Area profile · Rest of NSW
Cessnock has an estimated 24,941 residents, up 6.2% since the 2021 Census, with 29 projects tracked in Cessnock.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Positioned 115 kilometres north from Sydney CBD, the Cessnock Statistical Area (Lv2) functions as an attractive regional hub renowned for its picturesque landscapes, thriving culinary offerings, and rich cultural heritage. The district's economy and social fabric are underpinned by established vineyards, wineries, art galleries, and lively cultural festivals, alongside an active commercial market reflected in elevated property sales volumes relative to population. Demographically, Cessnock exhibits an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of approximately 24,941 as of Aug 2026, marking an increase of 1,446 people (6.2%) since the 2021 Census count of 23,495 people. This expansion draws upon an ABS estimated resident population of 24,748 recorded as of June 2025, reinforced by 1,407 validated new addresses registered since the Census.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Positioned 115 kilometres north from Sydney CBD, the Cessnock Statistical Area (Lv2) functions as an attractive regional hub renowned for its picturesque landscapes, thriving culinary offerings, and rich cultural heritage. The district's economy and social fabric are underpinned by established vineyards, wineries, art galleries, and lively cultural festivals, alongside an active commercial market reflected in elevated property sales volumes relative to population. Demographically, Cessnock exhibits an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of approximately 24,941 as of Aug 2026, marking an increase of 1,446 people (6.2%) since the 2021 Census count of 23,495 people. This expansion draws upon an ABS estimated resident population of 24,748 recorded as of June 2025, reinforced by 1,407 validated new addresses registered since the Census.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 19,520 in 2001 and 24,745 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 24,941 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 14.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.2%.
Cessnock ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for amenities and the 84th for sales activity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Cessnock is $555 a week, up 8.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 4% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.0%.
4% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $345 in 2017, $572 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $265 in 2017, $466 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 243 Maitland Road, Cessnock NSW 2325 | $1,050,500 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 249 Mathieson Street, Bellbird NSW 2325 | $825,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 76 Allandale Road, Cessnock NSW 2325 | $800,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 26 Treesbank Place, Nulkaba NSW 2325 | $690,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 61 Kendall Street, Bellbird NSW 2325 | $685,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 5 Long Street, Cessnock NSW 2325 | $336,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 139 Wollombi Road, Cessnock NSW 2325 | $942,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 11 Zinfandel Circuit, Cessnock NSW 2325 | $860,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 21 Hall Street, Cessnock NSW 2325 | $992,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 252 Vincent Street, Cessnock NSW 2325 | $780,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 2 Sep 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $750,000 (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 | $555 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 | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $750k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $595k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $750,000 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 2 Sep 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $572 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $466 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 | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Lower Hunter | $588 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Lower Hunter, over 12 months | +7.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 442 tracked applications: 188 approved, 56 under assessment, 198 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 29 projects in Cessnock (12 under construction) and 109 more in the surrounding area.
A 138 million dollar redevelopment delivering a new two-storey Acute Services Building. Features include an expanded Emergency Department, new operating theatres, day surgery spaces, two inpatient wards with ensuites, medical imaging, a Central Sterilising Services Department, and a modern pharmacy.
Redevelopment of the former Cessnock City Bowling Club site into a new commercial and retail hub. Following a successful planning proposal and Gateway Determination to remove gross floor area restrictions, the site will feature a modern service station, a KFC, and a Hungry Jacks.
Vineyard Grove Estate is a residential subdivision featuring 42 modern house and land packages situated in a quiet cul-de-sac setting off O'Shea Circuit. Developed by Landlink Property Group, the estate offers close proximity to the Cessnock CBD, local sporting fields, and the Hunter Valley Wine Country.
Cessnock City Council is delivering a comprehensive upgrade of the Wollombi Road corridor between Cessnock and Bellbird. The multi-stage project includes road pavement reconstruction, intersection upgrades, new signalised pedestrian crossings, shared cycle paths, and enhanced stormwater drainage.
A low-density boutique residential subdivision in Nulkaba offering large-lot residential land parcels ranging from 750m2 to 2,000m2 alongside turnkey house-and-land packages near Nulkaba Public School and local amenities.
