Area profile · Rest of NSW
Bellingen has an estimated 6,219 residents, up 0.8% since the 2021 Census, with 58 projects tracked in the area around Bellingen.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 331 kilometres south from Brisbane CBD, the Bellingen Statistical Area (Lv2) is distinguished by its picturesque landscape, vibrant village ambiance, and flourishing arts and culture. Positioned in a verdant valley flanked by winding river systems, pristine rainforest environments, and the scenic Dorrigo Mountain Range, the township attracts visitors through its artisan shops, art spaces, and local markets, supported by a strong agricultural tradition celebrating gourmet dining and regional produce. Outdoor recreation thrives across expansive national parklands and untouched waterways. Demographically, the community is characterised by a notable concentration of middle-aged and mature or retirement-age residents, particularly across the 45 to 54yo and 65 to 74yo cohorts, alongside lower-quartile income levels and a dominant detached housing footprint supported by strong outright home ownership. Employment is notably anchored by robust representation in healthcare and elevated education sectors.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 331 kilometres south from Brisbane CBD, the Bellingen Statistical Area (Lv2) is distinguished by its picturesque landscape, vibrant village ambiance, and flourishing arts and culture. Positioned in a verdant valley flanked by winding river systems, pristine rainforest environments, and the scenic Dorrigo Mountain Range, the township attracts visitors through its artisan shops, art spaces, and local markets, supported by a strong agricultural tradition celebrating gourmet dining and regional produce. Outdoor recreation thrives across expansive national parklands and untouched waterways. Demographically, the community is characterised by a notable concentration of middle-aged and mature or retirement-age residents, particularly across the 45 to 54yo and 65 to 74yo cohorts, alongside lower-quartile income levels and a dominant detached housing footprint supported by strong outright home ownership. Employment is notably anchored by robust representation in healthcare and elevated education sectors.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,539 in 2001 and 6,200 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 6,219 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 14.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.4%.
Bellingen ranks in the 71st percentile nationally for education and the 61st 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 Bellingen is $585 a week, up 0.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.5%.
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $398 in 2017, $625 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $276 in 2017, $245 in 2024. A break means no rent was reported that year. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 259 Kalang Road, Kalang NSW 2454 | $1,800,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 26 Endeavour Drive, Bellingen NSW 2454 | $1,175,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 620 Crossmaglen Road, Valery NSW 2454 | $361,500 | 15 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 913 Bowraville Road, Brierfield NSW 2454 | $590,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Melia Place, Bellingen NSW 2454 | $900,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 219 Bowraville Road, Bellingen NSW 2454 | $1,434,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 704 Valery Road, Valery NSW 2454 | $330,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 50 Sunset Ridge Drive, Bellingen NSW 2454 | $1,415,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 10 Red Cedar Place, Bellingen NSW 2454 | $1,220,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1117 Waterfall Way, Bellingen NSW 2454 | $914,500 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 43 residential sales recorded since 15 May 2026 (the latest settled 19 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 43, houses and units together, was $865,000 (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 | $585 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +0.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $875k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $580k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $865,000 | Median of the 43 most recent residential sales, settled 15 May 2026 to 19 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $625 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +2.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Coffs Harbour | $614 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Coffs Harbour, over 12 months | +3.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Coffs Harbour - Grafton | $583 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Coffs Harbour - Grafton, over 12 months | +4.3% | 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 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | 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 114 tracked applications: 39 approved, 18 under assessment, 57 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 58 projects in and around Bellingen, 20 of them under construction.
Mixed-use development involving demolition, remediation, and construction of shop-top housing with 15 residential units and retail premises, on the site of the former Carl Foster's Garage. The project was approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel on 20 March 2019, with a capital investment value of $8,985,000.
Affordable housing complex providing 23 one-bedroom apartments for women over 55 at risk of homelessness. The project was officially opened in December 2024 and was delivered through RFBI's subsidiary, Bellorana, with $10 million in combined funding from the NSW and Australian governments. All 23 apartments were tenanted before the official opening.
Boutique residential estate offering 42 land lots ranging from 600sqm to 1621sqm, and brand-new completed homes, located near Bellingen CBD. Civil construction for the 42-lot subdivision was completed and registered in 2023, with home construction and lot sales progressing through completion.
A major $38 million sewerage infrastructure project expanding the network to Mylestom, Repton, and Raleigh. The project involves a completed upgrade to the Urunga Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP), doubling its capacity to 10,000 equivalent persons.
