Area profile · Greater Sydney
Blackheath - Megalong Valley has an estimated 5,888 residents, up 2.2% since the 2021 Census, with 45 projects tracked in the area around Blackheath - Megalong Valley.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley Statistical Area (Lv2), located 90 kilometres west-northwest from Sydney CBD, had an estimated population of approximately 5,888 as of Aug 2026. The 2021 Census recorded 5,764 people, indicating 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. Population expansion remains limited, and the area's population profile includes a high proportion of mature and retirement agedandolder australians, alongside many lone person households and a low average household size.
Its sales activity is exceptionally high relative to population size. The Blackheath - Megalong Valley community is set in a location described for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,285 in 2001 and 5,872 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 5,888 (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, 16.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.6%.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 70th for education.
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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley is $580 a week, up 4.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 26% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.3%.
26% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $395 in 2017, $584 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Lawrence Street, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $830,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 10 Bell Street, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $700,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 23 Grose Street, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $950,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Barratt Street, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $930,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 42 Mount Piddington Road, Mount Victoria NSW 2786 | $300,000 | 4 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 39 Second Street, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $1,460,000 | 3 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 28 Kanimbla Road, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $965,000 | 2 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1 Second Street, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $385,000 | 2 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 44 Mount York Road, Mount Victoria NSW 2786 | $840,000 | 31 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Brentwood Avenue, Blackheath NSW 2785 | $985,000 | 28 Aug 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 45 residential sales recorded since 22 May 2026 (the latest settled 25 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 45, houses and units together, was $900,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to September 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 | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $930k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $680k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $900,000 | Median of the 45 most recent residential sales, settled 22 May 2026 to 25 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $584 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Blue Mountains | $622 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Blue Mountains, over 12 months | +2.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Sydney | $789 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Sydney, over 12 months | +5.3% | 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 73 tracked applications: 13 approved, 24 under assessment, 36 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 45 projects in and around Blackheath - Megalong Valley, 9 of them under construction.
Blue Mountains City Council is delivering a 1 million AUD upgrade to Mount Victoria Memorial Park, including a new inclusive playspace…
Targeted Great Western Highway safety and capacity upgrades between Katoomba and Lithgow delivered by Transport for NSW.
Accessibility and safety upgrade to Mount Victoria Station under the NSW Government's Safe Accessible Transport program.
The Katoomba Town Centre Place Activation Project delivers high street, arts and culture, and community infrastructure improvements across…
Council led upgrade program to Katoomba Street and adjacent laneways in Katoomba town centre.
Lilypad Katoomba is a boutique collection of 24 luxury 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses completed in 2024 in the heart of…
Escarpments Estate is a master-planned residential community adjoining the former Katoomba Golf Course, now an established street-scale…
Multi-stage upgrade of the Echo Point visitor precinct at Katoomba in the Blue Mountains.
McKanes Bridge is a heritage-listed McDonald type timber truss bridge, 55 m long, 5.5 m wide, with two 90' (27.43 m) spans, supported by…
Upgrading 14 kilometres of the Great Western Highway to a four-lane divided dual carriageway between Little Hartley and Lithgow to enhance…
Council-owned land subdivision into 47 residential allotments developed in 2 construction stages.
Hillcrest Estate is a multi-stage residential master-planned subdivision located off the Great Western Highway in Bowenfels, Lithgow.
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 2, 2026 5, 2027 5, 2028 2, 2029 1, 2030 3, 2031 1, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 4 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 73 substantial development applications lodged in and around Blackheath - Megalong Valley over the past 5 years, 64 in the last 12 months; 24 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 7, 2023 2, 2024 0, 2025 0, 2026 (to Oct) 64.
Key application 211 Great Western Highway, Blackheath Retail | $2.5m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 73 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 64 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 44th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 19 | ABS building approvals | 31st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 13 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 24 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 include: Great Western Highway Upgrade - Katoomba to Lithgow (Completed); Mount Victoria Memorial Park Playspace and Court Upgrades (Construction); Mount Victoria Station Upgrade (Planning); Katoomba Town Centre Place Activation Project (Planning); and Katoomba Town Centre Upgrade (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Energy, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Blackheath - Megalong Valley compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 area has seen 37 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2's current population of 5,888 has been supported by 19 approvals on average over recent years.
The Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 has seen 3.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.2 approvals in Greater Sydney. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 347 people in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 19, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 has grown by approximately 82 people, while 97 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 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.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,888 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 42 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 5,764 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 124 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 139.22 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 was estimated to be approximately 5,888 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 5,872 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The blackheath - megalong valley sa2 has added approximately 124 people and shown a 2.15% increase from the 5,764 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is estimated at 42 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.3% per annum.
