Area profile · Greater Sydney
Box Head - MacMasters Beach has an estimated 11,304 residents, up 2.4% since the 2021 Census, with 110 projects tracked in the area around Box Head - MacMasters Beach.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Box Head - MacMasters Beach Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 43 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is around 11,304 as of Aug 2026, compared with 11,042 people at the 2021 Census. The latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) outputs from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census indicate no significant movements. The area features strong outright home ownership, a well-educated population, a high proportion of married families, and a notable presence of residents aged 75 to 84yo and 65 to 74yo. Construction employment is also elevated. Residents include a high proportion of retirement-aged and older people, largely couples without children. Education levels are above average, and population growth is moderate.
In NSW, Australia, Box Head - MacMasters Beach is known for its coastal scenery, turquoise waves and pristine sands. The area offers surfing, swimming and bushwalking among its natural surroundings, with native flora and fauna that provide opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 43 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is around 11,304 as of Aug 2026, compared with 11,042 people at the 2021 Census. The latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) outputs from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census indicate no significant movements. The area features strong outright home ownership, a well-educated population, a high proportion of married families, and a notable presence of residents aged 75 to 84yo and 65 to 74yo. Construction employment is also elevated. Residents include a high proportion of retirement-aged and older people, largely couples without children. Education levels are above average, and population growth is moderate.
In NSW, Australia, Box Head - MacMasters Beach is known for its coastal scenery, turquoise waves and pristine sands. The area offers surfing, swimming and bushwalking among its natural surroundings, with native flora and fauna that provide opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,153 in 2001 and 11,289 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,304 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 16.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.7%.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 77th for health.
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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach is $712 a week, up 4.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 10% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 2.5%.
10% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $502 in 2017, $772 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $384 in 2017, $562 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Valencia Street, Bensville NSW 2251 | $1,110,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 24 Beachfront Parade, St Huberts Island NSW 2257 | $1,400,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 3 Hastings Parade, Bensville NSW 2251 | $1,400,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 13 Kallaroo Road, Bensville NSW 2251 | $1,150,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 40 Carrela Parade, Kincumber South NSW 2251 | $2,600,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 110 The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights NSW 2257 | $1,900,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Kendall Road, Empire Bay NSW 2257 | $1,625,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 6 Wallace Street, Macmasters Beach NSW 2251 | $1,370,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Mulhall Street, Wagstaffe NSW 2257 | $650,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 486 The Scenic Road, Macmasters Beach NSW 2251 | $1,065,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 22 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $1,430,000 (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 | $712 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 2.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.45m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $872k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,430,000 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 22 Jun 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $772 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $562 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Gosford | $677 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Gosford, over 12 months | +6.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Central Coast | $655 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Central Coast, over 12 months | +7.7% | 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 124 tracked applications: 30 approved, 43 under assessment, 51 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 110 projects in and around Box Head - MacMasters Beach, 15 of them under construction.
Demolition of existing structures, Torrens title subdivision, and construction of attached residential dwellings delivering medium-density housing in Booker Bay. The development was determined and granted development consent under Central Coast Council Local Planning Panel application DA/1009/2024.
Multi-storey shop-top housing and retail redevelopment delivering 39 residential apartments across upper levels alongside ground-floor commercial and retail premises. The development fronts both The Esplanade and Picnic Parade with integrated basement parking and public domain enhancements.
A five-storey boutique hotel development featuring 83 rooms on a 1,467 sqm site. The project includes a ground floor restaurant and cafe, conference facilities, and a roof terrace equipped with a bar and swimming pool.
Approved expansion and refurbishment of Green Point Shopping Village including additional retail tenancies, upgraded public amenities, improved parking and site improvements. No evidence of construction commencement was identified from official sources as of July 2026.
A major mixed-use precinct development and rezoning project situated on The Esplanade directly adjacent to Booker Bay. The approved planning framework enables 5-storey mixed-use building heights, ground-floor retail and commercial facilities, residential apartments, and dedicated public domain infrastructure works under a Voluntary Planning Agreement.