Major 240-hectare masterplanned community nestled below the Broken Back Range in the Hunter Valley. The precinct will deliver over 1,650 residential lots across 50 stages, along with a 3.11-hectare retail town centre, green spaces, and walking/bike tracks. WST Property Group acquired the project from Johnson Property Group.
Transformation of the underutilised Apex Park into a thriving community and tourism precinct serving as an iconic gateway to the Hunter Valley vineyards.
Approved development of a purpose-built 124-place early education and child care facility at 14A Fletcher Street in Nulkaba. The project includes indoor activity rooms, outdoor play spaces, and dedicated on-site staff and visitor parking to cater to local community demand.
Redevelopment and expansion of regional sporting facilities at Cessnock, including a multi-court indoor stadium, grandstand amenities and an athletics track, valued at about $24 million. Searches found no development application or official project page for a centre under this name.
Replacement and reconstruction of the Doyle Street Bridge spanning Black Creek in Cessnock. The upgrade delivers an improved structural design to enhance heavy vehicle capacity, flood resilience, and active transport access for the local community.
North Ridge Estate is a residential masterplanned community in Bellbird Heights comprising approximately 305 residential allotments. The development takes advantage of natural elevation with expansive views across the Hunter Valley, featuring staged land releases and custom home construction packages.
Mount View Grange Estate is a 240 hectare masterplanned residential community in Bellbird, located within the Hunter Valley region of NSW. The project is designed to deliver approximately 1,681 home sites along with a 3.11 hectare town centre site catering to supermarket, specialty retail, and community spaces.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 90 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 27, 2027 28, 2028 20, 2029 3, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 2, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 2, 2036 1. 16 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 442 substantial development applications lodged in and around Cessnock over the past 5 years, 288 in the last 12 months; 56 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 10, 2022 43, 2023 32, 2024 39, 2025 37, 2026 (to Oct) 281.
Key application 30A West Avenue, Cessnock Aged Care | $19m | 60 dwellings | 2 storeys Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 442 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 288 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 12.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 88th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 289 | ABS building approvals | 95th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 188 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 56 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Cessnock SA2 include: Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment (Construction); Cessnock City Council Operational Plan & Capital Works 2024-25 (Construction); Wollombi Road Upgrade Project (Construction); Apex Park Precinct Transformation (Planning); and North Ridge Estate (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Cessnock SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Transport & Logistics, and Communities, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Cessnock among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Cessnock SA2 area has seen 555 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Cessnock SA2's current population of 24,941 has been supported by 289 approvals on average over recent years.
The Cessnock SA2 has seen 12.1 approval 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 88 people in the Cessnock SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Cessnock SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 289, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Cessnock SA2 has grown by approximately 1,120 people, while 1,446 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Cessnock are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 24,941 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 362 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 39th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 23,495 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,446 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 68.98 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Cessnock SA2 was estimated to be approximately 24,941 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 24,748 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The cessnock sa2 has added approximately 1,446 people and shown a 6.15% increase from the 23,495 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Cessnock SA2 is estimated at 362 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Cessnock SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.1% per annum.
Population growth in the Cessnock SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (72.3%), Overseas migration (16.7%), Natural increase (11.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 72.3% of overall population gains.
Cessnock's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 46th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.3% | 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 | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Cessnock SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Cessnock is 4 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) yet comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Cessnock SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 14.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Cessnock SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 10.5% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Cessnock SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.4% of the population in the Cessnock SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.2% of the population in the Cessnock 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) | $55,710 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $66,142 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,258 | 2021 Census, weekly | 17th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $611 | 2021 Census, weekly | 13th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 12.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,533 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 31.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cessnock SA2 is approximately $59,264. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,710.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cessnock SA2 is approximately $70,362. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $66,142.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Cessnock SA2 is approximately $59,264 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,710 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Cessnock SA2 is approximately $70,362 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $66,142 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Cessnock SA2's households (~29.1% / 2,410 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Cessnock SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.1% 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 Cessnock SA2 is $1,258/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Cessnock SA2 is $1,533/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Cessnock SA2 is $611/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Cessnock SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $55,710 with the average level standing at $66,142. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $55,733 and $69,112 across Regional NSW respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $59,264 (median) and $70,362 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Cessnock SA2 is $4,475 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The cessnock sa2's disposable income is $4,475 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Cessnock faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 8.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 48.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,916 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 24,017 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,713 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Cessnock SA2 has approximately 8,916 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 8.2%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Cessnock SA2 stands at 8.2%, which is 4.1 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Cessnock SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.4% of employment), accommodation & food (11.4%), and retail trade (10.9%). Other significant employers include mining and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Cessnock 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 Cessnock SA2 is 48.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The cessnock sa2 shows notable specialisation in mining, which employs 8.4% of the local workforce compared to 2.5% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.4, 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 cessnock sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 4.8% decline, ranking 33rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Cessnock 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 | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 9.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 37.5% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 44.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
9.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Cessnock SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
44.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Cessnock SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The cessnock sa2 ranks in the 12th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Cessnock SA2 are: Certificate (37.5%), Advanced Diploma (8.7%), Bachelor Degree (7.3%).
