Area profile · Greater Sydney
Box Hill - Nelson has an estimated 30,456 residents, up 196.1% since the 2021 Census, with 32 projects tracked in Box Hill - Nelson.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Box Hill - Nelson Statistical Area (Lv2) sits 38 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 30,456 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 10,287 people, the area has gained an estimated 20,169 people (196.1%). That estimate combines the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 26,348 as of June 2025 with 5,789 validated new addresses recorded since the Census date.
Development activity and population drivers are well above average, and the community holds strong educational qualifications and some of the highest median incomes nationally. Married families form a high share of households, the area has a notable presence of residents aged 35 to 44, and average household size sits above the norm. Children and working-age residents make up a large share of the population, with family households and couples with children prominent. The area is exceptionally well educated, highly culturally diverse and among the most affluent in the country.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Box Hill - Nelson Statistical Area (Lv2) sits 38 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 30,456 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 10,287 people, the area has gained an estimated 20,169 people (196.1%). That estimate combines the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 26,348 as of June 2025 with 5,789 validated new addresses recorded since the Census date.
Development activity and population drivers are well above average, and the community holds strong educational qualifications and some of the highest median incomes nationally. Married families form a high share of households, the area has a notable presence of residents aged 35 to 44, and average household size sits above the norm. Children and working-age residents make up a large share of the population, with family households and couples with children prominent. The area is exceptionally well educated, highly culturally diverse and among the most affluent in the country.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,826 in 2001 and 26,348 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 30,456 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 23.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 35.3%.
Box Hill - Nelson ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for development activity and the 98th for income.
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 Hill - Nelson is $881 a week, up 2.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 12% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.5%.
12% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $617 in 2017, $898 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $388 in 2017, $574 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 218 Terry Road, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $1,160,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 12 Hynds Road, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $4,100,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Saratoga Street, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $1,390,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 21 Wayfarer Road, Gables NSW 2765 | $1,250,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 27 Romagnola Street, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $1,250,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Equinox Drive, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $1,205,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 10 Hynds Road, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $6,817,500 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 8 Hynds Road, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $6,817,500 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 18 Meydan Street, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $1,600,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 41 Aquarius Way, Box Hill NSW 2765 | $1,450,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 44 residential sales recorded since 18 Sep 2026 (the latest settled 7 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 44, houses and units together, was $1,335,000 (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 | $881 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +2.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.32m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $1.05m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,335,000 | Median of the 44 most recent residential sales, settled 18 Sep 2026 to 7 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $898 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +3.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $574 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 2.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Rouse Hill - McGraths Hill | $808 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Rouse Hill - McGraths Hill, over 12 months | +4.7% | 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 | |
| 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 1,119 tracked applications: 671 approved, 158 under assessment, 290 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 32 projects in Box Hill - Nelson (14 under construction) and 119 more in the surrounding area.
Stockland's masterplanned community in Gables continues to expand with around 4,100 planned dwellings for approximately 13,000 residents. The Gables Town Centre is operating, the lake foreshore and additional parks are being delivered, Halcyon Gables over-60s community is under construction, Gables Public School is under construction for a 2027 opening, and…
Box Hill Village is a $180 million DA-approved neighbourhood shopping centre development by Revelop at the corner of Nelson Road and Waters Lane, Box Hill.
New public primary school and preschool at 1 Pennant Way, Gables, delivered by School Infrastructure NSW. The school will cater for approximately 1000 students across 44 modern classrooms and 3 support learning classrooms, with a library, canteen, multipurpose hall, covered outdoor learning area, OOSH care, play spaces and a sports court.
Stockland Halcyon Gables is a 12 hectare land lease community for over-60s within The Gables masterplanned community. The project will deliver 231 architect designed homes together with The Lodge clubhouse, wellness centre, 25 metre heated mineral pool, gym, sauna, bowling green, pickleball courts and other resort style facilities.
Box Hill Square is a mixed-use town centre on a 4.3 hectare site at 29-31 Terry Road, Box Hill, in Sydney's North West Growth Area. The approved scheme includes about 22,800 square metres of retail space, a supermarket anchor, specialty shops and around 660 apartments.
Stage 1 delivery of the Anthony Skarratt Reserve masterplan by The Hills Shire Council. Works comprise a new community centre, satellite library, youth playground, plaza, playgroup space with outdoor play area, 187 carparking spaces, and road/intersection upgrades along Nelson Road and Box Road.