Full replacement of the historic Urunga Boardwalk, part of the wider Urunga Precinct Revitalisation, following flood damage to the original structure.
Black Wattle Estate is a six stage master planned residential land subdivision within the South Urunga Development Precinct, delivering about 320 housing lots from roughly 600 sqm up to 1,450 sqm. Stage 1 civil works and registration are complete with most lots sold, while later stages will add local parks, walking and cycle paths and bushland buffers.
The Valla Urban Growth Area is a long-planned mixed-use precinct near the Pacific Highway at Valla, intended to address residential and industrial land shortages on the NSW Mid North Coast. Stage One is under construction and will deliver 14 fully serviced industrial lots, with 13 lots expected to be released from mid to late 2026.
Development application DA 0493/23DA submitted by Richard Benell was approved for a multi-stage residential subdivision across 647, 679A, and 679B Pacific Highway in Boambee East.
City of Coffs Harbour continues to retain the Sawtell Pool Upgrade as a planned future project. The concept design includes a new eight-lane 25 metre pool with an accessible lane, a heated learn-to-swim pool, splash pad, new amenities building, cafe, improved accessibility and sustainable building features.
Construction of a new, prefabricated, non-permanent lifeguard tower at Sawtell Beach to provide an all-weather observation point for beach safety operations. The aluminium tower replaced the old structure damaged by coastal erosion and has a minimum expiry life of 15 years. It was expected to be open by the end of September 2025.
A $1.27 million City of Coffs Harbour upgrade to Toormina Oval, completed in 2025. It added a new football field beside the velodrome, a new carpark, a footbridge across a channel drain and concrete footpaths linking the precinct. It serves local clubs including Sawtell FC, plus cricket in the warmer months.
'95 on First' will comprise of six modern 3-bedroom townhouses, offering low-maintenance, beachside living. The complex is positioned approximately 150 metres from Sawtell Beach and 250 metres from the village centre, with driveway entry via Kidd Lane. Construction is estimated to commence towards the end of 2025.
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 21 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 7, 2027 7, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 3, 2031 1, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 18 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 114 substantial development applications lodged in and around Bellingen over the past 5 years, 80 in the last 12 months; 18 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 8, 2023 9, 2024 10, 2025 7, 2026 (to Nov) 79.
Key application 6 Bowra Street, Bellingen Aged Care | $11m | 32 dwellings | 2 storeys Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 114 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 80 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 55th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 26 | ABS building approvals | 38th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 39 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 18 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Bellingen SA2 include: Retail & ShopTop Housing Development, Hyde Street, Bellingen (Approved); Watson Place Affordable Housing (Completed); Taylors Rise Estate (Completed); Sewering Coastal Villages Project (Construction); and Urunga Boardwalk Replacement (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Bellingen SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Retail, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Bellingen SA2 vicinity.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Bellingen SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 33rd percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Bellingen compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Bellingen SA2 area has seen 45 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Bellingen SA2's current population of 6,219 has been supported by 26 approvals on average over recent years.
The Bellingen SA2 has seen 4.3 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 275 people in the Bellingen SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Bellingen SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 26, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Bellingen SA2 has grown by approximately 92 people, while 132 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Bellingen reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,219 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 6 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,168 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 51 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1,001.05 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Bellingen SA2 was estimated to be approximately 6,219 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,200 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The bellingen sa2 has added approximately 51 people and shown a 0.83% increase from the 6,168 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Bellingen SA2 is estimated at 6 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Bellingen SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Bellingen SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Bellingen hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 81st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 17.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.7% | 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 | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Bellingen SA2 at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Bellingen is 3 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Bellingen SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 14.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Bellingen SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Bellingen SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (6.7% vs 11.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.3% of the population in the Bellingen SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.4% of the population in the Bellingen SA2 as at August 2026.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 12% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,377 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $58,716 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,317 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $647 | 2021 Census, weekly | 18th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 13.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,614 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 30.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $48,272. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,377.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $62,462. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $58,716.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $48,272 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,377 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Bellingen SA2 is approximately $62,462 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,716 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Bellingen SA2's households (~30.4% / 689 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Bellingen SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.4% 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 Bellingen SA2 is $1,317/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Bellingen SA2 is $1,614/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Bellingen SA2 is $647/wk.
