Area profile · Rest of NSW
Broken Hill has an estimated 17,519 residents, down 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Broken Hill.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Broken Hill Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 423 kilometres northeast of the Adelaide CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch has determined that its population is approximately 17,519, compared with the 17,588 people counted at the 2021 Census. This represents minimal change, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figure from the ABS together with new addresses added since the Census. Market conditions are shaped by severely limited dwelling supply, strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options, a notable healthcare employment base, a low average household size, and elevated mining employment. Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 44, and households are largely made up of lone persons. The area generally has a lower education level, shows limited population expansion, and records exceptionally high sales activity relative to its population size.
Broken Hill sits in New South Wales, Australia, and is renowned for its rich history, unique landscapes and vibrant art scene.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Broken Hill Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 423 kilometres northeast of the Adelaide CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch has determined that its population is approximately 17,519, compared with the 17,588 people counted at the 2021 Census. This represents minimal change, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figure from the ABS together with new addresses added since the Census. Market conditions are shaped by severely limited dwelling supply, strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options, a notable healthcare employment base, a low average household size, and elevated mining employment. Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 44, and households are largely made up of lone persons. The area generally has a lower education level, shows limited population expansion, and records exceptionally high sales activity relative to its population size.
Broken Hill sits in New South Wales, Australia, and is renowned for its rich history, unique landscapes and vibrant art scene.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 20,929 in 2001 and 17,515 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 17,519 (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, 13.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 27.2%.
Broken Hill ranks in the 89th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 51st for employment drivers.
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 Broken Hill is $345 a week, up 8.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 41% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 6.0%.
41% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $241 in 2017, $366 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 378 Argent Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $250,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 103 Gaffney Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $140,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 158 Thomas Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $420,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 745 Haskard Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $385,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 684 Lane Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $375,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 58 Gaffney Lane, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $300,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 103 Boughtman Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $200,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 122 Wills Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $190,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 518 Fisher Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $445,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 106 Knox Street, Broken Hill NSW 2880 | $390,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 45 residential sales recorded since 7 Sep 2026 (the latest settled 8 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 45, houses and units together, was $295,000 (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 | $345 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 6.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $315k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $445k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $295,000 | Median of the 45 most recent residential sales, settled 7 Sep 2026 to 8 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $366 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +10.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $250 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 6.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 2.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Broken Hill and Far West | $335 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Broken Hill and Far West, over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Far West and Orana | $465 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Far West and Orana, over 12 months | +11.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 215 tracked applications: 57 approved, 19 under assessment, 139 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 8 projects in Broken Hill and 67 more in the surrounding area.
The Silver City Energy Storage Centre is a 200 MW / 1,600 MWh Advanced Compressed Air Energy Storage (A-CAES) facility being developed by Hydrostor at a disused mine site on the northeast outskirts of Broken Hill.
Integrated community health centre delivered as part of the Broken Hill Health Service Redevelopment. The facility includes a five-chair dental health clinic, child and family/community health services and new staff offices. Works also reconfigured parts of the main hospital's ambulatory care wing.
A comprehensive redevelopment of health facilities in Broken Hill, featuring a new 8-bed Acute Mental Health Inpatient Unit (AMHIPU) and a $12 million Emergency Department (ED) upgrade. The ED works included a full internal refurbishment, reconfiguration for improved patient flow, and a new 24/7 dedicated entrance.
State Significant Development for recommencement of underground mining operations at the Broken Hill North Mine. The North Mine Deeps resource contains 3.7 million tonnes at 11.3% zinc, 13.5% lead and 219 g/t silver making it one of the highest grade deposits in the world.
Redevelopment of the central town square completed in March 2025 to enhance accessibility, functionality, and event hosting capabilities. Features include improved all-abilities access to central lawn, new seating at footpath and lawn level, misting sculptures for cooling, integrated planter boxes with trees, feature paving showcasing local rocks and…
Major redevelopment of the sporting precinct featuring 10 new netball courts with Rebound Ace surfaces, upgraded lighting, fencing, shelters, and disability-inclusive walkways connecting all facilities. The project also includes improved parking, landscaping, seating and inclusive toilets to enhance community sports facilities.
50MW/100MWh Large-Scale Battery Energy Storage System with grid-forming inverters. Provides grid stability and energy storage for the National Electricity Market. Funded by ARENA to provide grid stability for the region. Became operational in August 2024.
