail project featuring triple street frontage for enhanced visibility and…
Demolition of the existing single-storey Fun 'N' Sun Motel and construction of a three-storey shop-top housing development.
The $22 million multi-stage redevelopment and expansion of the Crowley aged care facility in Ballina, enhancing existing amenities and…
Construction of new pump track facility at Kingsford Smith Reserve for BMX, mountain biking, and skateboarding activities.
Major airport infrastructure upgrade program including $20.68 million runway overlay completed in 2023 with new LED lighting, expanded…
An exclusive development of 14 luxury three-bedroom villas inspired by Palm Springs architecture, designed by C2 Architecture with…
Ballina Shire Council industrial land subdivision creating twelve serviced allotments at Boeing Avenue and Hercules Crescent within the…
Construction of the new Airport Boulevard entrance road connecting the Southern Cross Industrial Estate to the Ballina Byron Gateway…
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 51 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 16, 2027 19, 2028 6, 2029 2, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 45 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 267 substantial development applications lodged in and around Ballina over the past 5 years, 125 in the last 12 months; 52 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 13, 2022 50, 2023 26, 2024 27, 2025 40, 2026 (to Oct) 111.
Key application 550-578 River Street, West Ballina Aged Care | $74m | 149 dwellings | 1 storey Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 267 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 125 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 20th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 31 | ABS building approvals | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 79 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 52 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Ballina SA2 include: New Ballina SES Headquarters (Construction); Ballina District Hospital Redevelopment (Planning); Solhaven (Construction); Total Tools Ballina (Completed); and Solhaven Ballina (Dev. Approval). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Ballina SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Retail, and Health & Medical, among others.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Ballina compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Ballina SA2 area has seen 64 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Ballina SA2's current population of 18,871 has been supported by 31 approvals on average over recent years.
The Ballina SA2 has seen 1.7 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 603 people in the Ballina SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Ballina SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 31, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Ballina SA2 has grown by approximately 377 people, while 157 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Ballina are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 18,871 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 522 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 18,629 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 242 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 36.16 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Ballina SA2 was estimated to be approximately 18,871 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 18,813 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The ballina sa2 has added approximately 242 people and shown a 1.30% increase from the 18,629 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Ballina SA2 is estimated at 522 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Ballina SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.8% per annum.
Population growth in the Ballina SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (59.9%), Interstate migration (40.1%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 59.9% of overall population gains.
Ballina ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 52 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 95th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 34.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 18.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 43.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 53 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 15.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Ballina SA2 at 52 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 53 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 52 years as at August 2026, Ballina is 9 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 14 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Ballina SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 13.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Ballina SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 9.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Ballina SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (5.8% vs 2.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (13.2% vs 8.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.1% of the population in the Ballina SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 34.3% of the population in the Ballina SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $52,815 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 24th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $68,396 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,150 | 2021 Census, weekly | 10th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $663 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,563 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 35.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Ballina SA2 is approximately $56,185. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $52,815.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Ballina SA2 is approximately $72,760. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $68,396.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Ballina SA2 is approximately $56,185 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $52,815 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Ballina SA2 is approximately $72,760 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,396 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Ballina SA2's households (~27.4% / 2,213 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Ballina SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 27.4% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Ballina SA2 is $1,150/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Ballina SA2 is $1,563/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Ballina SA2 is $663/wk.
The Ballina SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Ballina SA2's median income among taxpayers is $52,815 and the average income stands at $68,396, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $55,733 and $69,112 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $56,185 (median) and $72,760 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Ballina SA2 is $4,016 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The ballina sa2's disposable income is $4,016 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Ballina shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 50.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,922 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 20,047 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,277 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Ballina SA2 has approximately 7,922 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Ballina SA2 stands at 4.3%, which is broadly in line with Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Ballina SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (21.7% of employment), retail trade (11.5%), and construction (10.9%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Ballina SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Ballina SA2 is 50.8%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The ballina sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 21.7% of the local workforce compared to 16.9% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The ballina sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Ballina: university qualifications 21.9%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 985.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.8% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 21.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 24.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.0% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
21.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Ballina SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
39.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Ballina SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The ballina sa2 ranks in the 38th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Ballina SA2 are: Certificate (27.1%), Bachelor Degree (15.8%), Advanced Diploma (11.7%).
24.0% of the population in the Ballina SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.0% in primary school, 6.6% in secondary school, 3.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Ballina SA2 is 985, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 8 schools within the Ballina SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,283 students.
The ballina sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 4 combined schools.
Ballina features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 35.8% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 17.1% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.1% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,077 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,182 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 60.0% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Ballina SA2 had 8,077 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.3% to an estimated 8,182 households today.
The average household size in the Ballina SA2 is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 60.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (35.8%), group households (4.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,846 family households, couples with children account for 17.1% of all households, couples without children at home 30.1%, and single parent families 11.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Ballina SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 35.8% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 60.0% compared to 68.8% in Regional NSW. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Ballina SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 41.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.5% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 35.8% of all households in the Ballina SA2, higher than the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.2% of households, above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Ballina is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.8% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.5% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.7% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
Ballina was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.5% of its population being citizens, 86.7% born in Australia, and 94.8% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Ballina was found to be Christianity, which makes up 54.5% of people in Ballina. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.1% of the population, compared to 0.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Ballina are English, comprising 32.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 28.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 8.9% of Ballina (vs 8.0% across Regional NSW), Australian Aboriginal at 3.4% (vs 4.6%) and French at 0.5% (vs 0.4%).
13.3% of the Ballina SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
5.2% of the population in the Ballina SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.4% of the Ballina SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.5% of the Ballina SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Ballina displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 35.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 43.3% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 57.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 21.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 30.2% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $390 | 2021 Census, weekly | 58th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 33.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 34.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Ballina SA2, 43.3% of homes are owned outright, 21.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 35.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 57.7% of dwellings in the Ballina SA2 are houses.
In the Ballina SA2, 8.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 30.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Ballina SA2 stands at 43.3%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Ballina SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Ballina SA2 is $967, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Ballina SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 34.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 33.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Ballina SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Ballina SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 34.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 33.9% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Ballina SA2 consists of 57.7% detached houses, 30.2% semi-detached dwellings, 8.1% apartments, and 4.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Ballina consumes approximately 19.4% of median household income ($4,980 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Ballina show attached dwellings contributing 59% of approvals compared to 42% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 41% of applications versus 58% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Ballina is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 51.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 38th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 58.6% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.1% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
Around 51.7% of people in the Ballina SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Ballina SA2, 9.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
6.8% of people in the Ballina SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.7% of the Ballina SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
6.2% of people in the Ballina SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Ballina SA2, 51.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 56 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 56th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 399 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,429 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 41st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 47 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 83 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 399 public transport stops within the Ballina SA2.
The Ballina SA2 has 1,429 weekly trips across 83 routes, averaging 204 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 100 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 799 m away and the nearest GP 837 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 399 stops nearby, 1,429 weekly trips, access rating 56 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 93 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 799 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 837 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 872 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 875 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 6 long day care centres with 535 places in Ballina, about 1.5 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Ballina compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Ballina ranks in the 46th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Ballina's established property market has recorded 447 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 89% residential, 8% commercial and 3% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Ballina are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Ballina ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
The employment landscape in Ballina shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
Education in Ballina: university qualifications 21.9%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 985.
Ballina features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Ballina is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Ballina displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Ballina is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Ballina has an estimated 18,871 residents, up 1.3% since the 2021 Census, with 14 projects tracked in Ballina.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Ballina.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (112011236). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Ballina from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Ballina with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.