Population growth in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley 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.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley 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 | 94th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 31.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.1% | 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 | 52 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.6% | 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 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 16.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 16.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 at 52 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 52 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 52 years as at August 2026, Blackheath - Megalong Valley is 15 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 16.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.2% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (12.2% vs 5.3%) and 65-74 year-olds (16.8% vs 8.2%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (7.2% vs 16.2%) and 15-24 year-olds (7.5% vs 13.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 12.6% of the population in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 31.8% of the population in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 81% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $49,409 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $69,564 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 | $727 | 2021 Census, weekly | 33rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,814 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 30.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is approximately $52,561. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $49,409.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is approximately $74,002. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $69,564.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is approximately $52,561 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $49,409 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is approximately $74,002 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $69,564 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2's households (~28.6% / 745 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.6% of households. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is $1,317/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is $1,814/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is $727/wk.
The Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2's income level is slightly lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2's median income among taxpayers is $49,409 and the average income stands at $69,564, which compares to figures for Greater Sydney's of $63,183 and $86,684 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $52,561 (median) and $74,002 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is $4,829 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The blackheath - megalong valley sa2's disposable income is $4,829 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,804 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 5,178 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,907 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 has approximately 2,804 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.5%. 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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 stands at 3.5%, which is 0.6 percentage points below Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.5% of employment), education & training (13.4%), and professional & technical (10.1%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is 55.4%, 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 Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The blackheath - megalong valley sa2 shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 13.4% of the local workforce compared to 8.9% across Greater Sydney. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 4 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The blackheath - megalong valley 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 11.8% growth, ranking 6th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Blackheath - Megalong Valley 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 | 24.2% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 40.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 20.4% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.9% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 26.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
40.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
26.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The blackheath - megalong valley sa2 ranks in the 70th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (24.2%), Certificate (20.4%), Advanced Diploma (12.9%).
25.6% of the population in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.3% in primary school, 7.0% in secondary school, 4.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is 1036, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 602 students.
The blackheath - megalong valley sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 2 combined schools.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 35.9% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 18.4% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,603 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,659 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.1% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 had 2,603 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.2% to an estimated 2,659 households today.
The average household size in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (35.9%), group households (3.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,590 family households, couples with children account for 18.4% of all households, couples without children at home 30.8%, and single parent families 11.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 35.9% (versus 23.2% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.1% compared to 72.6% in Greater Sydney. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 have an average of 1.5 children, matching the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 39.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.8% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 35.9% of all households in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, higher than the average for Greater Sydney of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.2% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
In terms of cultural diversity, Blackheath - Megalong Valley records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 22.5% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.5% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 77.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
Blackheath - Megalong Valley was found to be roughly in line with the national average in terms of cultural diversity, with 77.5% of its population born in Australia, 88.9% being citizens, and 92.5% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Blackheath - Megalong Valley, at 37.7% of people, although more residents (57.6%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 49.2% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Blackheath - Megalong Valley are English, comprising 30.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 19.0%, Australian, comprising 22.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 12.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 6.1%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 10.6% of Blackheath - Megalong Valley (vs 4.8% across Greater Sydney), Hungarian at 0.6% (vs 0.3%) and Welsh at 0.8% (vs 0.4%).
22.5% of the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
7.5% of the population in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
1.6% of the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
88.9% of the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley 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 | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 48.4% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 96.5% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.2% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $380 | 2021 Census, weekly | 54th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 30.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 90th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, 48.4% of homes are owned outright, 31.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 20.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 96.5% of dwellings in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 are houses.
In the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, 1.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 stands at 48.4%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is $1,733, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is $878, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 30.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 30.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 28.9% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 consists of 96.5% detached houses, 1.8% semi-detached dwellings, 1.2% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Blackheath - Megalong Valley consumes approximately 15.4% 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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley show attached dwellings contributing 5% of approvals compared to 4% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 95% of applications versus 96% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 52.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 41st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 61.0% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.4% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
Around 52.0% of people in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, 6.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
8.1% of people in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.4% of people in the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2, 52.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.8%.
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 | 57 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 57th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 116 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 78th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,196 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 37th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 51 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 31 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 43.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 116 public transport stops within the Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2.
The Blackheath - Megalong Valley SA2 has 1,196 weekly trips across 31 routes, averaging 170 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 221 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 1.2 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.3 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 116 stops nearby, 1,196 weekly trips, access rating 57 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 8 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 8th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 9.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 9.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 9.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 10.1 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 is 1 long day care centre with 24 places in Blackheath - Megalong Valley, about 8.9 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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 48th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley's resilient property market has recorded 213 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 91% residential, 1% commercial and 8% vacant land transactions.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 81% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
The educational profile of Blackheath - Megalong Valley ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
In terms of cultural diversity, Blackheath - Megalong Valley records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old 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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Blackheath - Megalong Valley has an estimated 5,888 residents, up 2.2% since the 2021 Census, with 45 projects tracked in the area around Blackheath - Megalong Valley.
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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Sep 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 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 (124011449). 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, 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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley 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 Blackheath - Megalong Valley 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.