53MW solar photovoltaic power plant generating approximately 126,000 MWh of renewable electricity annually. Located on 140 hectares adjacent to Willyama Common. Developed by AGL Energy and now operated by Tilt Renewables since 2024. Jointly funded by ARENA and NSW Government.
199 MW onshore wind farm with 58 GE 3.x turbines located on the Mundi Mundi and Mount Robe Ranges in far west NSW. Fully commissioned in 2020. Operations of the wind farm transferred from AGL to Tilt Renewables in 2024 under long term arrangements. Generates around 780,000 MWh per year.
270 km bulk water pipeline from the Murray River (Wentworth) to the Mica Street WTP at Broken Hill. Delivers up to ~37 ML/day with multiple pump stations and bulk storage, securing long term water supply for Broken Hill and nearby communities. Built for WaterNSW; operations and maintenance delivered under a JV including John Holland and TRILITY.
A significant 24.52km upgrade of Arumpo Road, extending the existing sealed section. This comprehensive enhancement includes initial survey and design work, followed by extensive earthworks aimed at restoring the road's base and enhancing its drainage systems.
Construction, operation, and decommissioning of a wind farm with an estimated capacity of 1.5 gigawatts, comprising up to 203 wind turbines with a maximum height of 280 metres (to blade tip), a 600 MW/2400 MWh battery energy storage system, and temporary worker accommodation, located in Wentworth Shire, NSW.
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 29 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 9, 2027 3, 2028 5, 2029 3, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 16 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 215 substantial development applications lodged in and around Broken Hill over the past 5 years, 116 in the last 12 months; 19 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 14, 2022 31, 2023 16, 2024 17, 2025 23, 2026 (to Oct) 114.
Key application 1 Warnock Street, Broken Hill Commercial | $47m | 1 dwelling Withdrawn/Lapsed
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 215 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 116 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 0.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 7 | ABS building approvals | 14th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 57 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 19 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Broken Hill SA2 include: Silver City Energy Storage Centre (Approved); Broken Hill Health Service Redevelopment - MHIPU, ED Upgrade and Key Worker Accommodation (Completed); Broken Hill Town Square Redevelopment (Completed); and O'Neill Sporting Precinct Redevelopment (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Broken Hill SA2 spans multiple sectors including Energy, Health & Medical, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Broken Hill SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 15th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Broken Hill is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Broken Hill SA2 area has seen 17 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Broken Hill SA2's current population of 17,519 has been supported by 7 approvals on average over recent years.
The Broken Hill SA2 has seen 0.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 2128 people in the Broken Hill SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Broken Hill SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 7, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the Broken Hill SA2 has seen 33 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Broken Hill has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 17,519 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | -0.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 103 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 17,588 | 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 170.12 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Broken Hill SA2 was estimated to be approximately 17,519 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 17,515 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The broken hill sa2 has lost approximately 69 people and shown a 0.39% decrease from the 17,588 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Broken Hill SA2 is estimated at 103 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Broken Hill SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.5% per annum.
Population growth in the Broken Hill SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Broken Hill hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 44 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 74th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.2% | 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 | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.1% | 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 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Broken Hill SA2 at 44 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Broken Hill is comparable to the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 6 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Broken Hill SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 13.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Broken Hill SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 10.1% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Broken Hill SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.4% of the population in the Broken Hill SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.7% of the population in the Broken Hill SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $58,265 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 46th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $67,974 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,173 | 2021 Census, weekly | 11th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $647 | 2021 Census, weekly | 18th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 13.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,623 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 35.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Broken Hill SA2 is approximately $61,982. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $58,265.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Broken Hill SA2 is approximately $72,311. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $67,974.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Broken Hill SA2 is approximately $61,982 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,265 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Broken Hill SA2 is approximately $72,311 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $67,974 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Broken Hill SA2's households (~27.2% / 1,990 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Broken Hill SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 27.2% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Broken Hill SA2 is $1,173/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Broken Hill SA2 is $1,623/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Broken Hill SA2 is $647/wk.
The Broken Hill SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $58,265 and an average of $67,974 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is lower than average on a national basis, contrasting with Regional NSW's median income of $55,733 and average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $61,982 (median) and $72,311 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Broken Hill SA2 is $4,576 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The broken hill sa2's disposable income is $4,576 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis indicates Broken Hill maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 52.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,453 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 17,251 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,708 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Broken Hill SA2 has approximately 7,453 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.3%. 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 Broken Hill SA2 stands at 3.3%, which is 0.8 percentage points below Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Broken Hill SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (22.6% of employment), mining (11.4%), and retail trade (11.2%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Broken Hill SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Broken Hill SA2 is 52.8%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The broken hill sa2 shows notable specialisation in mining, which employs 11.4% of the local workforce compared to 2.5% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 4.6, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The broken hill 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 experienced 10.0% growth, ranking 7th out of 37 regions nationally.