Program of local infrastructure works supporting the growth of Box Hill including Anthony Skarratt Reserve Stage 1 with a new community centre, satellite library, youth playground and public open space, the Edwards Road and Annangrove Road roundabout upgrade, and the Terry Road flood mitigation culvert crossing.
A masterplanned residential and employment precinct within Sydney's North West Growth Area, covering around 691 hectares of residential land plus the adjoining Box Hill Industrial Precinct.
Box Hill is a major release area within the NSW Government's North West Growth Area, transforming around 974 hectares of formerly rural land bordered by Boundary Road, Annangrove Road, Old Pitt Town Road and Windsor Road into a new community in The Hills Shire.
Construction of a permanent public primary school and high school campus for the rapidly growing Box Hill community. Box Hill High School commenced operation in temporary facilities in Term 1 2026 while permanent facilities at Terry Road continue to be built.
Stockland The Gables is a 293 hectare masterplanned community in The Hills Shire. The residential community continues to expand with approximately 4,000 planned dwellings.
Ridgehaven is a masterplanned residential land estate in Box Hill delivering contemporary family home sites. Developed by Trevet, the subdivision emphasizes sustainable community design with direct connectivity to local transport corridors and planned open space. The master planned development is progressing through planning and civil delivery phases.
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 96 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 11, 2026 27, 2027 13, 2028 20, 2029 7, 2030 7, 2031 1, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 2, 2036 5. 20 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 1119 substantial development applications lodged in and around Box Hill - Nelson over the past 5 years, 697 in the last 12 months; 158 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 14, 2022 91, 2023 119, 2024 99, 2025 119, 2026 (to Oct) 677.
Key application 34 Terry Road, Box Hill Multi-Resi | $179m | 637 dwellings Refused
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 1,119 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 697 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 102.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 99th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 1,206 | ABS building approvals | 99th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 671 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 158 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 include: Box Hill Public School and Box Hill High School (Construction); Stockland Halcyon Gables (Construction); Stockland The Gables (Construction); Box Hill Square (Approved); and Box Hill Release Area (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Education & Training, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Box Hill - Nelson higher than 99% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 area has seen 2,225 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Box Hill - Nelson SA2's current population of 30,456 has been supported by 1,206 approvals on average over recent years.
The Box Hill - Nelson SA2 has seen 102.9 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 23 people in the Box Hill - Nelson 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 Hill - Nelson SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 1,206, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 has grown by approximately 19,438 people, while 6,028 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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.
Box Hill - Nelson lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 30,456 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +196.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,445 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 59th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +30.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +33.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 10,287 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 20,169 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +21.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +17.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 21.07 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 was estimated to be approximately 30,456 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 26,348 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The box hill - nelson sa2 has added approximately 20,169 people and shown a 196.06% increase from the 10,287 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is estimated at 1,446 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 33.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (87.6%), Natural increase (9.3%), Overseas migration (3.1%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 87.6% of overall population gains.
Box Hill - Nelson hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 8% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 32 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 8th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 27.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 53.4% | 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 | 32 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 8.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 19.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 23.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 5.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 1.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 at 32 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 32 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 32 years as at August 2026, Box Hill - Nelson is 5 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 6 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 23.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 5.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (19.1% vs 11.8%) and 0-4 year-olds (8.8% vs 5.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.4% vs 2.1%) and 75-84 year-olds (1.5% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 27.8% of the population in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 5.5% of the population in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 2% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $74,529 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $85,927 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,976 | 2021 Census, weekly | 96th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,274 | 2021 Census, weekly | 94th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 49.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,979 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 5.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is approximately $79,284. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $74,529.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is approximately $91,409. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $85,927.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is approximately $79,284 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,529 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is approximately $91,409 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $85,927 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Box Hill - Nelson SA2's households (~35.3% / 1,077 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 35.3% 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 Hill - Nelson SA2 is $2,976/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is $2,979/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is $1,274/wk.
The Box Hill - Nelson SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $74,529 and an average of $85,927 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is among the highest in Australia, contrasting with Greater Sydney's median income of $63,183 and average income of $86,684. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $79,284 (median) and $91,409 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is $10,340 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The box hill - nelson sa2's disposable income is $10,340 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Box Hill - Nelson ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 14,880 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 25,603 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 15,417 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 has approximately 14,880 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.5%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 stands at 3.5%, which is 0.7 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 Hill - Nelson SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.5% of employment), construction (12.8%), and professional & technical (9.6%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Box Hill - Nelson 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 Hill - Nelson SA2 is 70.1%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Sydney.