The Bellingen SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Bellingen SA2's median income among taxpayers is $45,377 and the average income stands at $58,716, 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 $48,272 (median) and $62,462 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Bellingen SA2 is $4,878 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The bellingen sa2's disposable income is $4,878 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Bellingen shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,708 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 5,789 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,848 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Bellingen SA2 has approximately 2,708 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.9%. 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 Bellingen SA2 stands at 4.9%, which is 0.8 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Bellingen SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.5% of employment), education & training (13.3%), and retail trade (9.9%). Other significant employers include construction and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Bellingen SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Bellingen SA2 is 55.9%, 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%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The bellingen sa2 shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 13.3% of the local workforce compared to 9.6% 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.
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The bellingen 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.
The educational profile of Bellingen ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 22.2% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 33.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 24.2% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.9% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 33.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
33.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Bellingen SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
29.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Bellingen SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The bellingen sa2 ranks in the 71th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Bellingen SA2 are: Certificate (24.2%), Bachelor Degree (22.2%), Advanced Diploma (12.9%).
33.0% of the population in the Bellingen SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.4% in primary school, 10.4% in secondary school, 3.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Bellingen SA2 is 1020, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 6 schools within the Bellingen SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,187 students.
The bellingen sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Bellingen features high concentrations of single parent families and group households, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 26.2% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 26.5% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,264 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,283 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.7% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Bellingen SA2 had 2,264 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 2,283 households today.
The average household size in the Bellingen SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.2%), group households (4.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,578 family households, couples with children account for 26.5% of all households, couples without children at home 28.1%, and single parent families 14.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Bellingen SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the Bellingen 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 41.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.6% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 26.2% of all households in the Bellingen SA2, similar to 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 4.3% of households, above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Bellingen ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 16.8% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.9% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 87.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.2% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
Bellingen was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.6% of its population being citizens, 83.2% born in Australia, and 94.9% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Bellingen, at 28.4% of people, although more residents (67.1%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.5% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bellingen are English, comprising 31.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.8% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.8% of Bellingen (vs 0.5% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 9.4% (vs 8.0%) and Hungarian at 0.4% (vs 0.2%).
16.8% of the Bellingen SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
5.1% of the population in the Bellingen SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
2.7% of the Bellingen SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
87.6% of the Bellingen SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Bellingen is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 22.0% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 46.5% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.4% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.4% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $370 | 2021 Census, weekly | 50th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 71st percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Bellingen SA2, 46.5% of homes are owned outright, 31.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.4% of dwellings in the Bellingen SA2 are houses.
In the Bellingen SA2, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 3.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Bellingen SA2 stands at 46.5%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Bellingen SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Bellingen SA2 is $829, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Bellingen SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 26.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Bellingen SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Bellingen SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 26.6% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 28.1% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Bellingen SA2 consists of 95.4% detached houses, 3.6% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Bellingen consumes approximately 14.5% of median household income ($5,703 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Bellingen show attached dwellings contributing 13% of approvals compared to 5% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 87% of applications versus 95% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Bellingen is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 47.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 11th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 69.1% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 76.0% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
Around 47.2% of people in the Bellingen SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Bellingen SA2, 4.9% 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 Bellingen SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.7% of the Bellingen SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.2% of people in the Bellingen SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Bellingen SA2, 47.2% 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 | 44 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 44th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 252 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 401 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 22nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 25 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 38 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 24.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 252 public transport stops within the Bellingen SA2.
The Bellingen SA2 has 401 weekly trips across 38 routes, averaging 57 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 176 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 2.4 km away and the nearest child care centre 2.6 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 252 stops nearby, 401 weekly trips, access rating 44 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 47 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 47th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 22.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 22.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 22.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 24.5 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 2 long day care centres with 48 places in Bellingen, about 6.2 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Bellingen is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Bellingen.
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 Bellingen compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Bellingen has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 33rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Bellingen's resilient property market has recorded 128 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 84% residential, 8% commercial and 9% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Bellingen reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Bellingen hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
The area's income levels rank in the lower 12% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data.
Bellingen shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
The educational profile of Bellingen ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Bellingen features high concentrations of single parent families and group households, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
Bellingen ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Bellingen is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Bellingen is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent 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 in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Bellingen has an estimated 6,219 residents, up 0.8% since the 2021 Census, with 58 projects tracked in the area around Bellingen.
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 Bellingen.
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 Aug 2026. Housing 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 (104021083). 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 (Aug 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, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Bellingen 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 Bellingen 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.