32.3% of the population in the Cessnock SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 12.1% in primary school, 9.1% in secondary school, 3.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Cessnock SA2 is 918, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 11 schools within the Cessnock SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,812 students.
The cessnock sa2 includes 7 primary schools, 2 secondary schools, 2 combined schools.
Cessnock features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 28.5% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.6% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 18.7% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,269 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,778 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.8% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Cessnock SA2 had 8,269 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.2% to an estimated 8,778 households today.
The average household size in the Cessnock SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 68.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (28.5%), group households (2.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,689 family households, couples with children account for 24.6% of all households, couples without children at home 24.4%, and single parent families 18.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Cessnock SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Cessnock 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 38.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 40.2% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 28.5% of all households in the Cessnock SA2, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.7% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
The latest Census data sees Cessnock 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 | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 97.0% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.1% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 92.2% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
Cessnock was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 86.1% of its population being citizens, 92.2% born in Australia, and 97.0% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Cessnock was found to be Christianity, which makes up 53.8% of people in Cessnock. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Cessnock are Australian, comprising 33.4% of the population, English, comprising 31.3% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 7.3% of Cessnock (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Welsh at 0.5% (vs 0.5%) and French at 0.4% (vs 0.4%).
7.8% of the Cessnock SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
3.0% of the population in the Cessnock SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
7.3% of the Cessnock SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
86.1% of the Cessnock SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Cessnock is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 35.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 32.6% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 85.8% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 32.3% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $320 | 2021 Census, weekly | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 79th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Cessnock SA2, 32.6% of homes are owned outright, 32.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 35.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 85.8% of dwellings in the Cessnock SA2 are houses.
In the Cessnock SA2, 1.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 12.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Cessnock SA2 stands at 32.6%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Cessnock SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Cessnock SA2 is $976, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Cessnock SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Cessnock SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Cessnock SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 25.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Cessnock SA2 consists of 85.8% detached houses, 12.0% semi-detached dwellings, 1.7% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Cessnock consumes approximately 17.9% of median household income ($5,447 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Cessnock show attached dwellings contributing 35% of approvals compared to 14% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 65% of applications versus 86% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Cessnock 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 | 50.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 32nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 56.3% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 64.6% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the Cessnock SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Cessnock SA2, 9.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
9.7% of people in the Cessnock SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.8% of the Cessnock SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.8% of people in the Cessnock SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Cessnock SA2, 50.4% 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 | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 49th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 318 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 954 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 34th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 78 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 84 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 12.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 318 public transport stops within the Cessnock SA2.
The Cessnock SA2 has 954 weekly trips across 84 routes, averaging 136 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 150 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 764 m away and the nearest child care centre 855 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 318 stops nearby, 954 weekly trips, access rating 49 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 97 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 97th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 764 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 855 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 11 long day care centres with 661 places in Cessnock, 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 Cessnock 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 Cessnock.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Cessnock among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
Cessnock ranks in the 39th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Cessnock's affordable property market has recorded 711 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 89% residential, 2% commercial and 9% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Cessnock are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Cessnock's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Cessnock faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
Cessnock faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Cessnock features high concentrations of single parent families but relatively few couples with children, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
The latest Census data sees Cessnock placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Cessnock is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Cessnock 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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Cessnock has an estimated 24,941 residents, up 6.2% since the 2021 Census, with 29 projects tracked in Cessnock.
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 Cessnock.
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 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 (106011108). 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 Cessnock 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 Cessnock 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.