Central Coast Council is delivering major sports and community recreation upgrades at Frost Reserve in Kincumber. The project includes a modern 750sqm regional skate park, a new 370sqm sports amenities building with accessible changerooms, canteen, and storage, upgraded car parking facilities, and enhanced sports field lighting.
Foreshore revitalisation and coastal infrastructure project by Central Coast Council delivering continuous 2.5m wide shared pedestrian and bicycle pathways, dune stabilization, upgraded public beach amenities, and accessibility infrastructure connecting Ettalong Beach and Booker Bay.
Construction of gable glass room extension at residential property in Ettalong Beach.
Prime beachfront development site comprising 2,617.3 sqm amalgamated site with direct beach frontage and stunning water views. Development potential for 18 premium apartments. Owned by the Fardoulis family for over 30 years. 33m frontage to The Esplanade.
The NSW Government is investing $19 million in upgrades to three key intersections on the Woy Woy Peninsula: Blackwall and McMasters Road, Blackwall, Allfield and Farnell Roads, and Memorial Avenue, Barrenjoey Road and Maitland Bay Drive.
Approved multi-dwelling residential development (DA/2056/2023) granted consent by the Central Coast Local Planning Panel. The project encompasses demolition of existing residential structures and construction of four multi-level townhouse dwellings with associated basement car parking, private open space, and landscaping.
Comprehensive redevelopment of Lone Pine Plaza into a modern 3,263sqm GLAR neighbourhood convenience shopping centre anchored by a new format IGA supermarket, Cellarbrations, Pharmacy4less, medical hub, specialty retail, and 104 on-grade parking spaces.
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 45 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 15, 2027 13, 2028 10, 2029 1, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 30 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 124 substantial development applications lodged in and around Box Head - MacMasters Beach over the past 5 years, 109 in the last 12 months; 43 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 7, 2023 3, 2024 2, 2025 1, 2026 (to Oct) 109.
Key application 14 Shelly Beach Road, Empire Bay Retail | $800k | 1 dwelling | 2 storeys Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 124 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 109 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 28 | ABS building approvals | 40th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 30 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 43 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 include: Hardys Bay Foreshore Masterplan (Precinct 1 - Rocky Point) (Construction); 264-266 Booker Bay Road Multi-Dwelling Subdivision (Dev. Approval); 43-46 The Esplanade Redevelopment Precinct (Approved); 43-46 The Esplanade Shop Top Housing & Retail Redevelopment (Approved); and Ettalong Beach Foreshore Reserve Infrastructure and Shared Pathway (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 35th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Box Head - MacMasters Beach compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 area has seen 45 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2's current population of 11,304 has been supported by 28 approvals on average over recent years.
The Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 has seen 2.5 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 513 people in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 28, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 has grown by approximately 210 people, while 141 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,304 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 352 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 39th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 11,042 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 262 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.7% | 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 | 32.08 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,304 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,289 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The box head - macmasters beach sa2 has added approximately 262 people and shown a 2.37% increase from the 11,042 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is estimated at 352 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.3% per annum.
Population growth in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (78.9%), Natural increase (21.1%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 78.9% of overall population gains.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 49 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 89th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 33.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 15.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 41.2% | 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 | 49 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 5.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 16.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 at 49 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 49 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 49 years as at August 2026, Box Head - MacMasters Beach is 12 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 11 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 16.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 5.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (13.1% vs 5.3%) and 65-74 year-olds (16.4% vs 8.2%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (5.3% vs 16.2%) and 35-44 year-olds (9.6% vs 15.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.5% of the population in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 33.3% of the population in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $55,908 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $75,940 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,775 | 2021 Census, weekly | 51st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $780 | 2021 Census, weekly | 44th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 27.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,187 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 23.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is approximately $59,475. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,908.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is approximately $80,785. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $75,940.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is approximately $59,475 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,908 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is approximately $80,785 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $75,940 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2's households (~27.7% / 1,169 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.7% 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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is $1,775/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is $2,187/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is $780/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $55,908 with the average level standing at $75,940. This is higher than average nationally and compares to levels of $63,183 and $86,684 across Greater Sydney respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $59,475 (median) and $80,785 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is $6,649 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The box head - macmasters beach sa2's disposable income is $6,649 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Box Head - MacMasters Beach places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 59.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 5,509 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 9,308 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 5,595 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 has approximately 5,509 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.5%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 stands at 1.5%, which is 2.6 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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.1% of employment), construction (14.1%), and education & training (10.6%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is 59.0%, 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 box head - macmasters beach sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 14.1% of the local workforce compared to 8.6% across Greater Sydney. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
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The box head - macmasters beach sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 1.1% growth, ranking 19th out of 37 regions nationally.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 18.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 28.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 26.3% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.9% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 32.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
28.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
32.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The box head - macmasters beach sa2 ranks in the 76th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 are: Certificate (26.3%), Bachelor Degree (18.7%), Advanced Diploma (12.9%).