The box hill - nelson sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 12.8% of the local workforce compared to 8.6% across Greater Sydney. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The box hill - nelson sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational achievement in Box Hill - Nelson places it within the top 9% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 29.6% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 45.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 17.9% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 24.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 13.9% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
45.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
24.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The box hill - nelson sa2 ranks in the 91th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (29.6%), Certificate (17.9%), Postgraduate (12.8%).
32.8% of the population in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 13.9% in primary school, 6.8% in secondary school, 5.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is 1093, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 2 schools within the Box Hill - Nelson SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,781 students.
The box hill - nelson sa2 includes 1 primary school, 1 secondary school.
Box Hill - Nelson features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.3 people | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 60.7% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 22.4% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.2% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,052 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 9,036 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 92.0% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 had 3,052 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 196.1% to an estimated 9,036 households today.
The average household size in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is 3.3 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 92.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (7.0%), group households (1.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,808 family households, couples with children account for 60.7% of all households, couples without children at home 22.4%, and single parent families 8.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 92.0% (versus 72.6% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 7.0% compared to 23.2% in Greater Sydney. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Box Hill - Nelson 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 65.2% 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 7.0% of all households in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2, notably lower 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 1.0% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Box Hill - Nelson is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 41.9% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 43.2% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 56.8% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.1% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 58.1% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
Box Hill - Nelson scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 41.9% of its population born overseas and 43.2% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Box Hill - Nelson was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.4% of people in Box Hill - Nelson. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 14.1% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 5.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Box Hill - Nelson are Other, comprising 20.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 17.9% of the population, and English, comprising 15.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Filipino is notably overrepresented at 6.2% of Box Hill - Nelson (vs 2.0% across Greater Sydney), Indian at 10.3% (vs 3.6%) and Maltese at 2.8% (vs 1.0%).
41.9% of the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
43.2% of the population in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.8% of the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
86.1% of the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Box Hill - Nelson is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 98.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $3,000 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 95th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 68.1% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $595 | 2021 Census, weekly | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 23.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 42nd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Box Hill - Nelson SA2, 12.1% of homes are owned outright, 68.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 19.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 98.3% of dwellings in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 are houses.
In the Box Hill - Nelson SA2, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 stands at 12.1%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is $3,000, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is $2,556, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Box Hill - Nelson SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 23.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 23.3% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 20.0% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 consists of 98.3% detached houses, 1.3% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Box Hill - Nelson consumes approximately 19.8% of median household income ($12,886 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 Hill - Nelson show attached dwellings contributing 15% of approvals compared to 2% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 85% of applications versus 98% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Box Hill - Nelson's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 59.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 78th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 82.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 84.7% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
Around 59.7% of people in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Box Hill - Nelson SA2, 2.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
6.0% of people in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.4% of the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
1.6% of people in the Box Hill - Nelson SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Box Hill - Nelson SA2, 59.7% 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 | 53 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 169 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,707 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 171 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 65 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 47.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 169 public transport stops within the Box Hill - Nelson SA2.
The Box Hill - Nelson SA2 has 2,707 weekly trips across 65 routes, averaging 386 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 212 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 499 m away and the nearest school 1.2 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 169 stops nearby, 2,707 weekly trips, access rating 53 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 14 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 14th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 499 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 4.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 4.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 5.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 5.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 8.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 12 long day care centres with 1,095 places in Box Hill - Nelson, about 2.4 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 Hill - Nelson is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Box Hill - Nelson.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Box Hill - Nelson higher than 99% of real estate markets across the country.
Box Hill - Nelson ranks in the 44th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Box Hill - Nelson's resilient property market has recorded 1,100 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 65% residential and 35% vacant land transactions.
Box Hill - Nelson lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Box Hill - Nelson hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 8% of areas nationwide.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 2% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Box Hill - Nelson ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
Educational achievement in Box Hill - Nelson places it within the top 9% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
Box Hill - Nelson features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Sydney.
Box Hill - Nelson is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Box Hill - Nelson is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Sydney.
Box Hill - Nelson's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
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 Hill - Nelson has an estimated 30,456 residents, up 196.1% since the 2021 Census, with 32 projects tracked in Box Hill - Nelson.
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 Hill - Nelson.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 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 (115041623). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Box Hill - Nelson 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 Hill - Nelson 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.