Broken Hill faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.7% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 47.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
13.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Broken Hill SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
47.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Broken Hill SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The broken hill sa2 ranks in the 10th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Broken Hill SA2 are: Certificate (30.7%), Bachelor Degree (9.3%), Advanced Diploma (7.9%).
27.9% of the population in the Broken Hill SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.6% in primary school, 7.6% in secondary school, 2.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Broken Hill SA2 is 908, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 10 schools within the Broken Hill SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,551 students.
The broken hill sa2 includes 8 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Broken Hill features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 37.1% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 19.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 14.2% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,308 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 7,279 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 60.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Broken Hill SA2 had 7,308 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 7,279 households today.
The average household size in the Broken Hill SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 60.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (37.1%), group households (2.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,429 family households, couples with children account for 19.3% of all households, couples without children at home 26.0%, and single parent families 14.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Broken Hill SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 37.1% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 60.6% compared to 68.8% in Regional NSW. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Broken Hill SA2 have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 37.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 39.1% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 37.1% of all households in the Broken Hill SA2, higher than the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.2% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The latest Census data sees Broken Hill placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.3% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 94.3% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
Broken Hill was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.1% of its population being citizens, 94.3% born in Australia, and 96.3% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Broken Hill, at 43.8% of people, although more residents (54.5%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Broken Hill are Australian, comprising 34.2% of the population, English, comprising 29.9% of the population, and Australian Aboriginal, comprising 7.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maltese is notably overrepresented at 1.2% of Broken Hill (vs 0.4% across Regional NSW), German at 3.6% (vs 3.1%) and Filipino at 1.1% (vs 0.6%).
5.7% of the Broken Hill SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
3.7% of the population in the Broken Hill SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
7.3% of the Broken Hill SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.1% of the Broken Hill SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Broken Hill 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 | 24.8% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 43.9% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 94.9% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $867 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 6th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $220 | 2021 Census, weekly | 8th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 17.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 5th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Broken Hill SA2, 43.9% of homes are owned outright, 31.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 24.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 94.9% of dwellings in the Broken Hill SA2 are houses.
In the Broken Hill SA2, 2.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Broken Hill SA2 stands at 43.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Broken Hill SA2 is $867, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Broken Hill SA2 is $507, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Broken Hill SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 17.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Broken Hill SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Broken Hill SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 17.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 18.8% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Broken Hill SA2 consists of 94.9% detached houses, 2.4% semi-detached dwellings, 2.6% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Broken Hill consumes approximately 10.0% of median household income ($5,079 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Broken Hill show attached dwellings contributing 11% of approvals compared to 5% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 89% of applications versus 95% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Broken Hill is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 51.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 38th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 56.6% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 65.8% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
Around 51.7% of people in the Broken Hill SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Broken Hill SA2, 8.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
10.2% of people in the Broken Hill SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.9% of the Broken Hill SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.1% of people in the Broken Hill SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Broken Hill SA2, 51.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 47 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 47th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 111 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,837 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 47th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 158 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 21 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 4.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 111 public transport stops within the Broken Hill SA2.
The Broken Hill SA2 has 1,837 weekly trips across 21 routes, averaging 262 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 231 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 626 m away and the nearest child care centre 741 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 111 stops nearby, 1,837 weekly trips, access rating 47 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 14 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 14th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 626 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 741 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 4 long day care centres with 197 places in Broken Hill, about 5.4 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 Broken Hill 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 Broken Hill.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Broken Hill is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Broken Hill has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 15th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Broken Hill's affordable property market has recorded 565 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 93% residential, 3% commercial and 3% vacant land transactions.
Broken Hill has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Broken Hill hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
AreaSearch analysis indicates Broken Hill maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.
Broken Hill faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Broken Hill features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
The latest Census data sees Broken Hill placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Broken Hill is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Broken Hill is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Broken Hill has an estimated 17,519 residents, down 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Broken Hill.
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 Broken Hill.
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 May 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 (105021097). 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 (May 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 Broken Hill 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 Broken Hill 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.