26.0% of the population in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.6% in primary school, 7.2% 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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is 1075, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 3 schools within the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 821 students.
The box head - macmasters beach sa2 includes 3 primary schools.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 23.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 31.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 34.0% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,221 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,321 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 74.6% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 had 4,221 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.4% to an estimated 4,321 households today.
The average household size in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 74.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (23.6%), group households (1.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,149 family households, couples with children account for 31.6% of all households, couples without children at home 34.0%, and single parent families 8.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, slightly above the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 54.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 26.1% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 23.6% of all households in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, similar to 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 1.8% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach 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 | 17.4% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.2% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 92.3% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 82.6% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
Box Head - MacMasters Beach was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 82.6% of its population born in Australia, 92.3% being citizens, and 95.2% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Box Head - MacMasters Beach was found to be Christianity, which makes up 54.3% of people in Box Head - MacMasters Beach. This compares to 49.2% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Box Head - MacMasters Beach are English, comprising 32.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 19.0%, Australian, comprising 28.0% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 17.8%, and Irish, comprising 10.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Box Head - MacMasters Beach (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Maltese at 0.9% (vs 1.0%) and Scottish at 8.6% (vs 4.8%).
17.4% of the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
4.8% of the population in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
1.9% of the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
92.3% of the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach 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 | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 50.6% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 92.1% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,167 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 76th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 37.2% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $450 | 2021 Census, weekly | 80th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 81st percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, 50.6% of homes are owned outright, 37.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 12.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 92.1% of dwellings in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 are houses.
In the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, 2.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 stands at 50.6%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is $2,167, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is $1,042, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 28.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 28.2% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 25.4% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 consists of 92.1% detached houses, 2.3% semi-detached dwellings, 2.4% apartments, and 3.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Box Head - MacMasters Beach consumes approximately 13.6% of median household income ($7,686 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Box Head - MacMasters Beach show attached dwellings contributing 13% of approvals compared to 8% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 87% of applications versus 92% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 55.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 60th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 65.2% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
Around 55.4% of people in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, 5.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
7.4% of people in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.4% of the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.9% of people in the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2, 55.4% 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 | 45 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 45th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 115 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 78th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 853 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 32nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 98 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 33 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 41.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 115 public transport stops within the Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2.
The Box Head - MacMasters Beach SA2 has 853 weekly trips across 33 routes, averaging 121 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 229 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 860 m away and the nearest school 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 115 stops nearby, 853 weekly trips, access rating 45 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 13 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 13th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 860 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 5.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.2 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 4 long day care centres with 231 places in Box Head - MacMasters Beach, about 2.0 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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach is built to order and emailed to you.
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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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach.
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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 35th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach's sought-after property market has recorded 231 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 95% residential, 1% commercial and 3% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Box Head - MacMasters Beach reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Box Head - MacMasters Beach places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
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.
Box Head - MacMasters Beach has an estimated 11,304 residents, up 2.4% since the 2021 Census, with 110 projects tracked in the area around Box Head - MacMasters Beach.
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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach.
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, 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 (102011029). 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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach 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 Box Head - MacMasters Beach 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.
